Apr 10 2025
Morrison Hotel
The Doors
3
Apr 11 2025
The ArchAndroid
Janelle Monáe
Impressive debut, hits multiple genres, which is a pro and con, probably too long. 3.5/5 if possible but will round up to 4.
4
Apr 14 2025
Gorillaz
Gorillaz
I'd give this one star but it had Clint Eastwood. 1.5/5. Rounding up to 2.
2
Apr 15 2025
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
Very good. Dont think it's the best LZ album. Favourite song is a cover/rearrangement (Babe I'm Gonna Leave You). 4/5.
4
Apr 16 2025
The Joshua Tree
U2
Classic. 4/5. Starts so strong with 3 iconic songs but peters out.
4
Apr 17 2025
Blood On The Tracks
Bob Dylan
Think I would need to listen to this 5 more times before it clicks and I absorb the lyrics. Initial reaction is it's solid but not something I would seek out. 3/5.
3
Apr 18 2025
Machine Gun Etiquette
The Damned
Not the typical political brit punk I've heard before. Seems less 'serious' and hits various styles. I don't hate it but I don't love it either. I can see what it's one of the 1001. 2/5.
2
Apr 21 2025
Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
This deserves more than one listen and it is something I would happily come back to. Stylistically I really like this. Got early Arcade Fire and Death Cab for Cutie vibes at times. 4/5.
4
Apr 22 2025
The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
One of the greatest rap albums of all time and solidified Eminem as the most popular and talented rapper in the world at the time. Don't think he ever hit these heights again but rode the wave a long time. It's an iconic album. 4.5/5. Rounding up to 5.
5
Apr 23 2025
Pelican West
Haircut 100
I admire some of the jazzy/funky elements but dear god this music has the edge of a butter knife. The lyrics are wet trash. I heard pieces of Duran Duran, Robert Smith on one occasion, and a sprinkle of Nile Rodgers on guitar. Generic British New Wave with some decent instrumentals. 2/5.
2
Apr 24 2025
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
Drivin' is horrendous every time it hits the chorus. I wanted that to end as quickly as possible. Music just doesn't click with me, found getting through this album a slog. 2/5.
2
Apr 25 2025
Murder Ballads
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Interesting and pretty unique album. Probably won't revisit, I don't hate it, just not my cup of tea. 2.5/5. Rounding up to 3.
3
Apr 28 2025
Songs For Swingin' Lovers!
Frank Sinatra
Big band, 1950s sheen, very enjoyable and easy listen. Probably not his best album of all time but I can't imagine rating any Sinatra album less than 4. 4/5.
4
Apr 29 2025
Brothers
The Black Keys
Solid album, Tighten Up, Howlin for You and These Days being the stand outs. 3/5.
3
Apr 30 2025
Picture Book
Simply Red
Mick Hucknall has a great voice here. Get some Phil Collins vibes at times, maybe they were influenced by Genesis(?) Definitely an 80s album, wasn't a slog to get through by any means. A solid first album but two of the better songs aren't originals. 3/5.
3
May 01 2025
Happy Trails
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Album art completely threw me. This is exactly the type of surprise I was looking for from the generator. I had never heard of Quicksilver Messenger Service and glad I now have. Great record. Shocked to learn it was live. Could be seen as self-indulgent jam session though. 3.5/5. Adjusting up to a 4.
4
May 02 2025
Frampton Comes Alive
Peter Frampton
Initial thoughts: ugh a live album from someone I don't know.
3 songs in I check the wiki:
"It was the best-selling album of 1976, selling over 8 million copies in the US and becoming one of the best-selling live albums to date"
How?
Baby, I Love Your Way is the only song I recognise because of a later cover version and Do You Feel Like We Do made a Simpsons reference from "Homerpalooza" finally makes sense.
It certainly didn't stand the test of time.
1.5/5. Raising to 2.
2
May 05 2025
A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
If you are a musician or really like jazz this will probably be a god tier 5. I know very little about jazz, but generally like what I've heard/seen. I know nothing about avant-garde jazz but I know the name John Coltrane.
This kinda washed over me and I listened to some more familiar jazz after and confirmed I don't like/appreciate this style of jazz.
It's not bad. Prefer to watch Jazz live.
2/5.
2
May 06 2025
Music From Big Pink
The Band
The Weight is a classic. Having looked into the history I can see why this is an important album and I like how it sounds but it doesn't stand out to me, maybe it did at the time. 3/5
3
May 07 2025
Brilliant Corners
Thelonious Monk
Feels like I need a PhD in Musicology to appreciate this. I enjoyed it but wouldn't seek it out again. 3/5.
3
May 08 2025
Vulgar Display Of Power
Pantera
Some catchy riffs, Walk being the standout. Never really clicked with Pantera when I first got into metal. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
May 09 2025
Vincebus Eruptum
Blue Cheer
Another album I never would have come across previously.
Lots of imperfections but I can see why it's on the list.
Some riffs sound like they were inspired from a Hendrix record but this could also be a White Stripes demo...just a few decades ahead. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
May 12 2025
Maggot Brain
Funkadelic
Can You Get To That is etched in my brain as an all time great funk song. First two tracks are strong but the rest of the album sounds like they overindulged in LSD and it went downhill from there. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
May 13 2025
Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
Strong start with "Ricky Don't Lose That Number".
Nothing stood out after. Won't revisit, I don't hate it, just doesn't float my boat. 2.5/5 raising to 3.
3
May 14 2025
At Mister Kelly's
Sarah Vaughan
Great voice. Not the kind of music that moves me though. 3/5.
3
May 15 2025
Thriller
Michael Jackson
I don't care if it's nostalgia or familiarity this is THE masterpiece of pop. It's lasted the test of time. Love it. First 5/5.
5
May 16 2025
Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
It's fine. Felt a bit hit and miss. Don't really get the hype. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
May 19 2025
The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
Released before I was born and Oasis etc. had taken over the airwaves in my youth by then. Such a good album. Pity they never hit the heights of the bands they inspired. 80% of the tracks are great. If they trimmed it down to 45mins it could have been a perfect album. 4/5.
4
May 20 2025
Fear Of Music
Talking Heads
I like the Talking Heads, always had a really cool and unique sound. Mind is the highlight of this album. 3.5/5, raising to 4.
4
May 21 2025
Blue Lines
Massive Attack
One of those albums on here for pioneering a new genre but it's never been my thing.
Unfinished Sympathy is the highlight. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
May 22 2025
If I Could Only Remember My Name
David Crosby
Got excited when I saw the album. First song was kind of off putting and 'Cowboy Movie' was decent and the rest of the album was tame. For the list of talented people on this album its a disappointing one. Originally had this as 2.5 but came to Song with No Words. Now thats some self-indulgent shite. 2/5.
2
May 23 2025
Odelay
Beck
It's a very cool album stylistically. He's definitely a talented guy, just not for me. 3/5.
3
May 26 2025
We Are Family
Sister Sledge
Could hear Nile Rodgers within 3 seconds of the album opening and I'm a sucker for it. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
May 27 2025
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
A sad folk album with some interesting brass and wind instruments. Didn't grab me. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
May 28 2025
Lost Souls
Doves
"the first great album to come from Manchester since Definitely Maybe...". Nonsense. The Verve is just one example and their 1997 album is miles ahead of this. It's Radiohead if they were from Manchester and shite. This doesn't belong on this list. 2/5.
2
May 29 2025
Bubble And Scrape
Sebadoh
First track really set this up then takes a hard left. Didnt enjoy the music when it took that hard left but it did make me smirk. I tend to enjoy sad boy music and those parts were fine. Album is kinda all over the place and I don't see myself returning to it. 2/5.
2
May 30 2025
The Nightfly
Donald Fagen
The relatively low-key but long-lived popularity of The Nightfly led Robert J. Toth of The Wall Street Journal in 2008 to dub the album "one of pop music's sneakiest masterpieces." - Wiki
Masterpiece? Robert J. Toth has a favourite colour and it is beige.
There is nothing technically wrong here but this is soulless music and will be the first 1 I hand out.
1/5.
1
Jun 02 2025
Guero
Beck
Wasn't in the mood for Beck but it's the same as Odelay. Cool album stylistically. A talented guy, but not for me. 3/5.
3
Jun 03 2025
Machine Head
Deep Purple
Thought it would be better. 3/5.
3
Jun 04 2025
At Newport 1960
Muddy Waters
An enjoyable live blues album. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jun 05 2025
Transformer
Lou Reed
First time listening to a Lou Reed album. It was good, with Perfect Day and Walk On the Wild Side being the standouts. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Jun 06 2025
Back In Black
AC/DC
Undeniably catchy with some iconic songs but it becomes a bit samey. Big, loud and basic but it works. Music made for Roadtrip Action-Comedy movies. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jun 09 2025
Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters
Initial reaction was it's good to see a Foo Fighters album I've never listened to.
I then checked what other Foo Fighters albums made the list. None. The creator picked this over 'The Colour and the Shape'...the first album with actual band members and not just Dave Grohl.
Anyway this is a decent debut album but no songs worth revisiting. Supposedly a lot of lyrics were written 15mins before recording. 3/5.
3
Jun 10 2025
Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
Never heard this album before, more familiar with their 60s singles and probably because they are more radio friendly. It's not a bad album by any means, was expecting more of a hard rock sound but got more blues.
It finished strong with Shine A Light and Sole Survivor. I don't know why this goes down as their 'best' album on critics lists though. To quote the wiki:
"Exile is not one of my favourite albums" - Jagger
"Jagger also stated he did not understand the praise among Rolling Stones fans because the album did not yield many hits."
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Jun 11 2025
Post Orgasmic Chill
Skunk Anansie
Never heard of the band before so had high hopes going in. Didn’t grab me. Was expecting something heavier and grittier. Lead singer has a clean vocal and overall this is quite polished. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Jun 12 2025
Heroes to Zeros
The Beta Band
One of those albums where after the first few songs I start to question how this made the list and I go in search of other albums that year that aren't included.
Interpol - Antics didn't make this list.
Jesus wept. This is boring music that nobody needs to hear before they die. 1.5/5. Raising to a 2.
2
Jun 13 2025
Pet Sounds
The Beach Boys
Really set the bar for music production innovation on a pop album.
'Wall of Sound' really comes through with everything so densely layered.
Just never really liked the barber quartet style of singing and the cheesy harmonies so it loses a point purely on that.
Songs like God Only Knows are pure magic though.
4/5.
4
Jun 16 2025
Hotel California
Eagles
Hotel California is iconic but overall I dont know why this get's listed in various Greatest of All Time lists other than it sold a tonne. It's easy listening that was very popular but theres nothing ground breaking here. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Jun 17 2025
Blue
Joni Mitchell
I like the sound of the Appalachian dulcimer so favoured those songs. California is the highlight. The unusual song structures, lack of rhyme/stream of consciousness and vocal can be off putting at times.
It's a very good album but I don't really see why this is so often mentioned as one of the greatest ever among critics.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jun 18 2025
Django Django
Django Django
If I was out of my brain at a music festival this would be fine. Did I need to listen to it before I die? No.
Layering looping sound effects with mostly shit lyrics. Wor is the standout.
This is another more recent release where I can see multiple other albums released in 2012 taking its place.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Jun 19 2025
Melody A.M.
Röyksopp
So Easy is catchy and familiar because of TV adverts that have been etched into my brain.
Mixed feelings on this album. There is a time and place for slow tempo electronic music. Elevators. Trippy movie scenes. Advertisements. Something to have on in the background.
Poor leno picked up the pace but it seemed like fairly generic dance I've heard a million times before. For reference, Daft Punk released Discovery in 2001. Different dance genre but that is an example of an iconic album back then.
I won't be revisiting and I don't see this being anyones favourite album but I can kinda see why it's on the list.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Jun 20 2025
Exodus
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Album was released in two sides and the first side is distinctly weaker. First four tracks are ok but forgettable. Album really picks up with Exodus. The songs on side two are some of Bobs greatest hits.
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Jun 23 2025
Born In The U.S.A.
Bruce Springsteen
Born in the U.S.A. is a great song to start a Friday with, gets you pumped and is a great reminder how lucky I am to have not been Born in the U.S.A. Other standouts are I'm On Fire, Glory Days, and Dancing in the Dark.
Wouldn't be a big fan of Bruce in general but with the amount of stand outs on one album and how many bands have made careers off imitating him, looking at you Sam Fender, this deserves a 4/5.
4
Jun 24 2025
Pearl
Janis Joplin
Rough, raw, genuine music. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jun 25 2025
1977
Ash
The vocal is flat and this hasn't aged well. Why is this on the list? It would easily be replaced with Weezer - Pinkerton also released in 1996 and miles ahead of this. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Jun 26 2025
I Am a Bird Now
Antony and the Johnsons
Great album, deeply personal lyrics with haunting and unique vocal. 4/5.
4
Jun 27 2025
Blood, Sweat & Tears
Blood, Sweat & Tears
First thoughts were worry this would be instrumental. Thankfully not.
Reviewing the tracks it's mostly covers/reinterpretations.
Its fine, average rock with middling jazz. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
PS Abbey Road lost a Grammy to this. Wild.
3
Jun 30 2025
Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
You can really tell this was produced by Rick Rubin. Striking stylistic similarities between She's Crafty and 99 Problems released 18 years layer by a much better rapper.
I'm gonna assume the rap style and the corny lyrics are intentional. Girls genuinely made me chuckle. Similar to how Eminem would so I can see how this would influence him.
They also can't get all the credit for this style of rock/rap when acts like Run DMC clearly influenced them.
3/5.
3
Jul 01 2025
Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
Stevie doesn't disappoint. Standouts were Living For The City and Higher Ground. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jul 02 2025
Devotional Songs
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
A song was missing on Spotify. Don't think I needed to listen, I got the vibe. Vocal is impressive. Spotify link leads to a double-release Love Songs and Devotional Songs. I realised half way through the last song on the former. 3/5.
3
Jul 03 2025
Screamadelica
Primal Scream
Such a strong start with Movin' on Up. Hit and miss from there. Loaded was another highlight. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Jul 04 2025
Actually
Pet Shop Boys
I think of the 80s when I hear Pet Shop Boys but a very specific scene. I find the vocal irritating. It's a Sin is the highlight and I don't look forward to anymore Pet Shop Boys on the list. 2/5
2
Jul 07 2025
2112
Rush
As with most big name prog rock band I'm sure the musicians are highly skilled technically but this doesn't lead to an engaging or interesting album. Could be for someone else, just not for me. Didn't find any standout song. 2/5.
2
Jul 08 2025
Led Zeppelin II
Led Zeppelin
Another great album from Led Zep. Whole Lotta Love and Ramble On being the standouts. 4/5.
4
Jul 09 2025
Soul Mining
The The
Initial thoughts - this is early 80s thrash.
Uncertain Smile grew on me. My biggest issues are with the odd spoken word vocal and combining these type of lyrics with synth pop. There was definitely signs of potential with how the music was layered but the next The The album would need to move away from the Synth Pop genre to score higher.
This album can be lumped in with the New Wave thrash. 2/5.
2
Jul 10 2025
Melodrama
Lorde
Green light is an absolute banger. That song will definitely last the test of time.
Production is truly great on this album. The style and vocal gets repetitive at times. Enjoyed the album more than I thought I would. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jul 11 2025
Ritual De Lo Habitual
Jane's Addiction
Hints of a Chilli peppers bass line in the opener. Halfway through and I'm just not feeling this album. Don't like the vocal. Been Caught Stealing is the one I recognise the most. Album takes a stylistic turn halfway but I'm still not feeling it. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Jul 13 2025
C'est Chic
CHIC
Saw the album and I assumed it would be along the lines of Sister Sledge. It's actually a bit slower. Standouts are Le Freak, Savoir Faire and I Want Your Love. Had high expectation going in but theres are few songs on this album that are too repetitive to justify their length. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Jul 14 2025
Tea for the Tillerman
Cat Stevens
Easy listening, solid song writing and has Father and Son which could be one of the greatest ever written. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jul 15 2025
The Man Machine
Kraftwerk
This is a funny one because they laid the foundations for my favourite dance duo Daft Punk but also influenced some of my least fave in the likes of the Pet Shop Boys.
After a minute of the first track I was worried. Clear sailing from there though. I can hear parts of this that could easily be on Random Access Memories. The album is still fresh nearly 50 years later, must have been wild to hear this back in the 78. Didn't think I'd rate this so high so this is a nice surprise from the list. 4/5.
4
Jul 16 2025
Justified
Justin Timberlake
4 of the first 6 songs were the singles. Those singles are all bangers but the album takes a nose dive after. It ends up being too long and 20mins could easily be chopped.
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Jul 17 2025
Remain In Light
Talking Heads
"Same as it ever was, same as it ever was..."
Once in a Lifetime is the standout.
Didn't really vibe with the rest of the album.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Jul 18 2025
21
Adele
This album had a really interesting history in terms of production. The songs recorded as demos end up being the best versions/songs on the album and the Rick Rubin produced songs are the weakest on the album.
The various production ideas come through when listening but not in a good way.
I thought this would be a nailed on 5 but it's no Thriller.
Great vocal and 5 top tier songs. 4/5.
4
Jul 19 2025
Play
Moby
The first four songs on this album are bangers.
Where did Moby go?
Easy 4/5.
4
Jul 20 2025
Chemtrails Over The Country Club
Lana Del Rey
Boring, bland, repetitive and over-produced. Nothing new or interesting. The breathy vocal is annoying.
How does this qualify as an album you must hear before you die?
1.5/5. Raising to 2.
2
Jul 21 2025
Vivid
Living Colour
LOOK IN MY EYES WHAT DO YOU SEEEEEEEE?!
I only know that song since it's the theme song of a wrestler. It's pretty catchy.
The vocal is so 80s. Sounds like a mix of Huey Lewis, Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins at times. This man can belt out a tune.
This is the kind of album I never would have heard if not for this list. I like the various style changes from hard rock to funk.
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Jul 22 2025
Is This It
The Strokes
Thought this would be a get a higher rating since I'm familiar with the Strokes.
Its ok. First Impressions of Earth is a far superior album. 3/5.
3
Jul 23 2025
Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
Psycho Killer is timeless. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jul 24 2025
Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
Pretty sick to hear one of the first doom metal songs off the bat which is completely contrasted when the second song kicks off with a harmonica.
Black Sabbath and NIB are the highlights.
Ground breaking record that stands up pretty well. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Jul 25 2025
Court And Spark
Joni Mitchell
Not as good as Blue.
It's not bad, I just wouldn't be putting on this album again. 3/5.
3
Jul 26 2025
Live At Leeds
The Who
Listened to the original tracklist not the extended.
Is this a album that needs to be listened to before you die? I don't think so. If this is considered one of the greatest live albums of all time then live albums aren't my thing.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Jul 27 2025
Abbey Road
Beatles
I smiled like a Cheshire cat when I saw what todays album is.
"Come Together" is iconic, "Something" is beautiful, "Here Comes the Sun" is stunning. They truly went out on top with this album.
I love "Golden Slumbers" gets me in the feels every time.
The oddest song on the album is "Maxwell's Silver Hammer" - Harrison recalled: "Sometimes Paul would make us do these really fruity songs. I mean, my God, 'Maxwell's Silver Hammer' was so fruity." He's right.
The Medley on Side 2 - has everything and I even heard the Alabama Shakes Hold On riff in "Sun King".
5/5.
5
Jul 28 2025
Follow The Leader
Korn
People out here giving Steely Dan 5's and Korn 1's are showing their age and their thrash taste.
My album yesterday was Abbey Road. Safe to say this won't be another 5 but if you can't appreciate Freak on a Leash I pity you.
Limp Bizkit had more an influence on me than Korn but they are still groundbreakers when it comes to nu metal. I haven't listened to this album much. I like it. It's a bit repetitive and overly long but I can definitely see how teenagers filled with piss and vinegar would love this.
3/5.
3
Jul 29 2025
Moondance
Van Morrison
Love this album. So much so I even have the vinyl. Blend so many styles and could be seen as the greatest non-American soul album.
4.5/5. Raising to 5.
5
Jul 30 2025
Life Thru A Lens
Robbie Williams
Wtf is Robbie Williams doing on this list?
Sounds like knockoff Oasis at times.
I get that leaving Take That was a culturally significant moment in the UK and Ireland but that doesn't mean a mid album belongs on the list of albums to listen to before you die.
Angels and Let Me Entertain You keep this from being a 1.
2/5.
2
Jul 31 2025
D.O.A. the Third and Final Report of Throbbing Gristle
Throbbing Gristle
I couldn't stop laughing when I heard the wailing "hit by a rock". I don't think thats the intention though haha.
The album is abrasive and experimental. I don't think this deserves to be the lowest rated album on the site. It's certainly belongs on the list. The lyrics and topics are pretty disturbing too. Will is listen to this again? Probably not but I think this album is intended to challenge the listener which it succeeds at.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Aug 01 2025
Eliminator
ZZ Top
80s dad rock. I have friends that enjoy this (born late 80's/early 90s). I never have and probably never will.
4 songs in and I'm bored already. At least Throbbing Gristle kept my attention.
Usually pretty good at separating the artist from the art but they didn't credit Linden Hudson on a bunch of stuff and they stole a full song which was proven in court so that directly impacts the art.
Due to lack of personal enjoyment and the lack of credit given on song writing this was going to get a 1.5...then TV Dinners came on. Jesus wept. 1/5.
1
Aug 02 2025
Can't Buy A Thrill
Steely Dan
When I saw Steely Dan I wasn't happy.
4 songs in and all good so far. Pretty catchy and I'm familiar with a few so far.
Guitar on Reelin ' In The Years is sick. Getting a Phil Lynott vibe from the vocal.
Thinking Donald Fagens solo record left a bad taste in my mouth.
This is a good album. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Aug 03 2025
Welcome to the Afterfuture
Mike Ladd
Pretty uninspiring. I like new experimental things but I don't really get what was trying to be achieved here. Will never revisit and would never recommend this. 1/5.
1
Aug 04 2025
Emergency On Planet Earth
Jamiroquai
Hard not to tune out mentally when listening to this one. I like funky music but this wasn't my jam. Kinda came across like a Stevie Wonder rip off. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Aug 05 2025
Document
R.E.M.
Liked the songs I knew already but thought the rest of the album was average and nothing special. 3/5.
3
Aug 06 2025
Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul
Otis Redding
The majority of the tracks on Otis Blue are cover versions so this album will never be a 5 for me. It seems to be his strongest album, I haven't listened to the others fully but the track lists seem to have 1-2 standout songs. This album is a solid 30 mins of soul. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Aug 07 2025
More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
Theres too many Talking Heads albums on this list but I vibed with album. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Aug 12 2025
Unhalfbricking
Fairport Convention
Never heard of Fairport Convention. I like the vocal. Sad how life turned out for the lead singer. Bands and albums like this, that I've not heard before, this make me appreciate the generator/list again. 4/5.
4
Aug 13 2025
Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
I've heard the band name a million times but couldn't tell you a song of theirs.
Why in Gods name should anyone listen to this before they die? You know you're in trouble when the most listened to song on the album is shite. Tool - Ænima and Weezer - Pinkerton were also released in 1996 and both deserve to be on this list ahead of this nonsense. Poor vocal, poor lyrics, poor production. There is a serious amount of Britpop/Britrock shite on this list that needs to be trimmed. 1/5.
1
Aug 14 2025
Aha Shake Heartbreak
Kings of Leon
I like old Kings of Leon. They have better albums though. The two following this were better. The Bucket is the stand out song. 3/5.
3
Aug 15 2025
Traffic
Traffic
Pearly Queen is a pretty sick song. Jimi Hendrix came to mind when listening.
That was the only song I liked. The album is all over the place. It's not terrible but should this be on a list of albums to listen to before you die? No. 2/5.
2
Aug 16 2025
Dire Straits
Dire Straits
Blues, folk and country mixed with Bob Dylan vocals. Guitar is pretty sick.
I was only familiar with Sultans of Swings before this.
Stylistically not for me but it's a solid debut album. 3/5.
3
Aug 17 2025
Nothing's Shocking
Jane's Addiction
2nd JA album and once again I'm just not feeling this album. Really dislike the vocal.
Based on other reviews on here this seems to have stood out in 1988 but in 2025 it's certainly not a timeless listen. Wouldn't re-listen, wouldn't recommend. 2/5.
2
Aug 18 2025
Protection
Massive Attack
This is the 2nd Massive Attack album. I don't see how this album warrants inclusion on this list after the 1st?
It's fine musically but I don't see massive steps forward from the 1st album to make this mandatory listening. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Aug 19 2025
All Things Must Pass
George Harrison
I dont see how people are rating this 5. A perfect album? Hardly.
Has multiple songs that just don't land and the production is messy at times.
That said it's still a good album and I actually liked the instrumental songs on the last LP.
Side note: When listening to Art of Dying all I could think was that sounds like Eric Clapton on guitar and sure enough it was.
Feeling generous so I'll go 4/5.
4
Aug 20 2025
Fred Neil
Fred Neil
It sucks when the wiki doesn't have critical reception or any historical relevance. Asked my friendly neighbourhood bot instead and it told me what I need to know in terms of the music shift at the time and the artists he influenced.
Great example of an album that would never have crossed my path and deserves to be on the list.
It's nice. Moody, laid back and stripped down. The album grew on me. That 8 min track at the end came outta nowhere. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Aug 21 2025
Electric Prunes
The Electric Prunes
I Had Too Much To Dream (Last Night) is the highlight. There some really interesting stuff here, felt unsettling at times but then you would have a song that felt so out of place.
Seems they didnt write the majority of the album either. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Aug 22 2025
Gasoline Alley
Rod Stewart
Should you hear Rod Stewart before you die? Yes. Should you hear Gasoline Alley? I don't think so.
I don't know enough about the Rod Stewart and Faces back catalogue but I'd like to believe there is an album from each that is better than this.
It's not a bad album I just don't think it's a mandatory one. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Aug 23 2025
Band On The Run
Paul McCartney and Wings
Shocked at the amount of 5's being handed out for this album. Had the same issue with George Harrisons solo release. People have a strange Beatles bias.
Its a solid album, it's not perfect and it's not groundbreaking. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Aug 24 2025
Bluesbreakers
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
Got irritating after awhile. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Aug 25 2025
The Modern Dance
Pere Ubu
Haha what an awful way to open an album.
This weirdly grew on me but I tend to like experimental music.
I was watching Becketts plays on film the weekend so I'm probably in the right head space for this kinda stuff.
I can see how this would have influenced bands like Pixies and Joy Division.
Is this music easy to listen to and super accessible? No.
Does this deserve a place on the list? Yes.
I'll take this any day over Donald Fagens solo work. 3/5.
3
Aug 26 2025
Back At The Chicken Shack
Jimmy Smith
I like this kind of Jazz. "Soul-Jazz". Some of the avant-grade stuff can be unapproachable and hard to enjoy in you aren't a Jazz player/musician. 3/5.
3
Aug 27 2025
Songs From A Room
Leonard Cohen
I view Cohen as more of a poet than singer. A bunch of his stuff is practically spoken word. No doubt he's a great songwriter/poet but I don't think you can rate this album highly since it's lacking on the instrumental side. I also really dislike the mouth harp. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Aug 28 2025
The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter
The Incredible String Band
Saw some of the reviews and the global rating and assumed the worst. People are being way too harsh here. It's experimental sure but it's not as bad as some of the generic crap that made the list.
It would be a very boring list if experimental and innovative albums like this were excluded.
2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Aug 29 2025
Highway to Hell
AC/DC
What an opener. The top review comparing this to chocolate ice cream and every bite being the same is spot on. I don't think it deserves a 4 though...it's supermarket branded ice cream. 3/5.
3
Aug 30 2025
I Should Coco
Supergrass
Alright was huge. Not a fan of the rest of the album. Dont think this is a album to listen to before you die. Blur and Oasis have you covered. 2/5.
2
Aug 31 2025
Tarkus
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Not the ideal album to come back to after a holiday. Pretty dated, the 20min intro song just comes across as pretentious but prog rock is in general. 2/5.
2
Sep 01 2025
Moon Safari
Air
I'm familiar with this album but this is only the second time I've listened to it fully through. Very familiar with Sexy Boy due to one of those Lynx ad that was played around the clock.
The range of styles and instruments on display deserves praise alone. It's not often I seek out something like this with so many slow tempo instrumentals but I can appreciate it. I was thinking a 3 but going with 3.5/5 because it deserves a place on the list and like it or not it stands out from the crowd. Raising to 4.
4
Sep 02 2025
Heroes
David Bowie
I've never listened to a Bowie record from start to finish other than Blackstar. Heroes could be one of my all time favourite songs. As a whole album does nothing for me though.
Some pretty interesting recording techniques were used and it's pretty innovative but that doesn't translate to an enjoyable listen. My feeling is people are seeing Bowie and some sort of bias sets in. No way this is a 5* album. 2.5/5. Raising to a 3.
3
Sep 03 2025
Miriam Makeba
Miriam Makeba
Great vocal, poor quality recording. I'm familiar with Miriam Makeba through Pata Pata and the Click Song.
I feel like this list would be more accurate/interesting with more foreign language artists.
It's a nice listen and deserves its place on the list. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Sep 04 2025
It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
Public Enemy
Certainly deserves its place on the list. Chuck D's vocal is iconic. The album and beats are super dated though. It's certainly of it's time and it's just not my thing. I'm not a big hip-hop or rap fan outside of a handful I grew up on so this album is doubly lost on me. 3/5.
3
Sep 05 2025
Ghosteen
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
This is art born of tragedy. A parent dealing with the death of their child. Absolutely haunting album that I think anyone who has lost someone before their time will resonate with. Felt like a real gut punch.
4/5.
4
Sep 06 2025
American IV: The Man Comes Around
Johnny Cash
Iconic album. Iconic voice. What a way to go out. CD version omits Wichita Lineman and Big Iron. So I listened to these on Johnny Cash - Unearthed separately.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Sep 07 2025
A Night At The Opera
Queen
Bit disappointed by this one. Just didn't live up the name in my eyes. Bohemian Rhapsody is one of the greatest/iconic songs of all time but there are far too many duds for this to be a "great" album.
3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Sep 08 2025
Billion Dollar Babies
Alice Cooper
Not for me. Kinda cheesy. Of it's time I suppose.
Learnt that The Ramones I Wanna Be Sedated is 100% a rip off of Elected.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Sep 09 2025
The College Dropout
Kanye West
Exclude the people review bombing this album and this would easily be the highest ranking album of 2004 on this site.
Pity the people that can't separate the art from the man.
Suggest clicking "did not listen" and save the rest of us the holier than thou BS.
Bernie Mac intro kills me every time.
I remember the MTV days and seeing Jesus Walks for the first time. Blew me away. Took a mental note of the artist and song so I could torrent it later.
This could easily be considered Kanye's best album. So many bangers on this one. Production value is through the roof. Runs a little long though.
4.5/5. Raising to a 5.
5
Sep 10 2025
Guitar Town
Steve Earle
Tough listen. Theres a very specific type of country music I enjoy and this is not it. Can see why the album was significant for the time and why its on the list but that doesn't make it an enjoyable listen. 2/5.
2
Sep 11 2025
The Pleasure Principle
Gary Numan
Pioneer of synthpop which is impressive but the world didn't need the Pet Shop Boys.
3/5.
3
Sep 12 2025
The Bones Of What You Believe
CHVRCHES
Went from Gary Numan to this. The evolution of Synthpop.
The Mother We Share is the best song on the album. It's feels overly long and got a bit samey towards the end.
3/5.
3
Sep 13 2025
Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
I am familiar with Fleet Foxes, think they were hyped up on some end of year, decade etc metacritic list and grabbed my attention so I have definitely listened to this before.
Nice and easy listen. A folky Beach Boys sound. Finding it easy enough to link a lot of the production and stylistic decisions on this album to Pet Sounds. It's just not as impressive in 2008.
This music is too inoffensive across the whole album so never really impacted me.
Certainly an impressive debut and the album cover is very cool but it's just too "nice" for me. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
4
Sep 14 2025
Blood And Chocolate
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
First Elvis Costello album on this and first time listening to one completely. Other reviewers seem to be sick of him. 6 albums does seem excessive.
I like how raw this is. It's like pre-grunge. Vocal was off putting at the start but I warmed up to it. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Sep 15 2025
Bone Machine
Tom Waits
Certainly deserves a place on the list. Such a unique album. The vocal is something else. Man must have been drinking whiskey and smoking filterless Marlboro Reds straight out of the womb. 4/5.
4
Sep 16 2025
The Suburbs
Arcade Fire
Initially didn't like Arcade Fire other than Wake Up. Had multiple mates that are huge fans and I've tried and tried and repeatedly listened but I just don't hear what they hear. It's good. It's not amazing. That could also just be based on forced familiarity.
3.5/5. Raising to 4.
4
Sep 17 2025
The New Tango
Astor Piazzolla
Not for me. Vibraphone sucks. I'm ok with the Bandoneon and Violin and think I would have given a higher score if it was just those instruments. I had to skip a bunch, couldn't take it anymore. 2/5. This isn't a 1 simply because it unique. It would get a 0 for enjoyment.
2
Sep 18 2025
Tom Tom Club
Tom Tom Club
A talking heads side project?
I was wondering why this is a must listen then "Genius of Love" came on. Now thats an iconic song that I've listened to in full and only ever heard sampled.
Stopped after Under the Boardwalk. Even that felt too long. Anyone listening to the Spotify Deluxe version I recommend the same unless you want remixes and extra long version of songs you've already heard.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Sep 19 2025
Supa Dupa Fly
Missy Elliott
Timbaland's production is great but overall it's an average 90s rap album. It's overhyped and you could question it's place on the list, especially when there is another Missy album on the list.
Runs too long and has too many duds. 2/5.
2
Sep 20 2025
In Rainbows
Radiohead
I find it hard to understand what Thom is saying. It often washes over me. It's a stylistic choice and I'm not reading lyrics to understand what someone is saying. Never been a die-hard Radiohead fanboy but I definitely appreciate the artistry. 4/5.
Side note:
I loved the pay what you like concept. This was before Spotify took over and let's face it, in 2007 the majority of people my age were using torrents etc. to access music. To put this endeavour into context. This is album 132. If I was to pay for all of those back in 2007 at 20 a pop I'd be down 2640. Now I pay my monthly fee to Spotify and in my eyes we have the democratisation of music.
4
Sep 21 2025
Suede
Suede
Anyone giving this a 5 needs their head checked. Putting Suede in the same bracket as the Beatles, Fleetwood Mack, Nirvana or Stevie Wonder is crazy.
Average Britpop.
2.5/5. Raising to 3.
3
Sep 22 2025
Better Living Through Chemistry
Fatboy Slim
It's fine, his better work is yet to come. You need to be there live to really appreciate it.
3/5.
3
Sep 23 2025
3 + 3
The Isley Brothers
Pretty good, nothing mind blowing and it doesn't have my fave Isley Brothers songs.
3/5.
3