260
Albums Rated
3.77
Average Rating
24%
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829 albums remaining
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1980s
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Cheerleader
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49
5-Star Albums
1
1-Star Albums
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You Love More Than Most
Albums you rated higher than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Venus Volume 1 | 5 | 2.85 | +2.15 |
| The Last Of The True Believers | 5 | 2.95 | +2.05 |
| Liege And Lief | 5 | 3.1 | +1.9 |
| Another Green World | 5 | 3.12 | +1.88 |
| Third | 5 | 3.13 | +1.87 |
| The La's | 5 | 3.15 | +1.85 |
| Being There | 5 | 3.22 | +1.78 |
| John Prine | 5 | 3.22 | +1.78 |
| Achtung Baby | 5 | 3.3 | +1.7 |
| Channel Orange | 5 | 3.31 | +1.69 |
You Love Less Than Most
Albums you rated lower than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Marshall Mathers LP | 2 | 3.49 | -1.49 |
| Queen II | 2 | 3.49 | -1.49 |
| Antichrist Superstar | 1 | 2.48 | -1.48 |
| Ready To Die | 2 | 3.37 | -1.37 |
| The Slim Shady LP | 2 | 3.29 | -1.29 |
| Truth | 2 | 3.17 | -1.17 |
| Bluesbreakers | 2 | 3.16 | -1.16 |
Artist Analysis
Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Dylan | 3 | 5 |
| Talking Heads | 3 | 5 |
| Pink Floyd | 2 | 5 |
| Bruce Springsteen | 2 | 5 |
| R.E.M. | 2 | 5 |
| The Rolling Stones | 2 | 5 |
| Prince | 2 | 5 |
| Radiohead | 2 | 5 |
| Beatles | 3 | 4.33 |
5-Star Albums (49)
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Popular Reviews
Ramones
4/5
It's pretty much the same song over and over and the lyrics are ridiculously simple....but the formula works. At the time, it must have been so refreshing during the age of bloated rock acts like Styx, Boston, etc. I love the fake British accent and the whole "who gives a fuck" vibe of songs like "Blitzkrieg Bop" and "Beat on the Brat."
2 likes
Rush
5/5
This is another all-time favorite. Fantastic songs, impeccable instrumental work, especially Peart's drums. Has there ever been a better "side 1?" Slight drop-off in second half but they would never again match this one.
1 likes
The La's
5/5
One of my all time favorites, this album is a perfect blend of all things Britpop. What really sets it apart is the melodicism which is exquisite. I had the cassette when it came out and I wore the thing out. It goes beyond " There She Goes Again," there are so many great songs on here and it hasn't lost anything in the 3 + decades since its release. Really tragic that this was their only album. They laid the groundwork for Blur, Oasis, Pulp and the rest of Britpop.
1 likes
4/5
Gargantuan tunes from the band that is the Queen of the 2000's Era. The first song. "Take a Bow," is eerily on target for the times we are living in. A very enjoyable album that, while completely overwrought and over the top, still hits.
1 likes
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
3/5
This is a weird hybrid of hard rock, glam, and "Rocky Horror" type hijinks...and much of it doesn't work. His voice is like nails on a chalkboard sometimes and the song "Gang Bang" is as ridiculous as the title would suggest. But on "Faith Healer" and the final song, it comes together into something satisfying. No interest in seeking out more from these guys but, as an influence on an album like "Bat Out of Hell," I can see the appeal.
1 likes
4-Star Albums (125)
1-Star Albums (1)
All Ratings
Otis Redding
4/5
Pixies
5/5
Santana
4/5
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Leonard Cohen
4/5
Gorgeous and ruminative, this one really hit for me. The sonic textures are perfect for the words, and the words.... just beautiful
Aretha Franklin
5/5
The voice! But also a great band and backup singers. Nice to hear more than just the big hits. Gospel, soul, and R& B cornerstone
Merle Haggard
3/5
The Sonics
4/5
Sludgy, raucous, and a lot of fun. Maybe a few too many "wowwwwws" by the lead singer though
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
While I feel that "Melon Collie" is too bloated and should be a single album, this one feels about right. Love the guitar/bass/drums interplay and it makes up for Corgan's voice and lyrics.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
I think this album has been a tad overrated over the years. There are some undisputable great songs but the "edgy" stuff leaves me cold and, if I had to hear Nico sing the word "clown" one more time, I would have lowered it a star.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
Gotta be honest, this bored the hell out of me. Just not my thing but I can understand its appeal to a certain generation of lounge lizard rat pack lovers
The Isley Brothers
4/5
Wow, what a great album! Had only heard the singles. These guys are fantastic and this is the perfect summer funk album. Loved the covers of "Summer Breeze" and "Sunshine," and "Who's That Lady?" is perfection period.
4/5
Gargantuan tunes from the band that is the Queen of the 2000's Era. The first song. "Take a Bow," is eerily on target for the times we are living in. A very enjoyable album that, while completely overwrought and over the top, still hits.
The Hives
3/5
Don't understand the hate (or at least ambivalence) about this band, they're perfectly fine garage punk. It's basically the same song over and over but it works. They're not exactly the White Stripes, just adequate and good for running to.
Bob Dylan
5/5
I've never been a big Dylan fan but there's no denying the greatness of this album. I really listened to the lyrics and it was a revelation. I especially love the surrealist poetry of "Bob Dylan's 115th Dream" and "Its Alright Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" what took me so long?
Marilyn Manson
1/5
Nope, just couldn't do it. Garbage
Beastie Boys
4/5
Incredibly fun album. I used to hate it because my freshman year college roommate played it (and rapped aling) constantly. Now I can fully appreciate it, from its Zeppelin samples to the 1-2 punch of "Fight for Your Right" to "No Sleep til Brooklyn." I was missing out on a great time.
Britney Spears
2/5
Exactly what I thought it would be: teeny bopper music for year Y2K. Points for trying some different things with "Soda Pop" and "The Beat Goes On."
Beatles
4/5
One of the best of their early period. It holds together well despite it being half soundtrack to the film and half their hits of that time. Never realized how many if the film's songs are Lennon's and he seemed to dominate the songwriting during that time.
Charles Mingus
4/5
Head-spinning experimental jazz with weird horn fills and Spanish guitar. Not a huge jazz fan but really liked this.
Fela Kuti
4/5
Excellent Afro-beat album by the undisputed master of it.
Jacques Brel
3/5
Not my thing but I can appreciate it....I guess. It's musical wallpaper to me.
Iggy Pop
4/5
Had never heard this album beyond the songs "Lust for Life" and "The Passenger." Fantastic band (Bowie's band for the "Low" album and tour) and Bowie's fingerprints are all over this album. Hard to believe that this and "The Idiot" which is also on this list came out 6 months apart. Talk about a productive year!
The Smiths
4/5
This was The Smiths peak and a great blend of witty wordplay (when Morrisey wasnt't being insufferable), great guitar work from Marr, and some fantastic songs. "Frankly Mr. Shankly" and "Vicar in a Tutu" are hilarious
Deee-Lite
2/5
"Groove is in the Heart" is a great song but the rest of the album is kinda boring. Like a watered down dance oriented B-52's
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Everything to come was in full flower on this stellar debut album. Plant's wailing, Pages's guitar explosions, and the John's booming rhythm section. All of it coalesced into hard blues rock nirvana.
Janet Jackson
3/5
Despite the late 80's production and a few samey ballads at the end, this was better than I expected. A little too much of trying to be socially conscious and relevant but forgiven by a song like "Black Cat," her attempt to out-beat her brother's "Beat It."
Spiritualized
3/5
Largely shapeless, formless songs that meander and don't make much sense without pharmaceuticals. The second half, especially, just drags. 2.5 rounded up.
Slint
2/5
Not terrible...just aggressively boring. And so emo before there was such a term I guess. Then again, I could see myself in 1991 taking some spoken word poetry I had written, finding a few compatriots, and coming up with something like this.
Sade
3/5
Smooth, sultry, and goes down easy.
Suicide
4/5
Hard to know what to make of this Lynchian fever dream of an album. But there's no denying the spell it casts. I don't even know what genre of music it is but I can hear the influence it had on artists like Ric Ocasek. If it had been longer my rating might have been lower but it gets in, gets out, and you're left wondering "what the fuck did I just listen to?" ( in a good way)
Ray Price
3/5
Great voice, nice country tunes, but too much of the same. I can see my father-in- law enjoying this at the local Saturday night dance.
Deep Purple
3/5
This is primo 70's classic rock but pretty meandering and forgettable beyond "Highway Star," " Smoke on the Water," and "Space Truckin'" Felt like I should be listening on 8 track
Alice Cooper
4/5
A very fun album, entertaining all the way through. First I've really listened to Aluce Cooper, wondering what else I've missed. Interesting arrangements, not at all want I expected in a very good way.
The United States Of America
4/5
Def Leppard
3/5
Hooky, overproduced album brought back a lot of memories. More like a greatest hits album with some great bangers "Fooling," "Rock of Ages," "Photograph." Some duds as well.
Joy Division
3/5
Dark, brooding, and intense. it gets better as it goes on, but a bit repetitive in the early going.
Fugazi
4/5
Hadn't really listened to Fugazi before so this was a great introduction. Sounds like a nightmare soundtrack to our times. Great, angry, and righteous.
Jefferson Airplane
3/5
Some great songs, arrangements, and psychedelic folk fun but seriously dated and cringey on some songs. Love Grace Slick vocals on "White Rabbit" and "Somebody to Love"
Pink Floyd
5/5
My all time favorite Floyd album. Incredible headphone album with great instrumentation, meditations on grief and loss, and a farewell to Syd Barrett. "Oh by the way, which one's Pink?"
Buzzcocks
4/5
One of my favorites of the Brit punk bands, I'll take them over the Sex Pistols any day. Raw, hooky, and energetic...no need for coffee listening to this
Wilco
5/5
Their first great record and an incredible mix of alt country rave-ups, psych rock (love "Misunderstood" and "Sunken Treasure"), and I had forgotten how great the slower, acoustic songs are. Jay Bennett's contributions to this album were essential.
The Fall
3/5
This didn't do much for me, good, jagged, and snarling punk but pretty forgettable. I'll take Buzzcocks any day over this
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
4/5
Love the polyrhythmic, different time meters on this though it was mostly background music for me. When I hear it I think of old car commercials. Undeniably cool though
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
Ashamed to say I had never heard this album before. Beautiful arrangements and meditations, experiences of the sacred in all its forms, earthly ones especially. Gotgeous and raw
Steely Dan
3/5
This album was one of those in heavy rotation in my older brother's vinyl collection so it seeped into me by osmosis: love "Ricki ""Any Major Dude," and the title track but a lot of songs don't stand out. Still, amazing studio work (as always) and songwriting. Love me some Dan.
Ray Charles
4/5
Loved it despite its length and some repetitiveness of song structures and arrangements. Ray is the ultimate cool daddy of popular music
Dire Straits
5/5
An all time classic and a quintessential 80's album. The production and sound are immaculate and I prefer the second half, especially the anti-war sentiments of "One World" and the haunting, gorgeous title track.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
All killer, no filler on one of the best albums of the 80's. Takes on more meaning after reading the book "There Was Nothing You Could Do" by Stephen Hyden. This album has only gotten better over the years. Bruce at his populist best even as the title song was so misunderstood by the Reagan administration.
Boards of Canada
3/5
Interesting soundsscapes, ahead of its time sounds from this album. Not my thing though I could appreciate it and enjoyed it as background music and possibly as the missing soundtrack to a weird cult film.
Rush
5/5
This is another all-time favorite. Fantastic songs, impeccable instrumental work, especially Peart's drums. Has there ever been a better "side 1?" Slight drop-off in second half but they would never again match this one.
Marianne Faithfull
4/5
Great album from a great voice, love the title track, "Ballad of Lucy Jordan,"and that final kiss-off with lyrics that made me blush. Was that Keith Richard's playing on the last song?
Elis Regina
3/5
Had never heard of her before but really enjoyed this album. Great first song and, overall, I enjoyed the more traditional sounding songs rather than the glossy, overproduced 70's disco-fied ones.
Pulp
4/5
Love this album with it's witty lyrics and Cocker's takedown of posers and hedonists. One of my favorite Britpop albums. The video for "Common People " is great too.
Anthrax
3/5
I was surprised by this album and really enjoyed it. Loved the Stephen King references on the title track and "A Skeleton in the Closet" as well as the plea for justice for native Americans on "Indians." Made me want to get in a mosh pit and thrash around.
ABBA
4/5
The perfect 70's album in every way containing all types of pop of the Era. Yes it's sickly sweet and cringey at times but these guys were great at what they did.
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
4/5
Had to seek out the original version but I really enjoyed this. It could have been recorded recently as it is incredibly relevant. Mass consumerism, school to jail pipeline, racial identity...literate, powerful lyrics and great beats and soundscapes. Makes me want to listen to more of Michael Franti and his other work, both solo and with Spearhead.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
This was a big one for me growing up and I consider it one of Zep's best. Some fillerbthere, especially towards the end (or side 4 as I think of it), but some of their best songs throughout, especially "The Rover," "Trampled Under Foot," and, of course, Chase Utley's walk up song "Kashmir." The last great album from the mighty Zep
T. Rex
4/5
Great, slinky, glam-rock from the master of the form. Some great songs of course--"Ger It On (Bang a Gong)," "Jeepster," " Mambo Moon"--and some more forgettable ones. Nothing too earth-shaking, just a fun, scuzzy record
Ms. Dynamite
2/5
Couldn't get through the while album but what I heard was fine for its genre and time. Generic and boring.
Eminem
2/5
Had a very hard time getting through this. Other than "Stan" and a couple of others it's just tedious shock rap and some songs are unlistenabe. I know it's a persona but give it a rest.
UB40
3/5
Really good Brit-reggae debut album with lots of dub step production and socially conscious lyrics. A little same-y at times but some great insight into Thatcherite UK at that time. They would hit bigger later with "Red Red Wine" and "Rar in the Kitchen."
Dusty Springfield
3/5
Great songs, great voice but not much more than background music for me. Do love "Son of a Preacher Man" and "Windmills of My Mind" though.
LL Cool J
2/5
More listenable than many albums of the time with an all time great in "Mama Said Knock You Out." Still, I had a hard time getting through many of the songs and the Mack Daddy misogynistic lyrics ("Milky Cereal," really?)
Derek & The Dominos
4/5
A great blues rock album with some incredible songs and instrumental interplay from Clapton, McClintock, Allman, et al. What a band! I was especially impressed with McClintock's vocals. And "Layla," there are no words. One of the best songs of the 70's and all time.
Guns N' Roses
4/5
One of the best all out rawwwk albums of all time. It really went against the hair band trends of the time and had more of a punk feel. Hard to get past some of the nastiness of songs like "Its So Easy" but, come on, "Welcome to the Jungle," "Paradise City," " Sweet Child of Mine"....a great band in their prime.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
Inscrutable lyrics at times but he makes up for it with his delivery and the arrangements (love the backing vocals and occasional strings). "Famous Blue Raincoat" is the standout here but I know I would like this one more with repeated listening.
Muddy Waters
4/5
Great, rollicking set from one of the best of the genre. Muddy and his band probably blew away many of the acts at the Newport Folk festival.
Bert Jansch
4/5
Incredible guitarist, I really enjoyed this. Some great instrumentals and "The Needle of Death" is a powerful lament. I can see his influence on many others and it makes me want to seek out Pentangle, the group he formed with another guitarist. Very solid folk album.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
3/5
Had never heard this album straight through before. Though it has a couple of great songs ("Breakdown," "American Girl") some of it is forgettable. I think the list should have included "Damn the Torpedoes" or "Full Moon Fever" or even "Wildflowers" instead. Still, a really solid debut album from these guys.
Orbital
4/5
Not a big Electronica fan but I really enjoyed this. It was diverse, had some good beats and even a thrashy song ("Quality Seconds") I also enjoyed the songs with a female vocalist. Made me want to listen to more of them
The White Stripes
4/5
This one rocks hard and Jack White is a virtuoso rock guitarist. There are some great songs on here and it's an incredibly fun listen. A little repetitiveness and emptiness in the lyrics brings it down a notch for me.
Beck
4/5
The creativity of song structures and blending of genres are what make this album so good. I'm all for surrealistic lyrics but the hollowness of them prevents me from giving it 5 stars. Just a fun, ridiculous album from its cover art to its end of the world party vibe.
The Notorious B.I.G.
2/5
Just too much for me and I couldn't get through it. Especially given Sean Comb's involvement and what happened to B.I.G. not long after this album. I'm not one who can objectively approach this album and speak of its merits. Grueling, torturous listen for me
Harry Nilsson
4/5
A soft rock classic. Some great songs on here and it's an eclectic mix. I really appreciate his melodicism and goofy sense of humor on "Coconut."
Peter Gabriel
5/5
This is, perhaps, my favorite album of all time. From the opening "Red Rain" to the real closer, "Excellent Birds," to me, it's just a perfect record. Some of that is nostalgia, of course, but it's the combination of instrumentation, emotional resonance, and incredible production...and some of the best songs of his career. Some might think of it as his "commercial" album and, yes, I've gotten pretty tired of "Sledgehammer" over the years, but this is the one for me. I don't understand why "In Your Eyes" was moved to the end of the album. For me, it will always be the start of side 2. Other than that, perfection.
Skepta
2/5
Again, a difficult one for me to review objectively, not understanding the context and background for this artist and music. I was bored by it and the lyrics, production, and rapping ability were fine. Granted, middle aged white guy here.
The Beach Boys
4/5
Just a couple of days after Brian Wilson's death, this is a very appropriate one to come up. Ironically, Wilson didn't write or sing on much of this album except for the last 3 songs which are the best on the album. This one is a strange, eclectic group of songs with some great psychedelia ("Feel Flows"), a political sensibility, and much goofiness. Though "Pet Sounds" is their masterpiece I really enjoyed this one.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
First time listening to this all the way through and it's like a primer of funk pop goodness. He may have hit even higher later with "Innervisions" and "Songs in the Key of Life," but this is a fantastic album.
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
I hadn't really listened to Sky and the Family Stone much beyond "A Family Affair." I enjoyed the extended jams and sinewy grooves though, on some songs, it grew a bit tedious. Not as politically charged as I thought it would be. Still, I can see how this influenced so many others and the legacy of Sly, along with Brian Wilson, is huge
Public Image Ltd.
2/5
Gloomy, monotonous, and redeemed here and there by Jah Wobble's bass playing. Much preferred the instrumentals to anytime that Jihn Lydon opens his mouth.
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
Really enjoyed this. Loved the use of samples, the wittiness of the raps, and the overall positivity of it.
Hole
4/5
Rounding up from 3.5 stars. Good songs, late 90's production, and tight playing from Courtney Love and crew. Big Smashing Pumpkins influence with several songs written by Billy Corgan. Not having heard much of them beyond a few songs, I was surprised by this one.
David Bowie
4/5
Not an essential Bowie album but still pretty great. Arty, edgy songs like "The Stars Are Out Tonight" make for a satisfying late career album for him.
Basement Jaxx
2/5
Tedious with some occasional interesting sounds and beats such as Spanish guitar on opening track, the song "Red Alert." If I was into going to clubs in 1999 I may have been into it.
Stan Getz
3/5
Absolutely love "Girl from Ipenama" but, otherwise, this was pleasant background music for me. Felt like I was in a lounge with cigar smoke everywhere and fans circulating tropical air.
Lambchop
2/5
Not sure if it's his voice, the nonsensical lyrics, or if I just wasn't in the mood...but I actively disliked most of this album. The musical settings with strings and horns were appealing on some songs but, overall, it just didn't do anything for me. And come on, this is a concept album about Ricard Nixon? OK, whatever.
Pretenders
5/5
Not only one of the best debut albums ever but one of the best rock albums ever. So many great songs on here and Chrissy Hynde's vocals and songwriting are incredible. The band, too, is tight and rocks hard. "Learning to Crawl" should be on this list too.
Count Basie & His Orchestra
4/5
Always good to hear a great big band and this is a fantastic album..though the cover art is a little distressing for these times.
Belle & Sebastian
4/5
Though I always think of this band as "fey" or "precious," they also are really enjoyable, literate, and melodic. I like the little slices of Scottish school age/young adult life and Stuart Murdich is a fine songwriter.
The Verve
3/5
Some really good songs here--"Bittersweet Symphony," "The Drugs Don't Work," Lucky Man"--but also a lot of filler and just boring Oasis or Radiohead-lite. It does get better as it goes with the more interesting songs toward the end. How could there be both The Verve and The Verve Pipe?
Flamin' Groovies
3/5
Raucous,raw blues rock and different from their later power poppish stuff. One of the songs, "32-20," was tough to take with lyrics about blowing away his cheating woman. Otherwise, a pretty good time, especially the Elvis impersonation on "Evil Hearted Ada."
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
There's a huge nostalgia factor with me for this album. It was the one album that all my siblings had and played regularly and it was the soundtrack for so many childhood vacation trips. My mother heard the words to "Tenth Avenue Freezeout" as "The Devil in the Freezer" so that was a recurring joke. This album has achieved mythic status for me. And, hearing it again, it hasn't lost any of its grandeur through all these years. Roy Bittan's piano is such an essential element of it, it really is the backbone of the album. There's also a real sadness that comes through that I didn't hear when I was growing up. And to think that now we have 7 unreleased albums from him to listen to. Was there ever a better run for a artist than from "Born to Run" through "Born in the USA?"
Korn
3/5
I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. It really works for what it is. Especially liked the guest star tracks with Ice T and Fred Durst. That "rap battle" between Durst and Davis is hilarious. Also really liked Davos' demonic "scatting" or whatever that is. Bombastic and ridiculous and it gets more tedious as it progresses.
Pixies
4/5
Not quite to "Doolittle" level but a very good album.
Sam Cooke
4/5
Great live soul record. The energy of Cooke and his band is incredible. Almost seems like he was hopped up on something because he just never stops for a breath.
The Allman Brothers Band
3/5
I can appreciate the musical prowess of this album and this band at the height of its powers....but, damn, it bores me. Never been a jam band guy and this is probably the grandaddy of all jam band albums. I preferred the 4-5 minute songs over the 19-21 minute extended jams. But I'm probably in the minority on that.
Thundercat
3/5
A fun but slight album. I enjoyed his bass playing and the collaborations with Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins and the other song with Kendrick Lamar. Often, though, a boring, "soft funk" album that irritated me when there are so many other more deserving ones that should br on this list.
The Prodigy
3/5
Really good Electronica dance album with hooks, beats, and snarling British late 90's venom. Overstays it's welcome a bit but makes up for it with a great closing track.
Al Green
5/5
This was perfect listening for a 4th of July car ride, just a stellar soul album with great horns and Rev Green preaching the gospel of love, baby, love. A remedy for what ailed me on this day I didn't feel all that celebratory about America's birthday
Talking Heads
5/5
An immaculate debut album that introduces everything that is so great about the band. Great, catchy songs that bubble with infectious energy but also, in songs like "Pulled Up," an arty punkish spunk. Also incorporates xylophone, island drums, and fun arrangements. All that and "Psycho Killer." I frickin love this album!
The White Stripes
4/5
Hadn't heard this whole album before, enjoyed it very much. Great riffage and playing, just as good if not better than "Elephant."
John Lennon
4/5
Strange to say but I hadn't heard this all the way through before. Excellent album but I put "All Things Must Pass" and the first "McCartney" above it. Love "Gimme Some Truth," "How Do You Sleep," and, of course, the title track. Sad to say that song has never been truer now.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
3/5
Some great songs on this but it just goes on and on. It's way too long and gets tedious. I wish they had gone with more songs like "Breaking the Girl" and "Under the Bridge" instead of yet another song about Keidis' dick and what a sex machine he is.
LTJ Bukem
2/5
Can't review this objectively, it's just background music to me. Very ho-hum, boring background music. Is this better than other electronic drum-bass music? No idea. Don't care
The Coral
4/5
Wow, I had never really listened to these guys but I loved this album! I had to listen to it twice since I didn't care for it the first time, thinking that they are like a tamer Ween or a less intersting Dukes of Stratosphere. But, on second listen, I appreciated it much more. I love the eclecticism often within one song. He's got a great voice as well. Music discovery is one of the great things about this whole generator thing and I plan on listening to more of these guys.
Sigur Rós
4/5
It doesn't matter if you don't understand what is being sung--the emotions come through the music powerfully. Love these guys and this was one I hadn't heard before. Beautiful and stirring.
John Martyn
4/5
Had only heard the song "Solid Air" before and this album is a revelation. Liked it so much that I listened to the deluxe version with alternate takes. Great songs, distinctive voice, and one of the best of the British folk rock albums of its time.
Eminem
2/5
A bit of a step up from The Marshall Mathers album but not much of one. There were a couple of songs which seemed to cut through the whole tiresome Slim Shady persona and had more honest emotion and real feeling....but then there were songs like "97 Bonnie and Clyde," yet another shock-rap song about killing his wife. Had to skip a lot of this.
Nick Drake
5/5
An immaculate, concise, beautiful record that is elegant in its simplicity. So glad that this album exists.
Syd Barrett
3/5
"Shine on you crazy diamond." Just some LSD-drenched psychedelic nonsense from the former Pink Floyd front man and not all of it works. But, when it does, you get a song like "Octopus," a deranged classic. I thought I was hearing Robyn Hitchcock on some of these songs and Barrett wa a clear inspiration for his work.
PJ Harvey
4/5
First time listening to this one and, again....why did it take so long? Great, dark, grungy songs and stellar playing and singing. Sometimes I wonder why I didn't listen and what kept me from hearing an album like this when it came out. Oh well, glad to he hearing it now.
5/5
Being a huge XTC fan, I was greatly anticipating this album when it came out...and it exceeded all my expectations. The orchestration and sonic experimentation had only been hinted at before this and the songs are among the best in their catalog. To me, XTC took Beatles later period and other influences such as the Beach Boys "Pet Sounds" and psychedelia and put it all together into a delicious sonic stew. God I love this album.
R.E.M.
5/5
This one is very special for me. It is rooted in a time and place for me and, every time I hear it, I am right back there. And the album's themes--time, memory, and loss--reflect that sense of longing for a time and place. This period in the band's history was one of unbridled creativity and every album they released was a event. So, not biased at all here! But, with these songs, the orchestral arrangements from John Paul Jones, and the mood and atmosphere of all of it, they knocked it out of the park. Songs like "Drive," "Sweetness Follows," "Find the River, " and the incomparably gorgeous "Nightswimmimg" are some of their best. And that's not even mentioning the somewhat overplayed "Everybody Hurts" and "Man on the Moon." It's one of my top 5 desert island discs.
Garbage
4/5
Had never heard this one beyond "Stupid Girl" and "Only Happy When It Rains." Really enjoyed it, from the production, to the guitar/band work, to Shirly Manson's snarling vocals. The whole psycho-sexual angle on many of the songs gets old but this is a damn good album which makes me want to delve more deeply into their other stuff.
Brian Eno
5/5
Amazing and beautiful soundscapes with prog-rock giants like Robert Fripp on guitar and Phil Collins on drums. This album is a wonder and influenced so many other artists in the electronic, ambient, and rock universe. It's also got great melodies that stick in the mind and senses. It engages on all levels and is an easy 5 stars for me.
The Band
4/5
Listened in the car coming back from a road trip so not as close a listen as I would like, but this is truly the ultimate Americana album. Some great songs here that are almost hymn-like in their majesty. A stellar mix of rock, traditional, and gospel that few bands could have pulled off.
Morrissey
3/5
Morrissey without the Smiths is just OK. The vocals and clever wordplay are still there but Marr's guitar and the propulsive arrangements are sorely lacking. Still, there is some honesty and raw emotion here that elevates this and a great song in "The More You Ignore Me, the Closer I Get."
Black Sabbath
4/5
RIP Ozzie. This was my first time listening to a Sabbath album front to back and it was a great one to start with. For all of the proggy epics like "Wheels of Confusion" and "Snowblind " there were some change-ups like "FX" and "Laguna Sunrise" making it much more diverse than I would have thought. When I was growing up, I saw them as too scary, almost taboo. Now, they seem tame rather than sinister or menacing. But this one rocks hard and Ozzie is in fine form.
David Bowie
5/5
An easy 5 stars. Bowie's first great album, a masterclass in songwriting, and an eclectic, hothouse vibe. This album has a mood and atmosphere that is just perfect. And it laid the seeds for everything that followed. My favorite songs are "Oh! You Pretty Things," "Life on Mars?", "Queen Bitch," and the haunting "Bewlay Brothers." That song used to scare the shit out of me and, lyrically, it's one of his best. And then there is "Changes." Just a perfect album.
Queen
2/5
This album is the definition of "a lot of noise signifying nothing." I enjoy and can appreciate Queen but this album is stuffed with overdubs, every second filled with over-produced airy-fairyness. Plus, I find it boring with very few of the hooks that would come with their later music. it's redeemed somewhat by songs like "Ogre Battle" and "Seven Seas of Rhye" but, overall, not an album that I would return to.
Public Enemy
4/5
Potent album in all respects and, with the white middle-aged lenses, this is one of the best of the era. I especially liked "One Million Bottles," a pointed critique of black men drinking themselves to death, and the Anthrax collab "Bring the Noise." Wish I had listened closer to this album when I was a counselor at a school in Chicago and one of the teens in my room had it and played it all the time.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
2/5
While I can appreciate the musicality and technical prowess of this....it reminded me of Spinal Tap without the humor. It's the kind of album that led to the reaction of punk music. I would have rather heard something from ELO if you want a merging of classical and rock. Just left me cold without any emotional connection to it.
Tears For Fears
5/5
This one is another of my all-time favorites so definitely biased and nostalgia-goggles fully on. It was the soundtrack to one of the best summers of my life when I was 17. They were the first concert I went to. So, yeah, this one is a biggie. Listening now, more objectively (?), its a fine example of 80's "big sound" production and though there are big hooks with "Everybody Wants to Rule the World," Head Over Heels," and one of my favorite songs ever, "Shout," the quieter, sonic textures of "I Believe" and "Listen" struck me more now. I love this album in all its big-shouldered, big 80's glory
Hawkwind
4/5
Whoa man, far out. I really enjoyed this acid-drenched dispatch from a Charles Manson cult circa 1971. Fantastic jamming, especially Lemmy on bass, some bizarre spoken word poetry, and a great mix of garage, psychedelic, free-form jazz, and deep space canoodiling. A lot of fun if a little too long.
Kanye West
4/5
No denying the sonic goodness and production on this album, it sounds amazing (though auto tune is used way too much). Despite how grating he can be and the misogyny ever present, the man's an amazing talent and the use of samples on "Bound 2," the occasional gospel choir, and good use of Justin Vernon of Bon Iver make for an interesting and adventurous listen all around.
The Who
4/5
Surely one of the best live albums ever, it's a great showcase for the band in their prime. Their versions of "Summertime Blues" and "Shakin All Over" are ferocious and they rip into their 60's songs with abandon. Would have liked to hear the version with all of "Tommy," but this version is plenty long enough.
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
Felt like I was raiding my father's record collection. But then I listened closer and there's a song about swinging. In any case, love the harmonies on this and the whole 60's vibe, and "Monday, Monday" and California Dreaming" are all-time classics.
Ash
4/5
Had never heard these guys before and enjoyed this album very much. Melodic post-punk that's like a cross between Green Day and Nada Surf with a pinch of Weezer thrown in. Liked the little touches like orchestral flourishes too. The song "Kung Fu" smacks of racism a bit but, otherwise, a very solid album.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
This album is a big step up from "Bloodsugarsexmagic" just based on songs like "Scar Tissue," "Otherside," the title track, and "Road Trippin." There are a few others that are really good too but it definitely falls off in the second half. Definitely a more mature, interesting album and the best overall album I've heard from them (including their more recent stuff).
U2
5/5
Yet another album that holds so much meaning for me so, again, very hard to be subjective. After "Joshua Tree" and "Rattle and Hum" I never expected this album. From the opening guitar alarm of "Zoo Station," the new sound and creative reinvention literally blew me away. I listened to this album non-stop in 1991 and it helped get me through a difficult year. Listening now, the Edge, with assistance from Eno and Lanois, took it to another level and th rhythm section of Mullins and Clayton Jr never sounded better. And, other than one of the worst lines in history-- " a woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle"-- Bono's lyrics and vocals shine as well. They took this creativity and pushed it even more with their next album, "Zooropa," but this album has only gained in its majesty and another one of my desert island discs.
Mylo
3/5
Really enjoyed the 80's synth sounds and samples and the song "Destroy Rock & Roll" with the role call of musical acts....but a little goes a long way and it became boring quickly. Still, a fun, listenable album from an artist I had never heard of before.
5/5
It's "Sgt. Pepper's" so it's not going to be any lower than 5 stars. Though I could never replicate the feeling of my 9 year-old self listening to this over and over, singing along with it, letting it inhabit my subconscious, it is still a wonder. No album opened the possibilities of pop music more than this one. Each song is a finely wrought masterpiece culminating with the most creative, mind-expanding song of all: "A Day in the Life." Yet, the older I get, the more I see how this is far from their best album. It doesn't hold together as a concept album for one thing. There are way too many Paul songs on it for another (and not enough George). But it's still "Sgt Pepper's," for Christ's sake, and it will always hold a very special place in my heart.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
Breezy, fun album of standards from ol' Blue Eyes that, while an enjoyable listen, started to sound like the same song over and over. Hey, when it works, it works.
The Police
5/5
This is another one of ny favorites and a desert island disc for me--been lots of these lately! Wore out the vinyl when it came out and it continues to be stellar in all respects (except maybe "Mother" but you have to take that for the joke it is). I always loved how side 1 is so different from side 2, with side 1 having the faster, more rocking songs and side 2 with the contemplative, slower ones. It now ends with "Murder by Numbers," a bonus track that got officially added somewhere along the way. Love that song too so it's (literally) all good. I don't think Sting's songwriting has ever been as good as this album. A close to perfect album (even with "Mother")
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
3/5
This is a weird hybrid of hard rock, glam, and "Rocky Horror" type hijinks...and much of it doesn't work. His voice is like nails on a chalkboard sometimes and the song "Gang Bang" is as ridiculous as the title would suggest. But on "Faith Healer" and the final song, it comes together into something satisfying. No interest in seeking out more from these guys but, as an influence on an album like "Bat Out of Hell," I can see the appeal.
Metallica
4/5
Absolute banger of an album though it is probably too long and a little too much of the same dynamic. Still, that dynamic consistently works and produces some combustible playing and great songs. "One" is an all time great song and others like "Eye of the Beholder" and "Blackened" are fantastic as well. I like the classical guitar interludes of "To Live is to Die" as well. Docked a star because it is too much of a good thing.
Cocteau Twins
5/5
My first time hearing this album and it was a revelation. My college roommate listened to their earlier albums and I remember thinking that I liked their sound but it was kind of formless and opaque. This album, though, has hooks and the songs are tighter, more focused. These are lovely arrangements and melodies that I liked so much I listened a second time. Elizabeth Fraser could sing the phone book and I would still listen. Truly unique and gorgeous.
Eagles
3/5
Wow, other than the songs I knew and love--"Take It Easy," "Witchy Wiman," and "Peaceful, Easy Feeling," this album was a real slog. The songs are so country rock generic and easily blended into musical wallpaper. This is probably the ultimate greatest hits band and the deeper cuts just don't amount to anything. Still, those 3 songs are classics and this was a band who knew what they were and did it very well. The harmonies alone warrant 3 stars.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
This was my first time really listening to MBV, hadn't listened much at all to their earlier album. It's kind of monotonous and dirge-like. But there are a few songs that come to life like "only tomorrow" and "new you" that made me pay more attention. Still, I could not understand a single word being sung and the repetitiveness and droning made it pretty unremarkable. Guess I need to listen to the first album.
Christina Aguilera
3/5
Not as bad as expected and I actually enjoyed quite a bit of this. I like her attempts at some variation of the sounds and there are some pretty good songs on here such as "Fighter" and "Beautiful." Still, way too long and I didn't care for the musical "interludes" (must have been an early 00's pop thing). No denying her voice and I like that many of the songs are about female empowerment
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
5/5
Probably my favorite Neil Young album and that's really saying something. From front to back, this is a stellar example of every style of his and I love how it goes from stark acoustic songs to full-on raucous live guitar onslaught. Lyrically, these songs explore the danger of celebrity ("Hey Hey, My My") and the perils of colonialism ("Pocahontas") and violence ("Powderfinger"). And I love how he goes fully punk on "Sedan Delivery." Just a great album
Sugar
4/5
Really good power-pop, grungy album by Bob Mould and company. Never listened to this when it came out, good to be hearing it now. Was never a big Husker Du fan or a big fan of his solo stuff, but this band hits hard and appeals to my 90's alt rock soft spot. Really enjoyed this.
Death In Vegas
3/5
Liked how these songs added layers and built....but many of them didn't go anywhere and overstayed their welcome. "Aisha" is a great song and a great guest vocalist in Iggy Pop. Appreciated the way they play with genre and shape shift from song to song. Good background music for a Tarantino film
The Smiths
4/5
Though not up to the level of "The Queen is Dead," this is a very good album. It starts out great with "The Headmaster Ritual" and Johnny Marr and company are in great form throughout. I will say that Morrissey is pretty insufferable on this one and the song "Meat is Murder" is not a convincing argument for vegetarianism and, in the words of the critic Robert Christgau, "begs for a belt in the chops." But, otherwise, a very good Smiths album.
The Monks
4/5
Garage proto-punk and some truly deranged singing make for a great introduction to this band. Love the manic organ playing and the Vietnam war protest lyrics of "Complication." This was truly ahead of its time and sounded great through car speakers. One of the best discoveries of the 1001 albums project.
Adele
4/5
I am certainly not a fan of the 2000's pop era....but this is such a finely crafted album with great vocals, of course, and also some really good songs. It starts out in great soul-rock fashion with "Rolling in the Deep" and "Rumor Has It." There are some forgettable, samey songs after that but the arrangements and orchestrations really elevate songs like "Set Fire to the Rain." And, come on, "Someone Like You" is a great song, even if it was played ad nauseum and you couldn't escape it in 2011. The passion and conviction in her voice really sells it. Just an all around solid pop album that was a pleasure to listen to again.
Miriam Makeba
4/5
Great album of traditional South African folk songs and dances. She has a powerful voice and loved songs like "The Click Song" and I now feel that every wedding reception should include it. The only song I hated was the duet "One More Dance" and it wasn't her fault, it was the duet partner laughing through the whole song. It was distracting and incredibly annoying. Overall, this was a really enjoyable and culturally rich experience.
Joni Mitchell
4/5
This was the first of her jazz-inflected albums and the arrangements are more intricate. While I prefer "Blue" and her other more straight acoustic stuff, this album has some great songs--"Help Me," "Free Man in Paris," "Raised on Roberry," "Just Like a Train"-- that it's almost a greatest hits album. Lyrically, it's as great as ever. Didn't know about the whole blackface thing and her saying she feels like she has a "black soul." While probably misguided, It doesn't take away from my appreciation of this album and her body of work.
Cream
4/5
There's no better 1-2 punch than "Strange Brew" and "Sunshine of Your Love" to start this album. Some of the ones that follow are less memorable but the blues psychedelia of "SWLABR" and "Tales of Brave Ulysses" are lyrically head spinning and a lot of fun. I also liked the weird Ginger Baker songs,especially "Mother's Lament," which offer a nice break from the Bruce and Clapton songs. They were an all time great rock trio with each member bringing a crucial element.
Traffic
3/5
I like Traffic but prefer the jazz excursions of "Freedom Rider" and "Low Spark of High Heel Boys" and the traditional acoustic songs of "John Barleycorn Must Die" over this album. There's too much hippy-dippy filler and it goes on way too long (I guess I listened to the UK bonus track version). Still, there's great playing and singing here and they were an interesting band tha5 couldn't be labeled.
Arcade Fire
5/5
Not quite 5 stars for me since I think "The Suburbs" is their masterpiece. But this comes very close. These songs have so much relevance and resonance right now, especially "Neon Bible" and "Windowsill" with its talk of the fires at the door, the oceans rising, and him not wanting to live in the US anymore. Great, dramatic builds to these songs and the use of the pipe organ and that it was recorded in a church is a great touch that so fits the mood of it. I've convinced myself to give it another star.
Madonna
4/5
Ride
4/5
Had never heard Ride before and I liked this very much. Not as melodic as The Las or Stone Roses but an excellent shoe gaze album. Listened on a plane so probably missed some sonic details but it was propulsive and a really enjoyable listen if a little bit repetitive.
Pavement
4/5
Was never a huge Pavement fan, only listening to them later with their last album, but really enjoy the "hits" from this album-- "Cut Your Hair," "Gild Soundz," and, of course, "Range Life." I really enjoyed the shaggy nature of this album and their ethos in general. Still, a little too melodocially and lyrically unkempt at times which I guess is the whole point. Gotta listen to more of these guys, feel like I missed out on them in the 90's
Arcade Fire
4/5
Lots of great anthems on this one but, as a whole, the songwriting is not as good as on "Neon Bible" and "The Suburbs." Also, I was particularly annoyed by Win Butler's and the female vocalist Regine's voices on many of the songs. Never noticed before how weak much of the vocals are with this band. Still, this album holds up well and has some of their best songs like "Neighborhood 1,""Neighborhood 3," and "Rebellion (Lies)" and, though I've gotten tired of it, "Wake Up." How did this band lose its way so much over the years? I haven't even listened to their newest album because of indifference.
Grateful Dead
4/5
I'm not much of a Dead fan but the thing I most like about this album is the shorter, concise songs. It's a great roots Americana album and songs like "Ripple," "Friend of the Devil," and "Box of Rain" are all time classics.
Steely Dan
5/5
Hearing this album again brought me back to my childhood listening to it on vinyl through my brother's speakers. It might be nostalgia speaking but, holy crap, the playing is so tight and the songs are fantastic. Pretty much perfection to my 70's loving ears.
MGMT
5/5
Fantastic debut album from a couple of liberal arts majors who got into music as a lark. Beyond the standouts here ("Time to Pretend," "Electric Feel, " "Kids") there are some great, weird psych-rock tunes. They would go even further in that direction with their next album, "Congratulations," but the creativity and joy here is palpable. Even Paul McCartney was a big fan of this album. And they continue to evolve and improve on their sound.
Jack White
4/5
A really enjoyable album and, to my ears, the best solo album I've heard by him. Especially in the first half, it's one good song after another. I'd even put this up with his White Stripes stuff. He really is at his best when he keeps it basic and doesn't over-complicate or clutter his sound.
The The
4/5
Hadn't heard this beyond "This is the Day." It's one that I wished I had heard back in the early 80's but fit much more into the "college rock" pantheon which emerged later on. Much more than synth-pop, this has a full-bodied sound (despite being a one man band plus session musicians) and some great autobiographical lyrics. Matt Smith is a very good songwriter and this is a great example of a DIY approach that works wonderfully.
Elvis Costello
4/5
Though not up to the standards of some of his 70's and 80's albums, this is a very good, melodic return of the band work with the Attractions. "13 Steps Lead Down" is a banger and the songwriting is in good form here.
Keith Jarrett
3/5
While an hour plus of this is a lot, this is some fine, impassioned improv piano by a jazz master. This must be what influenced the Windham Hill new age music label and artists like George Winston. Not something I would return to, but enjoyable background music. I love the little vocalizations and foot stomping at times. Kind of self indulgent but in a (mostly) good way.
4/5
Fantastic voice and songs from one of the all time greats. Though the songs get a bit samey, when they're this good, it doesn't matter. Great backing band as well.
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Great music for Sunday afternoon listening with a lot of positivity and great vibes in songs like "So in Love " "Jesus," and "Love to the People." "Billy Jack" is a great short story song about race relations and a tragic outcome. I had never heard much of Mayfield beyond "Superfly," and I really enjoyed this one.
Ella Fitzgerald
4/5
I didn't listen to the 3 hour plus box set, just selections from it. These are great songs and Fitzgerald sings them superbly with impeccable backing from Nelson Riddle's orchestra. Not really my cup of tea but I can appreciate the hell out of it (just not for 3 hours plus).
T. Rex
4/5
Nothing too original, but this is just a really good early 70's glam rock album. Bolan tightened his sound and added more sonic punch since "Electric Warrior" and the result, though not all that much different, is a fun, engaging listen. Sure, "Telegram Sam" has the same riff as "Get It On (Bang a Gong)," but it doesn't matter when the vibes and groove are this strong. Bolan was no Bowie, he was never that kind of shape shifter, but he knew who he was and he did it very well.
Kings of Leon
3/5
This is a solid southern rock record circa 2008 and has a very good first half and then drops way off in the second half. I love "Crawl," "Sex on Fire," an "Use Somebody" but the rest is too much in the same vein and more forgettable. It is ridiculous that these guys are on here and My Morning Jacket, a much more creative and dynamic southern rock band, isn't. But, then again, where are bands like Vanpire Weekend and The National on this list? Very odd
The Rolling Stones
5/5
One of their absolute best and a perfect fusion of R & B, honky-tonk rock, and even gospel ("Just Want to See His Face" and "Shine a Light"). They really drilled down on the Americana on this one and the songs are fantastic, some of their best ever (" Rocks Off," "Tumbling Dice," "Happy"). I had never really given this album my full attention, listening more to the greatest hits one and then really getting into them around "Tattoo You." This one lives up to its legendary status. Seems like they didn't have to compete with the Beatles anymore and leaned hard into what made them great.
Talking Heads
5/5
Hard to top Talking Heads 77 but they easily did it with this masterpiece. Brian Eno's production brings out the darkness and alienation in the lyrics. So many great songs but my favorites are "Warning Sign," "Found a Job," "I'm Not in Love," and, of course, "Take Me to the River." They even explore other genres with the r&b/gospel of "River" and country with "The Big Country." Those lyrics are pretty harsh on flyover states of the US but it's just another case of Byrne feeling disconnected and alienated from other human beings. Hard to pick a favorite Heads album but this one is way up there.
The Doors
4/5
Never been a huge Doors fan but this is my favorite all around album by them. Some great songs on here ("Love Her Madly," "LA Woman," and "Riders on the Storm") and I like the bluesy songs a lot (Edpecially "WASP Texas Radio Big Beat") that said, I don't like Jim Morrison and his cringey creeper persona on many of these songs. Dude was pretty abhorrent in many ways. Overall, a good, not great, album that showcases the best aspects of the band and has some great playing, especially Ray Manzarek and Robbie Krieger
Black Sabbath
3/5
I know that this album was pretty novel for its time as one of if not the first "heavy metal" albums ever. But now it sounds pretty tame and kind of goofy. There is some great guitar playing and Ozzy's vocals are always great....but it kind of bogged down on the long songs and my attention wandered. Still, it was a pioneering album from what I understand even if Sabbath would soon he hitting much greater heights.
Bob Dylan
5/5
As with previous Dylan album on the list, this was my first time listening to this all the way through. It's 5 stars for "Like a Rolling Stone" and only gets better from there with "Ballad of a Thin Man" and "Highway 61 Revisited" being the standouts for me. The surrealistic lyrics are inscrutable but absolutely hypnotizing and the full band arrangements and playing are fantastic. What a run of albums he had in the 60's.
Emmylou Harris
4/5
Emmylou's voice is distinctive and one of the best in country or any genre. This is a great sample box of an album of different styles of country. I especially liked "From Boulder to Birmingham" and her cover of The Beatles "For No One." While I prefer her 90's work with Daniel Lanois ("Wrecking Ball" and "Red Dirt Girl"), this was a stellar debut.
Kings of Leon
3/5
Felt very "meh" about this one since it's absolutely ridiculous that we have 2 KOL albums in a week and yet so many better bands and albums are missing. On its own terms, this album is OK. I like the garage rock sound on many but the singer's voice is god-awful on many and I had to stop listening to songs like "Trani." Still, there are a few really good ones on here--"California Waiting, "Molly's Chambers" and others--that made uo for it somewhat.
Sarah Vaughan
4/5
A great document of what sounds like a fantastic night in Chicago circa 1958. Love the roughness of this with the crowd and band chatter, the mistaken vocals, and the general vibe--you really feel like you are there. And that voice. Wow. What an incredible band too. The songs wrap around you like a comfortable robe
Oasis
4/5
I have listened much more to "Whats the Story (Morning Glory)" and had never listened to this all the way through. It's a really good album with nary a dud in the bunch. Just enjoyable arena rock that doesn't try to do too much. These guys had it and they had a confidence, even arrogance, about themselves, a swagger, that was (and I guess still is) undeniable.
The La's
5/5
One of my all time favorites, this album is a perfect blend of all things Britpop. What really sets it apart is the melodicism which is exquisite. I had the cassette when it came out and I wore the thing out. It goes beyond " There She Goes Again," there are so many great songs on here and it hasn't lost anything in the 3 + decades since its release. Really tragic that this was their only album. They laid the groundwork for Blur, Oasis, Pulp and the rest of Britpop.
Beatles
4/5
Anything by the Beatles is at least 4 stars but this one just doesn't have the wall-to-wall great songs like many of the other ones do. There are a few too many covers as Lennon and McCartney were still finding their voice. And, admittedly, I have a bias toward the later period Beatles. Still, this is a fun, raucous album that captured them just as Beatlemania was about to hit.
Ramones
4/5
It's pretty much the same song over and over and the lyrics are ridiculously simple....but the formula works. At the time, it must have been so refreshing during the age of bloated rock acts like Styx, Boston, etc. I love the fake British accent and the whole "who gives a fuck" vibe of songs like "Blitzkrieg Bop" and "Beat on the Brat."
Jazmine Sullivan
2/5
Another album that, as a white middle-aged aged man, I just can't understand or appreciate very much. But even if I could, I really disliked the spoken interludes and the view into the sexual lives of these women. And the songs were boring and generic and went in and out of my ears barely registering. Seems like there were better representations of modern female soul/R & B that could have been included on the list
White Denim
4/5
This was a new discovery for me and I liked it very much. Very interesting arrangements and jamming, even some flute solos. It was much more melodic and concise than a lot of jam bands and the songs never overstayed their welcome. These songs are full of intricately woven guitar interplay and dense wordplay. There are no comparable bands that I can think of, they are truly original indie rock. Am looking forward to checking out more of their stuff.
The Beta Band
4/5
I love these guys and, though this is not my favorite by them (that would be The 3 Ep's), this is a really good album. It's a bit more muted rhythmically than their other stuff but their weird, neo-psychedelic, ambient vibe shines through. "Shapes" is a great opener that sets the tone. Not as shaggy and tribal as some of their other stuff gets and I often wish they would break loose and get more chaotic. For the most part, this is quieter and more controlled.
Prince
5/5
This is Prince's best album hands down. Just an amazing, genre hopping album of great songs with lots of his fantastic guitar playing interspersed throughout. Psychedelic rock ("Play in the Sunshine"), sweaty funk ("Hot Thing"), smooth R & B ("Slow Love"), an impassioned gospel song ("The Cross"), and topical commentary (title track). And so many more bangers. My college roommate was a HUGE Prince fan and this album was one of the very few that we agreed on as being one of the best albums of the 80's.
Kanye West
4/5
This is a really entertaining and enjoyable album...and I never thought I would say that about any rap album. It's just not a genre that I have much appreciation for as I'm more of a melody/hooks person and about as white as can be. This album surprised me, I hadn't really heard it beyond "Jesus Walks." The skits were funny, the samples were fantastic....and there's lots of melody/hooks. Still don't care for much of the toxic male bravado but that's a big part of who he is...and only got worse after this album it seems.
Queen Latifah
3/5
Can't deny the importance of this album and Queen Latifah's arrival on the scene during a time when rap was a swaggering, male-only thing. But I found this pretty boring and dated overall with only a few songs that stood out.
Paul Simon
5/5
What is there to say about this album that hasn't been said? What an absolute masterpiece. There's the melding of the South African musicians and rhythms with the very New York City artists perspective ...there's the superb use of Linda Ronstadt ("Under African Skies") and Los Lobos ("All Around the World/Myth of Fingerprints")...there are some of the best songs of his career (too many to list)...what an achievement. I actually like the album that followed "Graceland," "The Rhythm of the Saints," even more but this was one of the greatest examples of the melding of world music with pop, something that David Byrne, Peter Gabriel, and Sting were all doing at the same time. 1986 was a great year for me personally and it was made even better by this album coming out then
Duke Ellington
4/5
An amazing set from a big band at the height of its powers. Duke Ellington is a phenomenal bandleader, you can hear him encouraging the players to go faster, harder, and longer on their solos. The slower, bluesier numbers are great too. This is my favorite kind of jazz and nobody did it better than Ellington and his band.
Air
3/5
This album feels like you really need to see the film to get it. I saw it years ago and dont remember anything about it. As a standalone album, it's fine, with a kind of gauzy, dreamy, pleasant vibe. Even a song called "Dead Bodies" doesn't stray too far from this. The final song, especially, with its spoken word summary of the film, while haunting, is just more off-putting than anything. I guess you had to see the film (and remember it).
The Cramps
4/5
This is a seriously fun album and a perfect one for heading into the Halloween season. Garage-ish, goofy, and vocally over the top. I definitely hear how these guys influenced Frank Black/Black Francis of Pixies. Songs like "Mystery Plane" and "Strychnine" could be from his solo albums.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
First time listening to Marley and Wailers other than a greatest hits compilation. I was surprised that there was only one song I had heard, "Stir It Up." Great 1-2 punch to open the album with "Concrete Jungle" and "Slave Driver" both lyrically and groove-wise. The album brought me back to being in Jamaica, all I needed was a rasta man offering me ganja on a beach.
CHIC
3/5
Enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Great instrumentation, especially on guitar and bass, make up for some fairly boring, repetitive songs. All the disco haters of the time were maybe a little too hard on bands/artists like this. I had only heard "Le Freak" (over and over) in the 70's and on but "I Want Your Love" is a really good song (though it goes on way too long).
The Byrds
4/5
Such a great fusion of psychedelic, country, and folk along with the impeccable vocal harmonies of McGuin and Crosby et al. Definitely ends on a goofy note with "Dophin Smile" and "Space Odyssey" but some great songs on here and some interesting late 60's sonic experimentation. Hadn't heard much of these guys beyond "Mr. Tambourine Man," "8 Miles High, and "Turn, Turn, Turn," so it was good to hear their more psychedelic leaning side.
Dire Straits
4/5
One of the all time best debut albums ever, for sure, and a great showcase for Knopfler's songs, distinctive voice, and otherworldly, God-like guitar. Still, I would have rather seen "Making Movies" or "Love Over Gold" on this list. Both have the cinematic, atmospheric epic songs that would come to fruition on "Brothers in Arms." But all of the ingredients were in place on this stellar album.
The Youngbloods
3/5
This album starts off great with "Darkness, Darkness"...but much of the rest just wafts by like an old fart in a closed up room. Too much meandering aimlessly on the jazzy songs and the folk rock ones are fine but don't stand out. Still, some really good playing and vocals here and the late 60's freedom rock vibes are strong.
The Mothers Of Invention
2/5
What an absolutely bizarre album. And very annoying, that too. Still, I give Zappa and crew credit for the eclecticism of it, throwing all kinds of musical styles in a blender and coming up with something wholly original. I can see how this influenced both Dr. Demento style novelty songs and the 80's/90's They Might Be Giants albums. But, God, a little goes a long way and that last "song" was unlistenable. Ridiculously cynical and nasty towards late 60's hippie idealism and a lot less funny than they think they were.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Very hard to be objective about this album. It was a milestone one for me, as an 11 andc12 year-old I played it constantly and it took up space in my head, entering into my dreams. An incredible achievement in musicianship, songwriting, and production. It is a concept album about a drug-addled young man who turns fascist. But it's the way these songs work together and the way the songs merge into each other. And, my God, these songs--all 3 "Another Brick in the Wall" versions, "Mother," "Young Lust," "Hey You," "Comfortabl Numb," "In the Flesh," "Run Like Hell"....just great, great songs regardless of their context. So, a lot of nostalgia here, but an undeniably great album by musicians at the peak of their power. And a huge hats off to Davi Gilmour whose guitar and vocals make this album what it is and helps offset some of Roger Water's nihilism and dread (though those elements work so well in making the album what it is).
R.E.M.
5/5
Absolute masterpiece by these guys at the height of their powers. Everything came together here as their sound continued in the harder-edged mode of "Life's Rich Pageant" only this time with more politically charged lyrics. "Fire" is the operative word with songs like "The One I Love," "Fireplace," and "Oddfellows Local 151." These songs are fiery and vital and, in these days, seem especially prescient. The song "Fireplace" with its call to anarchy in the face of a crazy world really resonates. And "Welcome to the Occupation" with its anti-colonial stance and "Disturbance at the Heron House" with the line "the followers of chaos out of control" says it all. This album hits hard and is one of their top 3 for me.
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
While not technically a debut album (she was in a band called Blue Angel), this is a stellar solo debut. An all around great pop album that is almost a greatest hits collection. It's also surprisingly eclectic with bubblegum pop ("Girls Just Wanna Have Fun"), reggae ("Witness"), sks ("Yeah Yeah"), even a great Prince cover ("When You Were Mine"). Yes, the whole Betty Boop voice thing wears thin at times, but that's a small complaint. Great backing band and co-songwriting credit as well with members of the Philly band The Hooters. This was a breath of fresh air in a time of synth laden pop crap when it came out and it still sounds great today.
Joe Ely
3/5
I definitely enjoy this kind of country more than others and the album starts strong with the first couple of songs. But then it kind of honky tonks into samey tedium with not much standing out. Some great guitar playing throughout but the songwriting doesn't do a whole lot for me.
Fugees
4/5
This was a fun, entertaining listen all around. I especially liked the covers of "Killing Me Softly" and "No Woman No Cry." Lauryn Hill's vocals really elevate them and the playful chemistry between the 3 does as well. They can go lighter with pop culture references galore or they can go heavier with many allusions to police violence against black people.
Koffi Olomide
4/5
A very good Afro-beat album and a great vocal style and guitar riffs throughout. Some of the early 90's production is a little much but the songs are strong and, though the lyrics are all in French, I could enjoy it without knowing a damn thing about what these songs were about.
Sisters Of Mercy
3/5
This is a decent 80's goth album with some good songs like "Dominion/Mother Russia," "Lucretia," and "This Corrosion." But its self-seriousness and overall "ooh, look at us, we're so dark" vibe often seems laughable and heavy handed. And the less said about the drum machine the better. Still, I'll take the lead singer's voice over the pouty, cloying, annoying voice of Robert Smith of the Cure any day.
Radiohead
5/5
I didn't really appreciate this album when it came out, thinking it was too weird and not as accessible as "OK Computer." Now, hearing it all these years later, it is an amazing achievement and one of the best headphone albums of all time. The sonic layers and creativity are incredible. There are a lot more hooks and melidicism than I originally thought. These guys were absolutely on and the production from Nigel Godrich is immaculate. An album so ahead of its time that it sounded beamed in from the 25th century. The song "How to Disappear Completely" is sonic and lyrical perfection. And "Optimistic" and "National Anthem" are as rocking as they ever got. I wish I had listened closer when it first came out.
The Flaming Lips
4/5
Another great headphone album and a very fun record by the Lips. Some of their best songs here including "Fight Test," "Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots," and "Do You Realize??" The second half fades a bit in quality and the whole "concept" kind of falls apart. The production is fabulous and this and the previous album, "The Soft Bulletin," was their creative apex.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Fantastic album with some of their very best songs ("Can't You Hear Me Knocking" is a personal favorite). The fusion of honky tonk rock, blues, country, even gospel is in full effect here which would culminate on the next album, "Exile on Main Street." Questionable lyrics on "Brown Sugar" aside, its some of the songs I knew less thar really stood out--"Sister Morphine" and "Moonlight Mile" especially. This was the peak of the Stones swagger and brilliance and is an easy 5 star album.
Digital Underground
2/5
This is one tedious, stupid album. There are a couple of fun, vapid songs like "Humpty Dance" and "Doowutchulike," but all go on way too long and are repetitive as hell. And, lyrically, there's nothing there, just empty, cartoonish back and forth that gets old very quickly. And the elements that are interesting such as jazz interludes here and there pass by quickly and are gone, replaced by another monotonous song about the wonders of using condoms (or some magic sex pill?) A puerile slog of an album
Billy Joel
5/5
Lots of memories of this one. I grew up with it, it was an album my sister had and played constantly. So it's one that has seeped into my consciousness from the beginning. It has my favorite Billy Joel song, "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant," a great encapsulation of a relationship in a 8 minute song with its shifts in tempo and some furious piano and sax. And it launched him into stardom with sings like "Just the Way You Are" and "Only the Good Die Young." I might have put his album "The Nylon Curtain" on the list in addition to this one but there's no arguing the greatness of this album. It was the one where he really came into his own and put it all together.
Stevie Wonder
5/5
Another excellent album from his best era. While I wish that there were a few more funky songs like "Boogie on Reggae Woman" or "You Haven't Done Nothin'," the lyrics are fantastic, especially on the spiritually plaintive "Heaven is a Zillion Light Years Away." The production is also stellar. He was absolutely hitting his stride during this period.
George Michael
4/5
This is another album that was played constantly by my college roommate. Didn’t care much for it then but it has grown on me. A little overwrought on the ballads but there are some solid pop songs on here and Michael pulls it off well. Come on, “Faith” is a great song and, despite “I Want Your Sex” (3 versions!) some of the lesser songs like “Your Hands” and “Monkey” are standouts. “Father Figure” is pretty cringe though and there is definitely a creepo aspect to the dude.
Django Django
3/5
I remember hearing this and downloading it when it came out, liking it, then never listening to it again. Just that kind of record. Love the rhythms and almost tribal drumming at times, the close harmonies, and the creative synths. They even throw in some surf rock guitar on "Lifes a Beach." But the songwriting isn't strong and much of it is forgettable.
The Temptations
4/5
I had only known these guys from songs like "My Girl" so it was surprising to hear them do a song like "Run Charlie Run" about white people leaving cities because of fear of black people. "Papa Was A Rolling Stone" is an all time classic. Some of the songs didn't register much but I love the cover of "First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" as well.
The Jam
4/5
Great Brit-rock album with fine songwriting by Paul Weller and some of their best songs ("English Rose," "Mr. Clean," and "Down in the Tube Station at Midnight."). Really great cover of the Kinks "David Watts" as well. Some of the songs don't click quite as much but Weller really captures the paranoia and danger of city life with "A Bomb in Wardour Street" and "Down in the Tube Station at Midnight."
Louis Prima
4/5
Very fun jazz album with some fantastic hepcat swingers like "Just a Gigolo" and "Jump Jive an Wail" that were later covered by David Lee Roth and Brian Setzer Orchestra, respectively. I love this kind of jazz and Prima was a primo talent.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
Nobody did it better and the guitar fireworks are here in abundance. But I was also surprised by the contributions of the other band members and the songwriting. "Crosstown Traffic," "All Along the Watchtower" (where he really makes the song his own), and "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)" are some of his best songs. Some of the bluesy jamming gets old for me and I like the more concise, tighter songs better.. but that's a small complaint for an excellent, mind expanding album.
Amy Winehouse
4/5
I missed this album when it came out, only being familiar with a couple of the songs like “Rehab” and “Back to Black.” What a fantastic album. I love the retro sound with the horns and the great production. And that voice. What a talent and what a shame that we didn’t hear more from her.
Taylor Swift
3/5
I am definitely not the audience for such an overexposed and unavoidable artist like her, but, for the most part, I enjoyed this album. It is a folk-lite singer songwriter album with some nice contributions from HAIM, The National, and Bon Iver. It's all OK but I wouldn't listen again and I still think she is overrated and overexposed. Does she really need a frickin movie for every release or tour? Do we need to see her and be reminded of her wherever we look?
Prince
5/5
Growing up in the 80’s, this album was absolutely huge and exciting in a way that was different from other big albums of the time. It was a perfect fusion of rock and funk and leaned more on the rock side than his previous album, “1999,” had. It contains some of his best songs (“Let’s Go Crazy,” “When Doves Cry,” and, especially “Purple Rain.”). It was also very naughty at times which probably appealed to my horny adolescent mind. And it also contains some of the best guitar riffing of his career. It didn’t matter if you hadn’t seen the movie, this was just a huge album and one of the best of the 80’s.
Frank Ocean
5/5
I had heard many of the songs on this album bit had never listened to it straight through. What a fantastic album. Love the creativity of it and the way it flows musically. The sound and production are first rate. And, lyrically it's also interesting and feels immersive. I wish he would continue to make music but. even if he doesn't, this album would be enough.
Madonna
3/5
This is a fine pop album with some forays into electronica/dance and some interesting production choices. It's very much Y2K era sounding and doesn't do much for me one way or another. Some of it is pretty annoying but made up for on songs like "Music," "Don't Tell Me," and "Gone."
The Triffids
4/5
While a little overwrought at times, I really enjoyed this. It fits into the "big music" ethos of the mid to late 80's and bands like U2 and The Waterboys--lots of chiming guitars and dramatic singing, very emotional and almost gospel-like sometimes. And the songwriting is very good with nice arrangements and instrumentation. Sure, it's a little corny and over the top sometimes but it really worked for me more often than not. Best songs were "Bury ME Deep in Love" and "Trick of the Light."
The Go-Go's
4/5
A great early 80s power pop record that is strong from start to finish. I had really only heard the hits off this album ("Our Lips Are Sealed" and "We Got the Beat") so it was good to hear the whole thing. Belinda Carlisle has the perfect voice for this music and the whole band and songwriting is great. Just an enjoyable listen from start to finish.
Common
4/5
Really enjoyed the positivity and sincerity of this album. It's refreshing when so many albums of the genre seem more materialistic, sexual, or violent. And he's very affirming of femininity and monogamy (except for that one song). Overall, I really appreciate the approach he takes, with the message that people can escape their lives and reach for something better. Also really like the collabs with Kanye West and John Legend. That said, his rapping style gets monotonous at times (complains the guy who doesn't really like rap). It's 3.5 rounded up to 4 for me.
Dexys Midnight Runners
4/5
I had never heard anything by these guys except for "Come On Eileen" and this album really surprised me. There is a lot of infectious energy, a great horn section, and a raucous sensibility that really engages the listener. There isnt really a dud on it. They also bring some ska into it and remind me a little of the band Madness at times.
M.I.A.
2/5
I had only heard MIA with the great song "Paper Planes" and its Clash sample so I was disappointed with this album. It's interesting sonically and production-wise but it is repetitive and gets boring. Many of the songs don't have a whole lot to say beyond the usual sexual bravado only from a female perspective.
Beck
5/5
This is a gorgeously arranged chamber pop masterpiece. It was especially surprising coming from Beck, the master of sound collage and absurdist lyrics, delivering these earnest, sincere songs about lost love and moving on. Nigel Godrich's production is a huge part of what makes this album so great. There are echoes of Nick Drake in songs like "It's All in Your Mind" and "Round the Bend" and, elsewhere, amazing string arrangements that elevate songs such as "Paper Tiger" and "Sunday Sun." There's also some Laurel Canyon influence in songs like "Guess I'm Doing Fine." This is my favorite all around Beck album and, though he tried the same approach later with a kind of sequel, "Morning Phase," this one is better. His songwriting has never been as direct, plaintive, and masterful as here.
Depeche Mode
4/5
Almost a greatest hits album from these guys with "Your Own Personal Jesus," "Enjoy the Silence," and "Policy of Truth." But the rest of the album is solid as well and I really enjoyed the deeper cuts like "World in My Eyes" and, especially, "Clean." That song is one of the best I've ever heard about what it means to try to stay sober. They are the ultimate synth pop band and we're at their peak on this album.
Duran Duran
4/5
I remember listening to this on vinyl when I was 14. Loved it then and, for the most part, it still holds up. Great pop songs with tight arrangements that don't rely on synths to carry it as so many artists did at that time. What stands out now is the bass playing by John Taylor--that guy was on another level. These guys were much more than pretty boys and had some serious chops. "Rio," "Hungry Like the Wolf," "Save a Prayer"--some great songs on here.
Queen
3/5
I've discovered that full album Queen just isn't the same as Greatest Hits Queen. I live "Killer Queen," it's one of their best, but so much of this album is just OK for me. It's better than Queen II, the songs are tighter and more concise, but the melodies are kind of limp and the production is again overstuffed, every space filled, without allowing the songs to breathe. That's just what Queen is/was but the songwriting doesn't elevate it despite Mercury. May, et al trying their best.
Nanci Griffith
5/5
I absolutely love Nanci Griffith and this is one of her best. She was an amazing songwriter and the beauty and honesty of her lyrics always hits me hard. Her songs are so truthful and ache with a lived sincerity that they often bring me to tears. So many good ones here starting with the 1-2 punch of the title song and "Love at the Five and Dime." I also love the closing song "The Wing and the Wheel." She cuts through cynicism and gets to the heart every time. My favorite album by her is "Flyer" which should absolutely be on this list as well as "Songs From Another Room," her album of covers. She was also an amazing collaborater and there are always many great guests, here including Lyle Lovett.
Blur
4/5
This album starts with a bang with "Beetlebum" and "Song 2." After that it is a sonic hodge podge and not everything works. But it's always interesting, kind of like their version of The Beatles White Album. There's even a song with a writing credit to David Bowie, "M.O.R.," and a grungy country song ("Country Sad Ballad Man") When many bands would play it safe, Blur was pushing the envelope and I love that about them.
Eels
4/5
I've always been a fan of Eels and its founder and one constant member, Mark Oliver Everett. This is a great album and his songwriting is a great example of dark lyrics set to beautiful pop constructions. So many good songs on here and there really isn't a dud on it. Jon Brion's production really elevates it and gives it a distinctive sound. Sad sack odes to LA living never sounded so good.
Alice In Chains
3/5
Grungy goodness though it's way too long. There are some really good songs like "Rooster", "Down in a Hole" "Hate to Feel," and they keep things interesting most of the time. I enjoyed the layered vocals and more complex rhythmic structures. But, come on, almost an hour is too much and on one song in particular ("God Smack") the vocal was like nails on a chalkboard with an exagerrated vibrato that made me want to gouge my eyes out.
Paul Revere & The Raiders
3/5
This is a fun, goofy album that is perfectly fine but not really worthy of a list like this IMHO. Seems like they tried to do what other bands (The Byrds, The Monkees, etc.) did better. But there are some really good songs here like "Kicks" and "Im Not Your Stepping Stone" (a song the Monkees did, again, better). I forgot most of these songs as soon as they were over.
Songhoy Blues
4/5
This "desert blues" style of Afro-pop was new to me and I really enjoyed this. No need to understand the lyrics, the music communicates everything. Love this kind of introduction to something I wouldn't ordinarily listen to. Gritty, raw, and real
Ray Charles
4/5
That's a hard title of the album to live up to but Ray is definitely a genius of interpreting standards. I love what he does with these songs. "Let the Good Times Roll," especially, has some Louis Prima energy and abandon with Charles almost sounding deranged at times. Most of these songs can't quite match that intensity but are beautifully orchestrated and sung throughout. I'll take Ray over Frank Sinatra and the other crooners any day.
Tim Buckley
3/5
Wow, this is some overwrought shit--there's no denying that the guy had a great voice and, on a few tracks he sounds just like his son, Jeff. But, oy, these songs are ridiculously over the top folk psychedelia. The ones that are simpler and more restrained--"Once I Was," "Pleasant Street,"-- are actually kind of nice. But, even lyrically, it's pretty hammy and cringe--"all the people in Christian licorice clothes." Uh, OK.
Throwing Muses
4/5
Wow, this was a revelation to me. I had never really paid attention to this band when they started out and were in their prime. My loss. If you can get past Kristin Hersh's banshee wail of a voice on some of these songs, there's some very interesting stuff. I like how many of the songs change midway through into something completely different such as on "Rabbits Dying." It keeps the listener off balance in a good way and made me want to listen again. But, oof, that voice. Not an easy listen but a very good post-punk record.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Starts off fantastically with "Lively Up Yourself" and "No Woman No Cry" and doesn't drop off much from there. It's really good to hear these Marley albums having only heard the greatest hits album "Legend" before. Jamaica has been in my thoughts following Hurricane Melissa so this album put me back there at the Pelican Bar ((now destroyed) and Treasure Beach. Marley's (and Jamaica's) spirit is strong.
Arctic Monkeys
4/5
A brash, snarling leer of an album, full of piss and vinegar. I remember seeing these guys open for The Black Keys and it should have been the other way around. Not a whole lot of variation, lyrically, but it doesn't matter with songs as tight and focused as these. The spirit of punk was alive and well on this album
Miles Davis
4/5
"Cool" is the word for this album and, though I'm not a big jazz guy, this is some fine ensemble work: melodic, tight, and, yes, "cool." I prefer this type of jazz more than his later period of free jazz and albums like "Bitch's Brew" though that's fantastic as well.
Jeff Beck
2/5
I get that Jeff Beck is a great guitarist, one of the best ever. But so much of this album is bloated, boomer blues rock that just sits there. "Old Man River?" Really? I liked the shorter instrumentals like "Greensleeves" and especially "Beck's Bolero." But Rod Stewart adds nothing and what's with the fake sounding applause on one of the songs? I kept waiting for some incendiary guitar to elevate the bluesier songs but it never happens.
Bob Dylan
5/5
As a person who is often on the fence about Dylan, this one is a no doubter. Absolutely stellar songs, arrangements, and playing make for a gorgeous, haunting listen from start to finish. 1975 was a fantastic year for music and this is one of that year' (or any year's) best.
Talking Heads
5/5
A brilliant blend of Fela Kuti afro-pop, Brian Eno production (and songwriting credit), great backing players like Adrian Belew, and David Byrne at his Byrniest...there's nothing like Remain in Light. In four years to go from Talking Heads 77 to this album is mind boggling. Eno had a lot to do with it but the four members matured in songwriting and created songs from jamming together that formed the basis for these songs. I discovered this album later as I first came to love them with Speaking in Tongues and Stop Making Sense. Remain in Light is the album that led to their breakthrough. Listening again, the standouts for me are "The Great Curve," " Houses in Motion," and "Listening Wind." Not enough superlatives in the world for this album.
fIREHOSE
4/5
Fine midwest indie rock circa 1989, very inspired and influenced by REM. Not that familiar with the Minutemen, which sired this band, but I really enjoyed this. Some of the songs seem a little unformed/unfinished but there's a strong melodic sensibility throughout. Love Mike Watt's bass playing and the guitarist also has a unique style. This made me want to listen to more of them.
The Clash
4/5
Helluva debut by one of, if not the best, punk bands of all time. These tight bursts of fury and political angst sound more relevant than ever. They explored a lot more genres and expanded their sound on later albums like London Calling. But this one still rages and hits hard.
Cat Stevens
4/5
This is 70's singer songwriter nirvana. Some all time great songs--"Where do the Children Play?," "Wild World," "Father and Son"--and a bunch of really good deeper cuts. Not sure how a man who espoused peace and love later issued jihad against infidels, but this album really nails a hippie philosophy of seeking deeper love and understanding of oneself and others. And the arrangements are fantastic, perfectly complementing Stevens' voice and lyrics.
Pentangle
3/5
Serious Renaissance fair vibes on this one (for better or worse). All I needed was a turkey drumstick and a goblet of ale. There are some really good songs, arrangements, singing, and playing but it's precious as hell at times. Also love the use of sitar. This band was in the same peer group as Richard Thompson, Sandy Denny and Fairport Convention but their stuff is far more eclectic and, to me, interesting. Still, "Lyke-Wake Dirge" has a Fleet Foxes vibe and "Sally Go Round the Roses" is a great song.
Radiohead
5/5
This is the Radiohead album that I return to regularly. There's something about it that pulls me into it and it casts its spell on me. From the first track, "15 Step," with its rhythmic, almost tribal feel to the last, "Videotape," with its hypnotic mantra feel, there's not a bad song on it. A personal favorite is "Weird Fishes/Arpeggi" and I don't even know why. It's just a song that pulls me in and works on me. They're all like that. Nigel Godrich's production is a big part of it. But, mostly, it's the collection of songs and the dream-like quality of them. Just a fantastic album.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
Kind of ambivalent about this one. Some good songs and arrangements but I can't help but think that her African-American counterparts in the US were doing this much better. Her voice is strong, just not as strong and distinctive as those coming out of Motown, Muscle Shoals, etc.
Fairport Convention
5/5
Funny that this appears very soon after the Pentangle one and I had just compared the two bands. I'm a little biased toward FC, mainly because I have long loved Richard Thompson, whether with FC, with Linda Thompson, or solo. I also love Sandy Denny's vocals. And "Liege and Lief" is the OG British folk album. Such a great blend of traditional and rocking elements. I especially love the story songs like "Matty Groves" and "Tam Lin." Though I like the album before this, "Unhalfbricking," a little better, this one is fantastic and exemplifies all that is great about FC: gorgeous vocals, stellar instrumentals, and great songs reimagined and amplified.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
2/5
White British guys playing and singing the blues has always been a thing. I can tolerate it when it's only one part of a musician's or band's output, like with Led Zeppelin or the Rolling Stones. With these guys, that's all it is. It feels like they are parotting the authentic blues guys. Even if they're very good at it, it's still a facsimile of the real thing. I'd rather listen to Muddy Waters or Howling Wolf, not a bunch of posers. Plus, it's really boring and one dimensional.
John Prine
5/5
My first time hearing this all the way through and I absolutely loved it. Had heard "Illegal Smile" and "Hello in There," that was about it. This was an amazing debut from one of the best songwriters of his or any generation. I was surprised by the darkness of songs like "Sam Stone" and "Six o' clock News." I'll take Prine over Dylan any day. His songs are like little philosophical treatises in 3-4 minutes. He was called "The songwriters' songwriter" and it's totally earned. I've got to go back and listen to his catalog.
Fatboy Slim
3/5
Some good beats and good songs--"Right Here, Right Now," "Praise You"-- but, boy, do some of these get tedious. Lots of empty calories on this one. Still, as beat-heavy electronica goes, you could do a lot worse (see Basement Jax).
Jean-Michel Jarre
4/5
Enjoyed the old school keyboard stylings on this one. Jarre really brings the most out of what was still a fairly basic instrument at that time. It often reminded me of Angelo Badalamente and the soundtrack from Twin Peaks. He changes it up with each movement of the song cycle and varies the mood so it keeps the listener engaged and interested.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
So great to hear these CCR albums after only having heard the greatest hits one. Swamp blues rock is in full force on this one. What stands out to me here is Fogerty's guitar especially on the extended jams. Damn he was good. Also love the cover of "Good Golly Miss Molly." Don't know if there was a better band in the late 60's and early 70's.
Leonard Cohen
4/5
Stellar debut with beautiful arrangements, poetic words, and great songwriting. "Suzanne," of course, but there's not a dud to be found. I especially like "So Long, Marianne." Still, there's something that keeps this from being a 5 star album for me. Something about the way Cohen's voice and lyrics often keep me at arm's length from the emotional truths of his songs.
The Byrds
3/5
The highlight of the album is obviously "Eight Miles High" but there are some other good psych rock songs on here like "Mr. Spaceman" and "Whats Happening???" The covers are kind of boring though "Hey Joe" is played in a kind of frantic garage style very different from the Jimi Hendrix one. Overall, there are too many throwaway songs like the last one about the Lear Jet. Why? Still, I love McGuinns Rickenbacker guitar and his distinctive style.
Portishead
5/5
They go to some very dark places on this album and it works beautifully. Moving from trip-hop to a more experimental art rock approach, these songs often sound like a cry for help. There are echoes of Brian Eno here and there and Beth Gibbon's voice is plaintive and haunting. It's a shame that this was their last album since, to me, this was their pinnacle. I love the way the songs morph and change halfway through such as on "The Rip." A highlight is "Deep Water" with just the ukulele accompaniment and those creepy backing vocals. A dark masterpiece of an album that lingers in its sonic intensity.
Calexico
4/5
This is a very good album from a band with a unique sound and a real sense of place. Love the instrumentals which all have a different feel and mesh with the overall vibe. "Quattro," "Not Even Stevie Nicks...,"Across the Wire," and "Guero Canelo" are the standouts for me. Though I like their two albums after this one a bit more, this is really good. It also includes a cover of Love's "Alone Again Or..." which is great but is only on the 20th anniversary edition.