278
Albums Rated
3.24
Average Rating
26%
Complete
811 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1970
Favorite Decade
Jazz
Favorite Genre
other
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
37
5-Star Albums
12
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Ambient 1/Music For Airports
Brian Eno
|
5 | 3.07 | +1.93 |
|
Deloused in the Comatorium
The Mars Volta
|
5 | 3.19 | +1.81 |
|
The Yes Album
Yes
|
5 | 3.31 | +1.69 |
|
L'Eau Rouge
The Young Gods
|
4 | 2.32 | +1.68 |
|
Tommy
The Who
|
5 | 3.33 | +1.67 |
|
Darkness on the Edge of Town
Bruce Springsteen
|
5 | 3.41 | +1.59 |
|
Sign 'O' The Times
Prince
|
5 | 3.45 | +1.55 |
|
War
U2
|
5 | 3.47 | +1.53 |
|
Aja
Steely Dan
|
5 | 3.47 | +1.53 |
|
Disraeli Gears
Cream
|
5 | 3.47 | +1.53 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
If You're Feeling Sinister
Belle & Sebastian
|
1 | 3.18 | -2.18 |
|
Smile
Brian Wilson
|
1 | 3.05 | -2.05 |
|
Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle
Bill Callahan
|
1 | 3.02 | -2.02 |
|
American IV: The Man Comes Around
Johnny Cash
|
2 | 3.89 | -1.89 |
|
69 Love Songs
The Magnetic Fields
|
1 | 2.85 | -1.85 |
|
Group Sex
Circle Jerks
|
1 | 2.75 | -1.75 |
|
Hot Fuss
The Killers
|
2 | 3.74 | -1.74 |
|
Doolittle
Pixies
|
2 | 3.74 | -1.74 |
|
Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
Arctic Monkeys
|
2 | 3.73 | -1.73 |
|
California
American Music Club
|
1 | 2.69 | -1.69 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| David Bowie | 4 | 4.75 |
| Prince | 3 | 5 |
| Black Sabbath | 3 | 5 |
| Bob Dylan | 2 | 5 |
| Beatles | 2 | 5 |
| Steely Dan | 2 | 5 |
| The Rolling Stones | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band | 2 | 1.5 |
| The Kinks | 3 | 2 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Brian Eno | 5, 2 |
5-Star Albums (37)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Brian Wilson · 1 likes
1/5
I actively dislike this more than just about any piece of music I have ever listened to in the 7 decades I've been on the planet. If I could give it less than 1 star, I would. I do not see the genius at work here, maybe I'm missing something. He's got song here about vegetables, for cryin' out loud.
1-Star Albums (12)
All Ratings
Joy Division
3/5
This is an era that somehow passed me by. I was 13 when this album came out and neither the album nor the band were ever on my radar. I can appreciate the time and mood it represents, but it just doesn’t resonate with me. I picked up on some of the new wave and happier post-punk that sprung from this, but I don’t think I was ever this sad or angry as a teenager.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
This one is more in my wheelhouse than Joy Division. I think it’s a good example of a band at the peak of their power. Everything was coming together here - songwriting, playing, a fun mix of funk and rock- it all works here. Been an RHCP fan for a long time. I don’t love everything they’ve done, but I do love most of what they recorded here.
Willie Nelson
3/5
I appreciate Willie, really, I do. And this is a classic bunch of wonderful songs. And he does a wonderful job performing them. And it’s fine. Really. I don’t think I get what the fuss is all about.
Joan Armatrading
4/5
Long time fan of Ms. Armatrading. I don't recall why we were listening to The Key in 1983 - "I Love It When You Call Me Names" and "Drop the Pilot" were probably getting airplay on the college radio station. My best friend and I went to see her at a small theater in Crown Point, Indiana, maybe at a casino, I'm not sure. I've enjoyed her approach for many years and this release has two standouts for me - 'Down to Zero' and 'Love and Affection' grab me every time. Always an enjoyable listen for me.
Neil Young
4/5
Neil, Neil, Neil. I like this one. A little dirty, a little grungy, a little greasy, nice and slow. I'm thinking mostly about the title track. The whole thing sounds a bit like he's fronting The Band or a really early version of The Eagles, maybe? Does this one fly under the Neil radar? I never hear anyone talk about it, I might not have ever even heard of it until this list generator pushed it to me. Pretty much an insta-add to my library.
Alanis Morissette
3/5
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. I'd certainly heard the big hits and they were better than I remembered. Hard to believe she was only 19 when this was released. It definitely works well as a package, some very strong songs here. I probably won't come back to this repeatedly, but when my wife plays it, I'll enjoy it that much more having listened to the whole thing.
Van Morrison
3/5
Long-time Van fan, but i’d never heard of this one. Caravan was a highlight for me. The strings came through very nicely on several tracks. I definitely prefer the younger version of Sir Van to the current day old codger version of him, at least as far as his opinions go. It’s worth noting that the sound and recording quality on this live performance are pretty amazing for 50 years ago. Overall a solid live album.
Underworld
3/5
Blur
3/5
I’d like to give half stars. Specifically, this would be 2.5 from me. I appreciate the Bowie references here, but this was a musical era that I skipped. I might have just been busy raising little kids, but I wasn’t listening to a ton of popular music in this time frame. It was a little shouty in places, an approach that puts me off, a la Oasis. Some good songs, including the one I had already heard, that everyone has heard. I’m ok with the 3 star rating.
David Crosby
4/5
Not a new album for me. This man has one of the great voices of all time. Didn't realize the band is mostly members of the Dead, but I definitely hear that influence this time around. It's got a loose, rambling feel to it, emphasized by the couple of tracks that haven lyrics but feature Crosby vocalizing over the instruments. Despite that rambling feel, Crosby's voice holds it all together very nicely.
The 13th Floor Elevators
2/5
I appreciate the history of rock and roll as much as the next old white guy, but there's nothing special here for me. I would say I'm a fan of psychedelic rock and space rock, and I can see how this represents at least part of the origin of that music, but there's nothing about this that grabs me. It's got that mid- to early '60s jangle-pop feel and that leaves me with the impression that it's generic sounding, electric jug be damned.
M.I.A.
3/5
This is not my thing, but I appreciate it for what it is. The fact that this is a woman, let alone a Sri Lankan woman, making overt political and cultural commentary in the context of otherwise fun music that much of the time is either in the background or being danced to rather than thought about, is impressive. Very much appreciated the Sanford & Sons samples in "U.R.A.Q.T." - "you big dummy" hits a bit different in the context of that song.
I think I might have heard "Galang" before, though I'm not sure where. Figured it out - I'm impressed with myself. Looking at my last.fm account, I've scrobbled the track a handful of times since 2008. I'm vaguely remembering that it was a free download on the iTunes store?
Anyhow, probably won't come back to this, but glad to have been exposed to it. Fun stuff, with a serious side.
Kanye West
2/5
I've never listened to a Kanye album. At this point, I have too many opinions about the man to appreciate his music. As an old white man, I can't have too much to say about this anyway. I've never appreciated what sounds to me like misogyny. I did appreciate the King Crimson sample on "Power".
John Martyn
2/5
Not sure what I think here. This might bear repeated listening. I've heard of him from Steven Wilson and Tim Bowness' "The Album Years" podcast, but I've never listened to him until today.
First impression is that he's a bit of mumbler. That's the thing that's got me on the fence - his voice. I have a feeling it would grow on me if I dove deeper into his catalog, but I don't think I found these songs compelling enough to lead me to do that. I'm stuck between two and 3 stars - I think I have to go with 2.
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
A bit of nostalgia for the time, though not really for the music. I don't think I've ever heard a Pet Shop Boys album all the way through. I certainly know their hits here in the U.S., but it doesn't seem like any of those were one this, their second, album. Maybe I've heard "It's A Sin" before? S-H-O-P-P-I-N-G was a frolic. "Hit Music" was a bit too self-referential for me. Solid fun all around.
The Go-Go's
3/5
Definitely more of a new wave fan than punk fan, but I like where these songs sit, drifting back and forth between the two. There's a lot of fun to be had here, even apart from the astronomical hits that we all heard a million times, "Our Lips Are Sealed" and "We Got The Beat". "Skidmarks On My Heart" is a bop, as the kids say. We've always needed to hear from the women in the world and it's been great to have this coming into our ears for the last 44 years.
Dusty Springfield
4/5
This was a wonderful listen! I knew her name, but I don't think I could have named a song before today. I can hear her in so many artists, some performing today, and many who are no longer recording. To have people like Aretha carrying the soul torch on this side of the Atlantic at the same time Dusty was doing that work in the UK is quite a thing. Loved it and, as a bonus, it sounded wonderful, even the mono version I listened to!
The Triffids
1/5
Boy, was this not for me. I've never heard of The Triffids (other than in their original sci-fi context). This never grabbed me in any way. I played it, the time passed, and I moved on. I felt nothing. Not a fan, not sure why/how this album made this list.
The Darkness
2/5
Yeah, nope. Almost grabbed me once or twice, but honestly, all of the f*$ks and moth@$^ckers were a turn off. I'm fine with cursing in lyrics, but this was over the top. Lots of music from this band, they're still recording, but it's all slipped by me. That must mean that the Venn diagram that includes this music does not intersect with my tastes. Another puzzler on the "1001 to hear before you die" list. I've heard it, but I'm not in a better place because I have. Fingers crossed for better things tomorrow, the last two have been duds.
Fela Kuti
4/5
There's so much emotion tied sup in music like this, joy and anger in equal measure. Also love the relentless, rhythmic drive it has. Anything with Tony Allen playing has me hooked within 30 seconds. Long live Fela!
Aerosmith
3/5
A classic. I was only 11 when it was originally released, but "Walk This Way" and "Sweet Emotion" were FM radio staples my entire life from that point on. I've always enjoyed their hits, but I haven't been a fan in general or really dug very deeply into their catalog. I've heard this one all the way through before and enjoy it.
The Who
3/5
A bluesy, playful romp through history. Kinda funny to hear white people making black soul music, but I guess that's where rock n' roll came from - soul, gospel, rhythm & blues, and jazz. I like where they went from here more than where they were when this came out.
Nirvana
4/5
I get it now. This is from that 90s era where I wasn't listening to a ton of music and even less new music. Grunge, indie rock, nu-metal all passed by me, not interested. Obviously I know who Nirvana are, I know their most well-known tracks, but I had never listened to a Nirvana album all the way through. I get it now.
Violent Femmes
3/5
Turns out I like acoustic punk more than electric. Also, I never realized Adam Sandler is totally doing a Gordon Gano imitation when he sings. The acoustic bass makes these songs. I learned that the lyric is "like I blister in the sun" and not "like a blister in the sun." I don't know what a blister in the sun is, always thought it was one of those nonsensical, poetic lyrics, but, no, it actually made some sense. Anyhow, good stuff. I don't recall hearing it all at the time, but glad I've heard it now.
The The
2/5
This was very 'meh' for me. Nothing ever really stuck. It felt somewhat generic, it could have been a release from just about any angsty new-wave band of the time.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
The jangly, angular style of this music appeals to me. I'm coming to the conclusion that there's a stylistic middle ground for me. Too smooth, no thanks. Too angry, too jagged, no thanks. But a U2, a Peter Gabriel, or, as it turns out, an Echo & The B-Men - those I like. I don't recall hearing much from this release when it first came out. There were definitely other tracks that got radio play and that I enjoyed. This is interesting music.
The White Stripes
3/5
Jack White has been an acquired taste for me. When The White Stripes first started releasing music I just thought they were weird. I’ve really enjoyed the stuff he did with The Raconteurs and his more recent solo work. Going back and listening to this, where the only song I had ever heard is “Seven Nation Army, I can see that I should have had some more appreciation for him from the beginning. A solid record.
Arctic Monkeys
2/5
Sorry, but I’m going to put this album in a basket with other shouty stuff from the late ‘90s and early 2000s - The Strokes, The Killers, Arcade Fire, Franz Ferdinand. I didn’t love any of it then, don’t love it now.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Absolute classic, quite possible my favorite of theirs. I do appreciate the heavier, wild stuff over the folksy tracks. The 4-track sequence of 'In My Time of Dying' through 'Kashmir' is just so strong, so heavy. This is great music from a great band.
Crosby, Stills & Nash
5/5
Songwriting, harmonies, chef's kiss. Wooden Ships, Suite: Judy Blue Eyes, Guinnevere, Long Time Gone. These men made amazing music over a, thankfully, long career. Incredible to think this was just the start!
Buzzcocks
2/5
Nope. Just not my thing.
Milton Nascimento
4/5
This is music that is both chill and warm at the same time. Pat Metheny is probably responsible for my enjoyment of real Brazilian music, including Milton Nascimento. I knew of 'Girl From Ipanema', but it was Brazilian and Latin jazz that caught my attention. This is a wonderful record - guitars, Milton's voice, the rhythms, all come together in such an evocative way. 'Clube Da Esquina No. 2' is a favorite.
Sisters Of Mercy
3/5
Apparently, I am a goth, or at least should have been one? I kind liked this. The only track I've heard by them has 'Corrosion' in the title. It's on an 80s compilation that Steven Wilson curated for a a CD release a couple of years ago. I don't remember the exact title, but I can't be arsed to go look it up right now. I can hear Bowie in so much of the late 80s-early 2000s music that I've been exposed to here. Good to know he lives on...
Janelle Monáe
3/5
Definitely lots of respect for this artist, in all the aspects of her art - acting, fashion, and her music. This sure is all over the place stylistically, but in a good way.
G. Love & Special Sauce
3/5
Loose and sloppy, but in an enjoyable way.
Röyksopp
4/5
Generally a fan of downtempo and chill, psytrance, and other related genres as well and this is no exception. Would love a half star to go with 3.5 - giving them the benefit of the doubt and calling it a 4-star release.
Yes
5/5
No question, a classic, both in music overall and in my cannon of progressive rock fandom. The inventiveness of tracks like "Yours Is No Disgrace", "Starship Trooper", "I've Seen All Good People", and "Perpetual Change" is really unmatched given the time period. Wonderful.
Scott Walker
2/5
I don't really get it. 'Get Behind Me' was the only track I remotely enjoyed. Hard for me to see where this fits in to what else was going on in 1969. Maybe there's more or better elsewhere in his catalog? Sounds like he was a pretty wild guy.
Lauryn Hill
5/5
I've been rating more on my own personal preference and enjoyment than some kind of objective measure of quality. In other words, I haven't left any room for a rating that reflects the thought that "I can't stand this but it's an objectively great album, 5 stars." I've definitely rated the other way, as in "I know this is crap, but I love it, 5 stars." That changes a bit today. This is a 5 star album for me, more for what it represents than my enjoyment of it. I enjoy it, I appreciate it, to a 3 and a half or 4 star level. But the strength, the grace, the talent that is reflected here - the whole package taken in the context of its original release - 5 stars all the way.
The Beach Boys
4/5
This is the first Beach Boys album I've listened to. I've been hearing Beach Boys songs my entire life - I was 1 when this was released, but never listened to an album, not even 'Pet Sounds'. The 'American Beatles'? I'm sure someone has called them that before now, but that’s where I'm at with this. Their music is almost as much a part of the fabric of life from the 60s on as the Beatles and this has some of the threads of that fabric recorded right on it.
U2
5/5
Though I wasn't there as a fan at the beginning, I'm definitely a fan now. And I appreciate what they did at the beginning. Some amazing songs here.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
I’m Team Beatles, but this is a great album. You’ve got classics here - “Sympathy for the Devil” and “Street Fighting Man”. Some of the low-key country and blues tracks are even stronger - “No Expectations”, “Factory Girl”, “Salt of the Earth” - these are all great folk blues, mostly acoustic tracks.
George Harrison
5/5
George is underrated. Full stop. Classics here - “My Sweet Lord”, “Wah Wah”, “Isn’t It A Pity”, “What Is Life”, “My Sweet Lord”, and the title track “All Things Must Pass.” Very poignant from a lyrical perspective looking back on The Beatles, George, and one’s own life.
Peter Gabriel
5/5
Incredible music from an incredible artist that I’ve listened to for almost 45 years! I’ve seen him twice and actually touched him once when he used to crowd surf during ‘Lay Your Hands On Me’. No question that this is a true 5 star release both in objective quality and my love for the recording.
Marty Robbins
3/5
Poking around online, I find that this album garners some extremely high praise. Something along the lines of “the significant piece of modern western music”. One can certainly trace the lines forward into today’s music. I found myself tapping my toe. And “El Paso” is a song that my family used to sing at get togethers when everyone who could play guitar would and the kids would get a washboard or rhythm sticks or a jug to play along. Definite sentimental value there for me. I’m struggling to rate this, thinking about my two scales. Sticking with 3.
James Brown
4/5
1962. That was a long time ago. This guy’s career has spanned nearly y whole life. He became a bit of a caricature of himself for a time, but man did he own his act. This is extremely funky for 1962, but that’s not entirely surprising. You can almost smell the sweat.
The Birthday Party
1/5
I’m going to file this under ‘art I don’t understand.’ There are a lot of paintings I don’t understand, there is dance I don’t understand, and various other types of performance art I just don’t get. I think this is that. My one star rating doesn’t reflect active dislike, but rather a lack of understanding or, perhaps, just the idea that this album is not ‘for me’.
Judas Priest
3/5
Yet another band for whom I had never listened to an album in its entirety. There are 2 classics here that received tons of radio play that 16 year old me heard - “Breaking The Law” and “Living After Midnight”. Those are classics for a reason. While I appreciate the role of JP as standard bearers and the forefathers of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, these two classics are offset by some really cheesy rock, namely “Red, White & Blue”. Solid but flawed in my opinion.
The White Stripes
4/5
Simple, effective, and catchy as hell. I think I might be a White Strips fan.
Animal Collective
3/5
Really interesting, probably necessitating multiple listens to figure out what's going on here. I'll be back.
Massive Attack
3/5
Already a fan, but I think I prefer Mezzanine - more trip, less hop.
Billy Bragg
3/5
Knew the name, but not the music. To me, it sounded like a stripped-down and more politically or socially oriented version of Squeeze or The Jam. I can hear NIck Lowe’s influence, Difford & Tillbrook coming through. Not sure I’d go back, but pleasant enough.
Einstürzende Neubauten
2/5
Certainly interesting. Those Germans can make some weird stuff! That said, I wasn't really digging into this at any point except maybe the last few 'dub' tracks. I would be curious to hear more from them, but I don't think I'll be coming back for more of this particular flavor.
Green Day
4/5
Got to admit, you got me with this one. I was 33 or 34 when this was released, married with a couple kids. This missed me by at least 10 years. I know a lot of these songs, turns out that’s because they are great songs. I’m not a punk, or even a post-punk, but Billie Joe is a great singer and songwriter and this is a really good album.
The Who
5/5
Pick your cliché - a masterpiece, ahead of its time; say what you will about this as long as you say it’s fantastic and I’ll agree with you. That it exists as a musical creation, a cinematic creation (albeit, a bizarre one), and a theatrical creation makes me think Townsend accomplished exactly what he wanted with this story.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Solid Mr. Marley release.
Deep Purple
4/5
This could have been released last year. It sounds ridiculously contemporary for what is effectively a heavy-metal cave painting. Hard to argue the place of this band and this recording in the rock music pantheon.
Parliament
3/5
Fun and funky funk that makes me feel funky.
Bill Callahan
1/5
Nope, not me. Elton, Billy, James, even Jeff (Buckley) and Elliott (Smith) at times, but not this guy. As I've said in other reviews, it's not that I think it's bad, it's just not for me. Emphasis on the 'for' and not the 'me'. Nope nope nope.
Joy Division
2/5
Liked Unknown Pleasures more.
Incredible Bongo Band
3/5
That was fun! The covers were surprising, especially the instrumentals that I recognized. I’d never heard of this band - pleasant surprise.
3/5
Cisco Kid, of course. Worth 3 stars on its own. I was also pleasantly surprised by ‘City, Country, City’ and ‘Four Cornered Room’. Solid grooves all the way ‘round.
Deep Purple
3/5
Not their strongest or most listenable in my opinion.
Destiny's Child
2/5
I appreciate where Beyoncé is today and enjoyed the Bee Gee's cover.
The Prodigy
3/5
Kind of fun, actually. Knew 'Firestarter', but had not heard anything else. 'Breathe' is also a standout track for me.
My Bloody Valentine
2/5
This is part of what seems to be an entire era and group of styles or genres that has never really appealed to me. It's the whole emo, shoe gaze, goth, angsty, noisy, punk, and post-punk thing. I can appreciate what they've done here, but listening to this does not make me think I'll be looking for more of My Bloody Valentine or anything like it anytime soon.
The Sonics
3/5
Found myself tapping my toes fairly often while listening to this. Not sure if a couple of the tracks were covers or not, but quite a few others certainly were. Covers and originals were both enjoyable - seems fairly raucous for the time, sort of Kingsmen-like, I think, though not sure who came first. Fun stuff.
American Music Club
1/5
This was hard to find - not on any streaming services as far as I can tell, at least not any that I have access to. I think I listened to it - there was a version of it on YouTube, although there was one song somewhere in the middle that didn’t seem to fit all that well. In any case, didn’t like it. Not even a bit. Nothing of interest for me here at all. Not a fan. Period.
Depeche Mode
3/5
There are more interesting things going on here for me than in a lot of music of this era. 'Personal Jesus' is a standout that I think I've heard before, but wasn't familiar with much else. This leaned more into the new wave approach that I enjoy - a little, just a little less dark, even if the title is 'Violator'.
Prince
5/5
This might be the Prince album that made me decide the man was a genius. Fun, thought-provoking, and both of and ahead of its time. If you told me this was all I could listen to forever, I think I'd be ok with it.
The Crusaders
3/5
Love me some Crusaders, but my preference is for their earlier work, most everything from prior to this release as they transitioned from The Jazz Crusaders to The Crusaders. Still some nice tracks here, the title track being a favorite.
Talking Heads
4/5
If I had never heard this before and someone wanted to play it for me and told me this was David Byrne’s newest album, I’d probably believe them. This is punk I can get behind. I agree with the reviewers that say that the last two tracks, ‘Psycho Killer’ and ‘Pulled Up’ feel and sound most emblematic of what I enjoy about Talking Heads and everything yet to come from them after this first album.
Elvis Presley
3/5
Never listened to an entire Elvis album. Appreciate his place in music history, but not sure if I’ll listen to another Elvis album, unless there are more in this list. A couple of classic songs here for sure, but this sits on the border of the crooners and rock and roll and I prefer things after we’ve crossed that border firmly into rock territory.
Emmylou Harris
4/5
This is beautiful music that I really enjoyed.
Mariah Carey
3/5
Not my thing now, never been my thing. Appreciate that she has a great voice and I know that many albums like this are very collaborative in terms of performance and song writing. As I've said a number of times now, this is not for me. And by that I don't just mean that I don't prefer it, I mean that I was never the intended audience for this art. Now to rate it - my preference, my enjoyment, a 2. Quality of the work, recording, how much this deserves, in my opinion, to live on a list of 1001 albums to give your time to - I'm going with a 3 here, and since there are no halvsies, I'll give her the benefit of the doubt and go with 3 overall.
The Smiths
3/5
Liked that a bit more than I expected. I figured it would be more of the doom and gloom I’ve come to expect, but it was a bit more jangly and pop- oriented - almost pleasant at times. The title track was not so much fun.
N.E.R.D
3/5
It's Pharrell, of course it's fun! A little racy, a little funky, an all around good time.
Paul Simon
5/5
This is an album that was integral to my musical tastes in 1986 and many elements persist. I've been listening to 'World Music' (crummy label though that may be) for a long, long time. I took a course in non-Western music in undergrad, probably around 1984 or 5, and I was the only one who could instantly recognize a Balinese ketjak, or monkey chant, courtesy of Peter Gabriel's World of Music and Dance compilation from a couple years earlier. Mr. Simon took some of the most pleasing elements of South African music and made them immensely popular. There is sadness here, but mostly, I can't help tapping my toes and smiling as he and his wonderful group of musicians pull all those influences together.
Fela Kuti
4/5
I think this might be the second Fela album I’ve come across on this list, and rightfully so. This release has such a tight, strong groove, with or without Ginger Baker, it’s everything I love about him, his band, and his music.
GZA
2/5
Hard core and/or East Coast rap is not my thing. I would question whether or not, as a 60 year old white man, I'm even allowed to listen to it. Some intriguing moments, but no thanks.
Black Sabbath
5/5
What a coincidence - is this really a random list? I only ask because Ozzy died yesterday and here is a, maybe even the Black Sabbath album popping up for me. Fifty five years ago - hard to believe, seems like such a peachy-keen, gee whiz time, though I suppose war was coming into everyone's home again and things were getting quite a bit darker. Amazing riffs, amazing vocals, masters of the reality of heavy metal music, most certainly. 5 stars for my preference, 5 stars for the impact on what was to follow, 5 stars for what this was at the time.
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
3/5
Turns out I like 'political rap'. Whatever it is about this style - more commentary than grit or anger, I think, I prefer it and enjoy it. At one point the rhythm of the lyrics reminded of Rage Against the Machine and then I read that these guys opened for RATM at one point! Definitely complimentary styles. Also reminds me a bit of 90s acid jazz/acid house in terms of flow and rhythm tracks. Overall, I quite enjoyed it and probably never would have found it if not for this list!
OutKast
2/5
Listened, but did not enjoy. There were one or two tracks that I was familiar, appreciate the role they've played in the history of hip hop, not my thing.
Neil Young
3/5
Appreciate Neil and much of his music. The sentiment of this release is definitely felt, given that he spells it out quite literally in a couple different places. That said, there was nothing in particular that reached out the speakers and grabbed me here. It's fine.
Marilyn Manson
2/5
“The Beautiful People” is a good song, but I just really don’t dig the way this dude has moved through the world during his career - too much muck and mire left in his wake to be make believe.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
You know them, you love them - “Badlands”, “Prove It All Night”, and “The Promised Land”. There are other strong tracks here - “Adam Raised a Cain”, “Candy’s Room”, and the title track. Thinking about everything that’s still to come from this relatively young artist over an amazing career is mind-boggling.
The Youngbloods
3/5
Pleasant surprise, gotta say. More sophisticated folk, thinking Laurel Canyon and CSN, than goofy, sixties bubblegum pop. Some nice notes being played and sung on this one.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
3/5
That was a wild ride. I was absolutely not expecting however minutes of 'Who Do You Love?' to be the opening chunk of that. Very Grateful Dead, photo-jam band stuff. Putting 'Happy Trails' on the end was just silly.
Stephen Stills
4/5
Certainly knew what I was in for here. ‘Love The One You’re With’ is an unassailable classic and there are some other great songs here. In many ways, Stills was the backbone of CSN(Y) with his playing, his voice, and his songwriting. An American folk rock treasure.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Excellent music that I’ve heard a million times.
The Sugarcubes
3/5
Always enjoy Bjork, in all her quirkiness. This was no exception. A couple tracks sounded familiar and were quite enjoyable, particularly 'Birthday'. A solid 3-star album for me. Added to my library.
The Waterboys
4/5
I knew the name, but not much else. In fact, I was mixing them up with The Wallflowers. I was listening, enjoying the mix of traditional folk, strongly influenced by and including Celtic sounds, when I decided to read up a bit - I had no idea of the connections between The Waterboys and other artists I enjoy, namely Karl Wallinger and, most of all, Kevin Wilkinson of China Crisis. This album was a little all over the place stylistically, but a good listen. Strong Van the Man vibes at multiple points. I’m going with my gut and landing on 4 stars for this one.
Joni Mitchell
5/5
Amazing songwriting paired with an amazing voice. All the more amazing they are coming from the same person. Another national treasure, she is, so glad to see her having her day in the sun here at the end of her career and life.
The xx
3/5
Interesting - sparse, but not cold and distant. There's a bit yearning, a bit of longing here. I think I've heard something from this in the past, but didn't go digging into my last.fm history to find it. Evokes some of the one-hit-ish wonders from the 80s - doesn't seem like it had a lot of staying power. Middle of the road for me, 3 stars.
Jazmine Sullivan
2/5
Not that I know everything about every artist who’s ever won a Grammy, but this person has won 2 and I’ve never heard of them. This album includes a broad range of styles across R&B and hip-hop and is not unpleasant, though songs about wet pu##y are not among my favorites. Any artist that collaborates with H.E.R. deserves some credit and Anderson.Paak is another fun addition. I’m all for strong women in the world and the arts, glad she’s empowered to create this and that she’s been recognized for her work, but it’s not for me.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
I imagine if I was sitting in a smokey coffee house in Greenwich Village in the late sixties that I would eat this up. In my office in 2025, I appreciate the poetry, but I’ve never been a fan of his voice. That said, I would never have listened to an entire Leonard Cohen album if it wasn’t for this project. Seems disrespectful to award this less than 3 stars.
Harry Nilsson
3/5
That was downright entertaining. Quite a variety of styles, I can see where the appreciation of his work comes from. Almost a 4 star release, but not quite.
The Young Gods
4/5
Really, really interesting, but I don't know what I think just yet. A combo of Jaques Brel, Nine Inch Nails, and somebody trying to do a death metal growl but producing something that's close, but not quite that. I'm leaning toward a 4-star rating here just because this is so, so different. It does have me wondering what the rest of their catalog sounds like, but not sure I'm going to looking to find out.
Beth Orton
4/5
This was really nice. I think I've heard her name, but don't know her music. Looking at my last.fm history, I've scrobbled one track prior to today, back in 2023. It has not stuck with me. I enjoyed this from the get go - very Knopfleresque guitar work on 'Stolen Car', definitely a highlight. Her vocals are very engaging without being overpowering. More of this, please!
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
This is interesting hip hop. Love it when the music is interesting, the rappers aren't 100% angry, and the lyrics aren't limited in the scope of their topics. That's very old-white-man of me, but I'm an open book here. Great bass lines throughout, from the opening track to 'Scenario' the closer. Couldn't find a credit for the bassist other than Ron Carter on the one track. Just made the connection between the title and those bass lines, by the way. Not just an old white guy, a slow old white guy.
Tina Turner
3/5
This album so evokes the 80s for me, it's wild. Back in the day when radio was still a thing, if you can believe it. Not really nostalgia, more like these songs were part of the background of the world in 1986. Given her history, it's amazing that she put this record out and then added almost 40 years to her career. That said, the music doesn't really do anything else for me - I mean, it's fine, but I didn't find myself tempted to jump up and dance around or anything.
Fugazi
3/5
Enjoyed that more than I thought I would.
Bob Dylan
5/5
He was 22.
Prince
5/5
Formative album, formative film, at a formative time. Miss the man and his music.
The Mars Volta
5/5
Exoskeletal junction at the railroad delayed. No, you Take the Veiled Cerpin Taxt. Delightfully unhinged. I was thrilled when I first discovered these weird boys back in 2008. This is a great album, no doubt in my mind. Bizarre, lyrically at least, but great.
The Kinks
2/5
If you had played this for me and told me it was a joke or parody album The Kinks had made, I would have completely bought it. This is not version of The Kinks that I prefer. I recognize the voice, but that's about all.
Wu-Tang Clan
3/5
Ok, so there's some hard-core East Coast rap I can almost get behind. I could do without the descriptions of torture in 'Method Man'. I do get why this is such an important album and group. Interestingly, my wife, a 57 year old white woman, has been listening to a fair amount of Wu-Tang lately. Makes me chuckle. I probably won't be coming back to it, but I can appreciate it for what it is, maybe more so that some of the other gangsta rap that I've heard via this list up to now.
Madonna
2/5
Meh.
Beatles
5/5
And I described Prince as foundational music. This is it, this is at the center of who I am and who I have become musically. These first two Beatles albums are imprinted on me from as far back as I have memories. Watching the Let It Be documentary made all of their music that much more meaningful and even more fascinating. What a story. So grateful to have had this music moving through my life.
Love
2/5
Meh.
Thelonious Monk
4/5
I'd not heard this particular release. I found it quite enjoyable. Monk is a genius, though maybe I'm using that label excessively in these brief reviews. I suppose I feel obligated to talk about my opinion of the artist as a whole because I don't know if this will be the only Monk release out of the 1000 albums in this bunch. This is jazz in a nearly pure form. 'Bemsha Swing' is a standout.
Black Sabbath
5/5
Getting into overused terms again - classic, genius, etc. This is the birth of heavy metal as the world has come to know it. How lucky for the rest of us that Tommy injured his hand when and in the way he did. Turned out ok for him, too, I think.
Tracy Chapman
4/5
This was a re-listen for me, but it has been a very long time. I still enjoy this music immensely. Her voice is so evocative, it’s almost painful to hear her sing some of these lyrics. This album was such a powerful social force when it was first released, I was surprised how fresh and relevant it seemed all these years later.
Queen
4/5
Doesn't even sound like Queen until 'Seven Seas of Rhye'. That track feels like a preview of what's to come. Everything before that is something else entirely. Not a bad something else, but definitely something else. A little chaotic, a little proggy, and just kind of weird. A good weird though.
Justin Timberlake
1/5
A hour and 4 minutes? Really, are you kidding? Do I have to do this? I'm writing this before I listened, dreading what's to come. I would never - I repeat, never - choose to listen to this album.
And, it turns out it was entirely an unpleasant experience for me. If I was had been a 14 year old girl in 2002 (I was a 37 year old man) or maybe even was one now, I might - might, I say - enjoy this. However, I have neither nostalgia nor appreciation for much of anything this is - the musical performance, the song writing, his singing, not a bit of it. And that's even with Pharrell along for the ride, whom I appreciate very much. Nope, nope, hard no thank you, do not prefer.
Lou Reed
3/5
I’ve never listened to a Velvet Underground album or a Lou Reed solo release. I definitely found myself tapping my toes from the opening track ‘Vicious’. There were a couple others that caught my attention as well. I hadn’t heard ‘Walk on the Wild Side’ in a while, and that doesn’t really need anything else said about it. I was ready to lump this album in with others who have a talk-sing style - Leonard Cohen in particular, Dylan a little bit, though I suppose in his case it’s just a group of folks who don’t have great singing voices, but Lou Reed and his songs stands apart from them a bit. This album certainly belongs on this list.
Johnny Cash
2/5
Back to the land of people who talk as much as sing…This was a bit disappointing. ‘Personal Jesus’ is strong, but I’d feel better about liking it if it hadn’t been used as the soundtrack for a TV commercial for, I guess, Jesus? Some of the covers are a bit weak and bland, too slow and almost depressing. Songs about bashing folks heads in and then getting hanged because of it - no thank you. I’ll stick with his earlier work, thank you very much.
Duran Duran
3/5
My memory of this album was that it was full of bangers. That is not the case - there are exactly 2 of those. ‘Rio’ and ‘Hungry Like The Wolf’. The rest of it is fine.
The Beta Band
4/5
Really pleasantly surprised here. Never heard of them. I saw a not very good band called The Beta Machine open for A Perfect Circle a few years and I knew Beta was in the name but couldn't remember the band name. This was much better and in a nutty way. The first track sounded like a combination of Elbow and U2, mostly because the vocalist reminds of Guy Garvey. From there, things were all over the place, wonderfully all over the place. A song called 'Lion Thief', whatever that is, has the lyric 'As the fruits of the loops of the friendships that droop...' Ok, sure. There was more Elbow-like ness as things went on, but songs bounced from 60s psychedelia to very contemporary sounding. Really enjoyed it!
Badly Drawn Boy
3/5
Kind of came and went for me on this one, initially sounding interesting and then less so.
Nick Drake
3/5
Alright, I think I get it all the swooning and fawning over this mythical singer-songwriter. I read one review that described it as 'bleak'. Sad maybe, but bleak - nah. The guitar playing is lovely, as is his voice. I'm going to have to take another listen and pay more attention to the lyrics, maybe that's where the bleakness lives?
Common
3/5
Not sure what album I'm on, definitely 100+. I'm running out of things to say. I like Common, seems like a good human. Didn't realize he came up with the shambolic mess that is Ye, Mr. West, Yeezee, Kanye, or whatever we're calling him these days. He loses a little bit for me with that, but I guess you don't get to choose who your contemporaries are. I usually say that for me to like rap and hip hop, it has to do something interesting musically. This just about gets there.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
4/5
A couple of great tracks here - 'Breakdown', 'American Girl' - I could listen to either of them on repeat for a long time. Saw TP & the HBs in the early '80s - great band, great show. I think 'Damn the Torpedoes' is a stronger album, but for a first record, this one ain't bad at all!
Suicide
2/5
This is one of the weirder, and, at the end, most disturbing things I think I've ever listened to. I expected thrashing, screaming punk, but what I got is this strange hushed or sort of fuzzy version of punk-tronica. And that last track, yikes, not thank you, not listening to that again.
The Who
3/5
It’s fine, it’s a live Who album. Though I will say, I’ve been listening to a lot of these songs for almost 50 years and it’s something else entirely to take a moment and think about the idea that this wasn’t ’classic rock’ in 1970! This was contemporary, current music and pretty wild stuff, so impressive in that sense.
Doves
4/5
The opening 3 tracks and the closer are really strong. Never given heard of them but really enjoyed this. Lacked that shouty approach to things that I often associated with 90s-00s Britpop. This was more subtle, more sophisticated. It leaned a little toward Coldplay, which I know isn’t a good thing for a lot of folks, but the leaning was without the sappy sweetness that Coldplay sometimes has. This was really strong stuff, enjoyed it.
Belle & Sebastian
1/5
Nope. Twee ain't for me. This is pablum that holds no interest for me.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
I had forgotten how many of the tracks on this album are simply outstanding. Hard to give this anything but 5 stars.
Malcolm McLaren
4/5
I did not know what to expect headed into this. I knew who he was but didn’t know anything about the sort of music he himself created. This was a great surprise, loved it. It was like listening to 3 different albums at the same time, but absolutely in a good way. Love the Afropop influence, was already a fan of music from much of that part of the world thanks to the gateways of Peter Gabriel and Paul Simon. Would recommend!
The Residents
1/5
This is weird for the sake of being weird and not particularly interesting to me at all. It all sounds like something I would have heard between Weird Al songs and ‘Fish Heads’ on a Dr. Demento show. That could be the point, I suppose, to sound like that, but I would never, ever have listened to this on purpose. I’m good for some weird music, but this is too weird. I don’t even want to try to like it. Thankfully it’s only 35 minutes long. I’m writing this while listening to a grown man whine ‘semolina’ over and over for reasons I do not understand. Only 5 more songs to go.
The United States Of America
2/5
Was not aware of the existence of this artist or their one album. The Presidents of The United States of America (peaches and what not) but not just The United States of America. Bold choice for a band name and eponymous release. Anyhow. Very psychedelic vibe, Jefferson Airplane meets, I don’t know, maybe the Byrds. Interesting, but not particularly notable to me listening in 2025. Apparently an early example of use of electronic instruments and no guitar, but it was sort of floating out there while I was listening and never pulled me in 100%.
Meat Loaf
2/5
Exactly what I thought a Meatloaf album was.
Fiona Apple
3/5
I really enjoy her voice. ‘Criminal’ is a great tune. Don’t love some of the ballads quite as much. Solid, especially for a teenager.
The Zutons
3/5
What’s a Zuton? TIL what a Zuton is. Anyhow, kind of fun, sure doesn’t sound like anything else I was hearing in 2004. Almost favorited a track in my streaming library. I won’t say I’m super excited about this band as a discovery, but I wouldn’t be mad if I heard it again. And when it came up, I thought, oh boy, here we go, another weird one. It wasn’t, it was just regular music.
Boston
5/5
This is an album that was just part of life as a teenage male in the 1970s and early 80s. These songs were everywhere. And often, we played them ourselves, very, very loudly. Great voice (RIP Brad Delp) and great guitar sound (thank you Tom Scholz) that made Somme great songs. Holds up ok, honestly, haven’t given the whole thing a listen in a very, very long time.
The Stooges
2/5
Got to admit, I did not give this one my full attention, at least in part because it just wasn’t that interesting to me. I appreciate Iggy’s place in rock history, but can’t say I’ve ever enjoyed his music very much. This was ok.
The Notorious B.I.G.
2/5
This one didn’t really change my mind. I appreciate the sampling and his style, but East Coast and gangsta rap just aren’t my thing.
The Velvet Underground
2/5
Interesting. Not fascinating, but interesting.
Elvis Presley
4/5
Now that’s some Elvis I can get behind. Some real classics here, I enjoyed listening to this and he sounds great.
Dinosaur Jr.
3/5
I know they’re not part of the Seattle scene (I had assumed they were), but they definitely have that Foo, Pearl, Nirvana grungy sound. At least some of the time. Not really the stuff I gravitate to, but not unenjoyable.
Van Morrison
3/5
Not my favorite Van album, but also not one I've listened to all the way through before. I have a feeling this will take multiple listens to fully appreciate.
The Temptations
4/5
I had no idea that The Temptations had that kind of funk in them! Those first couple tracks were wild!
Faust
2/5
As weird as this was, if you told me it was made any time in the last 60 years, I wouldn't be surprised. Would have been weird last week, and was definitely weird 52 years ago.
Happy Mondays
3/5
Meh. I think I’ve figured out that it’s only ok when Prince sings about sex explicitly and no one else is allowed. I like the remixes in the Collecor’s Edition ok, but I’m fine if I don’t hear this again. New artist for me, by the way.
Donovan
2/5
When this popped up, the label that immediately came to mind was 'hippie-dippie' and sure enough, reading a review of this that is exactly the label the reviewer used. This is the epitome of the dreamy, far out, psychedelic 60s and it is not the slice of music from the 60s that I prefer. The title track is a classic, but there's not much else here that I really enjoyed listening to. Donovan has his place in music history and I respect that. I think my appreciation stops about there.
Arcade Fire
2/5
I really did not care that I was listening to it. Canadian national treasure?
R.E.M.
3/5
I think of my self as someone who likes R.E.M. I never really imprinted strongly on them in their heyday, but they have some great songs. Maybe I even look a little bit like Michael Stipe? This one is fine.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
I’m a fan. I do prefer their heavier, even proggier stuff and this is not among my favorite of their releases. Hard to dispute that the opener “Immigrant Song” isn’t among their best. “Since I’ve Been Loving You” is straight-up blues, but it’s a good one. The rest of the album is very folky, and fades a bit for me.
Steely Dan
5/5
Any excuse to listen this. Every track is a groove - the best musicians, amazing lyrics, a quirky voice. I used to hate Steely Dan. When this Gaucho were released they got played up and down WXRT in Chicago and I just got sick of them, never wanted to hear them again. When it was time to purchase my first CD, before I even had a player but knew this was going to be an amazing medium for playback, I bought a copy of ‘Aja’. Haven’t looked back.
Primal Scream
3/5
A pleasant surprise. I really was expected some sort of noise/industrial/avant garde mess. This release, that is supposedly the advent of acid house, which I quite enjoy, was pretty fun.
Brian Eno
5/5
Interesting, I accidentally had the first track set on repeat - I wasn't sure at first, I might have listened to it all the way through twice before I figured it out. That said, this is sounds and music that I enjoy. Not all the time, not while I'm driving, for example, but I appreciate ambient and minimalist music and compositions. This is one of the grandaddys of that style. Wonderful.
Dire Straits
4/5
I’ll say it - not my favorite Dire Straits album, not even close. It’s a great recording. There are some good songs, Mark and the boys are playing well. It feels a little thin to me - not as dark as it could be, not as moody as could, not as much longing or yearning as there can be in their earlier work. It’s fun enough, but not an outstanding Dire Straits album.
Steely Dan
5/5
Thank you for an excuse to listen to this most excellent album! I hope all of Steely Dan’s catalog is in this list, this is number 2 for me, both 5 star releases!
The Jam
4/5
Pretty fun. Incredible the run The Jam had during their career. That whole Paul Weller, Nick Lowe, Jam, Style Council circle of artists and songs is some of my favorite music coming out of England during that era. Hard to argue with "That's Entertainment" as a great pop song.
Kacey Musgraves
3/5
Quite a pleasant surprise. Like a nice summer breeze that cools you off but is also carrying just the slightest whiff of manure or fermenting silage. But just the slightest.
R.E.M.
3/5
A like this one a little better than Document, perhaps just more familiar to me. This is fine. I do find it a challenge to really get absorbed in any of their music.
Pulp
3/5
This was enough of a raw Bowie-ish recording that it won me over. I had heard of Jarvis Cocker, but honestly thought he was Joe Cocker's son. Never heard of Pulp, except maybe on Steven Wilson & Tim Bowness' podcast 'The Album Years'. First half is definitely stronger, first 5 tracks are a great sequence and 'Party Hard' is a standout for me.
Brian Eno
2/5
Yeah, turns out I don't like Brian Eno when he sings. There's so much music he's touched that I think is fantastic. This is a solo effort/Roxy branch that I don't think that way about. There are some interesting moments, mostly instrumental. It was already in my streaming library, but I'm not sure it will stay there.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
3/5
I very much appreciate what they do. Their introduction to the world by Paul Simon felt like a little miracle at the time. Such subtle and beautiful sounds. A whole album all feels a little samey-samey for me. It’s a nice bonus when they show up somewhere else. A single song - wonderful. A whole album - hard to be excited or engaged by it for the full 45 minutes of the 30th anniversary version that was available to me on streaming. I think there was only one additional track, so basically the same as the original.
Elvis Costello
3/5
This has some good ones. And some less good ones.
The Byrds
3/5
Three stars for some classics. Generally do not prefer them. Maybe my least favorite of the CSNY family?
2/5
Not a fan of the LA punk scene. some of this was decidedly rockabilly.
The War On Drugs
4/5
This was a pleasant surprise. Already in my streaming library for some reason. Actually quite enjoyed it.
The Sabres Of Paradise
3/5
Two surprises in a row? Seeing the name and the cover, I figured this was some new wave of British heavy metal BS. I was quite pleased to see it was electronica. And some fun stuff at that.
Alice Cooper
2/5
He has a couple songs I appreciate, but I don’t think I have ever listened to an entire Alice Cooper album all the way through. Maybe, back in the late 70s. He must have a greatest hits collection that someone’s older brother had. Nothing particularly notable here for me, struggling between 2 and 3. I think with the title ‘Raped and Freezin’, I’m going with 2. The title track and ‘No More Mr. Nice Guy’ are not enough to overcome this.
Pere Ubu
2/5
I’ve got Cleveland connections and had heard of Pere Ubu. I think I remember them as a reggae band. Clearly not that. Respect to Cleveland and its place in rock history. Not my thing.
2/5
Didn't particularly enjoy this. 'Victoria' is a fun track, but I'm starting to figure out I'm not really a fan of The Kinks.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
1/5
Can’t find it on any streaming service.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Had some awareness that they existed. Knew Kim Gordon has, and I believe continues to make important contributes to the world of rock. There were interesting moments on this album, not sure any of it pulled me in to the extent that I’ll come back to it or look more deeply into their catalog though. At this point in the 80s, I wasn’t that angry or sad and wasn’t looking for or listening to music like this.
3/5
Another artist I had some awareness of, but no real familiarity with. I don't know exactly where they fit into the chronology of other women who create similar music (Fiona Apple comes to mind). I enjoyed this.
DJ Shadow
4/5
Fun stuff - knew about of the history behind this and I've listened to the original once before, 10+ years ago. Amazing what he/they have done here!
Black Sabbath
5/5
Grungy, greasy, dark, heavy amazing music from the metal masters.
Sebadoh
2/5
Not a huge indie rock fan. A couple of notable moments, but not more.
David Bowie
5/5
I treasure this album and what it represents. Beautiful, tragic, stark.
Stereolab
3/5
I've listened through this before - very French, which makes sense, I guess, what else would it be. There's electronic music I enjoy more than this.
AC/DC
4/5
Classic banger.
Miles Davis
4/5
This one has grown on me. I have it on vinyl and haven't listened to it in forever. It's loose, it's wild, but then you blink and it's tight and greasy, but it's all Miles and it's all jazz.
Cocteau Twins
3/5
I think I’ve heard Donimo, can’t be bothered to check my last.fm history right this second. They’ve got a brilliant thing here, so few lyrics to memorize! Actually, I enjoyed this quite a bit - an early version of Sigur Ros, in some ways, with a bit more new wave electronics thrown in.
The Undertones
3/5
Fun little romp. What is with Terry?
The Modern Lovers
2/5
Felt like a Velvet Underground knock off. I've always heard what an amazing songwriter Jonathan Richman is. There were some fun moments, but I won't be coming back to this or looking for other releases from his catalog. Punk/protopunk just ain't for me, with very few exceptions.
Ray Charles
4/5
How do you not like anything this fella has ever done? And heck, he was still in his 20s when this was recorded!
The Kinks
2/5
This is the 3rd old Kinks album this list has forced me to listen to and I still don't enjoy them. It's silly music.
R.E.M.
4/5
Forgot how much I like this.
Stan Getz
5/5
The epitome of cool and smooth. Have owned this for a long time and enjoy it each time I hear it.
Faith No More
3/5
Liked that more than I thought I would. I had only ever heard ‘Epic’, which is kind of fun, gotta admit. Good version of ‘War Pigs’ to top it off.
Brian Wilson
1/5
I actively dislike this more than just about any piece of music I have ever listened to in the 7 decades I've been on the planet. If I could give it less than 1 star, I would. I do not see the genius at work here, maybe I'm missing something. He's got song here about vegetables, for cryin' out loud.
Arcade Fire
3/5
Intriguing. If these guys had come along at the right time for, I think I might have connected with them.
Amy Winehouse
4/5
Those first 2 songs are killer. Wish she could have stuck around.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
2/5
Don't love it. Bluesier than I was expecting and definitely less weird, but not enough to put me over the top and say anything too kind about it.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
Read one review that said this is the studio album by The velvet Underground that sounds least like the Velvet Underground. It's interesting that this is the studio album by The Velvet Underground that I've enjoyed the most.
Nick Drake
3/5
There's a bit of joy, a bit of lightness here. I much prefer this to Pink Moon.
Tom Waits
3/5
Odd but interesting. Definitely appreciate him as a storyteller, a bit less as a musician and singer.
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
I’ve never heard a Pet Shop Boys album in its entirety. Definitely heard, and enjoyed, the hits in the 80s. This is some dark pop. Jealous? Who’s jealous? I’m not jealous. You do that.
Dexys Midnight Runners
2/5
Listening to this, I kept confusing Kevin Rowland with Bob Geldof. They aren’t the same person. Some interesting bits here, but nothing that caught my attention for any extended period. This is the “Come On Eileen” band as far as I’m concerned, no need for any more, thank you.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
One of the greats. Not a huge Stones fan - I wouldn't list them among my favorite bands. But then I hear songs like these and I'm reminded that maybe they should be.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
Always enjoyed 'Jane Says', never heard much else. Enjoyable overall. Not sure I would listen to an entire album, but I wouldn't skip an occasional song that popped up on shuffle.
Everything But The Girl
3/5
Love Tracy’s voice.
Prince
5/5
Not much to say here. I did, at one time, party like it was 1999. Because it was.
Cream
5/5
Some great tracks here by one of the very first supergroups, not to mention an amazing power trio. I’m torn between 4 and 5 here - Sunshine of Your Love, Strange Brew, Tales of Brave Ulysses, SWLABR are all classics. I could do without Mother’s Lament. I think the good outweighs the less good here, 5 it is.
Throbbing Gristle
3/5
I expected way more throbbing and was pleasantly surprised by both the quantity and quality of gristle here. Seriously, I’ve heard the name tossed around, was slightly familiar with their place in music history, but had never heard a single second of their music, that I was aware of anyway. Kinda cool
MC Solaar
2/5
Irie mon.
David Bowie
5/5
This is among Bowie's best, in my opinion. Or at least this is the Bowie I like best. This and his Berlin phase.
Depeche Mode
3/5
A couple of good tracks, but not enough there to pull me in or convince me that I should be or have been a Depeche Mode fan.
The Pogues
3/5
Elvis Costello & The Pogues seemed like a fun collab and I wasn't wrong. I kinda liked it.
The Killers
2/5
Arctic Strokes Killer Monkeys.
Bobby Womack
3/5
Some good old fashioned soul. Or maybe R&B? Or maybe not so old fashioned? That's more of a me problem than a Bobby problem - 1981 was 44 years ago, after all. It doesn't feel that way.
Stephen Stills
3/5
No big hits here, but a great collection of songs. Looking for the 3.5 for this one.
The Specials
2/5
No ska for me, thank you.
Talking Heads
4/5
Take Me To The River is worth 4 stars for me.
Ian Dury
2/5
Kinda fun, sex & drugs & rock n’ roll and all, but otherwise, not for me.
Jane Weaver
3/5
This got interesting once it took a turn toward something that resembled folktronica. From 'The Architect' on, I quite liked it.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I didn’t know there was a Stones album called Aftermath. My guess was that it was some 90s release that I had overlooked. Wrong. “Paint It Black” and “Under My Thumb” - obvious classics. I like my Stones a little later than this.
Beatles
5/5
There a couple of my all-time Beatles favorites on this one - 'Norwegian Wood' and 'In My Life'.
Fugees
3/5
Turns out I like some East Coast rap.
Django Django
3/5
I heard Beach Boys here in the harmonies and a little bit of klezmer by the end. Not entirely unenjoyable, but not entirely enjoyable either.
Nina Simone
3/5
I love what Nina represents, but there I times when I listen to her sing and wonder if, in fact, she should be singing. But I’m going 3 stars for what she represents.
Primal Scream
3/5
I’m once again pleasantly surprised - an interesting mix of electronic and Brit rock. The name turns me off, but then I hit play and everything works out ok.
Muddy Waters
4/5
A banger right from the opening track.
5/5
No, this is my favorite Bowie album.
Kings of Leon
3/5
Maybe my favorite of the King of the Arctic Strokes, Leon the Monkey Killer bunch. But now I want to see a movie about King Leon.
Nas
3/5
Not my thing, but I like what's going on here musically and the rhymes are amazing.
Femi Kuti
3/5
The energy in Femi and Fela's music is really quite something. Love it!
Pixies
2/5
Faded into the background after a bit.
The KLF
3/5
I feel as though this is music I should like, but I have a hard time getting into it for some reason. Almost feels like a parody of itself, a little hokey?
Morrissey
3/5
I thought I wasn’t supposed to like this, but I kinda do. Now that I think about it, like the man, it started out in a more interesting fashion than it ended up.
Michael Jackson
5/5
Hole
3/5
I liked that way more than I thought I would - more polished and less grungy than I expected.
Carpenters
3/5
I can appreciate the hits here, as well as Karen Carpenter’s talent, but this is too much stuck in time for me to really want to come back to.
Bob Dylan
5/5
I am not a huge singer-songwriter fan. Hard to argue against Dylan, however. This might be the Dylan album for me.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
Respect.
The Young Rascals
3/5
Another old one where I can appreciate the hits, but all in all it just doesn't float my musical boat.
Steve Earle
3/5
I appreciate the twang.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
Stark, spare, dark. Some of his best song writing.
Jorge Ben Jor
3/5
This was a fun one. Not that I've got my finger on the pulse of Brazilian popular music, but I'd never heard of this artist. Chalk up another discovery thanks to 1001 albums!
4/5
Various Artists
3/5
These are great performances, Mr. Spector’s misdeeds notwithstanding. I’d rather they were sprinkled in among the rest of my holiday listening.
Jurassic 5
3/5
Enjoyed the Ozomatli overlap. Chali 2na fan.
David Bowie
4/5
Some bangers here. Strong entry in the final phase of his output.
Roni Size
2/5
This absolutely did not need to be 2+ hours long. Especially since 'Brown Paper Bag', the second track, was the highlight. I can't imagine listening to all 5+ hours of the 2oth anniversary edition.
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Excellent soul music!
Kelela
3/5
I came across her release 'Raven' at some point soon after it came out and really enjoyed it. Her connection to Tosin Abasi, both musically and personally, was a surprise! Interesting and enjoyable.
The Clash
3/5
Though I prefer their later stuff, this is punk I can get on board with.
Sugar
3/5
I caught myself tapping my toes more than once. Strains of a lot of different 90s post-punk/indie/grunge here. "Man on the Moon" is a favorite - almost REM-like. Bob Mould keeps popping up in expected places.
Green Day
3/5
Turns out I like Green Day. Missed them at the time, but catching up now and liking it!
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
I’ve heard so many of these tracks over the years but never listened to the whole things all the way through. Has to be one of the great live releases.
Dinosaur Jr.
4/5
I think this might be the second Dinosaur Jr. album on the list so far for me. I liked this one more, added it to my streaming library. An interesting mix of past/future music. Having just listened to Rust Never Sleeps, the Neil Young parallels are fun. Pearl Jam is here too. Sludgy in a good way.
MGMT
2/5
Passed by without grabbing me at any point. Nothing all that interesting, IMO.
The Charlatans
3/5
Reminded me of a less angry and less drunk Oasis.
Jamiroquai
4/5
Here’s another turns out - I’m a Jamiroquai fan. Who knew?
David Gray
2/5
Not sure about this one. Never heard of him. His voice was fine, the songs were fine. I think I'd be ok if I had continued to never hear of him.
Johnny Cash
3/5
That was wild! This is the Johnny Cash I think of when I hear his name. Not sure I've heard another live album or an actual live performance, for that matter, where the same song was played twice in succession! I guess if the inmates are yelling at you to play the song again, you play the song again?
Circle Jerks
1/5
Nope.
Leonard Cohen
4/5
Have to respect this - a great American poet and songwriter. Never loved his voice, but hard to be critical of a dying man.
De La Soul
4/5
Classic 90s hip hop. The sampling set the standard.
Ananda Shankar
4/5
This is right up my street - fusing western music with music from other countries. That said, the opening track is so firmly stuck in 1970 it’s more of a parody of the time than an enjoyable track. ‘Light My Fire’, on the other hand is wonderful, as are the more traditional Indian pieces. Solid.
Ms. Dynamite
3/5
I was expecting fluffy R&B and this isn’t that.
The Cure
4/5
I was confused by the first track, which, if I’m not mistaken was an instrumental, or very nearly so. I had no idea. This album sounds like the 80s. I was also taken by the fact that this didn’t seem as sad, as angst-filled, as I think of The Cure being. Gets my stamp of approval, I added it.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Greazy, greazy swamp music.
Dagmar Krause
1/5
I guess I understand the historical importance of these songs, and maybe there's even a sort of ironical reason for them to be played and heard right now, but I do not prefer this music and don't understand how this landed on a list of albums to hear before I die. Would give less than 1 if I could.
The Magnetic Fields
1/5
There is no need for this to be nearly 3 hours long. I don't find anything about this enjoyable - voice, lyrics, or music, sorry.
Beck
3/5
Mellower than I’ve heard him. I prefer his experimental side over this, but it was nice.
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
The dynamic duo? That name is already taken, I guess. Their best work never fails to have me singing along and drawn in to the pictures they paint.
The Style Council
4/5
The great songs are great - ‘My Ever Changing Moods’, ‘You’re the Best Thing’, and ‘Headstart for Happiness’. And then there’s just the fact of Paul Weller. However, the bad songs are bad. I’m still going with 4 stars - 3 for the release itself and 1 for 80s nostalgia.
Giant Sand
2/5
I listened, but I don’t really understand why this ended up on this list.
Keith Jarrett
4/5
An improvisational wonder.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
Five stars. Fight me. No, didn't think you would.
Soft Cell
2/5
"Tainted Love" is not enough to overcome "Sex Dwarf".
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Fifty years old and the themes of rebellion and uprising are maybe more relevant than ever, at least in this country.
Aphex Twin
4/5
A little more techno than ambient, but still right up my street, as they say across the pond.
Adele
3/5
An amazing vocalist, for sure. Her style of vocal pop isn’t something I'm drawn to. 'Hello' is a great song, and 'Water Under the Bridge' caught my attention, whether I wanted it to or not.
Manic Street Preachers
2/5
Aaaand my next album up is more Brit pop….
Oasis
3/5
Now this is proper Brit pop, but still doesn’t really grab me where it grabs some, or so I hear…
Joni Mitchell
4/5
Jaco's presence alone rates at least 3 stars. Always a cool, dark sound from Joni, sparse, if you will. Not my absolutely favorite of hers, but some wonderful songs on this one.
Astor Piazzolla
4/5
Great combination, vibes and tango.
Rush
4/5
Classic Rush, what did you think I was going to rate it? Actually, the title track is a 5 star song, and ‘Passage to Bangkok’ is a favorite, but other tracks, not so much. This is a 4 star Rush album for me.
Iron Butterfly
3/5
The album is mercifully short but the song is mercilessly long. That said, the song makes this a 3 star release.
Michael Jackson
4/5
Plus/minus on this one. Title track - fantastic. ‘Liberian Girl’ - kinda weird tbh. The good outweighs the….bad.
Fishbone
3/5
Didn’t grab me as much as I thought it would. Funk ‘n metal is still a combination of genres I enjoy though.