First I’d heard of them and curious to know what “shoegaze” sounds like 🤷🏻‍♂️ Pretty nice instrumentals but vocals are a little drawly, or at least take some getting used to. Found it pretty mediocre as a whole, just trudging, dragging, drawn out. 71 mins 😬 a little bit like budget Oceansize with pretty crap, melancholy vocals. Yawwwwwn. Pretty similar sound on each song. Nothing particularly caught me by surprise or felt different. Just like a conversation, that has some merit, but just nod along and then close it down. Trying to find a favourite track but literally all sounds the same (2.5)

Okay, first album that’s two hours long, let’s see how we go… I have to say that I didn’t give this the full attention of the other albums as it’s 2 hours and was often on in the background. But I loved the variety of styles throughout, never good boring, had some great grooves and arrangement and will likely go back and give it a proper listen again (3.5)

It gets so confusing with these altered track listing on apps. Have to check wiki to make sure. And yes, this album is actually 33 minutes and 8 tracks, rather than 80 mins and 19 tracks as the link takes you to. (Album finishes on ‘Bongo Rock’ btw) Ahhh THIS is where Apache comes from! Solid opener and great introduction to what this band is. Great energy and just asking for dancing or to be used as samples. Interesting history with the MGM exec on bongos and revolving door of musicians. Endless groove and great as an album to listen to with engagement or just have great background vibes. Me likey

Played this none stop when it first came out. Couldn’t believe how original and consistent it was across the whole album. Back then, defo 5/5. Listening start to finish now, still an absolute banger and of its time.

Pleasant and moseying. Clear talent all round and a real art and skill, but not grabbed in the same way as some music or wowed. Just a kind of ‘yeh, this is really nice and accomplished.’ Quite liked having 5 longer tracks to make up an album. Helpful to read the history too, to understand its place in time and relevance. I like the constant reemergence of the two notes “high-lowwww” in each song. Blue in Green moved me the most. (3.5)

So original, so violent, so transparent. Remember first finding ‘my name is’ on late night rap show and was instantly taken by it. Similar feeling in how different, brutal and shocking it can be. Also clever lyrics and insight into hood/trailer life. Led me to look at his journey and understand more. Impressive. Maybe edging on repetitive. ‘My Fault’ stood out. (3.5)

I mean, my obvious bias a side, again, it was of it’s time and original, in many ways. Just feels a little repetitive, same kind of melodies and structures. Some good lyrics, songs and melodies, but kinda just felt like once I'd hear 1 song, I’d heard them all. Some clever plays on words and structure/chords, but ultimately, just ended up being minor variations on a theme, throughout.

Amazing that this was a debut album, really. Such energy, rawness and love Terry Hall’s voice and cadence especially. A hoot to know it was produced by Costello. Again, very original and of its time. Did a huge amount for British ska. To be picky, got a little bored towards the middle/end - some weaker songs and similar vibe throughout (3.5)

Just couldn’t really get into it or even feel comfortable listening to it. Raw and original but just dissonant and not really enjoyable to listen to. And maybe that’s what they were going for, but not an enjoyable experience for me. Left me feeling tense and grasping for things to hold onto. But I liked the originality and quirkiness too. Can’t work out if it works better in songs like Gigantic and Where is my Mind, or if that’s just because they are more familiar? (2.5) +.5 for those two belters!

Basically Irish Springsteen/Arcade Fire! Good energy and songwriting, but just not really my bag and songs quite long. Feels like a slog, somehow. Just with the pace and keeping up and amount of things going on in a song.

Familiar, up beat, good energy, quirky. Enjoy the experimental elements and surprise in places. Kinda prog rock in places and like the change in tempo, Melodie’s and little ditties. It’s good and surprised at how much I liked it and the alt of it.

Mix is HORRIBLE. and to read in the bio that there were issues over the mix and THIS is what they chose?! Geez. I get it - grunge, messy, dissonant, but I think of something like ‘Deloused..’ and how important the mix is on that and this is what happens when that’s not there. Horrible and feel like I can’t hear or appreciate the songs properly because of it. And also just a bit repetitive. Messy nothingness. A lucky 2*

Clean, good energy, Brian Johnson’s voice is amazing and a great fit. Edging on parody sometimes with the titles and play on words, but of it’s time and true stadium rock energy. Enjoyed the stocatoed guitar and break downs/build ups. Interesting to know the background - 7th album! Singers death, black cover and second best selling album in history! (3.5)

I mean, fair play. I enjoy experimentation and being surprised or caught off guard by music. However, I just can’t necessarily find my seat in this. Respect for doing it and the individuality of it, but I also want to be able to find my place in the music and enjoy it, which I didn’t get from this.

Good energy - I like. Enjoy the continuous flow between songs. Great beats and flow. Felt energised and upbeat listening to it and some nice little break downs and use of samples. Yehhhh I like this and whilst songs are similar in some way, just great flow and continuation and vibes (1st half) 😎 political, cultural and a capturing of society at the time, and more importantly, being black. Enough to keep it fresh and varied throughout. Tune with Anthrax just shows their openness but also a bit comical. 1st 1/2 better than 2nd. Great start and run of tracks.

Okay, I can dig this. Nice Mars Volta vibes. Jazz / Prog and writing this as I’m just half way into the first track but excited to see where it goes but feel aligned and interested so far. Snarky Puppy vibes. ‘Facelift’ feels like a gradual welcoming and unfolding into a jazz crescendo, before coming back down to rest to move into ‘Slightly All The Time’ a slow moseying bass line that again, could easily be a snarky puppy song and ventures all over melody’s and tempos as the song develops. First album I’ve added to my general playlists. ‘Moon in June’ first introduction of vocals and probably enjoyed it more without. Loses half a star for this. Dreadful song and vocals. 2nd half of song better than first. ‘Out-Bloody-Rageous’ back to the enjoyable grooves and prog jazz. Great end, shame about third song. (3.5)

Only really know some solo tracks so was quite different to what I was expecting with the full band. Pleasantly surprised. Nice tempo, groove and fairly catchy. Really enjoyed ‘Round & Round’. ‘Down by the river’ 🥱 enjoyed second half of the album much less than the first. First three songs good. Next three meh and last one a bit of a better note to finish on. 4* for first 3. 3* for next 3 and 3.5 for last so (3/3.5)

Okay. Reverb drums, chorus guitar, gated snare, and dramatic, heartfelt vox! - we are in goth rock - Wouldn’t be my usual choice but could appreciate its quality in this genre and found some bits quite catchy. Particularly enjoyed “Eldritch served as the vocalist, performed all instruments, and programmed the band's drum machine…Morrison did not contribute to the album despite being a member of the Sisters of Mercy.” 😂 ‘The Corrosion’ is pretty epic! I almost like the album, which probably says a lot for its quality considering this isn’t really my bag. Got me grooving and moving, but in a kind of ironic, satirical way! Terrible last song to close the album. Dominion & Corrosion stood out. Does what it does well, but not for me.

Yawwwwwwwn. The music really matches the album artwork. He looks like he just listened to this album. Felt similar to how I experienced Dylan - just pretty simplistic and variations on a theme. Mostly 2 chords with a dragging vocal line. Hadn’t heard the influence on Fionn Regan before, so that was interesting, but when I love music that raises my spirit through surprise and novelty and skill, this did the exact opposite. Like a long, boring conversation with someone you’re trying to get away from. Actually found myself getting angrier as the album went on. Drawlllllll. (2.5)

It’s so interesting for them to have added the crowd noise after and was mainly a studio album. Really great energy and vocals. Nice groove and rhythm. Sometimes, would actually prefer a less strained vocal eg ‘Summertime’. Enjoy the guitar runs and also changing tempo and energy. Great selection/order of songs and flow throughout. So much soul and heart. Raw, energetic and broad.

Pleasant, moseying, so much soul and groove, and leaves me much more chilled and in a groove than excited or surprised. Has its place and great production too. Not sure anything tops the opener but all songs consistently solid. Enjoyed the pick up of the last track (3.5) close to 4

Sure the opening is just ripped from Pinball Wizard?! Hard to assess the purposeful use of language with English not being their first language…but still…Reading that there is a satirical edge to them, which reassures a bit. Punk/glam/rock mash up, with fairly solid song structure and composition but just pretty basic, predictable and cheesy. Production so-so. Got good energy but just feels like it really falls short of great punk albums. Kind of like a bad fake version of high quality brand item. Variations on a theme and a comical theme. ‘Rendezvous with Anus’ 🙄 can’t really tell how much of it is meant to be satirical, but not sure punk spinal tap should be in the top 1001 albums! Probably just about gets 2.5?

Such a unique sound, instantly knowing it is them, just from the first ten seconds of instrumental. Stoner Rock and album has more of a feel of a demo, than finished album, but fair for first release and remastered later. Kinda samey and a steady trot through the signature sound and similar tracks. Surprised ‘Songs for the Deaf’ isn’t in the list instead/as well. But a unique debut all the same and worthy for its originality. Some nice experimentation and off beats, but a bit, “okay, I get it” by the end

First thought is geez, these guys are Popular. Nearly 30m monthly listens, 55 years after this album and I’d never even heard of them before. Gritty vocals, great groove and soulful. Very pleasantly surprised and hard to not pull a gritty face and neck groove! Keep on Chooglin’! ‘Graveyard train’ a bit draggy and long, but brings another type of tune to the album. Short, punchy, efficient album that is consistent throughout and doesn’t overstay its welcome. And ‘Proud Mary’ did not know this is where it originated!

Enjoyed more than expected and grew on me as I got into the album and accepted it for what it was. 80s electro/synth pop with some nifty samples and experimentation. Bordering on parody at times and a kind of pet shop boys / Alan Partridge bass mash up. But good fun and energy. Would expect to really not like this but something is just getting under my skin, in a playful, fun way. Interesting history with BEF and Human League. There is something cheekily infectious about this album. (3.5)

Seriously boring downbeat pop. 4/4 throughout, drags, vocals are annoying, breathy and repetitive tremolo effect. Yawn. ‘Somebody stop the music’ indeed (although this brings a tiny bit of groove - and brass. And a kind of Beatles sound, like on ‘Trafalgar’.) try to bring some passion into the end of ‘Lion in Winter’ but just sounds awful. God this album is depressing, dragging and basic.

Short, catchy, punchy songs. Classic sound and the epitome of punk. A lot of energy to them and quite like the frenetic pace and shorter songs. Edging on repetitive and a bit samey. Influence on so many bands and punk as a whole clear. Not sure I’d go towards it as a listen by choice, often, but appreciate it for what it is. At one point, didn’t even realise it had gone through three songs, and thought it was one, due to length and similar sounding throughout. Yeh, getting quite tired of the same drum beat and structure throughout now, some slight variety in the last few songs.

First impressions are solid groove, more face pulling, head banging but also songs felt a bit long at times. Maybe especially after some shorter albums, but thought it was ready to end a few times. Good sound and production. Good, clean, classic rock anthems but also with enough variety in songs to keep it fresh enough. Vocals sound Axel Rosey at times. Did not know “pour some sugar on me” were the words, nor the artist! What a banger. Full face screw unlocked. Maybe slightly downhill from there. Close to 3.5 but might just miss out

Was initially quite bored by this album. Just felt like standard R&B, set structure and backing track ion loop with soft, whiny, annoying, high vocals. However, came to appreciate the jazz and musical arrangements featured throughout. Tired of the voice, feel and subject, but some good use of instruments in places and more techy than usual modern R&B backing. Neo-soul? Just 2/5 for overall quality experience, but easy 3/5 for arrangement/jazz features so probably scrapes 2.5

Much prefer to other punk albums I’ve heard on the list. More variety, cleaner and surprising elements than say something like the Ramones. Great opening track and probably my favourite in the album

Glad to see this pop up and ashamed to say I haven’t listened to it before. Hopeful about it and been meaning to do a bit of a deep dive into Bjork. Great start - really nice groove, interesting elements and got the head bobbing already. Yeh, this is 🔥. Love the originality, instrumental elements and layers to it all, with a great groove throughout. Nice variation too. On repeat all day, looking forward to next albums. Easy 4*

Really wasn’t what I was expecting when I saw the beach boys pop up! Really enjoyed ‘Take a load off your feet’ just for lyrics, little quirky samples and general playfulness of it. Enjoyed the album a fair bit. Didn’t bowl me over or maybe even something I’d go back to often, but it was enjoyable and appreciated what they had done. Value the originality of the focus on environment and different angle of songs (eg ‘a day in the life of a tree’). 4 years after. Close to 4* but probably 3.5

Was looking forward to another Eno album to see how it compares to ‘…Warm Jets.’ Found it more enjoyable and connectable. Although, felt like the tracks were quite brief, just starting up and then faded out. A kind of nothingness or at least never gets going or leads anywhere. ‘Meh’ is the most fitting summary. Kinda beginner soundscape, ambient, stock backing/slightly experimental music. Struggling to find the one track I like most because it’s all kind of nondescript nothing.

Not familiar with the band or album before, but there is something about the front cover that feels familiar. Was so encapsulated by the first song. Really grabbed me and pulled me in to every note and the general reflexive flow. Immersed for the full 10 minutes and felt like a flash. Great sound, arrangement and energy throughout. Also pretty trippy too. Great album. Varied, engaging, accomplished.

Another new band and record for me. Found it quite tinny and jangley. Production felt messy and badly mixed without much skill or pleasure. Pretty simple, uninspiring and not too pleasurable to listen to at all. Kind of like a bad mix between raw punk, deep blue something and knock off Primus. I do value that they seemed to give themselves some creative freedom with surprises and unconventional elements throughout but mostly just sounds like some kids jamming or trying out instruments in a soundcheck. Nice to have some drum solos featured (although probably to just lengthen the shortness of the album!) Everything feels like it could have potential and is just done so poorly. Vocals painful at times. Turn that guitar down! Urgh. Relief when is got through the offensive listening experience.

Enjoyed the production and metal feel. Original, fierce and tight. However, the voice didn’t quite land for me and ultimately not songs, or an album that I loved. It grabbed me, I enjoyed the grit and metal elements, punchy drums, great snare, but just didn’t ultimately hit the spot as a whole. Think the vocals probably took a lot away for me but still a good album (3.5)

Enjoy the jazz elements, but then full on pop when the vocals are present and sounds like two different bands. Can feel really cheesy and bland in the pop elements, but then the instruments can bring such variation and skill. Enjoy the uptick in tempo and groove for songs like ‘More and More’. More of a rock/big band edge, rather than pop. More of the jazz, more of the upbeat tempo, more of the technicality and less of the pop and smooth, slow meh stuff please. Did not know this was the ‘Spinning Wheel’ band! AMAZING jam at the end (Blues Pt.2) too. Some amazing features on this album, some yawn. (3.5)

What can I say. Very REM. nice sound, steady groove and structure. Didn’t particularly grab me, but good enough and Stripe a clear sound throughout. Some slight variations in some songs but general a 4/4, inoffensive trot throughout. Again unsure if the familiar songs are better or just recognisable. Pleasant enough (3.5)

LOVE IT. know that isn’t too surprising but first time I’ve actually properly listened to them. Maybe helped by just waking up, having the headphones in and going on a proper journey through all the soundscapes and many, MANY layers to each song. SUCH great production. Enjoyed ‘wish you were here’ the song, but actually my least favourite on the album, which was surprising. Great bookends in the intro and outro too. Great album in so many ways. Excited for the next PF albums on the list now.

Feels familiar somehow. Kinda beach vibes, sunscreen type thing. Pretty chilled and mellow and feels a bit nostalgic. Seems to just be living off ‘Drop The Pressure’ and it’s a kinda good track but nothing amazing. Always thought it was Daft Punk! Is a daft punk vibe throughout, actually and quite a naughties nostalgia to it all. Nothing amazing, enjoyable enough (3.5)

Enjoy the electronic elements of it but just turned off by the voice. A little dramatic and dull and just takes away from the other elements that I value in the production and backing. Enjoyed ‘Enjoy the Silence’ but generally not too enjoyable as a whole package for me, although loved most of the backing

Urgh. Just grating pop vocals with a cringe fake American twang. Basic pop songs without much deviation or surprises. Fairly upbeat and might be okay to have a dance to, but musically, just doesn’t do much for me. First album I abandoned half way as I got the gist. Yawn. Now to go and listen to clown core and knower to heal myself. 2.5

Geeeez. How are the so many bangers on one album?! Nile Rogers is a genius and this album a huge testament to that. Very impressed. Less well known songs, didn’t hit as hard, but to have half the album and bona fide classics is some achievement and the others do bring a nice change of pace.

Wasn’t sure if it was a nod by the developer to get this today as Brian Wilson died yesterday. Hard to put my finger on what appeals but there is something flows so nicely throughout and great lyrics too. Felt resonant and connected to it.

Drake kinda vibes mixed with kid cudi and Chris Brown (💩). Kinda meh, uninspiring and standard modern R&B. Just nothing really to it, kinda empty, samey and whiney but nice to be reminded of ‘Super Rich Kids’ but even that kinda flat. Not sure what I’m missing in the “critically acclaimed” and “visionary” but not getting that at all. Enjoyed ‘White’ but probably mainly down to John Mayer. Quite liked ‘Monks’ Again, can dig the backing, but voice just meh/detracting. (2.5)

Quite a good album to have the day after Frank Ocean, because it feels like this has a bit more of what that was missing. A bit more heart and quality, but still missing something for me. Does what it does well, R&B, neosoul, but doesn’t particularly excite me. Nice bits of variety but kinda familiar by the end and similar vibe and themes throughout.

Such a great sound, arrangement and structure. Was surprised by how much it drew me in. Feels accomplished, skillful and unique. Post-punk with a much more skillful side in the composition and arrangement, bringing a nice rock edge, but that still surprises. Ahead of its time and impressive. Surprised that the songs didn’t feel too long and actually appreciated the story and journey they went on, with familiar elements to bring you back. And wanting to go straight back and listen to the album again. Something quite infectious about it

GREAT energy and spirit. Feels like it brings their blues side more to the fore in this album. Very enjoyable but quite long as it’s a double album and probably got used to the 30-40min albums so far. But enough variety and energy to stay engaged. Close to 4, but maybe just misses out and 3.5

Nice to hear Gil Scott-Herons vocals on jazz piano. Some nice Melodie’s and backing but not quite grabbed by it. Vocals can be a little wavy at times and not necessarily any stand out or wow songs, but pleasant enough. First album not on Spotify (link - https://archive.org/details/0316_gil_scott_heron_brian_jackson_winter_in_america_1974__mlib) ‘The Bottle’ maybe stand out track (can’t add to list)

Can’t imagine how I might have reacted if it was my first time hearing them! Classic Fall sound. Sounded a bit cleaner and Smith a bit older(?) than other bits I’ve heard. Hadn’t heard ‘Lost in Music’ before and quite a new experience of the fall and identifiable song. Always enjoy the uniqueness of their sound but don’t know if it’s ever an album or songs I’d purposefully go towards. There is something infectious about the vox though. Like a half cut singer fronting a post punk/Brit pop band in a little pub. Quite another experience to just read through the lyrics as the song goes on. And can be quite long too. Enjoy the dance backing on ‘Past Gone Mad’ Probably gets 3.5 for the originality and Marky boy.

Only really familiar with ‘Celebrity Skin’ and so nice to get a fuller picture. Powerful start, good vocal range and classic grunge/nirvana sound. Nice groove, good production, solid, grungey sound. Punchy songs that are a quick in and out, but leave their mark. Rumours of Kurt ghostwriting and whether true or not, the influence seems very clear and present throughout. Just a solid album throughout without any filler and packs a punch. Nice package

So nice to see this pop up. Nostalgic, but also such a solid album that I’m glad to come back to. Great songs, enjoy the integration of the classroom scene throughout. Nice variety and solid songwriting. Can’t beat ‘Doo Wop’ 🔥 ‘Nothing Even Matters’ by far the weakest and fitting with my review of D’Angelo’s album

Classic hip-hop sound and from what I can read, a very pivotal album in the timeline of the hip-hop too. I do enjoy it and has a good groove and lyrics to it, but also something pretty similar and un-surprising as I go through the songs. Like one song is very solid, and then they are just similar throughout. However, lyrics are really something when I give that my full attention, rather than just listening as music. Yeh, okay, I’m getting this more as I get into it. Solid, clean, important.

I mean, it is what it is. Forceful, punchy, quick, punk/hardcore. Not really my thing or anything particularly engaging about it. Imagine it’d be good to see live and let lose to, but as an album, can’t see me going towards it to listen through pleasure. We drink, we party, we fuck shit up 🤷🏻‍♂️ Gets pretty repetitive and get the message not long into the album and then much the same throughout. Pretty relentless, and not in a good way. Eye rolling and sighing when each next song starts and sounds like the last. I get it 🙄 (2.5)

A pretty poignant day, so unsure how much that is influencing it but ‘Walk Away’ felt like the perfect opener for the day and lyrics so resonate and fitting (23/6/25). Loved the soul, lyrics and heart in ‘On The Beach’ (song) and felt a solid collection of songs, with a nice flow throughout. Helpful to know about the ‘Ditch Trilogy’ and makes sense of a lot of the themes and lyrics. The decline, isolation and existential themes throughout, as well as some more upbeat tunes and reflections. However, feels like the mood and sentiment declines as the album progresses. And maybe capturing of the journey, and also interesting the order was reversed on other editions (3.5)

Was not what I had in mind for echo and the bunnymen. Always thought they were more punk than on their way to Madchester. A real sound of Morrisey meets Cure and had always thought that ‘The Killing Moon’ was The Smiths! 🤦🏻‍♂️ generally not a huge fan of the sound. A bit goth, new age whine. Saw another review say acceptable, but not exceptional and that pretty much sums it up.

Nice folk vibes. Lovely voice and Celtic narrative. Got a little tired of it quite quickly and maybe for a certain mood and setting, but likely not a go to for me too often. However, nice to get the surprise and sudden turn around in some songs like ‘Matty Groves’. Just a little repetitive if it’s not your thing and was looking forward to finishing it. It does what it does well, but it’s not for me.

Knew I recognised that voice! A lot less polished/pop version of him and more enjoyable as a result. Basically cool Rod Stewart with same catchy songs but with a bit more swag and less polished. I can dig it.

Nice flow!! Great opening track. Not heard him before but this is goooood. Feel like you can really hear Kanye’s production in it, but such a good flow and vibe. Tight, good production, writing. Less inclined to the more R&B songs and much prefer the harder, rap flow. ‘The Food - live’ 🔥 (3.5)

Such a unique sound, such a great opener. This is White Stripes 🤘🏻 Nice variety, great songs, experimental, unique and engaging. Feels there is something new in every song, whilst keeping the distinct White Stripes sound. Great video for ‘The Denial Twist’ I hadn’t seen before as well. Very enjoyable listen with a good amount variety. Looking forward to the next ones

Feels a pretty boss move to have an album of two tracks. The length of songs really allows easing into it as a journey, the continuation, themes and a pleasurable listening experience, which feels vastly different to 12 4 minute tracks. Just feels a really seamless, organic journey through so many layers and phases. Reminds me a bit of psychedelic trip music and could see it being powerful with that too. Just all feels so easy, smooth and effortless (listener and players). Listened straight through again after finishing first time. Definitely a different type of album to usual, but I like that.

Glad to get my first Marley album of the challenge and two more to come. Maybe not the most popular album (seventh) but still the distinct groove and sound and obvious classic - No Woman No Cry (sounds fast compared to Fugees!) Nice, easy listen with good groove, even without knowing most the songs (3.5)

Really good spirit and feels like a proper ceilidh! Can imagine the people dancing, arm in arm, in good spirits and with smiles on their faces! A similar sound throughout. Does give a boost but a little samey too. Would be great for the right environment, but not sure I’d listen, just for musics sake. But for a jig or a party or a dance, sure! Was quite glad of the change in ‘Streets of Sorrow’ and a beautiful song in its own right. Oh and then back to the norm! 😂 Didn’t inspire too much, but enjoyable enough.

Very surprised by how much I like this. Original, good rhythms and groove and a solid collection. Continually surprised throughout the album by the quality and how much i liked it. Probably close to a 4* but maybe just misses out and gets a very solid 3.5.

Gearing up for ANOTHER ENO album in this list. But glad to see David Byrne is part of it. Getting a bit bored and repeatedly non-plussed by this guy. Nothing groundbreaking. String some samples together, great. A little more ambient, sample heavy, funky than others, that grabbed me slightly but still nothing to write home about. Suppose it was particularly unique for its time and introducing sampling in a new way.

Never really been a huge fan of The Cure. Enjoy that there is a fair bit of instrumental on the album but nothing particularly grabbing or exciting me. Just a kind of steady meandering with that undeniable vocal sound. Atmospheric and spacey and can actually hear some Bloc Party vibes in this. Never really realised the influence on them before. Pretty bored by the end and ‘At Night’ felt like a fitting slog to begin to end things off and ‘Seventeen Seconds’ delivered the final blow. (2.5)

Never been a huge fan. Just watching the video of the opening track and seems to capture the kind of over dramatic narrative with quite mediocre songs as a backdrop. “I really love it when you tell me to stop, it’s turning me on” hmmm Just all feels a bit theatrical and dramatic and just a bit non-plussed about it. Obviously can’t beat classics like ‘Common People’ and ‘Disco 2000’ but otherwise not too impressed. Hadn’t heard ‘Live Bed Show’ before and enjoyed that. Do enjoy the focus on class and social commentary.

Very glad to see my first Iggy Pop album pop up. Interesting to read the place of drug addiction and Bowie in this album. And a mix between James Brown and Kraftwerk seems pretty spot on! Such a different sound to the little that I know of The Stooges. Can really hear Bowies influence, and some, even writing it off as an Iggy album at all, as a result. There is a kind of goth, futuristic vibe, which feels quite slow and dragging. Led to it feeling a bit ‘meh’ and not really grabbing or exciting me.

Did not know he was part of the Miles Davis quartet. Really nice crossover album, and real nice groove throughout. Really nice to hear the changing phases in the songs, to be engaged and drawn in throughout. ‘Watermelon Man’ felt familiar somehow and suuuuuuch a groove, when the beat drops. Felt like it could easily be a modern day track. Yeh, this is GROOVY and warm 🥰

Yehhaaaaaa! Leg slapping, story telling goodness. Enjoy the cadence, rhythm, clean production and narrative, innocent nature of the songs. Surprised by how much I like it. Something infectious about the song structures, rhythm and length. Really great song writing and stories on short, sharp, accomplished country bursts

This is Slayer. It’s intense, it’s fast, the lyrics are comical. Not sure it’s a pleasurable listen. Maybe nice for a bit of headbanging and energy, but as an album to listen to out of pleasure mmmm. Relentless, pretty one dimensional, if this is your bag, you’ll be like a pig in shit, but for me a bit too much and too samey. Yeh, pretty bored by the end. Songs pretty much the same and hard to differentiate. Well done, you can play fast, noodle and write risky, satanic lyrics.

Ahhh recognise ‘Rip It Up.’ Familiar, but still a bit shit! Slow, trudging songs with the worst of 80s heartthrob vocals. A nice surprise in the tempo and feel change for ‘A Million Pleading Faces’ and then back to the 🥱 Some nice little bits of experimentation and changes in style/instruments but nothing particularly impressive or engaging for me. Nice little reggae feel on ‘Breakfast Time’ but vocals ruin it again. Songs often dragged on and much longer than they needed to be (2.5)

I mean what can be said that hasn’t already about the opener?! Beautiful. Little drop off for the second track and then right back with ‘Cecilia.’ First time I’d noticed all the elements in it. Great song. Yeh, great album. Great energy and composition. Nice changes in tempo and feel between the songs, but all great songwriting and structure.

First I’d heard of them and curious to know what “shoegaze” sounds like 🤷🏻‍♂️ Pretty nice instrumentals but vocals are a little drawly, or at least take some getting used to. Found it pretty mediocre as a whole, just trudging, dragging, drawn out. 71 mins 😬 a little bit like budget Oceansize with pretty crap, melancholy vocals. Yawwwwwn. Pretty similar sound on each song. Nothing particularly caught me by surprise or felt different. Just like a conversation, that has some merit, but just nod along and then close it down. Trying to find a favourite track but literally all sounds the same (2.5)

So grabbed by the first track and surprised myself. Just felt very engaged and lost in it and the length became insignificant. Heard the band name before, but not really purposely listened to anything, although recognise the sound and vocals. Really enjoyable listen. Feels a playful sound, with the electronic elements, vocals and tone. Art rock. Ready for a second listen and then decide rating. (3.5)

Glad to have got ‘The Idiot’ before this and understand the story and where this fit in. Also interested to see how I find Eno’s contribution, when not the main artists. Some pretty whacky, experimental electronics but nicely brought together by Bowie. My first full Bowie album and interested to hear more, over the span of his career (and without ENO!) interesting to read his bio - so ridiculously varied and rich. Feel like the last few tracks lose Bowie and more of the Eno experimental, ambient, electronic music I’ve come to resent on this list. Yeh, last four tracks not needed and take away from Bowie’s style and offering. Love ‘Breaking Glass’ and first half seemingly better (and quite different) to first (3.5)

Firstly, fuck Emily Armstrong (let’s get this to the top!) As for the review - nostalgic and always nice to get a more modern album that has memories for me. Remember LP emerging out of the nu-metal scene but having something different with the DJ, two singers and guitarists ear guards (headphones?!) also enjoyed the collab with Jay-z. But this album specifically… …great opener and moves nicely into the classic ‘One Step Closer.’ Although of a time, still have a very original sound and instantly recognise Chester’s vocals. Production feels a little rough, already, but quality songs with force. I’m all for this style of music, but there were times it felt a little corny, basic, repetitive and cliche. Enjoyed the newness of the songs I hadn’t heard before but pretty much same structure and feel. Nearly 3 for the cheesiness/cliche but let’s go 3.5 for the mems and classics

Okay, first album that’s two hours long, let’s see how we go… I have to say that I didn’t give this the full attention of the other albums as it’s 2 hours and was often on in the background. But I loved the variety of styles throughout, never good boring, had some great grooves and arrangement and will likely go back and give it a proper listen again (3.5)

Surprised I’ve never really given Kings Of Leon more time. Like the staccato beats and general fulsome sound and vox. Yeh, this is pretty fierce. Think it would sound great live. Big sound, original and a lot of heart. Second half drops off a fair bit. First half 4/5 - Second half 3/5 = 3.5

So this is bossa nova…Samba Jazz. Very pleasant and warm. Smooth and easy listening, but with a real skill and quality. Can certainly see me going to this by choice, rather than just background. Just so pleasant and warming. Pleasant feels such an empty word but it feels the perfect capturing of this album. Uber pleasant!

Firstly, such a crazy story about the Zombies (and fake Zombies!). Also feels pretty common that albums flopped and only got their critical acclaim later. As for the album, 60s psychedelia with a kind of cross of The Monkeys, Beach Boys, Nick Drake. Didn’t grab me particularly. Felt very of its time and nothing too exciting but nothing bad either. Baroque pop is a new one on me. Feels a very English band and album. ‘Butchers Tale’ a bit left field and that was the single they chose to release?! No wonder it flopped. Was glad to finish the album but ‘Time of the season’ such a great finish and track. Different feel to the rest. (2.5)

Couldn’t find on Spotify (https://archive.org/details/the-b52s-debut-album) ‘Planet Claire’ vocals has an Ian Curtis sound to it. Songs/instruments nice arrangements - unique, a bit messy and punchy. Kitsch. Really enjoy the rawness and originality of this album. Crazy punk, surf, sillies. Could hear some talking heads in here too and unsurprised they worked together (unsuccessfully!) and generally, just their clear influence in so much that came after. Was okay for it to finish when it did, but I enjoyed my ride 😎 Great version of ‘Downtown’ to finish. (3.5)

Glad to see these pop up again and not disappointed. The same energetic, 60s rock groove. Three albums, and quality albums, in one year, is damn impressive. Warm familiarity for ‘Bad Moon Rising.’ Each song just consistently with heart and soul. Prefer Bayou Country out the two. This is more of a steady, 4/4 trot. A square, rather than a hexagon! And nothing like ‘Broken Spoke Shuffle’ to make that point (3.5)

Well, as a start, I feel deeply uncomfortable with Jarvis Cockers breathy vocals in the first track 🤮 Feels pretty non-descriptive and unaccomplished. Writing a soundtrack to an imaginary film because no-one will actually let you do it for real. Nothing too impressive or engaging. Not sure how often I’d listen to a film soundtrack in its own right anyway, but either way this is poor, disjointed and boring. This might be my first 1 star :-/ Yeh, this made me angry. A mismatch of genres, done very badly and with no purpose. Just a personally self-indulgent project that makes little sense. Pretty tragic.

RIP Ozzy. Enjoy this little quirk the site has to honour people passing. Didn’t know this was the invention of heavy metal. What a fucking opener. Never really listened to a sabbath album before. But this is a hell of an introduction, to their name and style. Super clean production. Totally engaging. Great production, great vocals, great song structure and composition. It would be easy to attribute self-indulgence, with songs like ‘Warning’ but they just keep it fresh and engaging. Bravo.

Funk me this is good! Great couple of openers. But slowed down for the rest of the album and to be honest, preferred the funk and groove. Still a lot of heart and soul in the rest of the tracks but they do funk well and felt more engaged and impacted by that. But if a mix of an album because of that shift after the first 2 tracks. Maybe 3.5

“At first I did love you, but now I just wanna fuck” - the perfect intro to K’s honesty and rawness. Funky, eclectic start that feels the perfect intro to who this man is and what TBAP will deliver. “Late nights thinking of you, until I get my nut” This guy is just the GOAT. Nothing like him. The variety of styles, the lyrics, the playfulness. Genius. I feel like this is an education that makes me want to analyse every song, read every lyric and watch every video. And the variety is insane and still kills each song. This isn’t an album, this is theatre

First SFA album I’ve listened to. Some pretty good beats and groove but feels a little basic and hard to get excited about. Maybe it’s unfair coming after a Kendrick album but just 4/4, standard song structure with nothing too engaging or accomplished. Just got increasingly annoyed at how benign it was and that they made a living from this. Hope there isn’t another on the list. Good riddance. (2.5)

Glad to see some Soundgarden pop up. First full album of there’s I have listened too and 70 minutes. Okay, let’s go.. Fierce and hard hitting. This is Soundgarden and the unmistakeable lyrics of CC. Despite popularity of ‘Fell in Black Days’ felt a drop off to me and continued a bit into ‘Mailman’ but good to have variety. Back to the norm with ‘Superunknown’ before the big hitters of ‘Black Hole Sun” and ‘Spoonman’ (which weren’t as impacting as I’d hoped and more taken by the fierce, fast paced songs at the start of the album). Enjoyable album, but could maybe be half the length and more consistent. But still a solid release (3.5)

Maybe first time listening to Muddy, even though the name rang a bell. Lovely groove, heart and soul. Post-war American blues it is. Nice touch to have it live, but recorded so well and such clean performance too. Just solid, consistent blues throughout. ‘Goodbye Newport Blues’ an improv?! Think it would be better to end here rather than studio tracks of songs performed but okay enough.

Ah love to see this come up and such fond memories. Holds a special place. Always loved that it was self recorded and what a collection of stats in the wiki info 😮 (many of the reviews, on the other hand… 😂) Singing along from the first word. I love this album (and may be the minority on this list!) “It’s take a lot of love my friend, to keep you heart from freezing, to keep you spirit free” Just feel every song is absolutely solid but with a good amount of variety. Great album.

Ahhhh The Deceptacon women! Okay, let’s see what else they’ve got… I don’t know what the name is for this style (femme kitch pop/rock?!) but they have it locked. Not sure it’s an album I’d go to regularly, but for this groove and feel, it’s a winner (3.5)

Think I’d somehow always seen Dire Straits as in cheesy romantic pop category but not the case and how could I think that with Knoffly pops?! And that classic ‘Sultans of Swing’. I was doing something else whilst I was listening to this album and that kinda fit the vibe. Smooth, steady and chill. Very pleasant and accomplished but didn’t blow my socks off (3.5)

Have wanted to hear more of this band after hardly knowing much of their work. Pink Floyd meets Slade with a sprinkling of The Beatles and not sure what I think about that. 80 mins. Okay, let’s go. Pretty standard above vibe but like the switch of ‘Night In The City’, a welcome change and brings a bit more rizz. And ‘Starlight’ following in the same direction. More electronics and psychedelia. And of course the classic ‘Mr Blue Sky’ which pretty much sums up their sound. Kinda got the memo from early on and felt similar feel throughout, mostly. Similar to yesterday, it’s pretty good at what it does, but just doesn’t wow me. (3.5)

I was wondering when I was finally going to get a Beatles album and here we are. 6th album, 14 songs and somehow just 35 minutes! Not sure if I was expecting too much, just because it’s the Beatles. Some great songs on there but felt a fairly consistently good album, with some minor dips. Although all very enjoyable and just quality songwriters. Probably just because I’m aware of stronger albums by them and every song being 10+. Enjoyed this and listened a few times (3.5)

Quintessentially country, but somehow feels like the cleaner, less rough version (in production and lyrics). Very middle of the road, depressingly steady and unchangeable drum beat and hardly any depth (in every sense of the word). Almost sounds like those cheap backing tracks you get at a pub karaoke. Could skip tracks and they would sound exactly the same at whatever point it was in the song. Boring, tinny, and terrible backing. Hard to choose a fav track and ironically ended up being the last one. Good riddance.

Oooo I’m looking forward to this one. Pretty low key opener for a band like LZ…until the guitar solo comes! And ‘Babe I’m Gonna Leave You’ just so much heart and soul. We have arrived. And ‘You Shook Me’ for the blues substance. Each song just a complete journey. Drops of a bit for ‘Your Time Is Gonna Come’ and ‘Black Mountain Side’ but nice to mix it up. Some bangers on here and a great album as a whole. Welcome LZ!

TWELFTH studio album! Such a unique and powerful sounds with endless groove and soul. ‘Chain of Fools’ and ‘Natural Woman’ obvious stand outs but each song has great lyrics, feel and depth. ‘Since you’ve been gone’ too. And quite a novel thing for brackets first in titles. A wonderful album and look forward to more.

Can hear the innovation and how this might have stood out in 2017. Got the standard RnB pop feel, but then really uses electronic nicely for a deeper and heavier feel. ‘Take Me Apart’ a clear example. It’s kinda R&B soundscape and a nice unique sound but pretty familiar half way through the album and nothing to keep me hooked. Fair play for the difference but lacking much substance beyond that.

It gets so confusing with these altered track listing on apps. Have to check wiki to make sure. And yes, this album is actually 33 minutes and 8 tracks, rather than 80 mins and 19 tracks as the link takes you to. (Album finishes on ‘Bongo Rock’ btw) Ahhh THIS is where Apache comes from! Solid opener and great introduction to what this band is. Great energy and just asking for dancing or to be used as samples. Interesting history with the MGM exec on bongos and revolving door of musicians. Endless groove and great as an album to listen to with engagement or just have great background vibes. Me likey

Glad to get more Rolling Stones. First impressions, pretty boring, and surprisingly so. Lyrics also pretty shitty. Surprisingly unimpressed by this. ‘Under my Thumb’ hitting the home run on the shittiness. Skipped ‘Going Home’ 11 mins 😬😬😬 Hard to separate from my view of Rolling Stones but if this was a new band, I’d say they haven’t got a future 😬

I mean this is just fierce. So much force and energy from the go 🤟🏻 Probably bias as it accompanied my workout and fit very well. A little repetitive in beat, themes and groove but at least repetitively forceful. It kinda feels like the fun guy who bursts into the party with all the drugs and booze and some good chat. But then over time kinda get the picture and can begin to get a bit too much and trying. Still a guy to party with though. Probably. Oh Jesus. And then ‘Only God Knows Why’ with the auto tune. Tragic. (The acoustic guitar has come out at the end of the party). Good enough album. Pretty repetitive

Reminds me a bit of the Heaven 17 (Penthouse & Pavement) cover somehow. Not sure what to expect, even though I know the name. And the familiar tones of ‘Do It Again’ to start us off. Soft rock indeed. Pleasant, good groove and feel. From the reviews, I get the sense there is shame in liking these guys, but I dig it. Kinda becomes pretty middle of road and radio rock after a while. A solid start though. Quite a few classics I didn’t know was then eg ‘Reelin in the years’ Not sure it’s an album I’d go back to in a hurry but quintessentially pleasant with a few classics (3.5)

The familiarity of the intro and liked it a lot. Bit of a dip down to the next track but seems most popular tracks are first 4. Kinda drab and feel like songs that are primed to drop the beat or get going, but they never really do. I’m all for moody electronica but just doesn’t feel very accomplished or skilful. Kinda like some moody college students got a free copy of Cubase. Lacking depth or variety or skill really. Pretty samey, uninspired and edging on parody at times. One of those albums that just makes me increasingly angry at its lacking.

21 songs, 35 minutes! Okay, I guess this is punk - let’s go… Okay, but nothing too impactful. Kinda feels like a watered down buzzcocks. Songs short, sharp and kinda mid. Yeh, not too much else to write tbh, think that pretty much sums it all up!

A few familiar and catchy hooks. Atmospheric, fairly enjoyable but nothing to write home about. Tried to listen to it twice but was doing other things and kinda just washed into the background, which maybe sums it up pretty well. Would probably listen again and enjoyable enough, just nothing earth shattering. (3.5)

For some reason, like seeing 8 songs, 35 minutes. Tidy. Not too familiar with Kraftwerk songs although know the name well. Pretty much what I was expecting with ‘Robots’ a fitting intro to the band/album Feels pretty innovative and original for 70/80s. Felt a touch repetitive once you get the gist/sound but a welcome familiarity in ‘The Model’. Felt quintessentially German - efficient in what it does and delivers what it says. Nice enough. Nothing special. (3.5)

Can’t say I was thrilled to get another Cure album, but let’s see how we go… Urrggghhh. Just be quiet please and turn down your intensity and increase your joy. Struggling with this one and the SMACKING intensity just makes it more unbearable. I don’t know if it’s just my mood, but this is really grating on me. Unskilled, droney, basic and so lacking. Couldn’t wait for it to end.

Obvious opening classic of American Pie. Something about classics like this that have an original form and length. Great songwriting and noticing the lovely piano in it more. And maybe this song sets up a false image of the vulnerable, heart felt songwriting like “Vincent”. The rest of the album feels quite different and soul filled, despite the beauty of the sing-along classic. Returns a bit for ‘Everybody loves me, baby’ but then back to the soulful acoustic style that I am now correctly relating to Don McLean. Ended up listening a few times and is actually a great album.

Another nice album structure. 7 tracks, 43 minutes. Done. And a hell of an opening to smack you in the face…. Fierce, fast paced and layered. A nice start. For some reason, not what I thought Deep Purple were about but very glad to be re-educated! Yeh, I can dig this! The organ solos, the stacattos, the soul, the ROCK 🤟🏻 Bit of a step down for ‘Child in Time’ and a few too many wails for me, but redeemed by the tom rolls, guitar solo and picking up of pace half way through and turns out to be a hell of a journey of a track! (Shame about the return of the wails!!) Production and sound are so spot on as well. Perfect distortion and mix. Great drummer. Unexpectedly great album and excited to listen again already. Have I become a deep purple fan?! EPIC and what an end to the album 🥵 (4.5)

Love seeing a band I’m familiar with but not sure I’ve listened to this album too many times start to finish. The basement sets on YouTube are 🤌🏻 Great modern Radiohead sound, production amazing and even better listening in headphones. Lovely variety and skill throughout and plenty of standalone tracks too. First half feels much stronger than second, but still good songs throughout, all with a different feel. Average of 3.5 as a result.

Pleasant enough Raggae chill with a great opening track. Enjoyed ‘Ingziabeher’ but just pipped by opener. At a bit of a loss of what to add to that really and maybe sums up the okayness of the album 🤷🏻‍♂️

Ah was pleasantly surprised by their last appearance on the list so ready to see how this goes… 13 songs 37 minutes! Classic KOL sound (mainly vox) and felt a bit rougher than previous album on the list. A familiar sound and feel but felt so much more empty and lacking compared to the other fuller songs and production. few good tracks but otherwise pretty meh.

Smoooooth, deep groves and soulful. Nice use of instrumentals for large periods of songs before the sweet vox. Kinda Stevie Wonder with a bit of MJ and a sprinkling of Otis? New sound and artist to me and found it very easy to listen to and feel its reverberations. Reminds me a bit of Bruno Mars and Anderson.paak. Too smooooth! This is a Sunday album. Way ahead of its time. Ahhhh he did Strawberry Letter 23?! Nice mix of packaged songs and experimental jazz/psychedelic

Great storytelling, nice recording and production. Pleasant and novel listen. Clean sound and lovely change to have stories at the heart of the lyrics. Found it a little repetitive and similar throughout, but enjoyable enough. Very good at what it does but probably wouldn’t have a reason to come back to it (3.5)

Enjoyed the anthem feel of the opener and the super cheap synth to support it! Quite a build up to start with. Dramatic to say the least… …and how could I expect the cover of ‘One Love’ WTF?! I mean it’s a kinda fierce start to an album. Albeit with a comical and budget sound. And I totally get what other reviews say about the Cookie Monster sound 😂 And FIAT. What the hell. I can respect genres I don’t usually listen to but this is harder and harder to take seriously and give merit. Yeh, get this is getting close to unlistenable now. Maybe more manageable if it was parody. Gonna leave this at the half way point, which is rare, but I get the picture (1.5)

Was not expecting this and never listened to it in its entirety. Let’s see… Reading through the track listing quite a lot of hits for one album. Hard to listen afresh and just have the familiarity of hearing it all over in the noughties. But generally, consistent feel good music. Nice to hear the old familiars but after that a kind of nice enough listen but nothing I’d probably go back to by choice (3.5)

Have wondered why MJ hasn’t been cancelled like many other artists. I’m going to try and focus on the music, but is that really okay?! I mean classics, funk, disco, groove. Just the MJ sound but almost can’t listen without everything else coming in - how him and others so feels a bit icky or weird. Also recognise all the fills, break downs, staccato’s and punches a lot of bands use in live performances. First two songs classics, then kinda gently loses rating as it goes. Coming to a slow, gradual stop by the end. Musically alone, surprising 3.5

3rd album in one year?! Unique album artwork and a classic in the opener ‘Tony Dancer’ (it did this as an autocorrect and going to leave it 😂) Enjoyed the modern video for it too and found it quite moving. Got a little samey in the opening tracks and very Elton sound but really loved the title track and the newness that brought in. Generally great range of songs and the familiarity of ‘Indian Sunset’ that became Ghetto Gospel. Good energy, dramatic, theatrical. Good songwriting. (3.5)

Been waiting for a Talking Heads album above wanted to educate myself and quite unfamiliar. Love the original sound, whacky samples and electronica. Great energy and intensity and can hear the influence on Radiohead somehow. And the classic ‘Once in a Lifetime’ Surprised by how much I’ve struggled with Eno’s albums on this list, consistently, but produced this. Maybe a nice balance and more focus on TH style. Feels like on long trip (with various different emotional corners). Oh, and going to start reading the full wiki on each album. Feels such an important part of the creation and some amazing stories. Prefer first half to second half

Hmmm Depeche Mood meets Morrisey. Feels a little cringey and self-important in first few tracks, but let’s see how we go… I like the arrangements, but struggle with the vocals and kinda over-dramatic feel to it all. Yeh, this is whiney, self-important drivel.

Always good to see a classic pop up and ashamed to say I have never listened all the way through before… Such a classic opener and surprised to see over one hour, for a short, sharp punk band. Good groove, feel and variety. Nice detour to ‘Jimmy Jazz’, before the familiar ‘Hateful’. Keeps me engaged and great variety of rhythms and style - reggae, jazz, punk. Did Pulp rip off ‘Lost in the Supermarket’?! SO many good tracks on this album and keep getting hit by the variety, but keep the quality in each. Ridiculous. Are we getting close to a 5*?! How do I choose a favourite track from this?!

I mean this just instantly packs a punch. Political, forceful and fierce. Good to understand the connection to the riots and not good to see that things are just about the same 30+ years later 😡 “The wet T-shirt contest, Motherfucker! 🔫 “ A few tracks in and feel it’s a vibe. Good, solid beats, good, fierce lyrics, flow and samples but maybe got the idea? Would maybe listen again, but not blown away. Does its thing very well but not expanded in myself (3.5)

Always related to Hendrix as a live performer and most of my experience of him so nice to approach an album to see how that comes across. Interesting to read about Hendrix’s dislike of the artwork, but put out regardless. Feels the classic Hendrix sound. That dirty distortion and unmistakeable voice and groove. The soul of ‘Wait Until Tomorrow’ that could just as easy be an Anderson.Paak song released today. Great balance of groove and steady songs, even with all that talent under the hood. Such great arrangements and tightness between the instruments in staccato and syncopation. I feel there is so much going on in this album that I want to listen through again, already.

Such a smooth groove and glad to get a full Tribe album to listen to. Love the outro recording on the first track and into the second. Real sense of rawness and community. Enjoyed the little samples and nods to other songs and artists. Consistently chill and easy listening. And the classic ‘Can I Kick It?’ Such great verses in that. Usually like something a little more bombastic or moving but a very good steady album for groove, background or foreground.

Prefer the modern sound of these tracks. Damn impressive to have this voice and ability at 87. A feel of Johnny Cash meets Tim Waites. Some great lyrics and poetry. Deep souls and feel in each song. If anything, a bit similar throughout. Quite a lot of religious imagery and a fitting march to end of life, topped off by the string reprise to finish. Listening through a second time now and lands even better and has an extra eerie-ness given how end of life this was (3.5)

First I’ve heard of Julian Cope and looking at the reviews, I’m not too hopeful. Let’s see… …all feels a bit cheesy and self-important. I can almost see him listening back to the recordings, basking in self-glory. Just nothing particularly grabbing or skillfull. Lacking substance or heart. Actually looking forward to this album finishing and there is still SO much to go. Urgh. And the length only strengthens my views above. Get. Over. Yourself. Yeh, not gonna give you the play stats, my man - 2* and your lucky. As someone else said Julian NOPE.

Some classics in here and great authentic folk story telling and arrangements. But unfortunately, just doesn’t grab me. It’s pleasant enough and skilful, but not too excited by it. Although, the more I listen can feel more of the soft soul and jazz elements, that feel more moving. And sometimes still creeps back into a kind of mellow okay-ness. Probably should value it more but up and down so let’s go (3.5)

Such a good opener and looking forward to immerse myself in a slightly more appealing stones album… …such great blues rock, groove and soul with killer guitar licks. Such a string of classics and great songwriting. Just a good album as a whole. Good variety, skill and a whole package. First half maybe better than second but a solid 4

I can tend to group a British indie/naughties into an average blur. But I think the Strokes and this album has enough to separate it. Just unique enough, good groove, song structure. And that’s even before the classics which come at a nice mid point to give it a boost. Very well positioned and generally like the sharp ends to songs and general vibe they create. And after the run of hits; really enjoyed the quirkiness of ‘New City Cops’ and an unsurprising shame it was left out of US release (and album cover - stiffs!) Glad to be pleasantly surprised by the quality of this and not just another skinny jean pump out. Getting a touch close to a bit samey by the end so probably just the right formation and length.

Couldn’t find in streaming so here you go (https://archive.org/details/0703_the_klf_the_white_room_1991__mlib - click on FLAC for tracks) Great opener and felt instantly transported to a 90s English club with big baggy T-shirts with smiley faces on and non-stop dancing. Good samples, energy and vox. A little samey but still enjoyable and defo for a certain mood. (3.5)

I’ve always felt alone in my dislike of Dylan, but the reviews give me some hope! I’m not holding my breath on this one, but let’s see how we go… Great opener that I hadn’t heard for a long time. A welcome return. I prefer this more electric album to the earlier, slow, acoustic one I had on this list but my GOD I despise this man’s forced rhymes and over-earnestedness. Enjoyed more upbeat, electric feel. ‘I want you’ stands out but just all feels so similar and forced. Gets trying quite quickly and goes on and on and on. More variety than usual, at least, but I get it and him (unfortunately). Glad for it to finish after a fittingly drawn out last song. (3.5)

Interesting to read it was dedicated to a Cliff Burton. Also never listened to more than one or two songs from Anthrax so curious to see how it is and readying myself for some relentless thrash! Much cleaner and easy to listen to than I had expected. Think the production is clean but EQ terrible. Some catchy hooks but just wasn’t particularly grabbed or enthusiastic. Felt a little empty, tinny or lacking substance at times. I’m all for metal but felt a kinda of hollow, cheap version somehow. Became quite tedious and relentless quite quickly and just missing that X factor. I think I realised when it did feature in one song - there are no riffs or breakdowns. It’s just the relentless distorted power chords and I guess that’s thrash metal. But just feels a little unskilled and repetitive. Thought we were getting a mix up with “medley” but no, same old. So bored by the end. I get it

Ah, nice to see Ravi pop up. Not listened too much, but aware of him. And you know what, I could get used to all albums having an introduction like this!! It sounds so skilled and accomplished. Love the changes of rhythm and the all round flow of all the musicians involved. Feels improvised and organic, to a very high level. A different kind of album to enjoy and relate to. No top 40 tracks here and unsure how much I’d go back to it, but was a real pleasure and education. And an extra point for the ingenuity and intention x