176
Albums Rated
2.88
Average Rating
16%
Complete
913 albums remaining
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Taste Profile
2010s
Favorite Decade
Metal
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Harsh
Rater Style
15
5-Star Albums
17
1-Star Albums
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You Love More Than Most
Albums you rated higher than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teen Dream | 5 | 3.27 | +1.73 |
| Meat Is Murder | 5 | 3.32 | +1.68 |
| The Suburbs | 5 | 3.51 | +1.49 |
| Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots | 5 | 3.58 | +1.42 |
| Moving Pictures | 5 | 3.59 | +1.41 |
| The Queen Is Dead | 5 | 3.66 | +1.34 |
| The Joshua Tree | 5 | 3.67 | +1.33 |
| Vol. 4 | 5 | 3.75 | +1.25 |
| Strange Cargo III | 4 | 2.77 | +1.23 |
| Black Sabbath | 5 | 3.83 | +1.17 |
You Love Less Than Most
Albums you rated lower than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Out Of The Blue | 1 | 3.63 | -2.63 |
| Stardust | 1 | 3.39 | -2.39 |
| Smash | 1 | 3.38 | -2.38 |
| The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady | 1 | 3.32 | -2.32 |
| Me Against The World | 1 | 3.25 | -2.25 |
| Permission to Land | 1 | 3.15 | -2.15 |
| Smile | 1 | 3.06 | -2.06 |
| Time (The Revelator) | 1 | 3.06 | -2.06 |
| Street Signs | 1 | 2.87 | -1.87 |
| Greetings From L.A. | 1 | 2.86 | -1.86 |
Artist Analysis
Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Led Zeppelin | 3 | 4.67 |
| The Smiths | 2 | 5 |
| Black Sabbath | 2 | 5 |
Least Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Tim Buckley | 2 | 1 |
5-Star Albums (15)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
The Associates
1/5
Ok I try to be fair and listen to every album. This was the first I couldn’t do that. About 90 seconds into 3rd track I started skipping. I gave every song at least 30 seconds but found the entire thing - especially the singer - obnoxious. It has the flavor of 1982 and sounds like a lot of other things from the era but is a complete disheveled mess. And the lyrics are beyond stupid. No thanks. 1/5
2 likes
Black Sabbath
5/5
I grew up afraid of Ozzy. A lot of music was criticized in the 80’s for its bad influence and he was the poster child. The Blizzard of Oz album cover, the use of religious icons and mentions of satan in lyrics, the blood and gore, the bat decapitations and rumors of puppies thrown to audiences for slaughter before the band would go on, even the “bad boys” in scouts who played his music on repeat during campouts - all reasons for young me to stay away. Of course, his family would later go on MTV and he would prove an endearing, humble, and earnest father and grandfather - talk about cognitive dissonance. It wasn’t until the mid 2000s when I saw a tribute band with some friends that I gave Black Sabbath a listen and discovered I had been missing out.
I cannot imagine how foreign this album must have sounded in 1970 - the song Black Sabbath is one of better album openers ever. Is this really their debut? This is an amazing album throughout, the music is fresh, surprising, and harmonizes well - Ozzy’s vocals are arguably the weakest component but I can’t imagine it being anyone else. It just fits. Favs are those with long guitar interludes - Black Sabbath, Wall of Sleep and Warning. IMO this is their best album and its hard to believe it’s 55 years old.
I watched the “Back to the Beginning” concert 3 weeks ago and was moved to tears by the tributes, the sincerity in Ozzy’s words and voice, and the love for and from his original band mates. It’s on brand that he would pass so soon. RIP. And thanks for being a part of this creation. 5/5
2 likes
Arcade Fire
5/5
No need to listen - this album was on constant rotation for me from 2010-2017. And despite Win Butler’s bad press in recent years nothing can change for me its brilliance. The Suburbs is top 20 all time song for me. 5/5
2 likes
Michael Jackson
3/5
Ok so 15 year old me really liked this album. Listening today has brought back emotions, memories, and the feelings of anticipation that your world is about to open up. You only grow up once and this album came out right as that was happening for me - first job, first GF, new friends and high school, paying attention to world events. This was a fun listen in this regard. But Weird Al has long since ruined Bad (I only hear fat). The shamones, checoos, and heehees just sound silly (Way Make me feel). The use of MJs own backing vocals is annoyingly noticeable - songs with guests / contrast are stronger. Speed demon and Liberian Girl are throwaway. Just Good Friends feels like Miami vice. Another Part of Me takes me back to a magical day at Disneyland - holding hands walking out of Capn EO. Man in the Mirror evokes memories of watching the video in our living room and feelings of hope I could make a difference in the world. Dirty Diana still bangs and is bright spot. Smooth Criminal also fun but the repeated 'Annie are you oks' now is noticeably tedious. In the end, the album is just a little too tight, too perfect, too polished to make me want to listen again. Off the Wall and Thriller remain better. 3/5
1 likes
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
Siamese Dream was a revelation back in 1993 - the booming, upfront and in-your-face wall of guitar - and their Lollapalooza closing set one balmy San Diego night in summer 1994 earned them a permanent fan. I anxiously purchased this album on double cassette on release and set about listening in my base model '87 Civic but the album never really clicked - the "hits" too few and far in between, the volume too loud, the album simply too long. Eventually the cassettes disappeared in the glove box, then into a shoebox, and still today are out in the garage. I was excited after 30 years to give this one a listen and my original opinion remains largely unchanged. A much improved and more capable sound system has helped me find and "favorite" a few gems I missed back then: Here is No Why, To Forgive, Love, Galapagos, Porcelain and Starlight will go into normal rotation. Yes, Bullet still rocks and Zero still soars. But Jellybean, Scorched Earth, and too many others in between lack structure and become annoying. In the end, as an album, this thing remains too varied, too loud, and too long - a chunky mess that needs to lose half its weight to the junk bin but there is enough good to warrant the occasional revisit. 4/5.
1 likes
1-Star Albums (17)
All Ratings
The Darkness
1/5
First impressions opening riff of opening song: The Cult. All down hill from there. I believe in a thing called love only familiar track. Friday night feels like Cure Friday I’m in love. Overall music is fun in spots - big arena rock, hair bands of the 80s vibe - but falsetto vocals and cheesy, shallow lyrics kill it. Love on the rocks with no ice? Uft. This is bad parody. Fall out boy, panic at disco, etc of the early 2000s but worse. 2/5 UPDATE AFTER 60 ALBUMS - I have a better sense now what is a 2 vs a 1. This is trash. Downgrading. 1/5
Rush
5/5
Rush’s most approachable album but not their best. First 4 songs all hit; riffs can at times feel “tired” from decades of radio play, use in commercials, etc. (opening of Limelight). Tom Sawyer certainly all time top 20 song. Drumming is fantastic and prominent throughout, guitar solos feel loose and soar where they need to (Limelight), and Geddy Lee has finally figured out how to sing (ugh those ‘screamy’ 70s records). This album is in normal rotation for me. It’s not perfect but deserves top category. 5/5
Michael Jackson
3/5
Ok so 15 year old me really liked this album. Listening today has brought back emotions, memories, and the feelings of anticipation that your world is about to open up. You only grow up once and this album came out right as that was happening for me - first job, first GF, new friends and high school, paying attention to world events. This was a fun listen in this regard. But Weird Al has long since ruined Bad (I only hear fat). The shamones, checoos, and heehees just sound silly (Way Make me feel). The use of MJs own backing vocals is annoyingly noticeable - songs with guests / contrast are stronger. Speed demon and Liberian Girl are throwaway. Just Good Friends feels like Miami vice. Another Part of Me takes me back to a magical day at Disneyland - holding hands walking out of Capn EO. Man in the Mirror evokes memories of watching the video in our living room and feelings of hope I could make a difference in the world. Dirty Diana still bangs and is bright spot. Smooth Criminal also fun but the repeated 'Annie are you oks' now is noticeably tedious. In the end, the album is just a little too tight, too perfect, too polished to make me want to listen again. Off the Wall and Thriller remain better. 3/5
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
Siamese Dream was a revelation back in 1993 - the booming, upfront and in-your-face wall of guitar - and their Lollapalooza closing set one balmy San Diego night in summer 1994 earned them a permanent fan. I anxiously purchased this album on double cassette on release and set about listening in my base model '87 Civic but the album never really clicked - the "hits" too few and far in between, the volume too loud, the album simply too long. Eventually the cassettes disappeared in the glove box, then into a shoebox, and still today are out in the garage. I was excited after 30 years to give this one a listen and my original opinion remains largely unchanged. A much improved and more capable sound system has helped me find and "favorite" a few gems I missed back then: Here is No Why, To Forgive, Love, Galapagos, Porcelain and Starlight will go into normal rotation. Yes, Bullet still rocks and Zero still soars. But Jellybean, Scorched Earth, and too many others in between lack structure and become annoying. In the end, as an album, this thing remains too varied, too loud, and too long - a chunky mess that needs to lose half its weight to the junk bin but there is enough good to warrant the occasional revisit. 4/5.
Hugh Masekela
2/5
Outside of David Sanborn/Kenny G, this was my first time dedicated listening to a jazz album front to back. It's pleasant enough, I could see playing this while working or as background music for a dinner party, but I don't think it’s something I would listen to regularly or during my commute. Much of the album sounds like soundtrack to a 1970's crime drama - I could see Gene Hackman trailing a bell-bottomed thug, pausing to crush a cigarette before going down into the NYC subway. Track 5 was a standout. I'm sure this album has reach and meaning to many but just not my thing. 2/5.
PJ Harvey
3/5
Admittedly only had time for a single listen through. The themes appear dark and the music somewhat unremarkable. It’s not offensive or boring but also doesn’t really hook me or hold my attention. This may be one I come back to down the road but for now it’s straight middle. Bright spot - on battleship hill. 3/5
Basement Jaxx
1/5
No thanks. Not worth a second listen or effort to see if it will “grow” on me. Feels like Miami Beach…I appreciate music like this has its place but that place is somewhere else. 1/5
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
2/5
This was a fun listen. Likely not something I would listen to regularly. 2/5
The Stooges
2/5
I appreciated the gritty punk feel of this album. That said it felt poorly mixed. Maybe just the 1970s recording techniques. Gave it several listens. Not sure I’d put it into regular rotation. 2/5
3/5
So maybe I don't like punk music as much as I thought I might. This album is entertaining enough. Reminds of Violent Femmes in spots; Talking Heads (David Byrne) in others. I listened 5-6 times so it's not like I didn't try. Several songs are catchy enough - The Once Over Twice, Adult Books, Beyond and Back - but ultimately not enough to go into regular rotation. 3/5
Wire
2/5
The album invokes memories of Fred Armisen British punk band skits on SNL about 20 years ago. The short song format keeps it moving but overall just not my thing. I’m realizing from this project that punk, as a genre, isn’t my thing. 2/5
The Beach Boys
3/5
This was a fun listen. A few gems - I liked Disney Girls, Student Demonstration Time, and Day in Life of a Tree. The take care of your feet, watch what you eat was a little too campy but it’s apparent innocence reminded me of childhood. I don’t see this becoming an album I’d put in rotation making it 3/5.
Beastie Boys
4/5
Familiarity and nostalgia breed fondness. While License to Ill was on constant replay in HS and hits like Sabotage, Intergalactic, Make Some Noise (and related videos) held my attention over the years, this album never really stuck for me. My impressions today: it lacks the catchy lyrical interplay/finishing each other's lines prominent in their earlier material, the megaphone effect on much of the vocals distracts, and the 3-4 "punk" songs (Tough Guy, Heart Attack, Update) don't fit. But there are several gems, particularly the back half: Get It Together, Sabrosa, Shambala, Eugene's Lament, and Ricky's Theme stand out. Sesame Street, 70's cop shows, and 80's sitcoms romanticized NYC life - housing projects, fire hydrants spraying summer streets, people always on the move, etc. and this album extends that aura. Not as good as License to Ill but many more hits than misses. 4/5
John Lennon
2/5
Meh
A Tribe Called Quest
3/5
Hip hop really isn't my thing but this was an enjoyable Sunday listen. 3/5
David Bowie
4/5
I was happy to receive this selection and expected to enjoy but not as much as I did. Highlights: Love is Lost, Where Are We Now and You Feel So Lonely You Could Die. Lowlights: Dancing In Space. Portions of this album will find their way into rotation, particularly for road trips. 4/5
Beck
3/5
I enjoyed a number of Beck songs back in the day. I appreciated the variety of musical styles on the record but ultimately dated and unexciting. Highlight: Que Onda Guero. Track that should never need made: Girl. Ugh.
Beyoncé
2/5
Honestly - I found 90% of this album boring and uninspired; completely forgettable except for Heaven. I won’t be back around to this one.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
I was familiar with several songs on this one - they’re nice but nothing special - the type of stuff that eats up radio airtime. The music part of his material is adequate and diverse. The lyrics - seemingly always complaining to or about his girl and other guys and monotonous vocal delivery - drags. Clear your throat, man. Two songs You Belong to Me and Hand in Hand have annoying repeating sections that go on too long. Middle of the road on 91x back in the 80s and still middle of the road today. 3/5.
The Temptations
2/5
Enjoyed the first 4 songs more than the second four. I can appreciate this album for what it is and the era it reflects but not really something I’d listen to ever again.
The Youngbloods
2/5
This was an interesting listen. I don’t know how to classify it - rock, country, adult contemporary? The opening track was best - reminds of Fleet Foxes. Francis drake gives Doors vibe. Beautiful reminds of Black Crowes. But much of the album feels like coffee house or “on hold” fodder especially Sunlight and Ride the Wind hold music. It’s not offensive and probably deserves a 3 musically and for the ear but simply something I’m doubtful to ever listen to again. 2/5
Green Day
3/5
I was familiar with most of this album. September ends is one of the most overplayed songs ever behind only Californication. Green Day debut album was right thing right time right place. This one not so much. 3/5
The Who
4/5
Classic rock radio stations in the 80s like KGB101 in San Diego largely ruined The Who for me growing up - Who Are You? Was constantly played at any sporting event, tailgate party, or from boom boxes at the beach. I was pleasantly surprised by this album and even more to learn this was their debut. I Don’t Mind gives La Bamba vibes. Goods Gone drumming feels very normal for the era - frankly boring, but I do like the semi-Michael Stipe style vocals. Lalalalies is catchy. Ive always known I am a Man as George Thoroughgoods Bad to the Bone - a fun surprise. The Kids are Alright was very nostalgic I can’t place it anywhere specific but reminded me of young childhood so maybe my parents played it. The Ox is simply amazing - immediate favorite. Overall entirely surprised and impressed; finding an album like this is the reason I’m doing this project. 4/5
Stereolab
2/5
I didn’t have enough time with this one but also didn’t feel need to give it more time. There were a few bright spots but largely forgettable. 2/5
The Beau Brummels
3/5
Bob Dylan much? I like the “rolling” guitar arrangements of these 1960s rock albums - you can feel forward movement like a train or caravan moving across the horizon. At 28 minutes this was a fast and easy listen. On second listen I enjoyed it even more. Painter of Women and Wolf of Velvet Fortune were especially engaging. I want to give this a 4 but in truth probably won’t be back around for a listen anytime soon (970+ albums to go). 3/5
Brian Wilson
1/5
High school boys choir set to either 1) adult contemporary soft rock or 2) Disney movie soundtrack. This was released in 2004? Not worthy of a 2nd listen…this is not my thing. 1/5
Oasis
3/5
Today was a busy day and I didn’t get completely through it although largely familiar with the band and their hits in the 90s. The songs I didn’t know feel comfortable and familiar but something about the mix just isn’t right…the tone is too bright and annoyingly fuzzy on several songs especially those early on. In short, I didn’t hear anything that was truly new or amazing which summarizes my feelings about the band decades ago. Live Forever and Wonderwall are brilliant…everything else just sort of feels meh. 3/5
Arcade Fire
5/5
No need to listen - this album was on constant rotation for me from 2010-2017. And despite Win Butler’s bad press in recent years nothing can change for me its brilliance. The Suburbs is top 20 all time song for me. 5/5
Ray Charles
3/5
Listened while on road trip. Mixed feelings in the car. Not something I would listen to often but respect for what it is. 3/5
The War On Drugs
4/5
Had to listen while road tripping with family across northern Oregon but general consensus in the car was favorable. Agree this was surprisingly easy to listen to and quite good. Several songs were radio hits and familiar but rest of album was good.
Love
2/5
Family road trip in Oregon day 2. This one was interesting - particularly the simple and innocent lyrics - but not something anyone wants to hear again. 2/5
Ryan Adams
4/5
I had heard of Ryan Adams before today but I guess had never heard one of his songs because this was entirely new to me. Father John Misty before he was. Several tunes and lyrical content remind of Andy Hull as well - particularly during his brother bird era. Sweet Carolina, Don’t ask for water and time of need especially enjoyable. I listened to this while on vacation coast of Oregon with family so maybe extra generous but enough here to want to come back. 4/5
Lana Del Rey
2/5
Ok so I’ve tried hard over the years to figure this artist out. Normal Rockwell and Blue Banisters were more or less on repeat for a month a few years ago. There are a few songs I like - Arcadia for example. But I just don’t get it. Did she really just say “I listened to white stripes when they were hot” and call out Kings of Leon? At least message how cute and cool you are with subtlety. It’s all too boring, too cliched, too pretentious...she’s simply trying so hard it’s offensive. 2/5
Massive Attack
3/5
This album has value as ambient / background noise like seemingly so many of the albums on this list. (Maybe thats a consequence of having only 1 day to absorb?) The opening song sounds so much like 311 I had to check the queue to make sure I hadn't erred. All said, I liked the variety of vocal styles but not something I could see myself listening to much in the future. 3/5
Bob Dylan
3/5
Of course familiar with Bob Dylan's work from popular culture, radio, movies, etc. This was my first time ever listening to a Bob Dylan album and I was frankly surprised how clear the lyrics were - I guess he didn't start slurring until later? The songs are poetic, no doubt. The nasally voice and intonation takes some getting used to. The harmonica is too much, too long, and too loud in several spots. I was ready to rate this a 4 based on the first 3 songs and frankly first half of the album. A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall and Don't Think Twice, It's All Right were bright spots. To this point I am thinking 'you have to love Bob Dylan and this album for the movies and scenes these songs inspired - like they were made for one another from the beginning'. And then the 2nd half kicks in, particularly Talkin WW3 Blues and I Shall Be Free and the free associating scatting becomes super annoying and downright comical. What happened? Should have ended this one 4 songs sooner. I might come back and explore as time permits. Then again maybe not. 3/5
Leonard Cohen
2/5
First time listening to Leonard Cohen album. Initially was intrigued by the tone and poetic form but it eventually wore thin. The female back up singers on several songs gave it a contrasting Disney-island vibe in spots but otherwise dull and depressing. 2/5
The Smiths
5/5
When this popped up in my queue today I initially thought 'I've easily listened to this album one thousand times from 1989 when I fell deeply in love with everything The Smiths...no need to listen...5/5. But I listened anyway, the first time since a long weekend in the spring of 2020 driving all around York-Leeds-Manchester, chasing some many of the sites mentioned in so many songs...the moors, Wally Range, Holy Cross Church, Rusholme, Still Ill bridge, Cemetery Gates, and so on. Despite all of this familiarity I am sitting here in shock listening...in awe of just how great this album is. Immediately I'm sitting in my 1979 Honda, east county San Diego, singing top of my lungs trying to impress my passenger, and day-dreaming of the life the lay ahead. Queen is Dead such a great opener. I know its over and Light that Never Goes out still bring tears. Even my lesser likes Mr. Shankly, Vicar in a Tutu and Some Girls hold up. I still think Hatful of Hollow is their best album but hardly a flaw here. Thank you Johnny Marr for asking Morrissey to play records and thank you both for creating the soundtrack of my high school years. 5/5
Aphex Twin
2/5
You know those amateur travel videos on YouTube? This is the background tracking music for the action shots - some 23 year old Katie showing us how her boyfriend kiteboards in the Caribbean. Or music played by the hotel DJ while people find their seats and mingle ahead of the plenary session start at some accounting conference. Did everyone have a good time at the bar last night? I can see some merit in music like this but putting it on and listening to it as an album? Boring. 2/5
The Offspring
1/5
I can’t explain the exact reason - maybe it’s the amateur lyrics, more likely the grating vocals, or even more likely that 90s alt radio played most of the songs on this album to death - but I HATE this album and this band more than most things in my life. There is no song more annoying than Come Out and Play, Self Esteem and Get Away - beat only by the terribly abused sample in Get a Job (diff album). I wanted to try today - to be open minded and give it space. Nope. I gave each song 20 seconds. This album and band sucked in 1994. They both really suck now. 1/5
UB40
3/5
This was a fun listen. Not terribly remarkable and no single song stood out but if I’m ever in the mood for reggae in the future I won’t hesitate to put it on.
The Who
4/5
I loved this album. Listened to it 3 times through one time being 2017 live version. I’ve always loved Pink Floyd and Rush both of whom frequently authored rock opera like albums with a story - I really slept on the Who, admittedly in part because of the east county San Diego dirtbag culture that surrounded KBG101 classic rock station growing up - the station constantly blasting “who are you” out of tailgating stereos before and after padres games. Anyway - this was great. 4/5
Method Man
2/5
An entertaining listen but not really my thing. I don’t think myself a prude but songs that use the N word heavily are off-putting. The songs from other artists that came on spotify after this album completed were actually more immediately catchy and engaging. 2/5
Heaven 17
2/5
What if the singer from Human League (in style of 'don't you want me baby') or Yazoo (move out don’t mess around) had joined early Depeche Mode before Martin Gore? This album is upbeat and fun - at least in places - but gets bogged down by its own repetitive sound. It has value as a time capsule reflecting early British new wave synth but not something I would regularly enjoy except as the soundtrack in Grand Theft Auto which I believe featured the 2nd song on the album. 2/5
Elton John
3/5
This was a surprisingly enjoyable listen. It’s seems clear George Michael was raised on / influenced by Elton John as several songs the vocal styling could easily pass for later GM. Every time I listen to these albums from the 1960s and 70s I’m reminded how nice songs shaped around a story or narrative can be - reference Indian Sunset. Of course Tiny Dancer. Levon, Madman, and Indian Sunset also strong favorites. Razor Face was trash; All the Nasties also a bit trite. Solid album though. 3/5
Sade
2/5
Smooth Operator was a big hit middle 80's and the entire album evokes images and memories of TV shows and movies from the 80's of NYC yuppy apartments, dinner parties, candle-lit dinners, etc. This is upper middle class mixer music...very smooth, inoffensive but, in short, really boring. Just not my thing. 2/5
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
This album starts really strong - Just Like Honey is superb and a top 100 all-time song for me. (A match made in heaven at the end of Lost in Translation). The next few songs are interesting and remind of Love and Rockets (Living End = Khandalini Express) and Bauhaus (Taste of Cindy) and Joy Division (Inside Me). At this point, I'm happy and thinking 4/5. Then the second half kicks in and the over-use of reverb and crunchy guitars starts to wear thin. By the end, this album has just 3 songs: Just Like Honey and its copies (Cut Dead, Sowing Seeds, Something Wrong), a few goodies reflective of other artists from the era (Living End, Hardest Walk, Inside Me, Little Underground) a LOT of noisy mess (Taste the Floor, In a Hole, Never Understand). I'm left with mixed feelings and it’s a bit disappointing actually. The album opens so hopeful only to leave you skipping tracks near the back. Perhaps a relisten down the road may prove more kind. 3/5
Frank Zappa
4/5
Albums like this is why I started this project. I knew virtually nothing about Frank Zappa beyond my father’s opinion growing up that he was a no good, drug-addled, unproductive, rabble-rousing troublemaker hippie. Consequently, I knew even less about his music and had no idea what to expect this morning. What a delightful surprise. The arrangements don’t appear terribly technical, skilled, or complex playing but the free flowing, jam-session vibe really works for me. Willie the Pimp is a real banger. In fact the first 3 songs are really good. The last 3 not as much - I like the funk of Gumbo but the horn becomes too much. On first listen I decided ‘it’s probably a 3 but I’ll give it a 4 to ensure I come back later.’ On second listen I concluded solid 4, no doubt. Thanks dad. 4/5
Billy Joel
3/5
This was an enjoyable album. I knew many of the songs from childhood. Some definite hits but solidly in the “adult contemporary” category of the 80s and therefore a bit overplayed, safe, and unremarkable. I thought the Elton John album from earlier in the week was more entertaining. 3/5
Youssou N'Dour
4/5
First time hearing an album like this. Very entertaining perfect soundtrack for my workout this morning. Songs are well engaging and never get boring. Perfect for outdoor dinner party or pool day. I will definitely come back to this one when the situation is right. 4/5
Billie Holiday
2/5
I’m confident this album was remarkable in its day. It’s easy to imagine winter time NYC, leaves collected in the gutter, Sunday afternoon listening to this as a family on the turntable “furniture” popular in the 1960s. But today? This just doesn’t speak to me or my ears…surely reductive but she’s the female Louis Armstrong. I don’t see myself coming back this way. 2/5
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
I expected - indeed I really wanted - to like this album a lot more than I actually did. I’m marginally familiar with Neil Young both from really young childhood (America/Horse with No Name) and like his voice. A sort of Morrissey before he was. Unfortunately this just didn’t speak to me. A little too country, too jangly, too Crazy Horsey (weighed down harmonies)? I LOVED the extended jams in Down by the River and Cowgirl in the Sand no doubt…if it had been a collection of these types of songs perhaps a 5. In the end I found the album as a whole underwhelming. Maybe an instance where heightened expectations killed the experience? 3/5
Lorde
2/5
Unremarkable really. The music is over produced and sterile, the thumping bass annoying in too many spots, and the breathy style of exhalation singing is dry and boring. The lyrics wanna feel smart but come off self-obsessed and pretentious much like Lana del Rey. Highlights were (xxxx and xxxx). But honestly, I just don’t get it. 2/5
Black Sabbath
5/5
I grew up afraid of Ozzy. A lot of music was criticized in the 80’s for its bad influence and he was the poster child. The Blizzard of Oz album cover, the use of religious icons and mentions of satan in lyrics, the blood and gore, the bat decapitations and rumors of puppies thrown to audiences for slaughter before the band would go on, even the “bad boys” in scouts who played his music on repeat during campouts - all reasons for young me to stay away. Of course, his family would later go on MTV and he would prove an endearing, humble, and earnest father and grandfather - talk about cognitive dissonance. It wasn’t until the mid 2000s when I saw a tribute band with some friends that I gave Black Sabbath a listen and discovered I had been missing out.
I cannot imagine how foreign this album must have sounded in 1970 - the song Black Sabbath is one of better album openers ever. Is this really their debut? This is an amazing album throughout, the music is fresh, surprising, and harmonizes well - Ozzy’s vocals are arguably the weakest component but I can’t imagine it being anyone else. It just fits. Favs are those with long guitar interludes - Black Sabbath, Wall of Sleep and Warning. IMO this is their best album and its hard to believe it’s 55 years old.
I watched the “Back to the Beginning” concert 3 weeks ago and was moved to tears by the tributes, the sincerity in Ozzy’s words and voice, and the love for and from his original band mates. It’s on brand that he would pass so soon. RIP. And thanks for being a part of this creation. 5/5
Kings of Leon
2/5
I went through a Kings of Leon, Young the Giant phase between 2008-2015…sort of following on from Black Crows/Counting Crows a decade earlier. This album is on brand. Less polished and “smaller” sounding than Only the Night which I think is the better album. The vocals are annoying in spots (Day Old Blues) and the album sort of becomes boring and melts into the background as it goes. 2/5
Nick Drake
3/5
I saw a few reviews suggesting this was best album ever; River Man the greatest song ever put to music. Maybe this is a flaw in the album per day format: given enough time and listens I might come to agree. But I listened twice through today and while there was some interesting guitar work (3 hours), I found it largely unremarkable. The kind of thing on in doctors waiting room. Effectively 1960s Jack Johnson. 3/5
Dennis Wilson
2/5
Meh. 2/5
George Michael
3/5
This one prompted debate with my wife (she’s a 4). Freedom is a banger and there are 3 interesting ballads - Praying for Time, Mothers Pride, and Waiting - no doubt George Michael can sing and these are where he’s strongest. But the rest of the album is fairly boring. So what do you score when half of album is great and half is mediocre? Faith is the better album. 3/5.
5/5
This album and band burst on the scene for me the fall of my freshman year of high school - the songs were all over the radio and everyone clamored for tour tickets. I kind of stayed away - something about my religious upbringing and trying to not get too wrapped up in the world. And then Rattle and Hum, shot during the Joshua Tree tour, came out and my entire taste in music changed. It was so big, bold, and sounded so great in the theater. This album was on constant repeat along with Boy and War through much of high school - it is an absolute top 20 all time for me. What came later Zooropa and such were letdowns compared to this and by the time iPhone debacle occurred I had well moved on. U2 has since shown themselves to be a mediocre band. But they have this one. No doubts, no concerns. 5/5.
a-ha
2/5
Take on Me and then here: take the rest of this drivel too. The music sounds like the middle 80s - or what video games and TV shows think the 80s sounded like - and comes off remarkably vanilla. Every song after the opener could easily fit behind Karate Kid training or fighting montage. There’s clearly a reason this band was never known for more than their ubiquitous opener. 2/5
Jethro Tull
4/5
I’ve said this before but I grew up with a certain distaste for overused classic rock riffs like that immediately displayed by the opener. But 3 minutes in I’m liking it. 13 minutes in I’m liking it more. But then, around the 23rd minute, I’m beginning to ask “what the flip is it with the flutes?” By the time Up to Me came on I was ready to be done - solely on account of the flute. I listened a second time on way home and still can’t decide. Love the prog rock elements here - remove the flutes and it could be a 5. In the end I’m voting 4 to encourage me to come back when time allows.
Brian Eno
3/5
I’m not sure what to do with this one. I loved Art of Noise growing up - I think I’m open to the genre of environmental, experimental, instrumental music. This was a pleasant listen, the songs are interesting in places and boring in others. But it feels largely forgettable. I guess I go middle of the road until I potentially revisit and feel otherwise. 3/5
Keith Jarrett
4/5
This is hard one to judge - I’m not sure how to categorize it. An entertaining listen for sure and clearly the man plays mean piano but it’s not really piano music, classical, jazz (as I understand it) or rock. I can’t imagine a venue where I’d put this on. It’s not really fancy car date night appropriate. It’s too fast for dinner party. It’s not jazzy enough to rock out to. 5/5 for performance but 3/5 for not sure I’ll ever listen again / can’t figure out where to put it. I’ll give it a 4 to encourage relisten later.
Baaba Maal
2/5
Enjoyed aspects of this - especially the singing - but I don’t see myself putting this on regularly. 2/5
Johnny Cash
5/5
Familiar with Johnny Cash from my grandfather growing up. Never much liked the music but loved the storytelling in the lyrics. Same is true on today’s listen. But there is something insanely special that comes through on this album especially given the lyrics in this setting. Johnny is sincere, bold, improvisational and you can feel the deep connection and appreciation from the prisoners and administration alike. I cannot imagine the sheer joy and reflection an event like this with songs deeply connected to their prison experience must have brought to attendees. It easy to imagine yourself there listening. And inclusion of the prison announcements throughout are chefs kiss. What a moment in time. What a recording. For the music 3/5. For the lyrics 4/5. For the setting and capture of real history 8/5. Total 5/5
Willie Nelson
1/5
I didn’t think I needed a Willie Nelson album. I really didn’t need a Willie Nelson album of covers - some of which are not good. 1/5
Slint
4/5
So I’m about 60 albums into this project and this is the ~3rd time I’ve been pleasantly surprised by an album - the first time by a band I knew nothing about. There are notes of Radiohead, Nada Surf, Smashing Pumpkins, Ben Gibbard and am too lazy tonight to figure out if before, contemporaries, or after. Favorable feelings became stronger on 2nd listen. Not a big fan of the quiet narrative style of lyrics but love the pace and conflict in the music. Washer and Good Morning Captain are immediate Spotify favorites. I’m going to call it a 4 and preserve right to listen later and move to 5. 4/5
Bob Dylan
4/5
Maybe feeling generous this week but this was an enjoyable listen - particularly for a genre and singing style I don’t normally care for. Scoring to promote me coming back. 4/5
Madness
2/5
I had high hopes for this one given heavy airplay and familiarity with our house and the genre. This should be easy and fun. The first song was interesting…the second one too: this feels familiar. By the time I reach Mr. Speaker I’m growing concerned I’ve fallen into some Danny Elfman-Tim Burton collab - not an Oingo Boingo sound but Nightmare Before Christmas or Beetlejuice or PeeWee on repeat sort of sound. It tires quickly. I know this band are legends in and still tour around Great Britain. But this won’t find its way into my playlist.
The Cure
4/5
The Cure is a top 10 all time band for me. This is a solid album deserving high marks but not their best. 4/5.
k.d. lang
2/5
Insanely boring. Stopped 2/3rds way through. 2/5
The Stooges
2/5
The opening song was great - for a moment I thought I was listening to the opener of the Cult’s Electric, Wildflower. From there the album just seemed to wane and did not hold my interest. 2/5
Black Sabbath
5/5
This is a fantastic album and I’m struggling between 4 or 5 solely because their debut and Paranoid are slightly better…I feel this need to separate. Tomorrow’s Dream, Supernaut, and Snowblind are favorites as are Changes and Laguna Sunrise which show well the range of this heavy metal band. Sabbath as a group - particularly the guitar solos and interludes like the back half of Under the Sun - are much better than Ozzy ever was as a solo artist...props to Tony, Bill and Geezer. 5/5
LCD Soundsystem
4/5
This is a good album. Yes there are songs that become annoying (the foundational beat to All My Friends - yes, I went there) but there is more good here than bad. North American Scum, Someone Great and of course NYILY are top notch. 4/5
Joni Mitchell
3/5
For decades MJK has talked about the influence of Joni Mitchell on his musical career - I think he even once called this his favorite album of all time. So I was excited to get into this today. Unfortunately I’m not seeing it. The songs are pleasant but the floating, fluttering vocals distract. I’ll give it another shot on commute home but for now feels like a 2-3 at best. So drive home left morning feelings unchanged except I did realize the Jewel became the 1990s version of Joni Mitchell. No doubt she’s a great song writer and singer but this album feels undercooked. Feeling generous. 3/5
Sly & The Family Stone
4/5
Shady as a lady in a moustache…somebody’s watching you. The higher the price the nicer the nice. Boy the 60s were groovy. This was a real joy and had me smiling in places. Who doesn’t love the bass backup singer? And anything that repeats “my lady”…well, simpler times for sure. The instrumentals - sex machine and soul clapping - were especially enjoyable. I will be back. 4/5.
Elton John
4/5
Familiar with the hits on this album but first time listening through. First song feels unnecessarily ornate with long lead in that never really builds. And this holds for most of the album. Candle in the Wind frankly always associated with Princess Di and found lyrics deeper than expected. Benny and the Jets live has a great vibe - realization that Ben Folds stole from EJ in terms of playing style and song structure. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road appeared in a lot of movies when I was young and listening today took me back to my childhood home and deep innocence - I could see an album label circling the spindle. The next 3 and frankly rest of the album largely forgettable. Alice is fun - good way to conclude a side of the record. Good enough to score highly for the hits but not near perfection I am seeking for a 5. 4/5
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Loved loved loved it. First time I’ve ever Spotify-liked 5 songs and only the 2nd time (in 85 listens) that I will rate a 5 on a previously largely unknown album. Of course I’m familiar with the hits - Watchtower, Voodoo Child, Crosstown. But I did not expect Voodoo Chile, Come On, 1983 too. What an incredible listen and exactly the reason I’m doing this project. Thank you Jimi Hendrix. 5/5
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I can’t exactly explain why - I don’t have a major reason why - I have always had a major aversion to this band. So I approached this thinking it would be a 1 or 2 out of hand. In the end it did not knock my socks off but it didn’t offend either. Still sort of meh. Maybe in the future I’ll come back and find it better. 3/5
Iggy Pop
4/5
This was a great listen. I didn’t realize so many semi-familiar songs, especially from television commercials, came from Iggy or a single album. I’ll be back around for another listen.
Gary Numan
3/5
This started out well - until about 3-4 songs in when it occurred to me that every song on this album is some variation of the ubiquitous Cars. No doubt this album had an outsized influence on new wave and 80s music to come but today it’s hard to appreciate because of all that eventually came. Overall a good listen and great vibe. But the songs that Spotify fed me once the album was over were ever better. Killing Moon - yes please. Sadly this one 3/5.
Duke Ellington
4/5
This was a phenomenal listen. Like the Johnny Cash Folsom album, the live recording aspect of this recording makes it wonderful. If you close your eyes and relax you almost feel like you’re at some New England country club watching this happen. Exactly what I expected from a jazz record and something I could listen to anytime. 4/5
The Flaming Lips
5/5
This was in phenomenal listen. I'm marginally aware of the band and this album would be a 4 but for its two most famous tracks. 1) The title track is well constructed and a top 100 all-time song for me. 2) Do you realize is, to me, one of the most beautiful set of lyrics ever put together and the music drives home its points. I broke down sobbing on my way into work this morning - reflecting on the sad state of my marriage, the loss of my family, and the hope found in my grandson. Ya - going though some shit. Maybe circumstances are influencing my thoughts today but for now, 5/5.
The Who
3/5
This is my 2nd Who album. The first one I really enjoyed and scored a 4. Most of this one feels unremarkable and I was thinking 2/5 before Going Mobile and Behind Blue Eyes which were stronger. This feels most classic rock which as a rule I do not enjoy. 3/5.
Gorillaz
4/5
I can’t exactly put my finger on what prevents me from listening to this band more often. I admire Damon Alborn as a person (google some of his youtube interviews) and an artist. But this band, like Blur produces some of the catchiest, most enjoyable and memorable songs and a whole lot of harder-to-get-into mediocre stuff. Clint Eastwood a likely top 20 all time song for me; 19-2000 in the top 100. A few others are catchy - Double Bass, Rock the House, Starshine - but it’s hard to put this on as an album and enjoy it all the way through in most settings. The 2nd half is better than the first; I think Melancholy Hill is the better record. 4/5
The Verve
2/5
Remarkably boring. A few decent ballad like songs near the middle of its run but otherwise forgettable - Oasis without the drama and mystic. I hated the unavoidably inescapable Bittersweet Symphony in the later 1990s solely due to airplay. There was little here to convince me to give the band another try. 2/5
Miles Davis
3/5
It’s enjoyable but not something I would normally listen to. 3/5
MC Solaar
3/5
An interesting listen - relatively generic late 80s hip hop with French lyrics. The French part is what is most engaging. It has a nice flow but if I were in the mood for this type of music, I’d much sooner reach for something closer to source. Bonus point for slipping in the dun-dun-dah riff from The People’s Court on Quartier Nord. 3/5
The Thrills
2/5
Band chronicles the summer they spent in California. It’s cute but hollow. The singers style grates. No need to hear again. 2/5.
Marvin Gaye
2/5
Iconic but annoyingly repetitive. One long song of desperation. How many ways can you say the same thing? For Marvin Gaye, it appears to be about three. 2/5
Elliott Smith
2/5
Listened to this while driving to Sacramento which surely persuades my mood. All I kept thinking was 1990s Sufjan Stevens. I don’t much care for Sufjan. 2/5
Yes
2/5
I struggle with Yes - the keyboards and choral style of singing make it feel at times like I’m listening to the soundtrack to a carnival ride. So it went with this one. To be fair I was on a road trip with lots of people in the car and therefore didn’t pay my normal attention. I should come back and try again later.
Van Morrison
3/5
I expected to love this one give Mystic. Instead of come off blah. Moondance is ubiquitous. In the end don’t see myself listening all that often. 3/5
3/5
Found first 2 songs tiring but album settled in with long instrumental that was enjoyable. Last 2 songs were the best. Not something I’d reach for everyday. 3/5
Stephen Stills
3/5
A diverse listen. Several bluesy tracks I enjoyed. A few honky-tonk and country tracks not so much. 3/5
Bruce Springsteen
2/5
Few things ooze 1984 for me more than this album. You could not escape the title track or Dancing in the Dark. Listening today I can feel all of the excitement and anxiety of 7th grade like it was yesterday. I didn’t care much for this album back then - the blue collar, railroad/highway worker, drinking at the bar while pining about the past (Glory Days) themes were beyond my 12 year old life experience. The same remains largely true today - this album feels really "mid" - and its value to me now rests in its ability to invoke feelings of an arguably simpler, more optimistic (American exceptionalism) time. 2/5
Amy Winehouse
3/5
Listened to this en route to Singapore so perhaps a bit generous. I never really understood Amy Winehouse or the style of signing while she was active. The biopic didn’t capture my interest much either so I had sort of low expectations on this. The opener was strong and immediately captured my attention. I favorited 2 songs - Stronger than Me and Love is Blind. I like the enpowered, gritty lyrics more than the music she clearly had a vision and had been through some stuff. 3/5
Iron Maiden
4/5
Similar to Black Sabbath in recent weeks it’s shocking to think this is the bands debut release. Equally staggering to imagine how this must have sounded in the landscape of 1980. Surely Kiss and others were doing their thing but the scale or sound and volume of guitars at least to me seems relatively novel. I’m more a fan of Bruce Dickinson era Maiden but you cannot deny their sound even from day one. There are several 5 songs on this album - consider Phantom of the Opera (especially from 3:00 to the end) - but as I do not see the album as a 5. I mean I have to leave room for later work. 4/5
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
I really enjoyed this - certainly more than the previous Elvis Costello album. I favorited 3 songs - Long honeymoon, Pidgeon English, and Town Cryer - which is pretty high for me for a previously unheard album. I did listen while en route to Singapore so maybe some generosity owing to conditions. But a solid album I intend to come back to. 4/5
The Associates
1/5
Ok I try to be fair and listen to every album. This was the first I couldn’t do that. About 90 seconds into 3rd track I started skipping. I gave every song at least 30 seconds but found the entire thing - especially the singer - obnoxious. It has the flavor of 1982 and sounds like a lot of other things from the era but is a complete disheveled mess. And the lyrics are beyond stupid. No thanks. 1/5
Led Zeppelin
5/5
This is an iconic album even if the lyrics seem trite in today’s terms. This must have sounded so unbelievable in 1969. 5/5
The Libertines
2/5
I liked this band better when they were called The Strokes. Not much here stood out. 2/5
Pere Ubu
2/5
I didn’t not like it…but I also didn’t particularly enjoy. A bit repetitive in spots - oh you think about me all the time? 2/5
Bert Jansch
2/5
Not really my thing. 2/5
The Allman Brothers Band
4/5
This was a great listen while doing laundry in Singapore. I don’t much care for the signing and didn’t pay close enough attention to lyrics but I loved the open session, jam-style live performance put on by the band. I will be back for a deeper listen later on. 4/5
Beach House
5/5
This is an easy 5 for me - IMO no one produces a better, more complete aural atmosphere with their music than BH. Concerts are performed in near total darkness and completely enveloping. Norway hooked me; others like 10 Mile Stereo with its 5-minute build to soaring climax keep me here. Bloom is the better album but this warrants top score. 5/5
Cat Stevens
2/5
It’s pleasant enough but doesn’t really grab or hold attention. 2/5
3/5
I wanted to really like this one. And while there are a number of morsels - Ziggy in particular - I found the entire thing hard to reach. Maybe it was the stressful week of work in Singapore? Even on relisten this weekend I couldn't get there. Recognize its impact at the time but I don’t think I’ll be back around. 3/5
Peter Gabriel
4/5
This is a fantastic album which was on constant repeat in my first car sophomore year of high school. Red Rain is an incredible opener. Sledgehammer and Big Time were then and still are incredible ear-worms you can’t help but tap to. Don’t Give Up reminds me of 1980s social issues - oil spills, famine in Africa…Kate Bush sounds great. The ringing tap In Your Eyes still bothers my ears but the song is great. The album drags a little in the middle: Mercy Street, We Do What Told and Picture by overall a solid listen. 4/5
Charles Mingus
1/5
Clearly I’m not cut out for jazz as this was a mess for me. I enjoyed the Spanish style guitar interludes but otherwise found the entire thing tough to follow and enjoy. 1/5
The Rolling Stones
3/5
So I initially listened to this while stuck in SFO on a flight cancellation. Bad mood. There are a number of hits and familiar pieces. Not entirely my preference but I recognize historical context and more good than bad. 3/5
ZZ Top
3/5
So I was not expecting to enjoy this as much as a I did...figuring they'd all sound like "Legs" which played non stop on MTV in the mid 80s. Surprisingly, some fun gritty rock music here. Of course La Grange is well known. I'd give a solid score - enjoyed but not likely to be back any time soon. 3/5
CHIC
3/5
Sounds of my early childhood. A fun record. 3/5
The Sonics
2/5
Mid 60s distortion heavy rock that makes me think about Johnny B Goode. Several songs are near copies of themselves. It’s not offensive but does wear thin after a while. 2/5
The Isley Brothers
3/5
I get the cultural impact of this album - surely Who’s that Lady, Summerbreeze, etc. are ubiquitous. In that regard this album feels comfortable. But it also makes it boring to me. Which is where i land. Enjoyable as background music but not something I would want to seek out or play regularly. 3/5
Public Enemy
3/5
There a number of good songs and iconic lines here (ya, boi) but not something I’d listen to regularly. Appreciate it for its place in history but that’s about it. 3/5
Tim Buckley
1/5
There was very little engaging in this. And vocals were annoying. 1/5
Arrested Development
2/5
Really couldn’t get into it. Nathan agrees. 2/5
Electric Light Orchestra
1/5
What in the Willy Wonka, Oompa Loompa, Xanadu-ABBA-Bee Gee mess is this? I suppose in the mid 1970s, Star Wars-Cher bedazzled variety show era, this album felt comfortable and enjoyable. Not today. I don’t know what I thought ELO was but it wasn’t this. And I don’t want to hear anymore. 1/5
Ozomatli
1/5
Frankly a mess. Is this Latin, hip hop, rap - it’s all and none. The lyrics are corny. Simply not my thing. 1/5
Girls Against Boys
1/5
There was very little (frankly nothing) here worthy of attention. Closest comparator in my mind is Bush - except this was even crunchier and noisier with poorer vocals. I won’t be back.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3/5
This band has always been a weird one for me - a bit elusive in terms of getting into them. Musically right up my alley but something about the vocal styling has always been hard for me to enjoy. Robert Smith works. Siouxsie Sioux not so much. Sorry. 3/5
Def Leppard
3/5
Ok, so Rock of Ages blew my ears off when I heard it first week of middle school (6th grade). I loved, loved, loved that song. This album produced a number of major hits - no doubt a major part of 1980s radio and culture. I must say my taste for this music remains back in the 6th grade. This album is better than Pyromania and can be fun but is too tedious, too much over produced fluff, has nothing to say. Nostalgia value earns it a point. 3/5
fIREHOSE
2/5
There are several funky moments on this record - has the vibe of a bunch of dudes jamming in their garage on a Saturday afternoon. There’s some decent guitar work and great bass lines, but overall ends up largely forgettable. 2/5
Super Furry Animals
2/5
Ok, automatic downgrade for being 2 hours. This project sucks for long albums. First time I ever skim read through a record. Many songs really annoyed. A few gems here and there - Bowie-esque, but honestly too much to wade through. 2/5
Lynyrd Skynyrd
3/5
I said this last LS album - I knew nothing of this band’s music prior to the project. And like the last album, I really enjoyed this one. I loved the Cult growing up and this feels similar in so many ways. I guess I’m a southern blues-rock fan more than I knew. Tuesdays Gone and Free Bird are highlights. The second half is weaker than first and I had to skip Things Going On. I rate based on number of likes and whether I want to come back and listen later. In this regard, 3/5.
PJ Harvey
3/5
Raw, emotion hooks from the beginning. Album feels live. Fizzles in the latter half. Still enough here to warrant coming back. 3/5
Megadeth
3/5
I liked these guys more when they were Metallica. Seriously, this is an enjoyable listen but lacks the punch and hooky riffs of their adjacent peer. This is not their best album. 3/5
Judas Priest
3/5
This album invokes feelings of meh. There are several hits but overall unremarkable for the genre. I respect the band and their influence but this isn’t their best work. 3/5
The Clash
4/5
I’m generally not a big fan of the genre (punk, rockabilly) outside of its often clever or comedic stabs at pop culture - blame probably lies with Fred Armison and all those funny in your face punk skits on SNL in early 2000s. This said this album is a lot of fun and portrays a wide range of musical styles. Not my favorite type of music but my favorite version of it. 4/5
Fela Kuti
2/5
World music. Enjoyable but forgettable as well. 2/5
Dr. Octagon
1/5
Does not work. The sophomoric toilet and sex-related humor is neither clever nor creative. Don’t care to hear ever again. 1/5
Creedence Clearwater Revival
2/5
The kind of music I love to watch live but don’t appreciate otherwise. Just not my thing. 2/5
Pentangle
2/5
I was familiar with Sally Go Round the Roses likely from a television show. This album is not offensive, but didn’t hold my attention. I would reach for others before coming back. 2/5
Holger Czukay
3/5
I enjoyed Art of Noise, Yello, etc. growing up and expected this to be similar. In some ways yes but less structured and not as engaging. I’m torn between 2 and 3 on this. Feeling kind today. 3/5
Soundgarden
3/5
Mixed feelings about this one. Chris Cornell is one of the greatest vocalists of our generation. And this album is full of radio hits - I mean Spoonman? C’mon - in my top 50 songs of all time. But this album somehow comes off disorganized and too long - could have easily shed 2-3 songs. But worse, my ears and musical tastes have changed since 1995 - the hard driving wall of sound (ala Bush and Smashing Pumpkins) belong to that era. I enjoy greater variety, shifting tempos and complex time signature changes now. I want to say 4 for nostalgia’s but honestly 3/5.
Janis Joplin
2/5
Gave this 4 good listens (thank you short album). Simply didn’t grab me or hold my attention. Heresy for some I’m sure but that’s my impression. 2/5
The Mamas & The Papas
4/5
I enjoyed this way more than expected. There is a certain innocence - some might say cringe - long since lost. I kind of wish I had grown up in the 60s. California Dreamin is a top 30 song for me. I favorited 4 songs. 4/5
Joanna Newsom
1/5
Nope. A thousand times nope. I'm sure somewhere this is deeply meaningful to people. And maybe it would have become that way for me if her voice and singing style had not been so grating. Temu-Bjork. The instrumentation is chaotic and the 'songs' never end. May have worked better as a spoken word album? And oh ya - boo you have to go to Youtube to find this and the ads and frequent and awful. Took me 6 weeks to finally clear this one...glad its over. 1/5
OutKast
2/5
I wanted to like this one. I did not. 2/5
Tim Buckley
1/5
Was this written by a 15-year old. Straight crap. 1/5
William Orbit
4/5
This was an interesting listen. The first few tracks are the kind of thing you hear in the lobby of the Fountainebleu hotel in Miami or the restroom of a high end movie theater. The closing tracks feel like a spy movie montage. Overall a nice listen. I like to think I have high standards and most everything belongs a 3. I will give a 4 to encourage me to come back. 4/5
Wilco
2/5
This should have been a lay up. This is my music. It wasn’t and it’s not. Boring as hell. Uninspired. Glad it’s over. 2/5
Bob Dylan
3/5
Meh. 3/5
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
4/5
This is why I am doing this project - to discover albums like this. Immensely enjoyable. Becomes a bit repetitive in spots but held my attention throughout…the kind of album that makes me want to build a dedicated home music theater to enjoy it the way it should be enjoyed. 4/5
Elvis Costello
3/5
Meh. Not sure if I liked or disliked. Pick middle and move on.
Fela Kuti
4/5
I loved this album. The open jam sessions. Drum solo closing track was great. 4/5
Miles Davis
2/5
Ok so Miles Davis and all. Still not something I would listen to on the regular. 2/5
Everything But The Girl
1/5
So there are some terrible albums on this list but they seem to hold some cultural or other value to warrant inclusion. This album wasn’t terrible but also appears to lack any historical importance. Boring and uninspired, it’s the kind of drivel you hear waiting for the dentist to call you back. When I think of all the deserving albums (not one from Tool?), listening to albums like this just leave me angry. Grr. 1/5
Radiohead
3/5
A good listen. Not their strongest album. 3/5
The Smashing Pumpkins
5/5
This is an easy one. This album was on constant repeat for all of 93/94 for me. One need only hear second half of Hummer, Mayonaise, or Silverf*** to understand my score. Spaceboy is a bonus. Bravo. 5/5
2Pac
1/5
Nope. I find nothing about this album or style of music engaging, interesting or inspiring. It’s pop music of the middle 90s. This doesn’t appear worthy of the accolades that martyrdom brought it. Not for me. 1/5
3/5
A good listen. Not their best work but enjoyable. 3/5
Linkin Park
2/5
First time listening to Linkin Park album. Several songs received a lot of airplay in the early 2000s. My first impression was “Limp Bizkit-adjacent. Then perhaps worse than LB (like that’s even possible. Bonus points for the in the end song. 2/5
Pink Floyd
5/5
The album was on near constant repeat in my latter years of high school. In short a masterpiece and still not their best (Animals). All day long 5/5
My Bloody Valentine
2/5
I had to search this one out via Youtube which means sound quality was not great. First time listening to the album. Props for the feelings of nostalgia - it feels very late 80s (I went through a massive Love and Rockets phase). There were a few bright spots but nothing to write home about. 2/5.
Jorge Ben Jor
2/5
Elements were engaging but not something I’d regularly reach for. 2/5
Leonard Cohen
4/5
This was a surprising listen. I know little about Leonard Cohen beyond hallelujah and did not expect primarily spoken word/poetry over music. First listen didn’t like. Second listen it started to catch. By third listen I found myself really enjoying it. Not sure something I’d put on regularly but marking 4 to encourage me to come back.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
No controversy or prolonged decision making here. Not my favorite album of theirs but deserving of top marks all the same. 5/5
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
4/5
Wonderful. Perfect background dinner music. Very enjoyable. 4/5
David Bowie
3/5
Interesting in spots but lacks any compelling reason to return. Some of it feels like Billy Joel, other parts Elton John. I’m a medium Bowie fan. 3/5
Air
3/5
I am neither familiar with the movie or series nor band behind this album. I did not know what to expect. It was a nice listen while doing garage chores on a Saturday afternoon. Not sure it would come out in other settings. I'm placing it in the middle - neither offensive nor compelling. 3/5
Sex Pistols
2/5
I suppose every high schooler in the late 1980s had their love affair with wanting to love this band and album. So much energy, contempt and aggression - what's not to love? The hits were staples in my rotation. Now, 40 years later, the novelty is gone and this sounds more grating than revolutionary. This project if nothing else is affirming how much I am not punk. Sorry not sorry. 2/5
Songhoy Blues
3/5
This was an engaging listen - probably the best of any "world music" album so far on this project. Not sure something I would listen to regularly but enjoyable. 3/5
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Long time peripheral fan of the band going back to high school when I discovered LZIV. This is a solid album and insane when you consider it’s their debut…the late 60s spawned some incredible debuts. Page soars and Bonham fills are great. Plant remains for me the weakest link - the sexual moaning and droning on about women is why Sabbath is the better band. This was the first time I recognized a number of recycled riffs...for example portions of Communication Breakdown feel Whole Lotta Love. As a debut I’d give it a 5/5 but I don’t think it’s their best. 4/5.
Japan
2/5
Somehow I made it 50+ years of life never knowing that Duran Duran actually formed and produced music in the late 1970s. I had to check multiple sources to confirm the vocalist was not Simon LeBon. Clearly the latter was influenced here? At any rate, the album is reasonably unremarkable. It's interesting to hear British new wave a few years sooner than I previously understood but without any standouts or unique vibe, I'm afraid I won't likely be back around for a listen. 2/5
Depeche Mode
4/5
It so hard to be objective. DM was a big part of my upbringing and this was a nostalgic trip down memory lane - so many experiences and firsts in my young life happened in my DM era. Are the songs a little too fabricated and electronic? Sometimes. But that was the time. This is a classic. I think Violator is better but I would put this album on anytime without reservation. Never Let Me Down Again, Strangelove, Nothing - so much goodness here. 4/5
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
Enjoyable. More than expected in many spots. 3/5
Boston
3/5
This is a tough rate. The album was surprisingly more enjoyable in a sitting than any of its individual songs, long exhausted by classic rock radio. 3/5
Drive-By Truckers
2/5
How many times can you mention Lynryd Skynyrd or George Wallace in a song? Not enough apparently. The music itself wasn’t terrible but the lyrics, delivery and overall result approaches it. 2/5 simply because I’ve heard worse. 2/5
Radiohead
4/5
This is a fantastic album with a number of hits - Fake Plastic Trees, Nice Dream, Black Star and Street Spirit are highlights. That said, the over-volume and squelching throughout detracts and keeps me reaching for this when I am in the mood. Ok Computer is the much better album. 4/5
Guns N' Roses
4/5
No doubt this was an influential album in the early 1990s - an unbelievable number of hits made even more remarkable as a debut. A few songs still soar even after heavy air play across almost 4 decades. And a few songs still miss. Mr. Brownstone and My Michelle remain favorites. It’s honestly a 3 in my view - it’s not something I’d normally put on or listen through completely. But I’ll give it a 4 given its cultural influence and impact - I mean Jungle is still played at sporting events after all this time. 4/5
The Smiths
5/5
I’ve likely listened to this album 1,000 times in my life…The Smiths were MY band through high school and Morrissey solo through college until Tool came along. There is a familiarity here that is unmatched. And yet I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as I expected to today. With time, I’ve grown to more deeply appreciate and love Johnny Marr and the brilliance of the music. It’s always been the perfect sweet to SPM’s sour but it’s the music that speaks to me now. Joke, I Wonder and Barbarism still shine. This is not their best work - see Hatful of Hollow - but still worthy of a 5. 5/5
Sufjan Stevens
3/5
Ok so I absolutely hate the breathy style of singing - reminiscent of those CDs of children singing popular or religious songs. Setting that aside, the lyrics and moreso the music were interesting engaging and entertaining even if a bit repetitive. The album should have shed about 30 minutes. In the end it comes off as meh. 3/5
The Beach Boys
4/5
The innocence of this album is endearing…I like this more than the later Beach Boys work. God Only Knows is personal top 50 for sure. 4/5
M.I.A.
2/5
I just don’t get it. Some songs had a nice groove but the rhyming style and lyrics just didn’t work. Cecily Strong / Gemma skits nailed the style I am referring to perfectly. Paper Planes is only bright spot. 2/5
Gillian Welch
1/5
While I appreciate the simple approach and instrumentation, this album was boring and uninspired. Not a single song, lyric, or message connected with me…felt like something anyone could produce. 1/5