222
Albums Rated
3.14
Average Rating
20%
Complete
867 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
2010
Favorite Decade
Metal
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
20
5-Star Albums
7
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Tom Tom Club
Tom Tom Club
|
5 | 3.03 | +1.97 |
|
Country Life
Roxy Music
|
5 | 3.11 | +1.89 |
|
The Man Machine
Kraftwerk
|
5 | 3.31 | +1.69 |
|
Parachutes
Coldplay
|
5 | 3.46 | +1.54 |
|
The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan
|
5 | 3.62 | +1.38 |
|
Hounds Of Love
Kate Bush
|
5 | 3.62 | +1.38 |
|
Heroes
David Bowie
|
5 | 3.62 | +1.38 |
|
The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
|
5 | 3.65 | +1.35 |
|
Dummy
Portishead
|
5 | 3.7 | +1.3 |
|
Master Of Puppets
Metallica
|
5 | 3.72 | +1.28 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Heroes to Zeros
The Beta Band
|
1 | 2.9 | -1.9 |
|
Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite
Maxwell
|
1 | 2.9 | -1.9 |
|
Cafe Bleu
The Style Council
|
1 | 2.88 | -1.88 |
|
Southern Rock Opera
Drive-By Truckers
|
1 | 2.81 | -1.81 |
|
Californication
Red Hot Chili Peppers
|
2 | 3.69 | -1.69 |
|
Justified
Justin Timberlake
|
1 | 2.67 | -1.67 |
|
Madman Across The Water
Elton John
|
2 | 3.58 | -1.58 |
|
Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
|
2 | 3.55 | -1.55 |
|
Play
Moby
|
2 | 3.46 | -1.46 |
|
Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
|
2 | 3.39 | -1.39 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Radiohead | 3 | 4.67 |
| Metallica | 2 | 5 |
5-Star Albums (20)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
U2 · 2 likes
3/5
Having not listened before, the album felt strangely balanced. The big singles being the first three songs before coming down in pace and intensity. I liked the songs in the second half, but would have preferred a more varied order.
Morrissey · 1 likes
2/5
First song feels weak in lyrics. The second is a bit stronger but is massively helped by better music. I Have Forgiven Jesus feels more personal and introspective and works well. This continues nicely in Come back to Camden. This back and forth continues through the album. The First of the Gang is a clear standout as a single.
Maxwell · 1 likes
1/5
Was going to go for a 2 as the first track was quite good. But the album went too long and felt bland.
Tom Tom Club · 1 likes
5/5
I have really enjoyed this album. There's something arresting about it. The songs in the middle aren't singles that I would think to add to a playlist, but are amazing album songs. On, On, On, On was one that really stood out for me.
The Smashing Pumpkins · 1 likes
3/5
First LP was really strong and instantly tapped into my nostalgia of borrowing the CD in first year at halls. The first song on the second LP had me thinking it was dragging a bit in grungy distortion. But then trying to do them both in one go is a slog! Mid way through the second it felt easier again.
1-Star Albums (7)
All Ratings
Rush
4/5
The Rush album I know most of. Fun prog rock.
Ray Charles
3/5
An easy going listen on a Sunday afternoon.
5/5
Great album. Most songs are ones to listen to on their own but I'm also so used to them as an album.
Moby
2/5
For the first half I wanted different mixes of most of the songs. The second half picked up and was an enjoyable ambient group of songs.
Beatles
3/5
David Crosby
2/5
It was relaxing by the end, but didn't stand out to me.
The Chemical Brothers
4/5
Enjoyable album. I can't help but think that the faster songs are the ones that kick in the a 90s action film when something cool is about to go down.
Boston
3/5
It's most famous song is right at the start. I thought it would make the rest of the listening dull by comparison, but was happy that wasn't the case. It's a fun, easy album. For me the first two songs are still the strongest. I had thought Something about you was the closing song and probably would have preferred that it was.
Gang Starr
3/5
Nice and chilled back hip hop. Really easy to listen to. High 3.
Robert Wyatt
3/5
It was difficult at times with the deliberately discordant parts, but overall a nice listen to something a bit more experimental. Parts of it felt like it would fit with later Radiohead. I'd listen again and would check out what else he had
The White Stripes
3/5
Blue orchid is great. Feels like Marc Bolan would approve. The Nurse calms it down again before upping the fun again with My Doorbell. Really like the way the words spit out. Little Ghost is fun but the ones around don't leave much impression on me until Take, Take, Take. It was difficult to get into at the start but by the end of the song I enjoyed it. I'd skip Red Rain. I'm Lonely is a good ending.
Queen Latifah
3/5
Overall strong album. Although Mama Gave Birth to the Soul Children's voice effect went on too long for me at the end of the song. Would happily work or workout to this.
Talking Heads
3/5
I liked the album and I would happily just put on to listen the whole way through again (and would have on if having people over). Take me to the river was the one that stood out this listen, which I feel a bit bad about as it's a cover.
Todd Rundgren
2/5
First half was strange and fun in places, but not consistently enough for me. Then the second half is okay, but feels all over the place with only half an album left to establish anything. I liked the more melodic parts, however nothing stuck with me.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
They were a bombastic band from the start. Maybe because of the skill and experience they already had, but it feels like they were a fantastic, fully formed idea from the beginning. I would have felt like the cool kid for sure if I put this on at a party when it came out. Although it would have been hard not to break that illusion as I would have probably done some air guitar at some point. Would have been amazing to see live.
Christine and the Queens
4/5
I really enjoyed it and would happily have on again. I can't remember thinking a particular song must be the single, but that wasn't a bad thing.
Morrissey
2/5
First song feels weak in lyrics. The second is a bit stronger but is massively helped by better music. I Have Forgiven Jesus feels more personal and introspective and works well. This continues nicely in Come back to Camden. This back and forth continues through the album. The First of the Gang is a clear standout as a single.
Fatboy Slim
2/5
A mixed bag. The singles still feel strong, Fucking in Heaven felt like a lad culture throwback, and then the others were between fun and forgettable. Love Island and Acid 8000 were pleasant surprises near the end.
Bob Dylan
5/5
A great mix of personal/love songs with the more political. An album I'll enjoy listening to again and again to pick up more and more on the lyrics.
The Shamen
2/5
I like the music more than the vocals and lyrics. My energy wained by 666 edit. I can imagine it being used in a spin class nowadays. On the songs with less vocals, it fit for focussed working. At those 90s raves I can imagine this going down well. I don't think I would listen to without ear/headphones. The "move any mountain" across different tracks becomes repetitive.
The Beach Boys
3/5
A solid album.
In my head I remember "God Only Knows", then it comes on and it's so much better.
The Strokes
3/5
Came out when I was 16 and was listened to by those who didn't just go for pop music. They feel like another wave of New York effortless cool. There's a lot of fun riffs/sections; really liked the singles and the opening song.
Amy Winehouse
4/5
Great album. Songs have a good variation from one to the next make it engaging the whole way through.
The Undertones
3/5
Fun and fast punk.
Rush
3/5
Has some fun moments. It was pretty easy to listen to and inoffensive. Didn't strike me as much as some other more well known Rush songs.
Oasis
3/5
Rock 'n' Roll star is a great energy opening. A lot of the happiness I get from this is probably nostalgia. I didn't play Oasis songs but heard the album a lot with my brother. As a result I didn't over listen to it since and it comes as a nice return.
Fun Lovin' Criminals
3/5
Feels like it should be listened in summer. Which it is. Scooby snacks was still fun despite it being overplayed in my university halls (with one person always acting it out...). The second half wore thin (including the what a wonderful world cover) and easily forgettable until the last two.
The Stone Roses
5/5
A comfort album. So many great singles coming together with the other tracks holding their own like "Elizabeth my dear" using the traditional ballad Scarborough fair.
Kendrick Lamar
3/5
The beginning was a hard listen hearing the mindset of a teenager so crude and toxic (in their toxic world). The music was good and I like there being a journey over the album. I think I would have to listen a few times to appreciate more of the arc. I
Pink Floyd
4/5
Fun and silly psychedelic rock.
Brian Eno
3/5
I preferred the instrumental songs over the ones with vocals. A really interesting album to relax into.
Iron Maiden
3/5
They deliver exactly what you expect. It keeps a fast (galloping) pace throughout the album. The songs are unapologetically over the top, silly and fun. If you're in the right zone when listening, the fun carries over. If not, it's eye-rolling and record switching time.
Cowboy Junkies
2/5
Lovely and engaging start with "mining for gold". Drifted into music I'd expect to be live background for a restaurant on a summer's evening. When returning we'd say something like "that was really nice, wasn't it?" To each other whilst realising we had had 2 bottles of wine between us and a strong aperitif.
Randy Newman
2/5
Hard to get over his voice being so synonymous with Toy Story in the first song. After that their are some interesting songs in topics, however I suspect I would find more to connect with in later albums.
Animal Collective
3/5
Very interesting and needs more listens.
Bob Dylan
3/5
With the band it has a "full" rock and roll sound. That fullness was maybe too consistent for me. On first listen I don't really connect with the lyrics for many of the songs on this album, however it feels like there will be more to get out of some with multiple listens.
Machito
2/5
I've not really listened to this sort of music before. If I could dance I could imagine the songs on a night at club. It had the ones you bring out your best moves on, and then ones you sit and catch your breath, then there are those where you just watch the band have fun.
Holiday was a cheeky change that feels like an extended theme tune of a TV series in the 50s.
I might have preferred if 'Blues a La Machito' had come earlier on the album.
Morrissey
3/5
Musically I think it's quite beautiful, however I have a low tolerance for his cynical view of the world and people around him so often without much light.
That said, I felt Lifeguard sleeping, girl drowning was a strong modern folk song with lovely use of wind instruments. And Speedway was a good finish.
I'm thinking a 3 for me.
Beastie Boys
3/5
Straight from the start there is a lot going on. The first song sounds vintage beastie boys, before a quick fast guitar led song. The album then has a lot of variation in music styles as well as format. It makes you feel more part of who the beastie boys are beyond just the songs. On the right day this all hits one score higher.
3/5
The sound feels unique. After Poison Arrow, I found it hard to plug into the particulars of the songs (except The Look of Love PT 1), until the change of pace with 'All of My Heart'. 4 Ever 2 gether also stands out and the last two songs are both fun returns (Although I don't think Theme from "Mantrap" was on the original release)
Kate Bush
5/5
The two sides are both engaging for different reasons. The singles in the first half have a unique sound to the contemporary songs I've heard but are still great pop songs. The second half explored different sounds and was more experimental. Particular favourites were Waking the Witch and Jig of Life.
Arctic Monkeys
3/5
Having swerved this album when it came out, I wasn't sure how listening now would go. The first track didn't give me much hope as the fast and frantic on each instrument and vocal quickly became a constant baseline without much deviation for me. But then as the tracks progressed it gave me that variation I craved; in particular on the vocals.
The lyrics are confrontational and caricatures people, which I find hard to tune into, but when/if you are tuned in, it's an adrenaline fun ride.
Ice Cube
3/5
Fun, in-your-face, offensive, and crude in places but a raw reflection on life and racial tensions in America. Second half felt it could have been trimmed a bit.
Simple Minds
2/5
There are definitely parts I find interesting (bass lines most frequently), but some songs faded totally into the background for me. I liked Glittering Prize, and then the beginning of Hunter and The Hunted, but the length of song lost its impact.
4/5
The opening feels like Queen (Flash era) and the weakest song for me. The rest of the album feels more distinctly Muse. It has a fun operatic rock style that could be a successor to Iron Maiden without sounding like ripping them off. It's easy to imagine how enjoyable a live show would be.
Stereolab
4/5
I had never heard of them but can instantly hear that other bands were influenced by them. It was a really enjoyable listen that I would love to work to.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
4/5
Really enjoyed this. It felt that the vocals were always with the band, in the same room, rather than clear over the rest, which was a nice difference. I did partly think "the next album is going to be even stronger!"
Marvin Gaye
3/5
I was surprised how short it was. I felt it stayed in comfort zone for most of the album, with the last track trying something different (but staying in the relaxed feel), but it didn't wow me.
The Coral
3/5
Felt like there was a lot of exploration but in different directions and as it was a short album, it didn't have a strong centre.
Tom Tom Club
5/5
I have really enjoyed this album. There's something arresting about it. The songs in the middle aren't singles that I would think to add to a playlist, but are amazing album songs. On, On, On, On was one that really stood out for me.
Steely Dan
2/5
The songs didn't stick with me to be memorable and the sound overall was a bit safe.
Donovan
3/5
Enjoyable listen, if not quite my thing overall. Sunshine Superman and Season of the Witch stand out. The Arthurian songs feel right at home here, probably because of the influence they had on the movement.
Nirvana
5/5
Iconic. Has great depth and energy.
Black Sabbath
3/5
It's not my favourite Black Sabbath album and doesn't have as many "big hitters". However the variation really works nicely. 'Changes' is the main example of this, shifting to a piano base. Then I also felt that it had a strong end with 'Under the sun'.
Nightmares On Wax
3/5
I was skim reading a reference book throughout listening to the album and it worked nicely as unobtrusive background music. Only slightly feeling like it was dragging a bit by the end.
Guns N' Roses
3/5
I think the lyrics are rubbish/nonsense, but for the most part don't get in the way of my enjoyment of it. I like the loud energy, and don't even care how many of the songs probably go on much longer than they need to (including Paradise City and Sweet Child O' Mine). I kept thinking it needed to have the volume turned up a bit more and there was lots of the guitar that would be air guitar fodder or riffs I'd want to be able to play. Incredible that they are so overblown on the debut album. I would probably prefer making a hard rock compilation that they featured on rather than listen to the album start to finish.
Sparks
4/5
It was fun that was really accomplished whilst not taking itself seriously. I think it will only grow in appreciation with each listen.
The Beta Band
1/5
There is some parts that I find interesting, but they don't often fit together for me. The vocals also feel safe and with not enough identity.
Elliott Smith
4/5
A really great combo of grunge and folk.
Wire
4/5
I was worried when I saw 21 tracks and thought my energy wouldn't stay with theirs. But at 35 mins it works.
Love hearing little bits that influence bands I love.
Radiohead
5/5
It was a 5 before listening, and a 5 after listening. Record side names slightly annoying.
Spiritualized
4/5
At times felt like it was part of a movie soundtrack with emotional waves flowing through it. Will get better with more listens. It did have a few songs with a cacophony/wall of noise ending which on other albums would be saved for the end of an album.
You could sense where if seeing it live, the whole audience and band would feel as one.
Skepta
3/5
I don't really listen to grime. I really liked the music, though found it harder to embrace the lyrics. I think that would soften over multiple listens.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
A feel good album. Males me think of wedding receptions and family parties.
The Go-Go's
4/5
Fun and interesting pop punk. The first half is great and it fades slightly on the second.
Hot Chip
2/5
The vocals didn't work for me.
3/5
Having not listened before, the album felt strangely balanced. The big singles being the first three songs before coming down in pace and intensity. I liked the songs in the second half, but would have preferred a more varied order.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
From the start this album felt fun. It covers a range of styles that kept me guessing for where it was going to next. Yes, it didn't have a clear sound throughout, but I kind of enjoyed that about it. It made me want to hear more from the band to see where they went next. A high 3.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Strong follow up. Some songs when not big singles feel a bit indulgent with drawn out endings, but for others feels right. Surprising to hear them sound at times similar to other bands of the time, considering the large output that is distinctly their sound.
Roxy Music
5/5
Every song is so full. Would happily listen focussing on different instruments each time. It sounded experimental and enjoyable the whole way through. I don't think I can describe why I like it until more and more listens.
Beck
3/5
A whole album of Beck can be difficult, probably with different songs being the breaking point each time. A lot of the songs are already familiar to me which helped me ease into the album.
Michael Kiwanuka
5/5
Loved this. Was perfect companion for a long drive. It felt both intimate and cinematic, with particular moments evoking a spaghetti western.
Queen
4/5
Sounds more like Queen throughout the album, despite being varied. I can imagine different songs growing to be favourites for different moods, a lot on offer.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
Enjoyable and started like an album that would be some people's comfort food. Last few tracks faded a bit for me.
Louis Prima
3/5
Fun and energetic.
X-Ray Spex
4/5
Fun punk, really enjoyed the inclusion of the saxophone.
Portishead
5/5
Had the UK version on CD and listened to loads. Love listening whilst working and chilling out on my own.
The Waterboys
4/5
Really enjoyed both sides. The first side felt like a great mix of folk, soft rock, hair metal and others. Then the more traditional folk on the second was strong also. Only quibble is how long some of the first half songs were.
The Pogues
2/5
Some parts hit a 3 or 4 for me, but it then some songs really didn't work for me (the broad majestic Shannon for example) and so felt really inconsistent.
Coldcut
4/5
A good one for me to work along to. So many samples I've heard it later songs but work so well here to be original.
Elton John
2/5
Tiny Dancer is a lone standout for me. The rest didn't engage me. The music and his voice were high quality throughout, but the songs and lyrics did not do enough on a surface level for me to want to dive deeper.
The Cure
3/5
Really enjoyed the gloomy rock. Near the end it had stayed too much in the same bounds for me and so faded a bit.
Björk
3/5
Experimental, fun and very 90s in places.
Maxwell
1/5
Was going to go for a 2 as the first track was quite good. But the album went too long and felt bland.
Kraftwerk
5/5
Great album. I could hear many computer game soundtracks inspired by it.
Justin Timberlake
1/5
The singles are well known and stronger pop songs. The rest of the album to me has the vocals try to be too much and the lyrics are generally uninspiring. There's no lack of confidence here.
Wilco
3/5
Nothing I didn't like, but some tracks felt safe and inoffensive and so didn't leave much of an impression on me. Second half picked up slightly.
One track reminded me a lot of Primal Scream, and I could also hear Bob Dylan and Velvet Underground (as well as American country in general).
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
As I expected from Simon & Garfunkel. Although the jump between track 1 and 2 took me by surprise.
Scott Walker
3/5
I find this hard to place on one listen. His voice is so distinct and powerful that it is almost distracting. I think my rating would move around with multiple listens.
On first listen, the opening track is the one that stuck with me the most.
Aphex Twin
4/5
Was perfect for headphones and working to. I'm sure I could enjoy it listening on speakers working or socialising with others, but I can't imagine it. Maybe when doing a group art class?
Aimee Mann
3/5
An engaging opening, and album to listen through speakers rather than headphones. The lyrics feel well written and the music is nice jangly 90s indie guitar band pop. However something didn't quite connect as much as it felt it ought to.
Lauryn Hill
4/5
A great and unique fusion of styles.
ABBA
3/5
The singles carry through the album and the other songs are lower standard. I would have preferred the album tracks to explore different sounds a bit more and better experimental.
Sam Cooke
3/5
The opening really draws you in to feel like you're part of it; more than other live albums do.
Here for an evening of fun music to dance to.
Mj Cole
1/5
Until Crazy Love (which sounds like Teardrops by Womack & Womack), there wasn't anything of real distinction beyond the standard drum beat. After that there seemed to be more variety, like a bit of Spanish guitar, ambient etc, but aren't strong enough for me. Elisabeth Troy's vocals are good.
The Smiths
4/5
I knew more of the songs than I thought I would. The intro to "...last night I dreamt that somebody loved me" made it an album listening experience for me. The first two songs made me think of Madness which was surprising. There is a lot of range here and sad that it was the end of the Smiths rather than the start of a new phase.
The Verve
4/5
Overall a great album with memorable singles and mostly solid album tracks. Faded a bit near the end.
Alice In Chains
3/5
I'm already familiar with the album from late school/early university and enjoyed the singles when working on homework so this has a strong nostalgia vote going for it. The rest of the album isn't quite strong enough, maybe it needed some more variation to help the heavy elements shine again.
The Specials
4/5
Great distinctive sound.
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
The music was happy with vignette stories. However on the first listen it didn't grab my attention. I expect it could on a different day though.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
2/5
The lyrics are generally terrible and the second half drops. The singles overcome this and are still enjoyable.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
So many memorable riffs.
Fairport Convention
4/5
I really enjoyed the folk rock. The vocals really stood out for me.
Tim Buckley
2/5
His voice has a lovely quality, however this album is just a bit too slow throughout for me.
Faith No More
2/5
It goes through a range. I think some of the metal sounds a bit too standard in places and although war pig is good, is unnecessary as I'd always prefer to hear the original.
Gillian Welch
3/5
Loved the vocals and music. High 3 maybe growing to a 4.
Mudhoney
3/5
It didn't open strong for me given the wealth of grunge since, but picked up as it went on. High 3
The Stooges
3/5
Did what it said on the tin. Solid.
The Cardigans
2/5
Until 'Step on me' nothing had really grabbed me, only reminding me of how the psychedelic 60s were revisited in the 90s. Peaked with 'Lovefool'.
Talking Heads
4/5
Strong album. Not sure why it doesn't quite fit to a 5 for me.
The Chemical Brothers
3/5
Taylor Swift
2/5
Ended up listening twice and enjoyed it more on the second listening.
There are some vocal patterns frequently used (not sure if she can call them a trademark though) that get a bit repetitive and the lyrics dance a line of being too silly and too specific to the time it was written, but sometimes that is it's strength in being memorable. I can't decide where "I'll come back stronger than a 90s trend" sits for example. No body, no crime is catchy, but not one I enjoyed. Same goes for Dorothea. I'll probably still hum along though.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
Solid rock. Neil's voice doesn't quite clock for me.
U2
4/5
Works great as an album, and not diminished by lack of pop singles like other great U2 songs.
Alanis Morissette
3/5
Really like her voice and how personal she sounds. The singles stand out, and there are many.
David Gray
2/5
It sounded like it had a commercial Bob Dylan feel and a stepping stone towards Ed Sheeran. The singles were nice but the rest didn't do it for me.
Yes
4/5
Really enjoyed it and hearing it's echoes in later music.
The Sonics
3/5
Fun and energetic. Not sure about having both "roll over Beethoven" and "good golly miss Molly" and the first track was a bit fuzzy for me. Low 3
Richard Hawley
2/5
The voice is lovely but stays safe all the way through. Ended up too gentle for me.
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
3/5
Fast and fun.
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
First LP was really strong and instantly tapped into my nostalgia of borrowing the CD in first year at halls. The first song on the second LP had me thinking it was dragging a bit in grungy distortion. But then trying to do them both in one go is a slog! Mid way through the second it felt easier again.
Ash
4/5
Fun britpop. Still love the singles.
Leftfield
4/5
Vocals generally didn't connect with me as much as the music, but that could change through multiple listens.
Stevie Wonder
3/5
I'm not a massive Stevie Wonder fan, and so this drifts in and out for me a bit. Some classic, great songs. High 3
Dwight Yoakam
2/5
This type of country music really isn't for me.
ABBA
2/5
I thought I was going to dislike more as ABBA without the most well known hits. But it surprised me. That said I think it felt too long. High 2 low 3
John Coltrane
4/5
Really interesting. Challenging at times (drum solo and double bass solo), but really engaging.
Songhoy Blues
3/5
A fun blues album. Enjoyed the guitar. High 3 low 4
Kraftwerk
3/5
Some parts just felt to dragged out and slow, although other sections that were slow were still interesting. Just didn't all click for me.
Lightning Bolt
3/5
I didn't know of "noise rock" before but that totally makes sense. I like it in smaller doses, like in QOTSA and Mogwai. If this was broken up a bit more I'd enjoy it more. Low 3.
Johnny Cash
4/5
Some of the covers have rightly become classics (Personal Jesus and Hurt). Others took me by surprise (Bridge over troubled water). Sam Hall sounds like exactly the sort of song I expect from Johnny Cash. We'll meet again and Danny Boy very much seem to be his farewells. Low 4.
Lucinda Williams
3/5
Made me think of a more indie version of Sheryl Crow. High 3
New Order
3/5
Enjoyable album. High 3.
Beatles
4/5
The Beatles quality reaches such heights. This album has some good tracks and some average (for them). A low 4/high 3 for me.
UB40
3/5
A relaxed listen which will give more for me on repeat listens as the lyrics come through. High 3
Throbbing Gristle
1/5
Too much of this tipped the wrong way for me. I liked dead on arrival, ab/7a and e-coli, but the rest was too uncomfortable.
Jack White
4/5
Fun, rock and roll, whimsical.
Ian Dury
2/5
I have no idea how to rate this. So many versions of the album as well! It's a whole album of wink wink nudge nudge. It's great to his accent shine through. But some times it grates and some times it has a charm.
Lenny Kravitz
2/5
I didn't mind the music in places and was interesting to hear the signature 'yeahs' from later. But overall the lyrics let it down.
A couple of good songs but nothing else stood out and felt a bit flat.
Beastie Boys
2/5
I love the singles 'fight for your right' and 'no sleep till Brooklyn'. Before that, it was clear how easily the Beastie Boys parodies come. Prefer their later albums.
The Crusaders
3/5
Apart from the title track, it felt like listening to a polished jam session.
Deep Purple
3/5
Made me think of iron maiden, led zeppelin, and the doors. Surprised to hear a drum solo on a studio album as well as so little vocals.
The Smiths
3/5
I really want to like the smiths more than I do.
I love the music, but Morrissey's lyrics (not voice or melody) get in the way too often for me. Although it is self aware, his melodramatic main character energy is too much at the start of the album and I think how I'd avoid getting stuck in a 1:1 conversation with him at a party. The main offenders for me are at the start of the album. Cemetery Gates onwards feels more balanced (and playful) and bring the enjoyment back up.
Beth Orton
2/5
I'm a low 3 or high 2. I think it's suffering for me as I really enjoy her 2012 sugaring season album and so this doesn't sound like it's fully reached that style yet. also, my favourite song is the first one on the album
Randy Newman
2/5
Unfortunately I still can't help but hear Pixar movies with his singing (and for some reason 80s American educational entertainment shows) After a few tracks that went away but it didn't connect enough with me musically.
The Afghan Whigs
4/5
They're labelled as grunge but I didn't think of it like that. Alt-rock in the 90s, jangly guitar over heavy bass, I imagine it's where people who were into grunge would say there's more to it than Nirvana and Alice in Chains. I saw it connecting to Sonic Youth and Mogwai.
Coldplay
5/5
I love this album. I bought it in ourprice when it came out as my independence on music had started to grow. It sounds intimate and classic/timeless in it's setup.
Talvin Singh
2/5
The fusion of styles and influences worked in places for me, but this type of electronica isn't for me and was too busy too often.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
An interesting album that I think I'll get more out of with repeated listening, in particular for the lyrics.
Blondie
4/5
Really enjoyed this. I thought it was a really well paced album with only a slight dip at "I know but I don't know" and "11:59" for me.
Joni Mitchell
3/5
On first listen I prefer the music to the meandering vocals and lyrics throughout the album. I sort of imagine enjoying this at 'an evening with Joni" event where she interlaces the songs with anecdotes.
The Adverts
3/5
Infectious and found myself toe tapping along.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
Hard to rate for me. Some songs sound generic and it's a short album, but overall I like their sound. A high 2 low 3 for me.
The Temptations
3/5
I liked it, but not much really struck me.
Dolly Parton
3/5
Gentle, safe listened. For a chilled out evening.
Culture Club
3/5
I enjoyed it. I was glad to listen beyond the singles I've already heard and was impressed by Boy George's vocals
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
3/5
Fun and although some of the music follows a classic structure, it's a bit more elevated. American girl the clear stand out (although not sure on the fade out ending).
William Orbit
3/5
I think this would climb to a 4 when in the right mood. It was chilled and interesting, although faded a bit in the second half until A Shady Haze of Random.
The Beau Brummels
3/5
This grew on me as the album continued.
George Jones
2/5
This didn't really make an impression on me.
David Bowie
5/5
Loved it. I think the production is great and feels all-encompassing as well.
Drive-By Truckers
1/5
The guitar/music is fun in places, but maybe still feels predictable. I've not connected at all to the vocals or lyrics and it is a very long album.
The Kinks
3/5
Dead end street and Sunny Afternoon are familiar and enjoyable. The rest of the album is good but doesn't stand out for me.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
4/5
I'm not used to Neil Young's singing yet, but it sounded good here. Considering the difficulty in making it I think there must be a high level of professionalism from the stars as it all sounds solid. A high 3 low 4 for me.
Liz Phair
3/5
I like the alt-indie sound, however for me it needs cutting down a bit.
Goldfrapp
3/5
Sounded in part like a bond soundtrack, for one spent along French Riviera. But without a main bond song. A high 3/low 4 for me.
TLC
2/5
Creep and Waterfall stand out, but the rest fades for me.
The Temptations
3/5
Easy listening. I liked the "I heard it through the grapevine" version.
Morrissey
3/5
The music stands out. I think there needed to be a song with a more vocal punch at some point and the lyrics feel clumsy in places. I also find it hard to stay in Morrissey's melodramatic view of the world for a whole album. Low 3 for me .
Isaac Hayes
3/5
Really interesting listen and oozes cool. Narration may drag on repeat listening.
B.B. King
4/5
I don't listen enough to B B King and always enjoy it when I do.
The Dandy Warhols
3/5
An interesting album. I don't think I could guess the singles, however a quick check shows my least favourite "not if you were the last junkie on earth" is one of them. If the singles hit stronger with me I'd give it a 4, but otherwise going high 3.
The Dictators
2/5
The music is infectious and fun. Some of the lyrics seem clumsy and agreed. High 2 low 3
Metallica
5/5
I love this album. Great riffs and solos and so many songs end up on the orchestra collaboration album S&M.
Earth, Wind & Fire
3/5
Fun and upbeat, but doesn't have enough that stands out or connects for me. Low 3
The Louvin Brothers
2/5
A bit too consistent in style and format, but enjoyable. Felt longer than it was though.
Eagles
2/5
Take it easy was an instruction for the band for at least the majority of this album. It was nice but safe and inoffensive for the most part. Picked up a bit at the end. High 2/low 3
Hole
4/5
Surprised by the biggest single being the first track but the album holds up well. Has a good pop-grunge throughout with nice hooks. High 3/low 4
Radiohead
5/5
So many singles! Forgetting the track running would have you worried the second half will fade.
The title track really sets the standard for the album and although I don't normally like a single being in position 1, I think this would have suited it (instead of 2).
The Beta Band
3/5
Interesting sound. Didn't grab me enough though. Low 3
Nick Drake
4/5
It may have been the mood I was in but it felt melancholy in places and with wistful nostalgia and daydreaming.
The Mars Volta
2/5
Reminds me of opeth and dream theater in parts. Sometimes it spent too long in places and I drifted away from it.
a-ha
3/5
Great singles and good album tracks. High 3.
R.E.M.
5/5
A beautiful album that can make me cry with joy and sadness.
Pantera
3/5
Waiting until song 5 for variation from the scream singing was a bit of a test, despite enjoying the music. Enjoyed it more after, bringing from a high 2 to a low 3
Screaming Trees
3/5
Low 3. It could grow with more listens but nothing in particular took hold of me.
Traffic
3/5
This didn't grab me until John Barleycorn. The first song sounded like an extended version of a 70s sitcom theme. Low 3.
Bob Dylan
3/5
His voice felt the most consistent and strong here compared the albums I've heard so far. The songs will grow for me with each listen and I felt it ended strongly. High 3, low 4.
Paul McCartney
3/5
This doesn't feel like it has a clear identity as an album beyond being a "sessions" album. Maybe I'm amazed is outstanding. I think if it was any other artist this would not have been a full or finished album. Reading the background, it was clearly important for McCartney to do to process the breaking up of the Beatles.
Jungle Brothers
3/5
Some really enjoyable tracks. The first half had me come in and out though.
Cat Stevens
3/5
A unique voice that draws you in.
Lupe Fiasco
2/5
I'm a high 2/low 3. The album is too long (including the outro), and it sounded a bit generic in parts for me. Every track felt so full it made it feel overproduced.
Sisters Of Mercy
3/5
Solid 80s album.
The Velvet Underground
2/5
Production quality is poor and makes it a hard listen. The gift is predictably grim farce.
Janelle Monáe
4/5
I oscillated between a high 3 and 4, due to the album feeling a bit longer in places. But throughout that I imagined what an amazing stage show that this could be. Especially with the cover art.
The Style Council
1/5
This didn't make sense as an album to me. Sometimes (poor) easy-listening jazz, sure interesting-ish instrumental and about turn to rap halfway through?
High 1 low 2
Green Day
4/5
This surprised me as I didn't really take notice beyond the singles when it came out. I think the second half isn't quite as strong but it still has energy all the way through. The start of Boulevard over the end of Holiday was a nice touch.
Black Sabbath
5/5
Love this. The intro to War Pigs is a fantastic start to the album. My mum uses this album to iron to.
Public Enemy
3/5
A high 3 for me. The pace needed a slight change up near the end to push it that bit more. The Anthrax collaboration is one of my favourites.
Radiohead
4/5
Great album, but needed a slight bit of light to lift into a 5 for me.
Cyndi Lauper
3/5
A fun album.
R.E.M.
3/5
It was gentle and positive, although my highlight is A Perfect Circle.
PJ Harvey
3/5
I think this one will climb for me. I couldn't tell which songs would be the singles or which are my favourites, but I think it will hold as an album to listen to in its entirety.
My Bloody Valentine
4/5
One song was too discordant for me, but the rest of the album was solid. My highlights: Only Shallow, When You Sleep and Sometimes. I think I'd like this best as a headphone listen.
The Killers
3/5
The singles in the first half are all great pop rock songs. Strange that they are all in the first half and the second half drops off for me.
Big Black
3/5
Enjoyed musically, but the lyrics in the first few grated a bit for repeat listening. Low 3.
Jethro Tull
3/5
A strange but interesting mix of hard rock, folk and prog.
Django Django
4/5
I enjoyed this a lot and cannot express why. Just good to be doing anything whilst listening to it.
Metallica
5/5
Another 5 for me. Just hard to place above or below the black album. Love the riffs, the solos and Orion in particular.
Count Basie & His Orchestra
3/5
An enjoyable album with nice changes of pace throughout. High 3
Soft Cell
3/5
I like the general synth sound and Tainted Love is a great cover. The end track was also a high.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
Enjoyable and easy going to listen to. I haven't listened to enough reggae to really place with it's peers but a high 3 for me.
Eric Clapton
2/5
This didn't capture me at all. Obviously talented but no song stood out as strong in its field.
Television
4/5
I had never heard of this band, but can hear their influence on others (the strokes in particular). At first the vocals reminded me of Mick Jagger. This would possibly grow for me but a high 3/low 4.
Red Snapper
3/5
This works for me more when it's entirely instrumental or the vocals are minimised. The end of the album picks up for me.
Van Halen
3/5
Some great riffs, the intro to "ain't talkin' bout love" being my favourite. Low 3
Madonna
2/5
A couple of songs were okay, maybe just due to familiarity (music and don't tell me), but most of the rest just faded away. The American pie cover didn't serve anything. High 1/low 2
Germs
3/5
Had a lot of punch. Didn't really catch much of the lyrics. High 3
Hole
3/5
Good, but nothing immediately stood out on its own for me.
Alice Cooper
2/5
A lot of it felt middling. High 2.
Cocteau Twins
4/5
Great album. I couldn't pick out a song I would expect to be on the radio/a stand out single, but still gets a 4 from me.