1001 Albums Summary

Listening statistics & highlights

344
Albums Rated
3.51
Average Rating
32%
Complete
745 albums remaining

Rating Distribution

Rating Timeline

Taste Profile

1960
Favorite Decade
Funk
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
53
5-Star Albums
12
1-Star Albums

Breakdown

By Genre

Top Styles

By Decade

By Origin

Albums

You Love More Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
G. Love And Special Sauce
G. Love & Special Sauce
5 2.71 +2.29
Quiet Life
Japan
5 2.86 +2.14
Lazer Guided Melodies
Spiritualized
5 2.92 +2.08
Underwater Moonlight
The Soft Boys
5 3.06 +1.94
...The Dandy Warhols Come Down
The Dandy Warhols
5 3.13 +1.87
Dust
Screaming Trees
5 3.17 +1.83
Django Django
Django Django
5 3.19 +1.81
D
White Denim
5 3.21 +1.79
Forever Changes
Love
5 3.22 +1.78
Closer
Joy Division
5 3.23 +1.77

You Love Less Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
(What's The Story) Morning Glory
Oasis
1 3.86 -2.86
Bad
Michael Jackson
1 3.81 -2.81
Hotel California
Eagles
1 3.58 -2.58
Hybrid Theory
Linkin Park
1 3.39 -2.39
Doggystyle
Snoop Dogg
1 3.35 -2.35
Close To You
Carpenters
1 3.13 -2.13
Tapestry
Carole King
2 3.92 -1.92
LP1
FKA twigs
1 2.81 -1.81
Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
2 3.8 -1.8
Beyond Skin
Nitin Sawhney
1 2.76 -1.76

Artists

Favorites

ArtistAlbumsAverage
Simon & Garfunkel 3 5
Bob Dylan 3 5
Led Zeppelin 3 4.67
Wilco 2 5

Least Favorites

ArtistAlbumsAverage
Michael Jackson 2 1.5

5-Star Albums (53)

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Popular Reviews

Reggatta De Blanc by The Police

Tough one. For any other name this is probably a 4 star highlight. For the Police, it's mid to my ears. Still has some great stuff. Fuck it. 4.

Underwater Moonlight by The Soft Boys

Everytime I listen to this album, it just gets better and better.

The Modern Lovers by The Modern Lovers

A much older, much cooler guy gave this album to me one time when he was moving. I wish I was as cool, because I remember telling him I didn't like it. He said "You will someday." Well Jerry, you were right. It fucking rocks. Love it so much.

1-Star Albums (12)

All Ratings (344)

Born To Run by Bruce Springsteen
Jun 13 2025

Perfect encapsulation of what made Bruce, Bruce. Catchy riffs, sweeping and epic sounds, and genuine pathos as a working man. Great stuff.

With The Beatles by Beatles
Jun 14 2025

Do wop Beatles. Some great tracks that tease their future textural intricacies, but not my go to if I'm in the mood for the Fab Four.

Ill Communication by Beastie Boys
Jun 15 2025

Does it have too many sounds and songs? Absolutely. Is it a mishmash of sounds and occasionally cringe lyrics? Absolutely. Is it one of the greatest albums of the 90s and the Beasties at the height of their powers? Absolutely. Five fucking stars.

Ten by Pearl Jam
Jun 17 2025

Nostalgia? Probably. I can still smell the campfires, Icehouse beers, and schwag weed when I listen to this. It smoked in the 90s and hasn't aged a day since. Sally, the same can't be said for me, but whatever. Still a great album.

Sticky Fingers by The Rolling Stones
Jun 18 2025

As blaspheming as it sounds, I'm not as high on this album as others. Some of the most classic songs in the Stones oeuvre don't scratch my itch. That being said, if I'm listening to this album, it's probably a good night with some good friends.

It's Too Late to Stop Now by Van Morrison
Jun 19 2025

Full disclosure, I find Van The Man to be the most overrated classic rock crooners. This album has done little to change my mind. Incredible arrangements and a beautiful backing band, this album contains all his hallmarks, but for some reason, it just doesn't do it for me. Oh well...

21 by Adele
Jun 20 2025

Some surprisingly slamming songs on this album. Couple of cheeky, but guaranteed hit covers. Voice of a generation. Still doesn't mean I wanna listen on the reg, but really glad I did today.

At Budokan by Cheap Trick
Jun 22 2025

Good album. Always enjoy listening to it.

Off The Wall by Michael Jackson
Jun 24 2025

I don't like Michael Jackson. And that's okay.

Only By The Night by Kings of Leon
Jun 25 2025

Ah, the halcyon days when Kings of Leon, Wolfmother, and the like were going to save rock n roll. Didn't quite happen, but that doesn't mean there weren't some really solid releases, with this being one of them.

Jun 26 2025

Holy shit, this album is incredible. Everything I love about hip hop, and I'm shocked it flew under my radar this long. Incredible instrumentation, samples, loops, and lyrics. Smoke from T to B.

Jun 28 2025

Brit pop is arguably my favorite single genre of music. My favorite band of all time is The Verve and many of my favorite songs and albums are from this sub genre. I have felt this way about this album and Oasis in general since 1996... Oasis is the single most overrated, uninspiring, mid Brit Rock band to emerge from the genre and this album is a sad commodification of it's stylings.

At Fillmore East by The Allman Brothers Band
Jun 29 2025

Do I love this album as much as I did when I was 19 and stoned in my dorm room? No. Is it still one of the greatest live albums of all time and one of the greatest Southern rock bands at the height of their powers? Yes.

Raw Like Sushi by Neneh Cherry
Jun 30 2025

Ah, the old days. Smells like a junior high dance.

Smash by The Offspring
Jul 01 2025

I was in college, living in the dorms, when this album was released. The number of times I heard "Unzer, glidben, glauten, globen..." is incalculable. Even back then, I assumed that this band and album was a basic, pedantic attempt to pilfer punk rhythms and sculpt them into a palpable piece of music for frat parties that wanted to feel edgy. Not wrong.

Kollaps by Einstürzende Neubauten
Jul 02 2025

My tenth grade self would've listened to this all the time. I also would've convinced myself it was great. Is it important? Absolutely. The bones of industrial are all there. Is it fun to listen to while I do lesson plans? Nope.

Cupid & Psyche 85 by Scritti Politti
Jul 03 2025

I'm sure the experts can explain why this album is listed. I hated bunk pop in the kid 80s and hate it now.

Tapestry by Carole King
Jul 04 2025

I know this album is a beloved one of the era and has multiple stone cold classics. For me, it contains almost every sound of the era that I hate. Soft drums, sax, etc. It's not a 2 star album, but it is for me

Sound of Silver by LCD Soundsystem
Jul 05 2025

Album is smoke, from to to bottom.

Aftermath by The Rolling Stones
Jul 06 2025

The album where The Stones matured. Still one of the greatest opening numbers to any album.

Queens of the Stone Age by Queens Of The Stone Age
Jul 07 2025

Rock n fucking roll. Almost prog, almost metal, almost alternative. This band is truly unique.

Buena Vista Social Club by Buena Vista Social Club
Jul 09 2025

If you didn't have sex to this in the late 90s, what were you doing?

Jul 10 2025

A very Vangelis-esque mood tome. Really beautiful and wonderful at evoking the vibe. Not something for everyday, but when it needs to hit, this would be perfect.

Bat Out Of Hell by Meat Loaf
Jul 11 2025

70s rock pomposity at it's finest. Jim Steinman can suck a dick. Not a fan of this album.

Jul 12 2025

I remember when Dance Floor broke. I enjoyed it, but it wasn't my speed at the time. Glad to finally ingest this whole album. Very catchy. Very British. If I were 16 when it came, I would've adored it.

Fisherman's Blues by The Waterboys
Jul 13 2025

I really, really enjoyed this album. This is an album my dad and I would've listened to together while drinking beers and playing cribbage. Great stuff.

Faith by George Michael
Jul 14 2025

Fun album. Half really hit. Other half, not so much.

Queen II by Queen
Jul 15 2025

My relationship with this band is tricky. Overall, I don't like listening to the albums much because of how disjointed they are to my ears. But, then that riff starts and just pulls you in. I enjoyed this album more, probably because it's filled with songs that haven't been overplayed for the last 50 years. Some great stuff on this. I just wish I like it more.

Led Zeppelin IV by Led Zeppelin
Jul 16 2025

It's IV. Come on. Pretty sure we've reached the point where hating on Zep is okay. That's fine. This album still slays in a way very few do.

The Queen Is Dead by The Smiths
Jul 17 2025

I love the Smiths. I'm the perfect age for them. I still will soon certain tunes and albums relatively often. Even back in the day though, this album was never my favorite. Apparently it still isn't. I know it's a classic and has all the hallmarks, but it has never landed with me like some of their other ones.

Movies by Holger Czukay
Jul 18 2025
3 + 3 by The Isley Brothers
Jul 19 2025

Holy shit, does this album absolutely smoke! I have a greatest hits of theirs that I wasn't too impressed with. That was my extent of knowing them. This album is banger after banger, with a couple I need to research to see if they're covers! Great discovery!

Devotional Songs by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Jul 29 2025

Vibrant. Beautiful. The density of sounds and the quality of voice is truly unmatched. Incredible.

Bright Flight by Silver Jews
Aug 03 2025

Brilliant lo fi album. Nonsensical lyrics that still hit to the core. Incredible album.

California by American Music Club
Aug 04 2025

Surprised I was unfamiliar with this album. Early alt country every, before alt country was a thing. Didn't have the bombast that would come later. Reminded me of The Jayhawks. Really great album.

Is This It by The Strokes
Aug 05 2025

Classic jangle pop inspired rock album that made them the biggest band on the planet for 25 minutes. Good stuff, but I don't like it as much as everyone else.

Public Image: First Issue by Public Image Ltd.
Aug 07 2025

While the later contributions of PIL can't be argued with, I have always found this first outing to be juvenile, blame, and ultimately unsatisfying. Teen angst poetry coupled with unsatisfying music equals "I'd rather listen to one of their other albums."

Moving Pictures by Rush
Aug 08 2025

It's RUSH. It's Moving Pictures. It's arguably the best side a in Prog Rick history. Does it sustain all the way through? To my ears, no. But still a banging fucking album.

Ramones by Ramones
Aug 09 2025

Blistering sounds, filled with so much energy and youth. Still, incredibly listenable. Fantastic genre defining album.

Aug 10 2025

Oasis or Blur? I still don't understand the hype for these two bands. As an enormous fan of Brit Pop, that these are the faces of it still confounds me. So many more interesting groups out there. Album is fine. Just like all of their albums are fine.

Viva Hate by Morrissey
Aug 11 2025

First full length album for him. Doesn't hold together as well as Bona Drag. His lyrical stylings are strong as ever, but he really is missing Johnny here.

Dire Straits by Dire Straits
Aug 12 2025

One of the most confident devices ever released. Incredible. Smooth. Easy going. All of the hallmarks that would define this band. Wonderful album.

Odessey And Oracle by The Zombies
Aug 13 2025

Sweet little jangle psych album that feels incredibly dated. Beautiful harmonies, intricate phrasing, and a general ease to the album. But, it feels so simple. I think I'll listen to Pet Sounds instead.

Aug 14 2025

Instrumental in defining an era and a sound. Great, catchy tunes that sound truly vapid. Absolute definition of 'pop'.

Joan Baez by Joan Baez
Aug 15 2025

I know, I know, I know. Voice of a generation. Voice of a decade, etc... I just find her voice to be so cloying and almost a parody of the 60s folk revival. I feel bad. I just have never liked Joan Baez.

Foo Fighters by Foo Fighters
Aug 16 2025

Crazy to think that this was only a year after Kurt's death. He has obviously been developing his ideas and thoughts on the sound for a long time. So many bangers and so confident, fresh out of the gate. Great album.

Aug 17 2025

Great, early salvo of one of the decades most important New Wave groups. While the songs don't have the sweeping, operatic qualities they would later add, it's an enjoyable listen that is distinctly of it's time, but also not as dated as some of it's contemporaries.

Shalimar by Rahul Dev Burman
Aug 18 2025

Vibrant. Bursting with life. Huge cultural watermark, this film, and the soundtrack doesn't disappoint.

Live! by Fela Kuti
Aug 19 2025

Do you know how good you have to be to have Ginger Fucking Baker openly respect you? This album is an absolute banger that is in the discussion for greatest live release of all time.

Supa Dupa Fly by Missy Elliott
Aug 20 2025

First time listen. Great stuff. Sounds modern but retains the mid 90s feel hard. Really enjoyed this. A lot more than I thought I would.

Aug 21 2025

Hip hop I can get behind. Funky, fun, fantastic samples. Really wish I was more familiar with this earlier on. Oh well. Better late than never.

Django Django by Django Django
Aug 22 2025

First time listen. It is rare for a new album to have such an immediate impact on me as this one. Not sure how I missed this, but I'm so happy to finally be at the party. It's layered, fun, catchy, multi-sound, and exciting. This album is an absolute masterpiece.

Aug 23 2025

Anytime I'm in the mood for NWA, I end up listening to Public Enemy.

...And Justice For All by Metallica
Aug 24 2025

My single favorite metal album of all time. I know the bass recording is garbage. Don't care. Love, love, love this album

That's The Way Of The World by Earth, Wind & Fire
Aug 25 2025

Much to the chagrin of my wife, I just can't feel with these guys. This album did not change my mind. Incredible grooves and the quality of vocals and harmonies are next level, but it's just music I don't enjoy listening to

Eliminator by ZZ Top
Aug 26 2025

Takes me straight back to early 80s, Mtv, and guilty urges from the Legs video. Still a solid rock album that is perfect beer and darts music. Ten years ago it probably would've given it 4. Now it just sounds like rock. Great rock, but just rock nonetheless.

Blue Lines by Massive Attack
Aug 27 2025

Wow. Kind of a depressing relisten. This album was worn out during my early days. It was fresh and vibrant. Haven't listened in a long time. While I know that the inspiration and influence has spread massively over the years, on this relisten, it really fell flat, kind of dull, and lifeless. Not sure why. Maybe it's the countless other acts that have parroted it and it's sounds, but yeah... Kind of sad, actually.

Brothers by The Black Keys
Aug 28 2025

Back when Black Keys still sounded fresh and hadn't sold their songs to every commercial on TV. Oversaturation did them in. Inexplicably adding more musicians to the band for tours didn't help either. But at one point, this band was exciting and vibrant and a powerhouse. This album is a testament to that.

Bookends by Simon & Garfunkel
Aug 30 2025

A seminal work of art that molded me into what I am today. Not an exaggeration.

Lazer Guided Melodies by Spiritualized
Aug 31 2025

An absolutely stunning aural scape. I wish I would've heard this upon release. It would've been one of the most important albums of my life. Oh well, better late than never.

Rock 'N Soul by Solomon Burke
Sep 01 2025

Really enjoyable. Good stuff that I've never heard before and that will go into rotation.

Either Or by Elliott Smith
Sep 02 2025

Enjoyable. Milestone for a lot of friends of mine. Just not for me.

Maggot Brain by Funkadelic
Sep 04 2025

To call this a simple funk album does a disservice to funk. It's like saying Paul's Boutique is a rap album. Yes, but not really. This album is an absolute masterpiece and is a defining example of R&B, Soul, Funk, etc. Stunning.

Van Halen by Van Halen
Sep 05 2025

Is it big? Yes? Bombastic? Absolutely? Style over substance? Sure. Is it also a ton of fun? A ripping album for a road trip? A reminder of what rock is? Yes to all of that too. It's a blast.

Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys
Sep 06 2025

Is it the greatest album ever made? I'm my opinion, no. But it's in the discussion. Remarkable achievement.

evermore by Taylor Swift
Sep 07 2025

And for my surprise of the day, I found this incredibly listenable. I certainly can see why she's at the stature she is at, and her ability for a melody and turn off phrase is exceptional. Really, really good. Probably would've giving a shocking four stars, but the 9th Bon Iver appearance really suited the while album. I know him. He's a douche.

KIWANUKA by Michael Kiwanuka
Sep 08 2025

An incredible aural soundscape. Was unfamiliar going in. This is a wonderful album that is only gonna get better with every relisten.

Bayou Country by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Sep 09 2025

CCR is one of those rare bands that will only satisfy when you're in a CCR mood. There is no sound quite like it. This album is a perfect representation of that. Filled with greatest hits and extended jams alike, it's an incredible trip back to the 60s and a great primer for what this band is.

Arrival by ABBA
Sep 10 2025

Should I just accept the fact that I kinda like ABBA?

Bert Jansch by Bert Jansch
Sep 11 2025

TIL that I think I'm over early 60s British folk. It's fine. Just incredibly dull.

Smile by Brian Wilson
Sep 12 2025

God, what a lost opportunity. The Beach Boys could be looked at in such a different light? This, following Pet Sounds, would have been a legendary 1-2 punch. Such a missed opportunity. What an album.

Blunderbuss by Jack White
Sep 13 2025

Sometimes you just find an album that hits you perfectly. This is one of those for me. I love every song on here and will regularly listen from T to B without a thought. Love it.

Dear Science by TV On The Radio
Sep 14 2025

Why do I always underestimate this album. Every time I play I think "Man, this fucking rocks."

U2's last good album. First half is absolutely perfect. Then, it gives into sugary sweetness and cringe lyrics that show why Bono is mocked the way he is. Still, a very solid album that reminds us why U2 was one of the most powerful bands on the planet for a long time.

Hail To the Thief by Radiohead
Sep 16 2025

To complain about a Radiohead album is hard, but for some reason this one has never done it for me.

Beauty And The Beat by The Go-Go's
Sep 17 2025

I've lived this album for 44 years. Still a great sounding representation of those beautiful early 80s, birth of New Wave era.

Hunky Dory by David Bowie
Sep 20 2025

By most standards, this is a masterpiece. By Bowie standards, it's mid.

Signing Off by UB40
Sep 22 2025

I'm sure there are many more reggae albums on this list. I understand the impact of this band and the album on England, but it just doesn't land. Mid level reggae from a band whose biggest hits were covers. Not for me.

Illinois by Sufjan Stevens
Sep 23 2025

Wow. Went into this relisten thinking I loved this album. Came out with some real issues. Bloated, repetitive, and pretentious. This album should have half as many songs, and the song names should be half as long. Done good gems in there, but overwhelmed by bloat.

Ghosteen by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Sep 24 2025

After you listen to enough music, and you've been around long enough, you begin to instinctually disregard newer albums. I did that with this one. I remember casually listening and enjoying enough, but morning spectacular. Upon this listen, it really strikes home how good he truly is. Don't wanna listen a ton. Not much fun. But it's really beautiful.

Dub Housing by Pere Ubu
Sep 25 2025

Little touch and go. Some songs I absolutely adored and some were a little rough, but overall a great intro and an album I'm surprised I was unfamiliar with.

Tusk by Fleetwood Mac
Sep 26 2025

I adore this album. While other Mac albums have bigger hits, this is the one that feels the most like what I imagine being in the band was like at this time. Tired. Too high. Lost. But filled with an arrogance and drive to keep going bigger. It's not as much fun as others, but feels more honest and like the end of the 70s than almost any other album out there.

On The Beach by Neil Young
Sep 27 2025

Not that anyone reads these, but if they did, I would be chased outta town for saying this: Neil Young is the most overrated singer/songwriter/rocker in history. I do not, for the most part, enjoy his music, regardless of the iteration. This album is no different.

Lam Toro by Baaba Maal
Sep 28 2025

Beautiful, beautiful album. Groves are rich, beats are sublime, and his voice is a miracle.

Femi Kuti by Femi Kuti
Sep 29 2025

Absolutely incredible album. So listenable from t to b.

Purple Rain by Prince
Sep 30 2025

It's Purple Rain by Prince. If you were 9 when it came out, you know what that means.

Scissor Sisters by Scissor Sisters
Oct 02 2025

Fun little pop album with one of my favorite songs ever. Don't know if I've ever listened to it T to B. Good stuff

G. Love And Special Sauce by G. Love & Special Sauce
Oct 03 2025

Is this a five star album? Who knows. It's it one of my personal favorite albums of all time? Yes. I can remember the first time in college. Blew my mind. Many incredible nights were spent watching G and the boys. All started with this. A seminal 90s, slacker sound that was unique then and now. The first couple G albums were a revelation. Still play great.

Oct 04 2025

I wish Queen albums flowed better. The banging hits placed next to the theatrical opera pieces have never worked for me entirely. I'm not saying I don't like them. I love them, but as an album so rarely do they work to me ears. Maybe that why I love their live albums so much?

Playing With Fire by Spacemen 3
Oct 05 2025

Straight psych-shoegaze fire. God, I love this band.

Space Ritual by Hawkwind
Oct 06 2025

Epic. Bombastic. Pompous. Incredible. 70s. This album is the perfect encapsulation of space rock. I couldn't imagine settling in for a set of this at Isle of Wight or some similar British event in 1976. Fantastic, sprawling album of music.

My Generation by The Who
Oct 08 2025

Meh. As I get older, I realize that most Who stuff doesn't do it for me.

LP1 by FKA twigs
Oct 09 2025
The Last Of The True Believers by Nanci Griffith
Oct 12 2025

Decent album. Beautiful album with some strong lyrics. I'm sure I'd have a deeper connection if I'd grown up with it, but it largely feels like a throwback Alt country album. Not a knock. Just not as impactful as I thought it would be when it started.

...The Dandy Warhols Come Down by The Dandy Warhols
Oct 13 2025

Fully admit, I slept on this band. The documentary implied they were posers, their most famous albums came out after my musical tastes had shifted, to and I just had them on an occasional shuffle. Until I saw them live. They blew my mind. Was excited to listen to this closely, from T to B. Incredible, incredible stuff. Rabbit hole diving commenced.

Quiet Life by Japan
Oct 15 2025

This is a perfect example of why this challenge/app is so great. I know my 80s New Wave/Goth/Post Punk, etc... And yet, this album has completely eluded me. So many formative sounds! This could be DD or some late night Mtv throw away in December 1983! Absolutely stunning New Wave album that hits every note beautifully. LOVED discovering this record.

Songs From The Big Chair by Tears For Fears
Oct 17 2025

Some absolute stone cold classics. Some really bad 80s sax cheese. Last two songs were great lynch pins, almost making it conceptual. Good stuff.

Brothers In Arms by Dire Straits
Oct 18 2025

Some of the most profound guitar ever recorded. Couple of songs run me wrong, but overall, it's a stone cold classic that hasn't dated a day. Incredible.

Close To You by Carpenters
Oct 19 2025

I hate this album. 70s schmaltz. Nails on a chalkboard.

Electric Ladyland by Jimi Hendrix
Oct 21 2025

I am shocked that I'm saying this... Felt a little clunky. It's been decades since I listened to this straight through. Yes it has multiple stone cold classics, but also a lot of fill. My idea for what this was vs what it actually is it's the reason it's 3 stars.

Bad by Michael Jackson
Oct 22 2025

I hate Michael Jackson.

Oct 24 2025

As a huge fan of Madchester and Brit Pop, I've been intimately familiar with these guys for 35 years. They still don't land as hard as I think they should.

Sea Change by Beck
Oct 25 2025

Incredible, incredible album. No notes.

Closer by Joy Division
Oct 26 2025
Endtroducing..... by DJ Shadow
Oct 28 2025

Beautifully layered album with a lot of sounds and textures scattered throughout. Doesn't feel like it completely commits to a mood however. Great stuff otherwise. Extra half star for Twin Peaks sample at the end.

You Are The Quarry by Morrissey
Oct 29 2025

I take great pride in, at the ripe age of 51, I'm still actively and constantly searching for new music and bands. Unlike most of my friends I'll happily get an album that looks cool or see a show by myself. That having been said, I have a fee artists that haven't grown past me being 17. Sonic Youth, Built To Spill, and, yes Morrissey. I was the stereotypical goth kid, crying along with the Smiths and memorizing Bona Drag when it came out.. Seminal shit. So, to hear a new to me Morrissey album is strange. Still hits the notes. Still some biting social commentary and wit, and still the jilted song structures. But all these years later, it just doesn't land. Not because it's bad, or even because of his increasingly problematic personality, but because I know what real pain is. And loneliness. And how mean the world the can be. It used to be romantic. Now it's just sad. I don't know if this is a good or bad record. I just know that I know where I'm gonna go to when I wanna remember what being 15 felt like. This isn't it.

Heartattack And Vine by Tom Waits
Oct 30 2025

Tom Waits sounds like warm gin tastes. Most of the time, I'm not in the mood for warm gin. But, when I am, absolutely nothing else will satisfy me.

Oct 31 2025

Seminal record that introduced my favorite punk band to the world. Somehow it's undercooked and fully developed at the same time. Great listen though. Haven't spun it in far too long.

Pretenders by Pretenders
Nov 01 2025

Wow. Haven't listened to this in a LONG time. Banger after banger after banger. One of the more confident debits. Incredible album.

Truth And Soul by Fishbone
Nov 02 2025

A large segment of my teenage life has this album as it's soundtrack. It still holds up. It still works. It still rocks.

Rust Never Sleeps by Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Nov 03 2025

Neil Young with Crazy Horse just hits different.

Fear Of A Black Planet by Public Enemy
Nov 04 2025

My favorite hip hop album from my favorite hip hop band. Absolutely perfect.

Underwater Moonlight by The Soft Boys
Nov 05 2025

Everytime I listen to this album, it just gets better and better.

Master Of Puppets by Metallica
Nov 06 2025

Just doesn't hit the way it used it. Still exponentially better than anything they released post 1992, but if I'm in the mood for this I'll probably put in Justice instead.

Horses by Patti Smith
Nov 07 2025
Debut by Björk
Nov 08 2025

Haven't listened to this in probably 30 years. Like before, it still has some absolute bangers and some stuff I don't really wanna listen to.

The Trinity Session by Cowboy Junkies
Nov 10 2025

I hated this album when I was young. Too slow. Too dull. Now I'm older and wiser and appreciate the fact that they set out to create the best album ever for late 80s proto-hopsters to fuck to.

Jazz Samba by Stan Getz
Nov 11 2025

Smooth. So fucking smooth.

Nov 12 2025

This is perfect example of the double edged sword this challenge presents. I've been a casual fan of Lana for a long time. This album, if I were 20, would be committed to memory immediately. It's brilliant and heartfelt. I will remember that I loved it, but forget to come back to it because there are so many other albums out there. Could I commit to it like I did with Liz Phair 40 years ago? Sure, if I wanted to. But I won't. Doesn't take away this mornings listen though. It's great.

Bossanova by Pixies
Nov 13 2025

I wish the Pixies landed as hard for me as they do for so many others, including many of my best friends. Oh well.

Wild Is The Wind by Nina Simone
Nov 14 2025

First time listen. Hit absolutely perfect this morning. Great stuff.

Morrison Hotel by The Doors
Nov 15 2025

Don't care what anyone says... Listening to a full Doors album, especially some of the early ones without the classic rock radio staples, still hit just right.

Microshift by Hookworms
Nov 17 2025

Yeah, this is the good stuff. Gonna be revisiting this one a lot. Awesome intro.

The Chronic by Dr. Dre
Nov 18 2025

Didn't like it then and I still don't. Many a heated arguments between my brother and I took place over this album. Is what it is.

Cut by The Slits
Nov 20 2025

Everytime I listen to this, which is probably once every year or so, I'm reminded that it isn't the album I think it is. So raw but so mature in the musical choices. Great record.

Hotel California by Eagles
Nov 21 2025

I hate the fucking Eagles and I hate this fucking record.

Blood Sugar Sex Magik by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Nov 22 2025

I remember listening to this when it came out. My buddy and I were just fans of the 80s output (still are) and he said "This album sounds like Red Hots trying to sound like Red Hots." Yeah, it's their 'masterpiece' and yeah it's a classic, but I still don't really like listening to it.

Fear Of Music by Talking Heads
Nov 25 2025

This is why I live this challenge. I've been listening to these guys for almost 40 years and while spinning this I said "Have you ever listened to this?". I know every song. I'm sure I have. Probably many times, but I just can't remember. Either way, it's fucking brilliant.

Happy Trails by Quicksilver Messenger Service
Nov 26 2025

Interesting choice and not one I would have thought to have made this list. Is it rocking? Sure. Gives great counter evidence to the Dead era country psych stuff, but also not an essential rock album IMHO. Fun, brash, and loud. Great semi deep cut on a vinyl night.

Clube Da Esquina by Milton Nascimento
Nov 27 2025

The perfect album for when you bring a girl over to your house for the first time to cook for her.

Trout Mask Replica by Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
Nov 28 2025

I love Zappa. I have every official release and have listened to his living discography many times over. Wanna get that out there... That having been said, I hate this album so much. I've read the articles. Influence, challenge, etc... I get it. I just don't want to listen to it.

Tracy Chapman by Tracy Chapman
Nov 29 2025

Fantastic, blistering songwriting. Absolutely stunning record.

Kid A by Radiohead
Nov 30 2025

I still remember having to pull over and stop the car when I heard A NATIONAL ANTHEM for the first time on the radio. It's still that good. Perfect record.

Roger the Engineer by The Yardbirds
Dec 01 2025

Fun, jangle folk music. Formative. Catchy. Behind a lot of other albums from that era that scratch this itch much better.

Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morissette
Dec 02 2025

There was a really beautiful 2 month period in the summer of 1995, before this album became the background soundtrack for any bar with an element of hipness, where it wasn't overplayed or a punching bag. This album rocks in ways very few do. It's a victim of it's own success and anyone who was around for it's rise and eventual 'fall' can attest to that. It's honest and revealing and sounds like the feeling of being a young adult in 1995. It's still fucking great.

Marcus Garvey by Burning Spear
Dec 03 2025

Fantastic. Not sure how I've missed this all these years, but great stuff.

Siembra by Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
Dec 04 2025

I have had this album on my hard drive for over a decade and always thought I knew what it was. I didn't. Now I do. It's incredible.

Fire Of Love by The Gun Club
Dec 05 2025

One of the most timeless records ever released. Can't tell if it's 1978 or 1991 or 2020. Incredible stuff.

Sign 'O' The Times by Prince
Dec 06 2025

As with so much Prince, some of this is banging beyond belief. Other stuff is bloated and unlistenable. Like Zappa, an artist I prefer, when you put out this much, some of it just isn't gonna land to a casual listener.

Kenza by Khaled
Dec 07 2025

As with many of these World music releases, I wish I had so much more context for the melding of sounds, the background of the music, and the artists themselves. All I know is that this albums slaps hard. Every song is a banger and I can't wait to revisit this one again.

Bluesbreakers by John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
Dec 08 2025

British, white boy rock gets a lot of hate nowadays. EC spiralling into a world class boomer bigot isn't helping the cause. That being said, I haven't listened to this in a LONG time, but this morning? It really hit.

Dec 11 2025

Becoming mature is understanding that the majority of John's solo is pedantic and juvenile. As a person he may (?) have grown, but as a musician I find his solo stuff simply dull and unfocused.

Rocks by Aerosmith
Dec 12 2025

Is this a masterpiece that redefines the aural senses from top to bottom? No. Is this a great rock record that will please almost everyone on the patio while day drinking and playing horseshoes? Yes. And that is good enough for me.

Imagine by John Lennon
Dec 13 2025

Second Lennon album in three days. While this may be his most successful solo album to my ears, including the most mid anthem in rock history, it also includes his apology for abuse. He was an open book when it came to his art and for that I appreciate him, but I also find much of his solo work both pretentious and juvenile at the same time.

Fever To Tell by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Dec 14 2025

Fun album. I enjoy their stuff a bunch, although I think their melodies and song construction improve later in their career, this is a good harbinger of what's to come. Solid album.

What's That Noise? by Coldcut
Dec 15 2025

Fantastic. Shocked I haven't heard this. This would be an all time have if I had heard it as a Freshman. So many influences. It's like it laid the foundation for a half decade of music on one record.

The Yes Album by Yes
Dec 16 2025

I love this album. So solid and unique from TtoB. Everytime I put it on I'm happy with the decision.

The Hissing Of Summer Lawns by Joni Mitchell
Dec 17 2025

First time listen. Not surprised how it's slipped through, especially considering I've had the demos for 20 years. Beautiful.

Cross by Justice
Dec 19 2025

Some fun electronic stuff. Some not. Probably go elsewhere if I'm in the mood for this.

Dusty In Memphis by Dusty Springfield
Dec 20 2025

This album is a perfect example of why I wish we could give half stars. Some songs absolutely slay. Some make me wanna skip. Love a lot of this album but I'm not gonna spin it often.

The Modern Lovers by The Modern Lovers
Dec 21 2025

A much older, much cooler guy gave this album to me one time when he was moving. I wish I was as cool, because I remember telling him I didn't like it. He said "You will someday." Well Jerry, you were right. It fucking rocks. Love it so much.

Celebrity Skin by Hole
Dec 22 2025

I was a sophomore in college when Kurt died and the anti Courtney movement was in the highest point. I didn't like Live Through This at the time and haven't revisited in 30 years. I've never heard this one. Surprised at the vocal complexities and orchestrations. Really enjoyable listen and even threw a couple on some lists. Good, good stuff.

Siamese Dream by The Smashing Pumpkins
Dec 23 2025

It's not Gish, but it's also not Sadness. The songs that hit still hit. This album may be the Zenith of 90s Alternative Music. It's not the best, but it's certainly a water shed.

The Healer by John Lee Hooker
Dec 24 2025

These slick late 80s and 90s legendary all star collab albums always feel flat to me. There are some good ones, no doubt, but so often they are somewhat sterile and middle of the road and this one wasn't much different. The songs are pleasant. The pairings are fantastic. But there is something missing. If it was recorded in a dingy bar at 3am, it would be there. No knock. The last couple solo songs are great. But this feel flat.

Third by Portishead
Dec 25 2025
Dec 26 2025

Not sure I need a gift from Phil, but so things told, this is a great album. Perfect for those nights you wanna be festive and celebrate with the family, but aren't so old fashioned as Bing and Bob.

Stankonia by OutKast
Dec 27 2025

I love this album.

The Doors by The Doors
Dec 28 2025

I was off that specific age when The First came out in the early 90s and for a brief moment every Gen x kid thought that JM was a transcendent visionary and not a drunken lout. It was cool because we had someone to hang all our medicine poetry and cringe song lyrics on. Then we learned the truth, grew up, and realized that he was a mediocre (at best) poet and that Ray M was the glue of this band that had been emulated to the point of parody. But that doesn't take away from the raw power that the first couple Doors albums eliminate. They were visionary and unique and there is a reason this sound is so associated with that era. They're a decent rock band that became legendary and that's more than most can ask for.

The Libertines by The Libertines
Dec 29 2025

I don't know what I thought this was, but I have it forever and never listened. I am really glad to say that I was wrong. Incredibly listenable and catchy and all the things I love about Jangle Pop from Britain. Really, really good album.

Dog Man Star by Suede
Dec 31 2025

Britpop is one of my favorite genres and I knew Suede pretty well, or so I thought. This is a first time listen.. Starts out strong, but fizzed out on the back end. Loved the sweeping solos and grandiosity that the genre is known for. Good stuff. Don't know if it'll replace any of my faves, but that's okay.

Shaka Zulu by Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Jan 01 2026

Stunning. Absolutely stunning.

Reggatta De Blanc by The Police
Jan 03 2026

Tough one. For any other name this is probably a 4 star highlight. For the Police, it's mid to my ears. Still has some great stuff. Fuck it. 4.

The Rise & Fall by Madness
Jan 05 2026

Man, to be hip and in college and listen to this and some B52s, circa 1983. Had to have been a blast. Little inconsistent (I would cut three numbers) but overall a great record.

Who's Next by The Who
Jan 07 2026

Yep. It's The Who. I'd love to know how many times I've heard this album. Doesn't carry the same punch that it once did. Does that mean it's not 4 stars? I don't know. I'm too sober to do this. Fuck it. 3 stars.

Murder Ballads by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Jan 09 2026

Probably not an album you wanna listen to on a first date, but still an absolute banger. Threads the needle between vibes and overwrought perfectly and the content lends itself to Nick Cave beautifully. Love this record.

At Mister Kelly's by Sarah Vaughan
Jan 10 2026

Solid crooner album. Gets a little monotonous. He personality is infectious.

Ellington at Newport by Duke Ellington
Jan 12 2026

Haven't listened to this in a long time. So much smoother than I remembered. One of the rare times I prefer the truncated version to the complete. Great stuff

Live At Leeds by The Who
Feb 19 2026

As I get older, The Who do less and less for me. This album still rocks, especially with the bonus show of Tommy.

The Modern Dance by Pere Ubu
Feb 20 2026

Some really, really great stuff in here. Also some misses. A band I would like to get to know more.

Neon Bible by Arcade Fire
Feb 21 2026

Don't know the last time I listened to this. Maybe, roughly when it was released? All I know is that it hit a lot harder this time than it did then. Wow, what a banger.

The Madcap Laughs by Syd Barrett
Feb 22 2026

Not a fun album to listen to. Pink Floyd was my first favorite band and introduced me to SO much. Syd have is that band, but not really. His era is not the Floyd we know. But, he still have both to it. This is his final hurrah. Dave and Roger producing as a favor. He can't recreate rhythms. A literal madman recording an album. But there's still so many bangers. Rocks most tragic figure.

Back to Mystery City by Hanoi Rocks
Feb 23 2026

What a strange fucking album. Not a fan of cock rock, which I think this falls into? But turn it breaks so many conventions. There are moments that are sweet and genre bending and then moments of ick. Almost like a novelty album of the era.

Africa Brasil by Jorge Ben Jor
Feb 24 2026

Where have you been all my life? Absolute smoke, T to B.

1999 by Prince
Feb 25 2026

Not a controversial statement, but this is my Prince. Perfect combo of his musical genius and his pop sensibilities. Every song on here is a banger, totally listenable, and pure Prince. Doesn't get any better than this.

Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park
Feb 26 2026

I hate nu metal so much, but I am committed to this project and this list. Guess what: I hated this album.

Being There by Wilco
Feb 27 2026

Can't describe how much I love this album.

Band On The Run by Paul McCartney and Wings
Feb 28 2026

Insert Larry David 'Pretty good...' gif here.

D by White Denim
Mar 01 2026

Wow. Just wow. I was familiar with these guys and had a couple of their times on random alt playlists. Always enjoyed them. This album? Leveled up. Fantastic from the get go.

It's A Shame About Ray by The Lemonheads
Mar 02 2026

I was really excited to listen to this for the first time in forever. For some reason, this album encapsulates more of the slacker ethos of the time. Don't know why, but that's how I feel. Didn't hold up as much on this relisten. Oh well. These things happen.

A Girl Called Dusty by Dusty Springfield
Mar 03 2026

Couple of bangers. Lots of stuff that doesn't hit me personally. Never been a huge fan, especially of the early stuff.

The ArchAndroid by Janelle Monáe
Mar 04 2026

Not my thing. Couple of decent tunes, but overall not something I'm gonna revisit.

Funeral by Arcade Fire
Mar 05 2026

Man, I listened the hell out of this thing back in the day. For some reason it didn't land as hard this time. And the recent Neon Bible hot harder than ever. Still good though.

Pyromania by Def Leppard
Mar 06 2026

I'm sorry. I just can't take cock rock seriously. I grew up with it. Everyone around me loved it. While there are some bangers, probably because I'm incessant 90s Classic Rock overplay, for the most part I still think it's the equivalent of bad 8th grade poetry couple with tight jeans. Went into this wanting to like it more than I thought I would. I didn't.

Gorillaz by Gorillaz
Mar 07 2026

Banger.

Porcupine by Echo And The Bunnymen
Mar 08 2026

Pure Echo. Such a great album, but not as good as some of the followers. If this was their only release, 5 stars. It's not, so 4.

xx by The xx
Mar 10 2026

I like this band, and this album, just fine. I just find both of them very unremarkable.

Kenya by Machito
Mar 11 2026

This album slams. Absolutely fantastic record.

Electric by The Cult
Mar 13 2026

The Cult is a weird band for me. Growing up, I didn't know if they were alt, metal, or Goth. Still kinda don't as they change looks quite a bit over the years. I like them, but I never think about listening to them. This is a solid record, but a little heavy on the cock rock for me.

The Stone Roses by The Stone Roses
Mar 14 2026

Aside from Dark Side, I may know this album more than any other of that era. It was stuck in a friend's car, so anytime we went somewhere for lunch, to a club, or a rave, this played. For years. And it's okay. I never got sick of it. There are other Britpop bands that I like more, but this is the one that started it. I adore this album so much and can't imagine what the 90s would've been like without it.

Machine Gun Etiquette by The Damned
Mar 15 2026

I really like the Damned, but this album has never sat with me the way some of their others have. They make such radical time shifts in the 80s, and that was what I was introduced to, that it feels like they aren't even the same group. Good record, but I love others more.

Five Leaves Left by Nick Drake
Mar 16 2026

I cannot describe how much I love Nick Drake and his music.

Mar 17 2026

I don't put Nirvana on the same pedestal as others. Even at the time, they didn't get with me nearly as much as most. That being said, this is their masterpiece. The moment we can truly feel the pain and sadness that the world put in Him. It is haunting and sad and brilliant and beautiful.

Darkdancer by Les Rythmes Digitales
Mar 18 2026

This is the most bland and dull electronic album I have ever heard. Utterly soulless with dull riffs and hooks. Absolute white bread. Did not enjoy this at all.

Moondance by Van Morrison
Mar 19 2026

This is gonna upset my brother, but whatever... Van Morrison is the single most overrated singer to come out of the 60s. I have tried so many times and it simply doesn't work. Sorry.

Hard Again by Muddy Waters
Mar 20 2026

Blows my mind that this is 1977. Send decades younger. This album is absolutely incredible. Not much more to say about that.

Songs Of Leonard Cohen by Leonard Cohen
Mar 21 2026

An absolutely stunning collection. Absolutely perfect, encapsulating the melancholy and maudlin nature of the 60s folk movement. Couldn't have been made an American. LOVE this album so much.

Pelican West by Haircut 100
Mar 22 2026

Fun, boppy British New Wave album. Nothing too remarkable. Easy to digest. Fun stuff.

Back In Black by AC/DC
Mar 24 2026

Balls to the wall rock. Makes my 7th grade, rock discovering soul happy. Sorry. Not sorry.

Suede by Suede
Mar 25 2026
Alien Lanes by Guided By Voices
Mar 26 2026

I really appreciate GBV but have never done a complete dive. With the 7 or 8 albums I'm familiar with, I always say the same thing: some absolute bangers and some unlistenable stuff. The audio variance, the Hodge Podge of sounds, and the fluctuating moods create such disparate experiences. I know for the super fans, this is the charm, but I find it incredibly inconsistent. Brilliant and committed, but inconsistent.

Private Dancer by Tina Turner
Mar 27 2026

She's an icon. I know. This is peak mid 80s suburb rock. Couldn't do it then and I can't do it now. Extra star for not having as much sax as I figured it would.

3 Feet High and Rising by De La Soul
Mar 28 2026

Absolute high point of my hip hop experience. Seminal in helping me shape what I love about rap and samples at a time when I was just figuring it out. This and Fear are essential records for me. Love it so much.

Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel
Mar 30 2026

Voting issue... I have loved SnG for over 40 years. My intro to 60s folk and rock. Haven't listened to this album in 20 years and can't still sing every lyric. LOVE it. But I hate Bridge Over Troubled Water. With a passion. Always have. Every other song fucks. 4 or 5 stars? Ugh. Fuck it. 5.

After The Gold Rush by Neil Young
Mar 31 2026

Ugh. Everyone a NY album comes up I go "Sweet. Two songs I like, three songs I'm told I should like, and three sing that should've been on a CSNY album."

Wild Gift by X
Apr 01 2026

Love this band. Love this album.

Rattlesnakes by Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
Apr 02 2026

New album for me. Some fun stuff in here. Also, some real 80s cheese. Felt like he wasn't committed to the sound he was making.

Beach Samba by Astrud Gilberto
Apr 03 2026

Oof. Was excited for this one, but it really fell short. The duet with the 7 year old also took off a full star. Not my thing.

The Low End Theory by A Tribe Called Quest
Apr 04 2026

Damn, this album hits every time. Been far too long. Sofa king good.

All Directions by The Temptations
Apr 05 2026

Man, this album album comes out swinging. One of the best side As I've heard. Dies down on the back end, but still a really solid album.

Beyond Skin by Nitin Sawhney
Apr 06 2026

I did not enjoy this album at all.

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Apr 07 2026

Solid intro effort. Not as strong as some of his later works, but a good template for what will make him one of the greatest rock stars.

The Suburbs by Arcade Fire
Apr 08 2026

This is the third AF album I've gotten so far. Can't imagine there are many more on this list. What I've learned is that they haven't held up as well as I would have thought they would've. Oh well.

Come Find Yourself by Fun Lovin' Criminals
Apr 09 2026

How have I missed this?! Send like this would've been right in my wheelhouse. Super fun and funky mud 90s stoner rock, in the G Love or UDS vein. Great stuff.

Billion Dollar Babies by Alice Cooper
Apr 10 2026

This is one of the most bland and uncreative albums I have ever heard from this era. And I really like AC, but this is nothing to my ears. I don't even know what to rate it, as I didn't dislike it, but I also will forget almost everything about it ten minutes after hearing it. Guess it really doesn't matter then, huh?

In Rainbows by Radiohead
Apr 11 2026

Not their best, but still has some bangers. A mid Radiohead album is better than most other records

Apr 13 2026

Gonna be hard pressed to find folks of certain time and place who don't think this is one of the great all time records. Absolutely legendary.

Stardust by Willie Nelson
Apr 14 2026

Gonna get some hate for this, but I really really don't like this album. I find so many more of his records so much more satisfying. Oh well. Different strokes...

Apr 15 2026

Feels like it is building towards a climax that never gets here. Incredible musicianship, but not much fun to listen to.

Apr 17 2026

So, I had this folder mislabeled. I've been listening to an album that I thought was The Virgin Suicides, but it wasn't. Love that album. It was wonderful to now discover this. Incredible and moody, just like the film. Really good stuff.

The Wall by Pink Floyd
Apr 18 2026

How do I rate this? As a 13 year old who thought it was the most profound reflection on the human experience or as a 50 year old who knows it's a whiny self absorbed who trip with a couple of bangers?

Tubular Bells by Mike Oldfield
Apr 19 2026

Almost took off a Star at the end for the snarling, but whatever. This album slaps. Lots of orgies probably used it as background music. Glad I listened to it. Probably won't ever again, except for when I watch The Exorcist.

Moon Safari by Air
Apr 21 2026

So many textures and sounds. Love this band so much. This isn't my favorite album by them, but it's incredible nonetheless.

Seventh Tree by Goldfrapp
Apr 22 2026

Much more introspective and soft than I was expecting and it, frankly, hit the spot. Really solid album that just cements the fact that this is a really great group that I need to do more work on.

Let England Shake by PJ Harvey
Apr 23 2026

I have a strange disconnect with her. I like what I listen, enjoy her shows, and then completely forget what it was that I heard. It's all great. Just not something I attach myself to.

Screamadelica by Primal Scream
Apr 24 2026

Because of the few absolute 5 star bangers, I always think this album is better than it is. I enjoy it a ton, but it's inconsistent and the tone shifts dramatically. I much prefer the Nashville sessions.

Exodus by Bob Marley & The Wailers
Apr 25 2026
Cafe Bleu by The Style Council
Apr 26 2026

Started out kind of promising, but it went downhill so fast. Cheese 80s jazz. The rap tune is truly horrific.

The Age Of The Understatement by The Last Shadow Puppets
Apr 27 2026

Fun, British psych inspired pop. Mixed degrees of quality, but overall a really solid album.

Doggystyle by Snoop Dogg
Apr 28 2026

Haven't listened to this since college, when you couldn't walk five feet without hearing Gin and Juice. Yeah, still don't like it.

american dream by LCD Soundsystem
Apr 29 2026

Some absolute smoke on this record. Not as consistently great as done of their others, and the second half should be at the front imo, but still a banger. When this group locks in, not much better.

Night Life by Ray Price
Apr 30 2026

Decent twang infused white people pop from the early 60s. Doesn't go as deep on any end as I would've liked, but still enjoyable.

Led Zeppelin II by Led Zeppelin
May 01 2026

Imagine my surprise when I found out this isn't everyone's favorite Zeppelin record.

Joan Armatrading by Joan Armatrading
May 02 2026

Nice album. I feel like my bi sexual English teacher friends listened to this in college.

May 03 2026

Before Coldplay became kind of a joke, they released a couple albums that got them there. Some incredible music. Saw this tour in a small venue and the music packed a punch. I know they are U2 level of grandiosity now, but at one time, this album was fresh and new. It was great.

16 Lovers Lane by The Go-Betweens
May 04 2026

One of the most mid late 80s alternative folk entries I've heard. It's fine and if you discovered this then, and saw them live, I'm sure this is part of your soul. For me, I can listen to a half dozen other random albums from this era that I think are better, but that probably aren't.

Music for the Masses by Depeche Mode
May 05 2026

Interesting listen. Haven't heard this record in decades and it sounds so dated. I still enjoy it, but man, it hasn't matured well.

Feast of Wire by Calexico
May 06 2026

I like this band a ton. For some reason I didn't know this one. Good stuff. Consistent with the rest of their output. I just wish it hit me harder.

Little Earthquakes by Tori Amos
May 07 2026

I still can't separate this album from the multitude of dates with black turtle neck wearing sophomores that has this on in the background while they made me bad tofu salads. There weren't a ton of those, but there were three which, I have discovered over the years, is quite a few. It's a fine album. I just don't want to listen to it.

The Next Day by David Bowie
May 08 2026

I've always had a hard time evaluating DB's "new" stuff. His legend is so overwhelming and his breath of work is so important that I have a hard time determining if its worthwhile or not. I mean, it's Bowie, so of course it's worthwhile, but to compare with other works is ultimately silly. Do I guess this review is silly. Whatever.

Highly Evolved by The Vines
May 10 2026

I really didn't like this album.

Heaven Or Las Vegas by Cocteau Twins
May 11 2026

Really, really solid stuff. Think I need to explore these guys more.

Ocean Rain by Echo And The Bunnymen
May 13 2026

I love this album and this band so much. They just get better with age. Truly, a remarkable sound.

Hejira by Joni Mitchell
May 14 2026

This is so hard. She is an absolute queen. Her voice is second to none. Her lyrics are arguably more heartfelt than Leonard Cohen. I just find this album incredibly repetitive and it drones on and on.

May 15 2026

Not sure how I missed this one, but I'm glad I did. 51 years old and some new Bob for me to memorize.

Low by David Bowie
May 16 2026

Stone cold classic and possibly my favorite Bowie album. There is a relaxation to this record. It is so ambient and 70s textured, but also so him. I love this album so much.

May 17 2026

Enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Has a lot of the early 90s House repetition, but still fun. Extra points for the PWEI collab.

Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen
May 20 2026

I love this album so much. Stripped down. Simple. Bombastic Bruce is great, but this hits the sweet spot for me.

In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida by Iron Butterfly
May 21 2026

Take out the novelty song that played on every classic rock station at some special time once a week, and you have a bland and uncreative psych album that simply isn't much fun to listen to.

Tigermilk by Belle & Sebastian
May 22 2026

I love B and S, but am really only familiar with a couple albums. This was an absolute joy to discover and will be in much stronger rotation.

At San Quentin by Johnny Cash
May 23 2026

Hello. One of the most formative and important albums of my life.

Hot Fuss by The Killers
May 28 2026

An album that has aged as well as anything from this century. Didn't do much for me at the time, but a definite classic that will continue to gain lovers of it for decades.

High Violet by The National
May 29 2026

I love The National.

Get Behind Me Satan by The White Stripes
May 31 2026

Absolute musical and lyrical virtuosity from an artist at the peak of his youthful powers. A staggering achievement from one of the centuries best bands.

Fever Ray by Fever Ray
Jun 14 2026

Very cool, vibey album. Really liked this one.

The La's by The La's
Jun 15 2026

Not sure how this got past me. Incredible early jangle pop album that influenced so many other artists I would love in the following decade. This will get played many more times.

The Band by The Band
Jun 16 2026

A staggering masterpiece of American rock.

Halcyon Digest by Deerhunter
Jun 17 2026

Really pleasant, hipster leaning album. Liked some of the songs a lot. Probably won't become a regular spin, as I have my own faves that sound similar, but a really nice album nonetheless.

Blood And Chocolate by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Jun 19 2026

Of all my early indie idols, no one has aged as poorly as EC. Still love him, but a lot of his stuff has not stayed. Still like this album, and some of the songs slap, but it just doesn't hold like it used to.

B-52's by The B-52's
Jun 21 2026
Graceland by Paul Simon
Jun 23 2026

Perfect fucking album.

Another Green World by Brian Eno
Jun 24 2026

The vibiest of vibey albums. Love it so much. Can't believe it's 1975.

Let It Be by The Replacements
Jun 25 2026

Gonna get my Gen X card revoked, but I've never gotten the hype for these guys. They're fine.

Green River by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Jun 26 2026
The Gershwin Songbook by Ella Fitzgerald
Jun 27 2026

I just got home from a month long road trip. Covered almost 4 thousand miles. Slept in my bed for the first time in weeks and when I woke up I made my own coffee, dealt with laundry, and cleaned out camping stuff. This was the most perfect album for this. Beautiful background music as I came back to earth and got stuff in order. I dreaded getting it, but have absolutely loved listening to it in this context. Don't know if I'll ever listen to it again, but this listen may end up being one of my favorite memories of this whole project.

I cannot describe how much I hate this album and this band. You can draw a line from late 90s rap rock to incel culture. If I could give this album less than a star I would

Iron Maiden by Iron Maiden
Jul 18 2026

Fantastic debut. Not as cohesive or as confident as some of the later releases, but incredible nonetheless.

Blue by Joni Mitchell
Jul 20 2026

This will be blasphemy to most, especially if you look at my other ratings, but I've never gotten into her. Her lyrics are sublime, but the singing is cloying and the lack of hooks makes so many of the songs blend together to my ears. Sorry...

Club Classics Vol. One by Soul II Soul
Jul 22 2026

I can smell the High School dance. Fun, if dated, club album. I enjoy it more now than I didn't back in the day, but still not my jam.

The Good, The Bad & The Queen by The Good, The Bad & The Queen
Jul 23 2026

One of the more surprising entries so far. I like this album, and this band, conceptually more than the music itself. Like many super groups, the songs are half baked and don't feel fully fleshed out. I enjoy the album a lot, but as much as I think I should.

Jul 24 2026

I wish I liked this album, and him, more. The lyrics are spectacular and he is truly one of a kind, but I find myself zoning when listening often times.

The White Album by Beatles
Jul 25 2026

To quote Paul, "It's the Goddamned Beatles White Album."

The Sun Rises In The East by Jeru The Damaja
Jul 26 2026

Surprised I've never heard this before. Fun. Great beats. Interesting dude that is like to know more about.

Jul 27 2026

Topical, confrontational, and funky as hell. Don't know if it was supposed to be a concept album, but it sure feels like one. Incredible record.

Deep Purple In Rock by Deep Purple
Jul 28 2026

Lots of riffs. Very few hooks. Some great stuff, but a lot of bloat. I can think of two other albums by them I'd rather listen to.

Innervisions by Stevie Wonder
Jul 29 2026

I mean, what do you say? One of the most towering achievements in Soul, Funk, and RnB. Incredible album.

A Short Album About Love by The Divine Comedy
Jul 30 2026

I think I listened to this on the wrong night. Feels like a Temu Belle and Sebastian who didn't take their meds.

Shake Your Money Maker by The Black Crowes
Jul 31 2026

This album smells like ditch weed, my sophomore dorm, and feeling like I discovered Southern Rock. Still love it, even if they grew to bigger and better things. I love listening to this album.

Darkness on the Edge of Town by Bruce Springsteen
Aug 01 2026

Solid Bruce that contains all those hallmarks of his early days, but without the cohesion and confidence of some of his others. If I'm in the mood for early Bruce, I'll pick a couple others over this one.

Emperor Tomato Ketchup by Stereolab
Aug 02 2026

Great beats. Great riffs. Can't stand the voice. Felt this way 30 years ago, and still feel this way now.

Kings Of The Wild Frontier by Adam & The Ants
Aug 03 2026

Super fun, early post punk from Adam Ant. Goes down super smooth and easy.

Mothership Connection by Parliament
Aug 04 2026

When you are singular in your genre, it's five stars. Tear the roof off...

Butterfly by Mariah Carey
Aug 05 2026

Rough listen. Extra star because she does have a generational voice, but this is not my thing.

Behaviour by Pet Shop Boys
Aug 06 2026

Had a real hard time with this. I live New Wave, electronic, etc but this was just completely empty to my ears. Makes me sad actually, as I actually like a lot of their stuff.

Dust by Screaming Trees
Aug 07 2026

Unlike so many bands and albums from that era and place, these guys hold up so much better than any of them. They are criminally underrated and this album sounds as fresh and exciting now as it did 30 years ago.

Violator by Depeche Mode
Aug 08 2026

Not to sound like the adding Gen Xer that I am, but family if this one don't bring me back. Enjoy The Silence was the first song to associate with a girl. Dances, the club, all of it. It's all wrapped up in this one.

Vol. 4 by Black Sabbath
Aug 09 2026

An absolutely stunning album that shows their medical growth and prowess, while also maintaining their power. Varies sounds and feelings, but still right and cohesive. Fantastic.

Led Zeppelin III by Led Zeppelin
Aug 10 2026

Has some of my absolutely favorite Zeppelin times. Also some of my least. Still great.

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac
Aug 11 2026

Album is perfection.

Wordsmith

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Other

Album origins are grouped into three buckets: US, UK, and everything else. “Other” means the artists you rate highest are from outside the US and UK.