It's clear to see how influential this album has become in light of the explosion of grunge and post-punk. The bands carefree attitude is starkly contrasted by their attention to greater social and personal issues or isolation. A fantastic underground record, 8/10
Californication is punctuated by poignant funk bass lines and guitar riffs, however after the title track, the album falls into a state of inconsistent and uninspired tracks, running out of steam from an otherwise amazing and fresh first half.
Hard to believe this record is from the 70s! With a timeless punk sound that bends genres, lyrics and topics that are still relevant to today, and a relatively condensed runtime, The clash S/T is almost a perfect album, just missing the infectious ear worms and tighter song writing that can be found on other records like London's Calling
An incredibly innovative record blending folk and rock with psychedelia. This album is loaded with unexpected progressions and thought provoking lyrics which makes it an undeniable treasure
Some of the greatest electronic hits of all time with forward thinking melody and synths. That said it's lacking some depth outside of the leading singles
The album is bookmarked by two of the greatest Stones songs, but between the bread is plenty of interesting fillings to keep one satisfied and nourished. With eclectic mixes of blues, gospel, rock, and country recorded and brought to you by the U.K, this is a standout Stones record
At first, Liz's monotonous delivery and sparse instrumentals suggest a snoozy record; however once the record picks up steam, this facade soon fades. Beneath the droll tone, Liz provides energetic, clever, and direct lyrics with wonderful backing that makes the overall record incredibly enjoyable. The influence is incredibly visible on indie even 30 plus years later
An amazing jazz piano album with wonderful improvisation and a surreal mythos.
Filled to the brim with Sinatra classics this is an absolute classic. Of course the composition and arrangement is simple compared to modern standards, but there is a timeless charm here that makes the album worth revisiting over and over
Some standout tracks that break the mold and serve as stupendous arena rock anthems, but outside of the bookend tracks the remainder of the track list lacks the same substance and sounds cliched by comparison
Great set of folk country tracks, with every track containing a poignant commentary on some aspects of the state of Young's life at the time. That said while quite enjoyable, there is not much in the way of standout tracks or tight cohesion that would elevate this record, making it enjoyable but not an exceptional listen to those not absorbed in Young's self mythology
I am certainly biased; living in Seattle the past 4 years, this record snapshots the cultural forces present in the area in a way no other collection of music ever has. Beyond it's bold, unique chamber and choral elements, devastating lyrics, and gorgeous guitar tones, this record speaks to something greater; it's sparse instrumentation and reverberant vocals conjures a feeling of isolation that resonates in the region and time it was recorded and echoes into modern life. This record is truly a modern classic, perhaps the greatest indie record of the 2000s
While the significance to brit pop is worth lauding, this record seems more derivative of other famous acts like the Smiths than it is confident in its own sound. And in that, this record commits a grave sin; it is boring. Banal, inoffensive, and with little standing out, New Wave manages to do something few other records on this list does, and that is to bore me to tears
A fun and unique album, fusing reggae, jazz, and funk. While the tracklist does lag towards the end, this album remains an enjoyable and exciting adventure
A masterclass in soul and funk, this album has a jubilant energy that is infectious. Wails, screeches, and screams pan in the mix over grooving bass lines, and jam tracks manage to sustain the groove. Different strokes maybe for different folks, but everyone can find something to love on this record!
Full of energy and charisma, Van Halen's debut album contains to rock! Variations on the blues, metal, and rock and roll collide to give birth to glam metal and influence an entire generation of artists. There is a lack of variety on the album but given it's relatively short runtime this isn't necessarily a bad thing. A very enjoyable listen packed with classics
Besides the attention grabbing moniker, the flying burrito brothers manages to pull the listener into a captivating world where country ballads are interrupted by guitar solos and banging keys. The Prometheus of country rock and full of catchy tunes, counter culture, and memorable tales. Everything one could want from a country album and more!
A wonderful foray into avant garde art pop containing many interesting textures. I could mull over the soundscapes presented in this album forever; however at the end of the day this album seems so concerned over the landscapes it paints that it overlooks the impact on the listener, which in my opinion not resounding but muted in contrast to the colors this album tries to present
A perfectly serviceable foray into punk, bursting with energy making for a fun listen. It is a distinctive brand of instrumental aggression that is engaging but perhaps not enough to stand out from talented peers
A indie rock classic, this record contains ear worm hits like where is my mind as well as deeper cuts. The albums influence is widespread, and discoverable in bands that follow like Nirvana and PJ Harvey. The Pixies at their best!
While the album is only 8 tracks, this record is arguably the greatest collection of singles ever put on wax. A landmark on rock and roll, shifting the genre towards arena rock and somehow perfecting it before the genre even had it's legs underneath it. Gorgeous guitar tones, reverberating organs, and layered vocals - Boston's self titled is a must listen!