265
Albums Rated
3.37
Average Rating
24%
Complete
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Rating Timeline
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1950
Favorite Decade
Latin
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
53
5-Star Albums
22
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Antichrist Superstar
Marilyn Manson
|
5 | 2.46 | +2.54 |
|
G. Love And Special Sauce
G. Love & Special Sauce
|
5 | 2.73 | +2.27 |
|
Brown Sugar
D'Angelo
|
5 | 2.93 | +2.07 |
|
Make Yourself
Incubus
|
5 | 3.08 | +1.92 |
|
Dust
Screaming Trees
|
5 | 3.16 | +1.84 |
|
Crooked Rain Crooked Rain
Pavement
|
5 | 3.24 | +1.76 |
|
Every Picture Tells A Story
Rod Stewart
|
5 | 3.24 | +1.76 |
|
Since I Left You
The Avalanches
|
5 | 3.28 | +1.72 |
|
Live Through This
Hole
|
5 | 3.29 | +1.71 |
|
The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady
Charles Mingus
|
5 | 3.32 | +1.68 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
|
1 | 3.61 | -2.61 |
|
Arrival
ABBA
|
1 | 3.52 | -2.52 |
|
Blackstar
David Bowie
|
1 | 3.48 | -2.48 |
|
On The Beach
Neil Young
|
1 | 3.46 | -2.46 |
|
More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
|
1 | 3.42 | -2.42 |
|
If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
|
1 | 3.33 | -2.33 |
|
Pornography
The Cure
|
1 | 3.31 | -2.31 |
|
Heartattack And Vine
Tom Waits
|
1 | 3.06 | -2.06 |
|
Deserter's Songs
Mercury Rev
|
1 | 3.03 | -2.03 |
|
Emperor Tomato Ketchup
Stereolab
|
1 | 3.02 | -2.02 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Miles Davis | 3 | 5 |
| Radiohead | 3 | 4.67 |
| Beastie Boys | 2 | 5 |
| Nirvana | 2 | 5 |
| Beatles | 4 | 4.25 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Talking Heads | 2 | 1.5 |
| Neil Young | 2 | 1.5 |
5-Star Albums (53)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
The Mamas & The Papas · 2 likes
4/5
Pretty lovely. Holy shit what a messy group. This is certainly a product of its time -- I could have guessed this came out mid-60s from 3 seconds of any song on the album. But, the harmonies are lovely and the songwriting is solid. Super pleasant. Only duds for me are "Spanish Harlem" and "You Baby." "Straight Shooter" is the surprising standout.
Isaac Hayes · 1 likes
2/5
Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed this. But at the end of the day, it's still a movie soundtrack, and it's intentionally written to be in the background; the repetition makes that clear. When it's loud and funky, boy does it smack, but when it's obviously behind character dialogue...why listen to it? And, I don't mind the 70s theatricality, but it can get to be a bit much. Total "Pippin" vibes at points, and the music in that show (a classic!) feels dated to me too.
Fave tracks:
- Theme From Shaft
- Ellie's Love Theme
- Café Regio's
- Early Sunday Morning
- Soulsville
- No Name Bar
- Bumpy's Blues
Frank Zappa · 1 likes
5/5
Woah. This is right up my alley. Rock with the backbone of jazz? Jazz that rocks? Hoooooooly Toledo. Obviously I've always known the name Frank Zappa, but little did I know that this guy would probably make for my perfect next musical obsession. This is very, very, very cool. Intelligent, diverse, and solid all around. Looks like I have a lot more listening to do.
G. Love & Special Sauce · 1 likes
5/5
Hoooooly Jesus I G. Loved the crap out of this. Apparently I'm in the minority here but gah damn this dude can groove. I get that it's kind of "lazy" feeling, but I think it contributes to an aesthetic that really works for me. Rebel Without A Cause type beat. As a big Beck fan, this is kind of giving a more musically-inclined Beck. What's not to love. I will say, the album ever so slightly overstays its welcome and those last two songs aren't the greatest thing since sliced bread; but who cares. I dig the special sauce. Indeed I do.
David Bowie · 1 likes
1/5
Was it the effort of pushing this constipated turd out that killed David Bowie in the end?
Sorry. In poor taste.
I hate this album.
4-Star Albums (80)
1-Star Albums (22)
All Ratings
Mercury Rev
1/5
Honestly? A tough listen. Giving it two stars because there was at least one song I kind of dug, and I don't know what else is going to be on this list but...man, it's weird sounding stuff.
Edit: having now listened to more albums on this list, fuck this album. One star. Who likes this shit? Weird, weird music.
Faves:
- Holes
- Opus 40
- Goddess on a Hiway
Carole King
4/5
Like a big hug. Super pleasant to listen to, but it’s not without a few slightly more boring “skips.” Big fan though.
Faves:
- I Feel the Earth Move
- So Far Away
- It's Too Late
- Where You Lead
- (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
Cocteau Twins
3/5
Exceptional album for a sunset drive or a bubble bath. Terrible album for every other life scenario.
Faves:
- Pitch the Baby
- Heaven or Las Vegas
- Wolf in the Breast
Adele
2/5
I hate pop music -- this album did not help.
I kind of wish "30" was on this list instead, as I've been wanting to listen to that one and even a few quick samples immediately demonstrate significantly more interesting and complex musical choices. "25" is loaded with the simplest chord changes imaginable, and easy, boring lyricism. There are a couple hits here, and Adele's voice is unmistakably fantastic, but this album is a perfect example of why I can never seem to get into pop: it's homogenous, it's risk-averse, and it's just plain uninteresting.
Fave songs:
- Sweetest Devotion
- that's it
Michael Kiwanuka
5/5
Wow. What a fucking album. Complex, powerful, raw, fun, and strong from start to finish. Can't believe I hadn't heard of this sooner.
Fave songs:
- You Ain't The Problem
- Rolling
- I've Been Dazed
- Piano Joint (This Kind Of Love)
- Final Days
- Light
Arcade Fire
3/5
Not a particularly memorable album. Enjoyable to listen to, and maybe it was groundbreaking at the time, but I feel like nowadays it kind of just blends in?
Fave songs:
- Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels)
- Une Annee Sans Lumiere
- Neighborhood #4 (7 Kettles)
- Wake Up
- In The Backseat
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Erm -- yeah, it's a five. C'mon now. I can remember putting on "Black Dog" on my grandparents' jukebox in their basement as a little kid and dancing my little heart out without knowing a damn thing about the wonderful filth Mr. Plant was wailing about. It's just great music. Rock at its best: complex, hard hitting, memorable, with a shockingly beautiful ballad. Thank you LZ.
Fave Songs:
- Black Dog
- Rock and Roll
- Stairway to Heaven
- Misty Mountain Hop
- Going to California
- When the Levee Breaks (side note: is this the hottest fucking song of all time..?)
Amy Winehouse
4/5
Wow. Turns out I'm a big fan of Amy Winehouse. Incredibly strong and enjoyable vocals, and an eclectic mix of jazz, pop, funk, and electronic. Too bad she was a total wreck. But this album was not. Maybe a little repetitive/boring at moments, but otherwise a hit!
Fave songs:
- Intro / Stronger Than Me
- Know You Now
- Moody's Mood For Love / Teo Licks
- (There Is) No Greater Love
- In My Bed
- Amy Amy Amy
Side note: it's my understanding that "Fuck Me Pumps" is the most popular song on this album, to which I have to say...really?
SZA
1/5
Jesus man, this was a slog. Dare I say - mindless garbage? Yet another good example of why I just can never get into popular music.
I feel like the point of music like this is the lyrics - the music itself is kept very safe, familiar, and homogenous to make it more mass appealing, and what people really relate to and find interesting is the words. But I feel like...the lyricism isn't even that good?? So what are we doing here???
Fave song(s):
- "Doves In The Wind", I guess
The Lemonheads
4/5
You know, I really, truly enjoyed listening to this album. It's right up my alley, and basically each song is fun and catchy, and I honestly think quite good. My main issue is, I wish they fleshed out some of these songs a little more -- each track being only like 2.5 minutes long really makes everything just sort of drift by, and there's no chance for things to land as much as they could.
Edit: the more I play this album, the more I really like it. It's really, endlessly listenable.
Fave songs:
- Confetti
- It's A Shame About Ray
- Rudderless
- Bit Part
- Alison's Starting to Happen
- Frank Mills (shoutout musical theatre!)
- Mrs. Robinson
Led Zeppelin
4/5
IMHO, Led Zeppelin was the greatest true rock band to ever have lived. So, this album is solid, and there are some absolutely phenomenal tracks here. I do think it's a much bigger listening commitment than other albums of theirs, and certainly not as instantly palatable. I feel like a lot of the songs (and, truthfully, the album as a whole) kind of overstay their welcome. But at the end of the day, it's still Led Zeppelin, and it's still a triumph.
Fave songs:
- Literally ALL of side 1
- Ten Years Gone
3/5
Goofy ahh album. Honestly super fun to listen to, even though it's totally wackadoo. Fuck it!
Fave songs:
- Uncontrollable Urge
- Mongoloid
- Sloppy (I Saw My Baby Gettin')
- Shrivel-Up
Siouxsie And The Banshees
2/5
Really mixed bag for me, and I'm kind of surprised by some of the other reviews here. Some of the songs here are seriously great, some of them I think are fine, and a few are genuinely some of the most painful and tough musical listens I have ever experienced. Like -- what the FUCK is going on with Into The Light?? That legitimately might be the worst song I've ever heard in my life. But, then, Spellbound fucks. So. Yeah.
Fave songs:
- Spellbound
- Monitor
- Night Shift
DJ Shadow
5/5
Okay -- I fucking loved this? One of the best examples I've seen of the ART of DJing: hearing new music in old music, and cutting and splicing to get there. Addictive grooves, pioneering art (he did this by himself? With just an Akai MPC60??), and a sonic landscape that just completely transports you. This rules.....
Fave songs:
- Building Steam With A Grain Of Salt
- The Number Song
- Changeling
- What Does Your Soul Look Like, Pt. 4
- Mutual Slump
- Midnight In A Perfect World
- Napalm Brain / Scatter Brain - Medley
- What Does Your Soul Look Like, Pt. 1 - Blue Sky Revisit
The Specials
2/5
Goofy ahh music. Goofy ahhh album. Who the fuck wakes up and actively wants to listen to Ska? Specifically white British guys performing reggae? There are a couple vibes, and it moves quickly enough but...boof.
Fave songs:
- Enjoy Yourself (It's Later Than You Think)
- Pearl's Cafe
- Sock It To 'Em J.B.
- I Can't Stand It
Christina Aguilera
4/5
What the fuck is with the hate on this album? This is exceptional -- her voice is absolutely stratospheric, the music is diverse and interesting, and everything is so much FUN!! The whole circus thing is weird and I don't think it needed to be as long as it was, but this is a pretty great album overall.
Fave songs:
- Makes Me Wanna Pray
- Ain't No Other Man
- Slow Down Baby
- F.U.S.S. (Interlude)
- Without You
- Still Dirrty
- Here to Stay
- Candyman
- Nasty Naughty Boy
- I Got Trouble
- Save Me from Myself
Wild Beasts
2/5
Not my fave. But, certainly not as bad as I think a lot of these reviews make it seem. The vocals are pretty brutal, not gonna lie. It's decent. Frankly just surprised it's on this list.
Fave songs:
- The Fun Powder Plot
- Hooting & Howling
- All The King's Men
- Two Dancers (ii)
- This Is Our Lot
Massive Attack
3/5
Solid. I don't think I like it as much as a lot of people seem to - it seems to kind of drone on, and the album finale is literally terrible. But, it's a very enjoyable listen with a lot of groove and a lot of hits. Makes me feel like I'm in the Matrix. Perhaps the closest I'll ever get to liking reggae.
Fave songs:
- Safe From Harm
- Blue Lines
- Five Man Army
- Unfinished Sympathy
- Daydreaming
The Dictators
4/5
A lot of fun, and pretty neat to see some of the birthing grounds of punk as we know it. Rocky Horror vibes. Plus -- it rocks pretty hard! Not the most incredible album I've ever heard, but easy to listen to and great to jam out with.
Fave songs:
- The Next Big Thing
- Back to Africa
- Master Race Rock
- Teengenerate
- Two Tub Man
- Weekend
- (I Live For) Cars and Girls
Dr. John
3/5
Weird ass album, but it kind of grew on me as I listened to it. Soooooo 60s, and sooooo psychedelic, and also was Dr. John white..?? But also, The Big Easy's one of my favorite cities on the entire planet, so you know I gotta put some respect on him for representing. God-awful album cover.
Fave songs:
- Mama Roux
- I Walk on Guilded Splinters
Lynyrd Skynyrd
3/5
I was actually throwing around whether I thought this should be a 4 or 5 star album throughout most of it. Such iconic songs and a surprising amount of musicianship. And then I heard Mississippi Kid. Holy fuck, what a terrible song. What the fuck are the lyrics implying? Free Bird is absolutely stellar and I still get goosebumps every time I listen to it, but for Mississippi Kid alone it gets a 3. And, at the end of the day, it is still sort of a generic rock album (and boy oh boy are there a lot of those on this list).
Fave songs:
- I Ain't The One
- Tuesday's Gone
- Gimme Three Steps
- Simple Man
- Poison Whiskey
- Free Bird
The Slits
2/5
I literally cannot make heads or tails of this album. Is it avant-garde? In which case, is it actually pretty decent? Or are they actually just fucking bad at music? I literally don't know. What genre do you even call this? Utterly baffling. Two stars, I guess. Jesus.
Fave songs:
- Typical Girls
- I Heard It Through The Grapevine
Gil Scott-Heron
4/5
Really cool to listen to. Kind of like the best possible version of slam poetry at times. It's a shame this isn't on Spotify, because it makes it kind of hard to keep track of and return to, but this is definitely a gem.
Fave songs:
Really hard to do for this one, but special attention to "Very Special Time" and "Song For Bobby Smith"-- man oh man, those are beautiful.
Suede
3/5
I just...I don't know. Something about this album was just so inconsequential to me. Like, I listened to it, and I immediately couldn't remember any of what I had just listened to. So then I listened to it again. Still nothing. I don't even really know why -- it's not bad? I guess I'm just really not a fan of the David Bowie thing. I can see how people would call it melodramatic, that finale is something else. But for whatever reason it just floats right past me.
Fave songs:
- We Are The Pigs
- The Asphalt World
I think??
Bob Dylan
2/5
A couple thoughts about Bob Dylan:
1. If you're going to use a fucking harmonica so much, shouldn't you be decently good at it? I mean Jesus Fucking Christ, I could practice for a week and play every single line on this album.
2. Unfortunately it seems I belong to the camp of hating-Bob-Dylan's-stupid-fucking-grating-voice. I'm sorry. I'm really sorry. But if you're a singer-songwriter -- like, if that's your whole schtick -- shouldn't you be able to fucking sing? At all? Holy mother of God this guy's voice is annoying.
3. I get that the appeal of Bob Dylan is supposed to be that he's a "poet." Like woooooow, forget the music, but listen to those lyrics though. Fuck you. They're decent. It's not fucking Shakespeare.
Two stars because I can appreciate that this at least took some level of musical ability and intellect. But Jesus man. Fuck you Bob Dylan.
Fave songs:
- One of Us Must Know (Sooner or Later)
- Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands
Bonnie Raitt
3/5
I was expecting to really like this -- I kind of didn't. As I've previously said, I just can't stand pop music (homogenous radio drivel). Turns out this is kind of just the 80s version of that. That being said, I still think it has style, and I do love her voice, so this was a pleasant listen -- but, there just isn't a lot going on here. Shoutout to that hair on the album cover.
Fave songs:
- Nick Of Time
- Love Letter
- I Will Not Be Denied
- I Ain't Gonna Let You Break My Heart Again
- The Road's My Middle Name
Jorge Ben Jor
4/5
Really great listen. Incredibly skillful and really unique. For all I know he could be singing about skinning live basset hounds. Still a total vibe. I'm glad this list introduced me to Jorge Ben Jor!
Fave songs:
- Ponta De Lança Africano
- Hermes Trismegisto Escreveu
- Meus Filhos, Meu Tesouro
- Xica Da Silva
- Cavaleiro Do Cavalo Imaculado
- África Brasil (Zumbi)
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
Oh man. Really, really good. This is a rare one for me -- I usually don't give much mind to lyrics, and my enjoyment of an album is mostly due to the music itself. Not here. Powerful, powerful words. THIS is poetry in music, and everything helps serve the message Mayfield is trying to get across. The vibe is a little repetitive, but I think the album is the right length to make it work. "So in Love" almost seems out of place, but I don't think it is. There's this constant push and pull in the album of trying desperately to find hope and joy and love in a broken nation that seems dead-set on making sure you never will. So, it works: it's a momentary triumph. And this album as a whole is a complete one.
Fave songs:
Everything.
Edit: upon a second listen, I’m dropping this a bit. Can’t quite get over Mr. Mayfield’s voice. Love him though.
Nick Drake
4/5
Nick Drake is my favorite artist of all time. "Pink Moon" is my favorite album of all time, and it's not even close. So naturally, I love the crap out of this album, and every single song he ever wrote, and for that reason, I tried to be really really objective when listening this time through.
I do think this is his weakest album. Don't get me wrong -- some of the songs here are absolute perfection. "River Man" may just be the single greatest piece of music he ever wrote, taking 5/4 time and making it feel natural, incredibly complex chords and progressions that seem to melt away and feel effortless, and the endlessly fascinating lyrics: "Betty said she prayed today, for the sky to blow away. Or maybe stay. She wasn't sure."
But there are also some songs that fall flat. "Way To Blue" and "Day Is Done" feel just a little bit too schmaltzy. "The Thoughts of Mary Jane" feels pretty cheesy.
I love this album, but it's not perfect. What it does do is show glimpses of the mastery yet to come.
Fave songs:
- "Time Has Told Me"
- "River Man"
- "Three Hours"
- "' Cello Song"
- "Man In A Shed"
- "Fruit Tree"
Side note: the lyrics to this song are so impossibly fitting to Nick's own life that it's almost hard to listen to. It's almost as if he knew it would take his death to ignite an interest in his work.
- "Saturday Sun"
Black Sabbath
5/5
According to Ozzy Osbourne's obituary in the New York Times, Black Sabbath got their real start because they figured, "people pay money to get scared watching horror movies -- why not music too?" Fucking genius. This album rules, and it's a shockingly complete genesis-of-genre attempt. Horrific, demonic, heavy, dank, and utterly ROCK solid.
RIP Ozzy.
Fave songs:
The whole album.
Skunk Anansie
2/5
Pretty interesting. Another one of those albums with a few really high-highs, and many low-lows. At its best, there's a real gritty, alternative, powerful edge that's awesome to listen to. At its worst, it's more like Lincoln Park, or Alanis Morissette: melodramatic, desperately-hit-radio-single junk. I also feel like Skin is kind of all this band has going for it.
Fave songs:
- On My Hotel TV
- The Skank Heads
- And This Is Nothing That I Thought I Had
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Although I would desperately love to be contrarian, it's a five. When like 70% of your album's songs become ubiquitously iconic singles, the album is probably pretty damn good. Songs from Rumours are wayyyy fucking overplayed in advertisements and family gatherings, and yet they still manage to hit.
Fave songs:
Basically everything, except maybe "I Don't Want To Know" and "Oh Daddy," but special attention to "The Chain" and "Gold Dust Woman." Jesus Christ I still get goosebumps hearing those songs.
FKA twigs
2/5
Perfect album to have sex to. Bad album to sit down and listen to. With artists and genres like this, I think that's kind of the point. Which pisses me off. But it works.
Fave songs:
- Hours
- Pendulum
- Numbers
- Kicks
The Thrills
3/5
It's alright, decent way to spend 45 minutes. Sort of a Death Cab For Cutie meets Americana vibe? But the band is Irish..? Most of the songs are kind of forgettable -- not necessarily bad, just not too strong. The vocalist definitely taints it for me a lot of the time.
Fave songs:
- Deckchairs And Cigarettes
- One Horse Town
- Say It Ain't So (Shoutout Weezer)
- 'Til The Tide Creeps In
- Plans (Hidden Track)
Duke Ellington
5/5
JAZZ!! FINALLY!! HOOOOOOOLY CHRIST MAN! What a fucking tour de force of the genre, and of music as a whole. It really adds a lot to the listening experience to know what was going on in Duke's mind as the concert rolled on -- missing band members for the opening set, a complex 3-part suite that completely flopped, and then ONE extraordinary solo that got the crowd (and the world) to recognize his place in the industry once again.
I kind of thought this would be a long listen, but it wasn't at all -- just like attending a really fantastic jazz concert. (I should mention that I didn't listen to the strange additional studio recordings...seemed kind of unnecessary.)
Duke Ellington was a master composer, the band was full of master players, and damn it -- I love jazz. Five out of five. Probably the best album I've listened to so far.
Side note: most people (rightfully) bring a lot of attention to Paul Gonsalves' stratospheric solo, but honestly all of the improv across the entire album is exceptional.
Fave songs:
The whole concert. Everything. Literally can't pick.
The Psychedelic Furs
2/5
Mostly decent, just not for me. Felt sort of forgettable, and as I've said before, just not a big fan of the new-wave-David-Bowie thing. I don't know. I guess I liked it more than I thought I would?
Fave songs:
- Dumb Waiters
- I Wanna Sleep With You
- Into You Like a Train
- All of This and Nothing
Leftfield
1/5
Hooooooly crapfest man. Jesus Christ. I always really reeeeeeeally try to give each album a chance. Give them their due. And I was seriously close to liking this at times. When you eventually settle into the groove, and you see some girl strutting exactly with the beat outside the window of the bus, like, hell yeah man. But damn those moments are rare.
I am not a raver. I do not like listening to 2+ hours of the Apple Logic Rave Preset Starter Pack.
Fave songs:
- Song of Life
- Open Up
But also all of this sounds the same man, let’s be real
Charles Mingus
5/5
Street lamps. Rain. Scorsese’s Taxi Driver. Lust. Hate. Virtuosity. Cacophony. Beauty.
Mental breakdown, vintage style.
Stan Getz
4/5
Really pleasant listen. Obviously I'm a big fan of jazz, so this one hits -- the one thing I'll say though, is that this kind of feels like a "cocktail party jazz album." Something you'd put on in the background over a nice dinner to look sophisticated. I'm not a huge fan of any album that fades itself into the background -- to me it's generally a sign of fewer risks taken, staying safe and comfortable at the expense of something groundbreaking -- so for that reason it loses a star.
Fave songs:
- Desafinado
- Samba Triste
- Samba De Uma Noto So
- E Luxo So
- Bahia
Elvis Costello
3/5
This was really nice -- this is a perfect example of why I wish we could do half star ratings on this site. Total perfect example of a 3.5 for me. It's really good. Not one I'd return to super often, but fun and easy listening. Not much else to say.
Fave songs:
- Welcome To The Working Week
- Miracle Man
- Blame It On Cain
- Alison
- (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes
- Pay It Back
- I'm Not Angry
- Watching The Detectives
Jimi Hendrix
3/5
I was expecting this to blow my mind, but honestly, it didn't leave much of an impact. My main thing is -- I've always heard people unequivocally say that Jimi Hendrix was probably the best guitarist to ever live. But then, his solos on this album are just...fine? Sort of forgettable, not very emotional, all kind of the same? I'm not doubting his musicianship, I guess I just don't get the hype. It's a pretty normal psychedelic rock album, which is neat, but not the best thing since sliced bread.
Lastly: why is Watchtower the most famous song here? It seems like a fine radio hit, nothing miraculous. Maybe this is a hot take, but I don't even think it's in the top three songs of this album.
Fave songs:
- Voodoo Chile
- Long Hot Summer Night
- Gypsy Eyes
- All Along the Watchtower
- Voodoo Chile (Slight Return)
Bob Marley & The Wailers
2/5
Not a huge fan of reggae or ska. But then, I was vibing. But then, it kept going.
This would be good mindless music if I was stoned on the beach. In fact, it would be really good for that. But I don't like mindless music, and I don't get stoned. So.
Fave songs:
Every single one sounds the same. Sorry. "Concrete Jungle" is cool though.
Tom Waits
1/5
Oh, Tom. My sweet, sweet Tom. Who gave you a career in music, my friend? Who listened to you push out a constipated duke in the stall next to them and thought, "hey, maybe that noise would lend itself to music?"
Lowkey, he is sexy as fuck on that album cover. And lowkey, his voice makes me want to blow my brains across the car Pulp Fiction style. Sweet Tom. Please end my pain.
Fave songs:
- In Shades (no Tom singing, of course)
- Downtown (kind of a vibe)
Jurassic 5
5/5
Albums like this one are why I love doing this -- I've never even sort of heard of J5, but this is easily one of the best hip-hop albums I've ever listened to. The pockets are deep, the lyrics are genius, and the music is just a damn vibe to listen to. Huge, huge fan of this.
Fave songs:
Basically everything, maybe not "Hey" or "I Am Somebody"
Sepultura
2/5
I can get down with the headbang. I didn't mind this, and it was actually a lot of fun to listen to -- but after a while it all starts to sound the same, and it can really wear you down. Pretty generic thrash metal album -- kind of wish there was something more distinctive about it if it's gonna be on this list.
Side note: fucking A+ awesome album cover. Metal covers are always the bomb.
Fave songs:
- Desperate Cry
- Subtraction
- Altered State
- Orgasmatron (lmfao)
- Intro (Arise Sessions)
- C.I.U. (Criminals in Uniform)
Talking Heads
1/5
Serious question: what's up with guys in music with the timbre of a garbage disposal who can't hold a fucking tune deciding to front a band?
Secondary question: what's up with the fanbases who somehow encourage and actively support this shit?
Tertiary question: how the fuck does their work end up on a list of awesome-tactic albums you should waste your time listening to before the merciful release of death?
Fuck you David Byrne.
Fave songs:
-
-
-
Röyksopp
3/5
Was expecting to despise this. Turns out I did not. At a couple points, my body just started moving. Is this what tripping on molly at a rave in Oslo feels like? Maybe I can like electronica, and maybe all it'll take is a couple of cutie pie Norwegian goofballs.
Fave songs:
- So Easy
- Eple
- Sparks
- A Higher Place
- Röyksopp's Night Out
The Velvet Underground
1/5
Clearly I'm missing something obvious here. Because what the actual fuck. Whaaaaat a suck fest. Were they all taking their first music lessons on the same day? And someone hit record? Looks like someone accidentally plugged their guitar into a toaster. Oh, and by the way, Lou Reed can't sing for shit. Oh, and by the way, Nico can't sing for shit. I return to -- what the fuck am I missing here?
Fave songs:
- Sunday Morning
- Femme Fatale
- Heroin
- I'll Be Your Mirror
Dolly Parton
5/5
My god, what a gem. Just beautiful music. A ridiculously beautiful voice -- and to think she wrote all these herself. This album is a testament to her mastery, even so early in her career. I admit I've fallen prey to the common tagline: "I'll listen to anything but country!" Boy does this one make me eat my words. Thanks Dolly.
Fave songs:
The whole album.
The Beach Boys
4/5
Very cool listen. Gotta respect when a band with the clout of The Beach Boys decides to try something new and undefined -- and, they do it well. I don't think it's perfect, but it's very unique and very solid.
Fave songs:
- Don't Go Near The Water
- Long Promised Road
- Take A Load Off Your Feet
- Student Demonstration Time (side note: why does everyone hate this?? It's kind of a total vibe???)
- Lookin' At Tomorrow
- Surf's Up
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
Man, this was a lot of fun. Definitely enjoyed this more than My Aim Is True, and I think this one really showcases what made Elvis Costello great. It's fun, retro, and a total team effort.
Freaking awesome cover art.
Fave songs:
- Beyond Belief
- Tears Before Bedtime
- Shabby Doll
- Man Out Of Time
- Human Hands
- Little Savage
- Pidgin English
- Town Cryer
Rush
5/5
One of my mom's favorite albums. One of my uncle's favorite albums. So, it's always been one of my favorites, too.
Literally just seeing the cover art made my heart skip. I fucking love this one. Easily in my top three rock albums, ever. Neil Peart: greatest rock drummer in history. Geddy Lee: perhaps the greatest rock bassist in history. Alex Lifeson: also there.
Drags a little with "The Camera Eye" and "Vital Signs" doesn't do much for me. But this is probably the strongest side A in any rock album I've listened to to date.
Fave songs:
- Tom Sawyer
- Red Barchetta
- YYZ
- Limelight
- Witch Hunt
The Police
2/5
To be honest, I didn't get a chance to listen too closely to this one, but I think I'm okay with that. How much fucking new wave is on this list? It's all kind of the same? Just a stumble away from pop?
This was okay. Some good ones. I guess I'm not a Sting fan.
Fave songs:
- Synchronicity I
- Synchronicity II
- Every Breath You Take
- Murder By Numbers
Rush
3/5
I really love Rush, but this one didn't quite stand out to me. I think I liked the opener, but at 20 minutes, it's so damn hard to keep track of. And, the tracks afterward feel sort of simple, or maybe sedated, for what Rush is capable of. What I will say, is Geddy Lee's voice has never sounded better to me. Jesus he can get up there.
All in all, not one I'll likely return to that often.
Fave songs:
- There were lots of moments in here that rocked, but I just can't be asked to go back and hunt for what they were. It was good though.
- The Twilight Zone
- Lessons
- Something For Nothing
Ella Fitzgerald
5/5
At three goddamn hours this little chestnut took me a fair share of days to chunk through. But every single time I got to go back to it...bliss.
I'm biased here. I love jazz. I love Ella. I love musical theatre. I love the Gershwins. So, obviously I'm going to fucking love this thing. Fantastic arrangements, unbelievably varied and consistently effortless singing by Ms. Fitzgerald, and source song material that's thoughtful and - in my view - never, ever gets old. It's a dream come true, and love is in the air.
Fave songs:
Nope. It's the whole damn book. A couple fell flat, but who gives a fuck.
The Zombies
4/5
Extremely pleasant listen. Total Beatles vibes, but still unique and lovely. Maybe not the most standout album, but this was really wonderful to listen to.
Fave songs:
The whole album, perhaps maybe not "Butcher's Tale"
The Rolling Stones
3/5
Not my favorite Stones album by a long shot. One word comes to mind while listening: sedated. They're talented musicians, and it's a legendary band, so what happened here? It's still good, still an enjoyable listen, but it just kind of...sits there. And doesn't move.
Fave songs:
Again, it's bizarre because -- I really enjoyed basically every song on this album (save for maybe Jigsaw Puzzle). But as a whole, it's just sort of decent to me at best.
Van Morrison
2/5
There are some really great songs on this record. Also a lot of mildly-decent-at-best. And what with Van Morrison being kind of a twat, I'm not feeling super generous. Two stars. The saxophone was nice until it wasn't.
Fave songs:
- And It Stoned Me
- Moondance
- Crazy Love
- Into the Mystic
The Fall
1/5
It's like they're trying to sound bad. Like really fucking bad. Like the opposite of music, whatever that is. No actually, this is what that is. They nailed it. Jesus fucking Christ this is the worst album I may have ever listened to. How do people like this shit? Just fucking burn me at the stake man. Is there a point to sounding like a broken answering machine? Are you trying to defy the music industry? Are you upset at the music industry because they told you what a piece of shit you were? Are you retaliating by being an even bigger piece of shit? Actually the biggest piece of shit imaginable? Fuck you Mark E. Smith. And fuck your stupid fucking middle initial.
Fave songs:
Fuck you.
Fugees
4/5
This album really forced me to stretch my ears -- I don't usually listen to lyrics too intently. If an album is musically strong, chances are I'll like it. Here, to be perfectly honest, the music itself is really good -- but kind of just good. Nothing too extraordinary there.
But when you do listen to the lyrics, mother of god. These cats were cooking man. The flow, the references, the material...solid, solid album.
Fave songs:
Whole album, but I gotta say: "No Woman, No Cry" is for sure my least favorite song here. Not what I was expecting.
Jacques Brel
2/5
Uhm. Mr. Jacques "Strap" Brel has a decent enough voice, but I think this album is just a little bit too froofy-goofy for me.
Fave song:
- Tango funèbre (only because of those silly ass noises this man is making. What in the French hell)
The Streets
1/5
That one fucking guy from your high school who tried to sell you his demo CD for $10. Before eventually dropping out. And then 6 years later you look him up on Facebook to see what the fuck happened to him. He's opening for someone else at a pop-up dive bar cabaret in Fort Collins. He also works a day job as an assistant manager at Buc-ee's.
Fave songs:
Michael Jackson
4/5
Ah hell, what the fuck do I give this one. Disco is probably in nobody's top-three genres -- MJ makes it fun. There are some total ass-burgers on this album ("Girlfriend", "She's Out of My Life"...) -- "Don't Stop" is a paradigm-shifting, ultra-groovy album-opening masterpiece. MJ was a cock -- also the King of Pop.
Is it a 3 or a 4? I'm going with 4 for now. You won this time, Mikey.
Fave songs:
- Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
- Workin' Day and Night
- Get on the Floor
- I Can't Help It
- Burn This Disco Out
No, I didn't include Rock With You. I think it's dated and boring. Sue me.
The Go-Betweens
3/5
I really liked listening to this. I think an older version of me would have especially appreciated the indie vibe here (it's a good one) but perhaps my tastes are shifting. Positive listen.
Fave songs:
- Quiet Heart
- The Devil's Eye
- Streets of Your Town
- Was There Anything I Could Do?
- I'm All Right
The Clash
3/5
This is a lot closer to the kind of punk music I can dig. Solid music, interesting lyrics, fun vibe. Unfortunately a little bit homogenous -- yet another one of those where it kind of just immediately fades away in my memory once it ends. But I liked it!
Fave songs:
- I'm so Bored with the U.S.A.
- White Riot
- 48 Hours
Robert Wyatt
2/5
There's something here man. I can't quite say what yet. It's weird. Really weird. Like a weirder Genesis, which really just made me want to listen to Genesis. But there's something here. Maybe it's just wacko. But, maybe it's brilliant? Who decides what avant-garde music is good? And how do they decide that? What makes John Coltrane perfect -- and Robert Wyatt just another goober?
Not a final rating.
Fave songs:
- Little Red Riding Hood Hit The Road (1 & 2)
- Alifib
Earth, Wind & Fire
5/5
Drags a small bit with the ballads. But who gives a fuck. Earth, Wind & Fire and Tower Of Power occupy an almost completely isolated echelon of the funk genre, and this album is the perfect example of why.
You just can’t. Not. Move.
Fave songs:
- Shining Star
- That’s the Way of the World
- Happy Feeling
- Yearnin’ Learnin’
- Africano
- See the Light
Miriam Makeba
4/5
Beautiful. What an incredible talent Ms. Makeba was. I wish I knew more about apartheid, and African history in general. Obviously this isn’t an album I’ll return to every day, but it’s masterful and emotional and perfect for what it is.
Side note: I love on an older record like this hearing her clip the mic when she sings most passionately. Nothing like it.
Fave songs:
Whole album, maybe not One More Dance — the fuck?
Dirty Projectors
3/5
I liked this more than I thought I would, and evidently more than a lot of people do. Granted, the millennial experimentalism eventually kind of wore me down. But also, it’s very neat, and there are some beautiful tracks here. Happy to have listened to it.
Fave songs:
- Cannibal Resource
- Temecula Surprise
- The Bride
- Two Doves
- Remade Horizon
George Harrison
5/5
My God. This is right up my alley. It’s long, it’s splashy, but it’s also damn fucking good. By my money, there’s a strange mystical beauty to the production, even though a lot of people don’t seem to care for it. Incredible songwriting and musicianship, and unbelievably ahead of its time. Mr. Harrison, you are quite the solo artist.
Calexico
4/5
Woah. This was very cool. Extremely unique. Indie rock meets Mexican house meets flamenco meets pop? Who even thinks to put these things together? But boy, does it work. Another reminder of why I like doing this project.
Fave songs:
- Quattro - World Drifts In
- Black Heart
- Pepita
- Not Even Stevie Nicks...
- Close Behind
- Attack El Robot! Attack!
- Across The Wire
- Dub Latina
- Güero Canelo
- Whipping the Horse's Eyes
- Crumble
- No Doze
Elvis Presley
4/5
I love Elvis. Always have, always will. Personally I'm the biggest fan of his '68 Comeback Era, and although I love the early stuff, I even feel like the best of that era perhaps comes a touch later. That being said, this is still so solid and so fun. If I was a young person back in the 50s, I would be creaming my pants over this man. One of the greatest performers to ever live.
It's simple, but it's important, and it's damn good. Side note: listening to those goofy excuses for guitar solos on these old tunes always makes me laugh. They really thought they were doing something, huh?
Devendra Banhart
4/5
No wonder this album gets hate — when half the list is classic rock and new wave and it’s written exclusively for English toots who grew up in the 70s, indie folk probably makes most of these numbnuts want to choke a liberal.
High school me would have eaten this shit up. Current me still mostly does. Pretty beautiful. Wonderful guitar work. Interesting songwriting. Very enjoyable listen.
The Who
3/5
I liked this. Clearly this was a groundbreaking album, and it's very cool to hear both where they were coming from (Beach Boys pop) and where they were going (legitimate hard rock). It wasn't the most interesting or exciting album, but I enjoyed it and I can see myself liking more by The Who going forward. Respect.
Fave songs:
- Out In The Street
- The Good's Gone
- Much Too Much
- My Generation
- The Kids Are Alright
- I'm A Man
- I Can't Explain
- Bald Headed Woman
- Shout And Shimmy
- Instant Party Mixture
- Leaving Here
- Lubie (Come Back Home)
- (Love Is Like A) Heat Wave
- Motoring
Green Day
4/5
I should hate this. It's everything I've ever claimed to stand against in music: repetitive, simplistic, radio-friendly, and as long as I've heard Billy Joe Armstrong, I've hated that stupid fucking stuffy-nose voice.
But it was awesome.
All of those things above are true, but also if you turn the volume up to 11, I could win any fucking bar fight in the whole front range. Vibes.
Fave songs:
- Burnout
- Having a Blast
- Chump
- Longview
- Welcome to Paradise
- Basket Case
- She
- Coming Clean
- In the End
- F.O.D.
- All by Myself
Cee Lo Green
3/5
Lmao this was fun. 3 stars, fuck it. Fire work, Mr. Lo.
Fave songs:
- The Art Of Noise
- Living Again
- I'll Be Around
- I Am Selling Soul
- All Day Love Affair
- Glockappella
- Let's Stay Together
Funkadelic
4/5
Really really good -- for the life of me, I just can't understand why this album wouldn't be included on their discography on Spotify. Always makes these ones harder to listen to and keep track of, but even so, I can tell this is real special. Love me sum funk!
Harry Nilsson
5/5
Listening to "Gotta Get Up," I thought, ah Jesus what is this next half hour going to be.
And then the next half hour was Gas.
This feels like an album where he truly made whatever the fuck music he felt like he wanted to. And he just so happens to be great at all of it. Makes me want to make my own album. Name it Davis Schmavis. Put a photo of me in my boxer briefs on the cover. Little bit of bedhead. Teeth not brushed. But you know that music would be exceptional as fuck.
Fave songs:
- Driving Along
- Early in the Morning
- The Moonbeam
- Down
- Coconut (lmao. Why is this such a stellar vibe.)
- Jump Into The Fire
- I'll Never Leave You
Neil Young
2/5
Hm.
Honestly, I was expecting to really love Neil Young. Once upon a time, this sort of music (Crosby, Stills, & Nash; Buffalo Springfield; John Martyn) was all I would ever listen to. Maybe Neil Young is just the worst of the bunch to me? I mean, holy hell, that voice! I consider myself a progressive guy, but - grow a pair buddy! Hooooooly shit, do you ever stop whining! Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the lyrics (actually, I love them) and I appreciate the musicianship, but my god is he insufferable to listen to.
Fave songs:
- Don't Let It Bring You Down
- When You Dance I Can Really Love
The Adverts
3/5
This was good. Very solid punk album, and for me, it's a 7. I completely understand a lot of these other comments though -- unfortunately, it does kind of just blend in with the crowd (and it sure is a crowd) of other British punk bands.
Fave songs:
- One Chord Wonders
- New Church
- Newboys
- Gary Gilmore's Eyes
- Bombsite Boy
- No Time to be 21
- Safety in Numbers
- On Wheels
- Great British Mistake
Keith Jarrett
5/5
If I could play piano like this - no, if I could IMPROVISE on the piano like this - I would never, ever, ever stop playing.
Duran Duran
4/5
Well, this came out of nowhere. It looks like I can like 80s pop, if it's done right (done like this, that is). The hooks are spot on, basically zero songs overstay their welcome, and it manages to definitively stay within its niche without getting repetitive. I think the end of the album leaves something to be desired, but when the rest of it is this fun, I've gotta give credit where credit is due.
Thanks, Duran (Duran).
Sonic Youth
2/5
In general, I feel like this is sort of just noise for the sake of noise. That being said, there are a few moments where I think they pull even that off. Sonic Youth is sonically interesting, and while I wasn't a huge fan of this album, I am interested to see where they go later in their career.
Fucking awesome album cover tho.
Fave songs:
- Shadow of a Doubt
- Starpower
- Madonna, Sean, and Me
- Bubblegum
Jeff Buckley
5/5
One of my favorite albums, ever. And, subjectively, one of the greatest albums, ever.
Jeff was a once in a lifetime talent. His voice was beyond extraordinary, and to this day I don't think it's ever quite been matched. His effortless, balletic navigation of his Brobdingnagian vocal range; the raw emotion he miraculously injects into every syllable of his work; masterful songwriting, complete with covers that actually do something new and meaningful. Oh, and all of this was even stronger live.
I'm always struck by a lyric in Mojo Pin: "Born again from the rhythm / Screaming down from heaven". And he is. It shouldn't have been this way. His death was a fluke, a complete unlucky accident. I suppose all we can do is be grateful that he strove to accomplish as much as he did in his short life, and revisit his work every so often to let him be reborn -- and scream again.
The Louvin Brothers
3/5
Perfect example of an album that may not be one of the best-ever made, but certainly deserves a spot on this list. Unless you grew up in this era, music like this is probably nobody's favorite -- but it existed in such a big way, and it influenced so much down the road, that I think it would behoove anyone to give it a shot.
It's a super pleasant listen, albeit extraordinarily repetitive (how many songs are we gonna do in 3/4 exactly? About love and loss? With the same parallel harmonies?). Also, I can't say the Alabama and Kentucky love letters have aged particularly well. But, it was unique and I think important.
Fave songs:
- I'll Be All Smiles Tonight
- Let Her Go, God Bless Her
- What Is Home Without Love
- In The Pines
- My Brother's Will
Suicide
2/5
I won't sit here and say this is actually secretly a stellar album because "art, man." However, they did take a risk with it, and it was certainly ahead of its time, and lord knows I've never heard anything quite like it.
By my money, "Frankie Teardrop" is really why this album is on here, and probably what makes Suicide matter at all. I'm not going to say it's a good song, but it does make you stop in your tracks and listen -- which counts for something. It's haunting, disconcerting, and at times downright terrifying. A lot of musicians could probably never pull that off if they tried.
Fave songs:
Yeah, no.
Faust
2/5
Verdammt, diese deutschen Jungs haben einfach gemacht, worauf sie Bock hatten, scheißegal was, oder?
Still could not even begin to describe what the fuck krautrock is, even after a full listen.
Interesting enough though, certainly didn't hate it.
Dire Straits
4/5
Yet another classic in my family. This has always been an interesting album to me, seeing as it's filled with some basically perfect songs, and some real duds. But, at the end of the day, I'll always give it the benefit of the doubt. "So Far Away" is poignant and understated; "Money For Nothing" has the greatest song intro basically of all time, followed by 5 minutes of perfect satire; "Walk of Life" may be the most uplifting song ever; "Why Worry" is straight up beautiful.
Can't say I would relisten to the other songs here very often, but it's still a damn good album.
The Sabres Of Paradise
2/5
Another bizzarro pull. Went from thinking it should be a one to thinking it should be a four over the course of two songs.
Let's be real. This is some weird shit. And most of it does not land. That being said, there are at least three tracks here that had me driving with one hand on the wheel feeling like a G. So. I give it a two.
Fave songs:
- Planet D (Portishead Remix)
- Wilmot
- Tow Truck
- Theme
Pixies
4/5
At first I really wasn't sure, but boy did it grow on me. I feel as though with this album, I finally understand what exactly alt-rock, and punk rock are, as well as why they appeal. It gives voice to the fringe, unapologetic in its anthems of The Weird. You don't care about the world, and this music doesn't care about you. And there's a strange comfort in that.
Basically liked the whole album, maybe not Bone Machine or River Euphrates.
Public Enemy
4/5
Really, really strong, and undeniably a powerful album top to bottom. Not to mention, it's a ton of fun. Very cool to hear the OG spots that other artists sampled/imitated in the years to come. It has that quintessential early-hip-hop-DNA which is phenomenal, but I think it perhaps reached a more diverse/nuanced/enjoyable iteration in the years and groups to come (my own opinion). Either way, I loved this.
Supergrass
5/5
Woah man. I guess I...love britpop? The fuck?
There's something smack-dab perfect here for me. It's gritty and alternative while still emphasizing the musicianship needed for truly good music; it's aggressive, but it doesn't take itself too seriously; it rips along at a sprint, but takes some time to lean back as well. Supergrass, you have my love. A+ album cover also, it's weird and fucked up and kind of weirdly pretty.
Elton John
4/5
Elton John's work is so gaudy and dramatic to the point that a deep, dark piece of my soul can't help but always be pissed off. But, I probably need therapy, because there's no denying that the musicianship is off the charts. Even on a lyrically stupid-ass fucking song like "Indian Sunset," I found myself vibing to the music underneath. And, you gotta put some respect on the few blokes in rock who had the guts to shove a piano into the genre.
Fave songs:
- Tiny Dancer (duh)
- Levon
- Razor Face
- Madman Across The Water
- Rotten Peaches
Buck Owens
3/5
Is this something I would ever possibly listen to on my own if not for this project? No. No it is not. And frankly, I probably won't listen to it again.
That being said, there's no denying that music like this is permanently popular, and great swaths of America look back on this stuff with total nostalgia. Why? I think the lyrics are really timeless, and there's something enticing about a regular guy singing simple tunes about something as simple and ubiquitous as the Loss of Love. Beyond that, I suppose it's a country thing that I'll probably never understand (and maybe never want to).
Fave songs:
- I've Got a Tiger By the Tail
- Wham Bam
- If You Fall Out of Love With Me
- Fallin' for You
- We're Gonna Let the Good Times Roll
- Streets of Laredo
- A Maiden's Prayer
- Memphis
Kendrick Lamar
4/5
I don't think anyone can in good conscience say that Kendrick's not at the top of his game. Is this my favorite music to listen to? No. Is every single song perfect? Also no. But his lyricism is just unmatched, and this album woks extremely well as a full package. Perhaps this is bold to say, but I think hip hop today has devolved with a lot of modern rappers, opting to boast about the easy topics. An album like this is right down the line of the original mission statement -- music for social change, to bring light to the dark corners of our underserved communities.
Fave songs:
- Backseat Freestyle
- The Art of Peer Pressure
- good kid
- m.A.A.d city
- Real
- Compton
U2
4/5
I'm not totally sure why I wanted so badly to hate U2. I'm also not sure why I expected to. I had to really, REALLY fight my bias on this one. The reality is, these boys cooked here. Maybe it pisses me off because it has that 80s tendency to lean ever closer to radio-pop. But they're still talking about strong stuff, and the music itself really works.
So, I'm sorry, Bono. I would also apologize to the Edge, but Jesus fucking christ that's a stupid name, so, no.
Dagmar Krause
1/5
Lmfao. What the actual fuck.
I could get behind this if it was intended to be avant-garde opera. I can dig some Schönberg. But this isn't that. They're brief little nuggets of moderately atonal German crap. And by the way, Ms. Krause's voice is nothing to shake a stick at. No wonder you can't find this on Spotify. Jesus.
David Bowie
3/5
I just really don't get the Bowie hype. I think this album was fine. It seemed very normal to me for something from 1971; some hits, some duds, and a slightly-grating, high British tenor voice. Maybe the magic is in his later work, but I don't really see it here.
Fave songs:
- Changes
- Life on Mars?
- Quicksand
- Fill Your Heart
- Andy Warhol
Pixies
3/5
I may need to revisit this one. Frankly, I thought it was okay -- for whatever reason, the sort of eye-opening epiphany "Surfer Rosa" brought me just wasn't present here, and it just felt simpler, noisier, and less put together. I get the argument that they perfected alt-rock here, but maybe that's just not up my alley.
Not a final rating.
Fave songs:
- Tame
- I Bleed
- Here Comes Your Man
- Monkey Gone to Heaven
- La La Love You
- No 13 Baby
- Hey
There were some seriously great songs here, and some that just immediately faded away. Struggled a lot with whether to give this a 3 or a 4 -- I think it's sort of a generic 70s rock album, but I also feel like it's a pretty darn good 70s rock album. That said, I'm going with 3. There's just enough here that's decent at best.
Fave songs:
- Love Lives Here
- Stay with Me
- Debris
- Too Bad
Cheap Trick
4/5
Damn. Cheap Trick can rock pretty hard man. This is just some by-the-book quintessential Classic Rock, but I think a rather good example of it. Clearly Tokyo was creaming their pants over it, and in a way I was too. Memorable songs, quality musicianship, and a willingness to get lost in the sauce. Vibes.
Fave songs:
- Lookout
- Big Eyes
- Need Your Love
- Ain't That a Shame
- Surrender
- Clock Strikes Ten
Neil Young
1/5
"'You're all just pissin' in the wind. You don't know it, but you are.' And there ain't nothin' like a friend who can tell you you're just pissin' in the wind." What the actual fuck Neil
Listen, I liked three songs here. I also really didn't like five others. I'll admit, I've heard worse music in my life. But I just can't be fucked to look for whatever the hell it is in this album that makes people rate it well. I think Neil Young is whiny and sluggish, and this one did not help with that perception.
Fave songs:
- Walk On
- For the Turnstiles
- Motion Pictures (For Carrie)
Mylo
3/5
Honestly man? This was a major vibe. Certainly my favorite electronica to date. On the one hand, this is absolutely music that I could expect to hear playing in a Gap in some mall in a suburb. Then again, there were times I was seriously grooving. I’ll take that as a win.
Fave songs:
- Valley of the Dolls
- Sunworshipper
- Drop the Pressure
- Rikki
- Otto’s Journey
- Musclecar (Reform Reprise)
- Zenophile
- Need You Tonite
- Emotion 98.6
Thelonious Monk
4/5
Monk may not be my favorite jazz pianist of all time, but there’s no denying his mastery of the form. For some reason, there’s always just been something about his playing that doesn’t grip me and capture my attention like, say, Oscar Peterson or Keith Jarrett. That being said, this was a joy to listen to, and any record with Monk and Sonny is a damn good record in my book.
Fave songs:
- Brilliant Corners
- Ba-Lue Bolivar Ba-Lues-Are
- I Surrender Dear
- Bemsha Swing
Amy Winehouse
5/5
My junkie queen. As someone who loves older music, Amy's work is kind of a dream come true -- it's deeply influenced by it, while still making it modern, accessible, and just damn good. By my money, "Back To Black" is perhaps a little safer than "Frank," but I think this is a result of her finding her niche, and choosing to just stick in it and master it for one full album. It's extraordinary, and endlessly re-listenable.
Radiohead
5/5
My heart skipped a beat when this showed up. Radiohead is my favorite band of all time -- I think their musicianship is just entirely unmatched -- and having listened to their entire, winding discography (and loving basically all of it), Kid A is still one that stands apart and above most.
I would give my left nut to go back to Y2K and listen to the first few seconds of this album for the very first time. I imagine already being a fan: loving the alt-rock niche that they had perfected, loving Thom's strange but enticing lyrics, and loving most of all their willingness to push the boundaries. Ok Computer was an indie rock slam dunk. New Radiohead release? Awesome, I can't wait for more. But no. It's something completely, entirely new. It's electronic, it's dark, it's hypnotic, it's confusing, and yet it makes perfect sense.
"Everything In Its Right Place" is, without question in my mind, the greatest opening track on any album, ever. "The National Anthem" is scathingly political in a quietly terrifying way. "How to Disappear Completely" may be the most depressing song I can ever remember hearing, because of Radiohead's ability to give sound to that which has long thought been too dark. "Treefingers" is pure hypnosis, "Optimistic" is the most terrifyingly pessimistic song on the album, and the praise goes on and on.
It takes a lot of courage for a band to decide that their success is not enough, perhaps not even earned -- that there is more artistry to be discovered if they start from scratch, and dig deeper. So much courage in fact, that I can't even think of another band off the top of my head who did it. But Radiohead did. And they nailed it first try.
Herbie Hancock
5/5
One of the greatest jazz fusion records ever cut. Alongside "Bitches Brew" and "Heavy Weather," it's easy to see why this stuff took off. Watermelon Man is ridiculous, and yet it grooves so damn hard. Phenomenal.
Missy Elliott
2/5
You gotta put some respect on Missy. Ask anyone to rattle off as many female rappers from the 90s as they can -- who are they going to come up with? Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott...and the list ends? Brutal. She broke a lot of ground with this album, against a lot of odds.
All of that being said, I gotta be honest -- this is not the best hip-hop I've ever listened to. I think she really came in to her own a bit later in her career, and while this was a pivotal record, I don't necessarily think it's extraordinary. Sorry Ms. Misdemeanor.
Fave songs:
- Hit 'Em wit da Hee
- The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) (shoutout Ann Peebles!)
- Beep Me 911
- Pass da Blunt
- Friendly Skies
- Izzy Izzy Ahh
- Gettaway
Little Richard
4/5
Rock and roll patient zero. Not only is this a deeply important album, but it's also freakin good. Little Mr. Richard's got some pipes on him. Now, I can only listen to mostly-the-same 12-bar blues for so long, but luckily this little nugget only clocks in at like half an hour. 4 stars.
fIREHOSE
4/5
Completely out of left field. A pretty darn tidy rock record, and one I'll probably listen to a lot more. Maybe not the most musically incredible, but damn it I liked it. "The Softest Hammer" kind of sends this album out like a fart in the wind, but otherwise I think it's darn strong.
Brian Eno
3/5
The first ever example of true "ambient music," i.e. music that you're literally not supposed to listen to -- just put on in the background and forget about. This goes against everything I believe about music, but at the same time, this was utterly pioneering, and Brian Eno kind of perfectly accomplished what he was going for...? This would probably make me feel rather peachy in that hellish purgatory of LAX. But also, when the purpose of a piece of art is to ignore it, and it happens to be really good at making itself so forgettable and invisible that you inevitably ignore it...can we seriously call it great art? Maybe? Fucking hell.
Green Day
3/5
A really tough one to rate. On the one hand, it's clearly more complex and ambitious than "Dookie," and it's a well thought out, tight package. On the other, I kind of just...like it less? Maybe Green Day was just better suited for stupid fun pop-punk, and they really never needed to bother with trying to go deeper. Probably sacrilege for me to say, but it's how I feel at this point. I also think having seen the fucking god-awful stage musical version of this album didn't help me going into this.
Fave tracks:
- American Idiot
- Jesus of Suburbia
- Holiday / Boulevard of Broken Dreams
- Are We the Waiting / St. Jimmy
- Wake Me up When September Ends
- Whatsername
- Too Much Too Soon
- Shoplifter
- Governator
George Jones
2/5
A little too twangy for my taste. I can get behind country when it's truly gorgeous or historically significant, but this to me feels like neither -- sort of just run-of-the-mill farmhouse lovin'. I get the sense that a lot of people in America would probably call this album their favorite yet; I also get the sense that every single one of them would be the worst person you've ever met.
All I'm saying is, maybe there's a reason it's a country music stereotype to only ever sing about your wife walking out on you.
Fave songs:
- Pass Me By (If You're Only Passing Through)
- The Weatherman
- She Told Me So
Randy Newman
2/5
White man battles racism with scathing American South satire but can't help himself from dropping the hard R seven times in one song
The Beach Boys
3/5
I was really expecting to be floored by this -- but I wasn't? Don't get me wrong, it's certainly good, and I can understand why it's considered essential listening; I just found a lot of the tracks to fall seriously flat, and boy does it sure sound dated. I don't know. Not for me, I guess.
Fave tracks:
- Wouldn't It Be Nice
- That's Not Me
- Don't Talk (Put Your Head On My Shoulder)
- I'm Waiting For The Day
- Sloop John B
- God Only Knows
- Here Today
- I Just Wasn't Made For These Times
4/5
Damn. WAR can hang. Like probably everybody else here, I only knew "Low Rider" and "Why Can't We Be Friends;" both solid songs, mind you. But this album's a feast of groove, all a lot of fun to listen to -- somewhat funky, somewhat soulful, somewhat reggae, somewhat latin. Major vibes.
Stereolab
1/5
Took me an embarrassingly long time to realize some of these lyrics were in French.
I didn't hate this. Clearly, Stereolab were great at building soundscapes, and every single song starts with a fresh approach that's interesting and enticing. But then, they just sit there for 4 minutes, and do nothing. Every. Time.
I'm not the biggest fan of electronica anyway, but especially when it sits in this odd middle ground where it's not supposed to fade into the background, but it's not supposed to be captivating all the way through. I also feel like these melodies are just relentlessly weak, and when you pair all of that with lackluster vocals, what are we even listening to?
Fave tracks:
- Cybele's Reverie
- Spark Plug
- The Noise Of Carpet
Marilyn Manson
5/5
Wow, man. By far the most controversial album I've listened to so far, and it's not even sort of close.
There's so much to say about this guy, it's hard to know where to start, and it's even harder to know how to rate it. Turns out, Marilyn Manson was a pretty shitty guy. Wow. Shocker. But I'm going to separate the art from the artist for a bit.
At the end of the day, this thing was freakin one of a kind. He was writing music about things that no one - NO one - would ever think of touching. And he was loud, unapologetic, but most of all, wickedly intelligent about it. It's not brainless "hail Satan" shock-rock, even though every POS, spineless, white American politician tried to make that the narrative. It's something that challenges your thinking, your emotions, and your morals -- is that not the definition of art? Not to mention, this music rocks. Hard. And by the way, I don't think playing Grand Theft Auto and listening to a song a couple times are going to singlehandedly turn you into a national security risk.
So, I'm giving this album my most surprising 5 to date. Sue me. May Mr. Manson thoroughly enjoy his court-mandated community service.
Radiohead
4/5
Radiohead, I love you.
Realistically, this is probably the weakest RH album of the ones that have been included on this list. Even still, it's a 4. They're just that good, man.
How extraordinary is it that a group of extras from the Kid A sessions, wisely deemed inappropriate for that album, could be smacked together in a release of their own and STILL be a certified platinum masterpiece? Fuck me man, these guys were incredible. And no, it's not perfect: it does feel less cohesive, there are a couple duds, and the energy never quite builds like you'd want it to. But it's intelligent, haunting, depressing, and downright good music. Thom Yorke, have my babies.
Fave tracks:
- Packd Like Sardines In a Crushd Tin Box
- Pyramid Song
- Pulk/Pull Revolving Doors
- You And Whose Army?
- I Might Be Wrong
- Dollars and Cents
- Life In a Glasshouse
LTJ Bukem
3/5
I was reeeeeeeeally tempted to slap a one star rating on this puppy and look the other way. Two hours long, not on Spotify, all obscure electronica. Fuck me.
But, in actuality, it kind of bangs. Yes, it's boring. Yes, it's basically just beats after beats after beats. But it's also kind of a mindless vibe, and in a weird way, the absolute best music I've ever had for running.
In conclusion, I would play it at the gym, and I'd play it on any run, except actually I never will because I'm not sitting through those YouTube ads.
Terence Trent D'Arby
2/5
Holy 80s!
This is not soul, and it is not rock. It is 80s pop. And that's okay! Except actually it's not. Damn, I don't like this music.
He has a nice voice and there are certainly some hits here, but woof man, this was a pretty lackluster listen.
Fave tracks:
- If You Let Me Stay
- Wishing Well
- Dance Little Sister
- Seven More Days
- As Yet Untitled
Arcade Fire
2/5
I enjoyed listening to this, but...I don't know man. There's something simultaneously overblown and overly simple about Arcade Fire's music, not to mention pretentious. It's a good listen, but not something I find myself drooling over.
Fave tracks:
- Keep the Car Running
- Windowsill
- My Body Is a Cage
Bob Dylan
4/5
Bob Dylan, goddamn you. It's no secret that I hate this man's stupid, music-less, grating voice. But I really tried this time around to listen to his lyrics, to push past the pain and appreciate why everyone seems to love him.
And unfortunately it worked.
When you really tune in to the stories he weaves in his songs, it makes you hyper aware of just how shitty most other lyrics are. His work really is deep and thoughtful, and this album in particular ties that to some pretty pleasant music underneath it. So, it works for me.
I still hate your voice. I still hate the way you play that fucking harmonica. I now hate that you've made me realize how banal regular song lyrics are. But I have to hand this one to you. Cheers, Bobby.
Billy Bragg
4/5
Really, really nice. Feel-good music from top to bottom, and such a unique project too. It really wouldn't be the same without the contributions from Wilco, Bragg, Guthrie, or even Ms. Merchant -- what a wonderful thing to have the strength in a collaboration come from the collaboration itself.
Joni Mitchell
5/5
I've loved this album for a long time, and it was a real treat to get to listen to it again today. Something about hearing those lone dulcimer licks...it's like I can feel my heart wringing. It's just so earnest, and raw, and beautiful. All of it. Even just reading these lyrics makes me want to cry, it's such beautiful poetry. Add to that her flawless vocals, and it's a perfect package. To be honest, I don't much care for "My Old Man" or "The Last Time I Saw Richard"...but I'll give Joni a pass.
David Bowie
1/5
Was it the effort of pushing this constipated turd out that killed David Bowie in the end?
Sorry. In poor taste.
I hate this album.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
Really really pleasant. Not usually a shoegaze/dreampop kind of guy, but they do it very well here (probably because they were some of the first to do it), and it made for a great meditative driving experience. At the end of the day it's still a pretty simple record, but I was not upset at spending 36 minutes this way.
Fave tracks:
- Darklands
- Happy When it Rains
- Down on Me
- April Skies
- About You
Adele
3/5
Definitely liked this more than 25. God damn, this girl can sing. And BTW, all of this music came from someone who just learned how to drink alcohol. What the fuck.
But, it's still pop. And I still despise it. And listen, maybe if these songs weren't played 6 billion times on the radio and in movies and in reels and in fucking Old Navy, maybe I'd like them more. But actually, maybe not. Because that exact flavor that allows these songs to be so damn popular is what makes them taste so, so bland to me.
That being said, I seriously liked a couple here. Particularly the groovier, riskier ones. 3. Best I can do.
Fave tracks:
- Rumour Has It
- Don't You Remember
- He Won't Go
- I'll Be Waiting
- Lovesong
Portishead
4/5
Oh, Portishead. You wacky fucks. You can crash my party anytime.
Hypnotic, sparse, heavy, plodding, and cool as hell. A little repetitive, but that's the nature of this genre. I'm sticking Dummy right up my Glory Box.
The Strokes
2/5
It's...alright? Reeeeeally don't get why this is so well regarded. Extremely simple, repetitive, and at times, grating. I even tried to focus on the lyrics, thinking that must be the appeal -- but the mixing is such that it's almost always incomprehensible. I don't know. Not for me, I guess.
Fave tracks:
- Someday
- Alone, Together
- When It Started
- Trying Your Luck
- Take It Or Leave It
Sarah Vaughan
5/5
Phenomenal. One of the greatest jazz singers ever, period. It's so enchanting to hear a true live performance like this, where things aren't completely flawless, but you get to hear a master adapt and work around everything in real time. She was infinitely charming and brilliant. What a joy.
4/5
Lowkey fire. Why do people dog on this? For electronica, it's actually quite varied and interesting to listen to; not to mention sultry and cool. Suba can hang.
Pulp
3/5
I hated it. Then it grew on me. Then it lost me again.
This was a pretty fun listen - there's almost a sort of wack-a-doo Rocky Horror vibe going on here that can be pretty interesting, and at times it's just straight up hilarious. But at the end of the day, it's plain weird, man. Weird fuckin album.
Fave tracks:
- Common People
- I Spy
- Disco 2000
- Live Bed Show
- Something Changed
- F.E.E.L.I.N.G.C.A.L.L.E.D.L.O.V.E.
Morrissey
2/5
This was...fine? Cool, he's moody and political. Okay? Maybe I need to listen to more of The Smiths.
Fave tracks:
- Everyday Is Like Sunday
- Suedehead
- Dial-a-Cliché
- Margaret on the Guillotine (lmao)
Stephen Stills
4/5
Yet another album that a small and annoying Brian would have totally crushed. I still really enjoy this today -- sonically beautiful with some truly masterful guitar work. Way the fuck better than Neil Young's solo crap. Fight me.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
Honestly? I didn't mind this at all. I think a lot of the critical comments here are pretty accurate -- it can certainly feel like an effects pedal presentation, and at times pretty nonsensical. But it's sonically really cool, and overall a perfectly fine listen. I think realistically it's a 5/10 for me, but I'm rounding up here.
Fave tracks:
- she found now
- who sees you
- new you
Beatles
3/5
First Beatles album of the 6,000 on this list. I can't even complain though. You'd be hard pressed to make any sort of reasonable argument that there was any group, ever, that had as big of an impact on music.
Now, this album in particular is pretty vanilla, and while you can see the glimmers of what they were capable of, it's mostly a run-of-the-mill 60s boy band record (albeit, they kind of invented/perfected it). It's good, but not great, and some of the covers are questionable. Looking forward to the next though.
Fave tracks:
- It Won't Be Long
- All My Loving
- Don't Bother Me
- Till There Was You
- Please Mister Postman
- Devil In Her Heart
- Money (That's What I Want)
Stan Getz
5/5
Flawless. I can understand the critique that it sort of blends together and fades into the background. But if you pay attention and keep that from happening, what you're treated to is a top-to-bottom grand slam of beautiful, subtle, exceptional jazz. Also, Astrud Gilberto is probably what angels sound like.
SAULT
4/5
Pretty extraordinary. Part trip hop, part spoken-word poetry, entirely beautiful. This almost leaves the realm of music and feels more like an art installation -- it isn't so much necessary listening for music's sake as it is for culture's sake. A touching and thought provoking contribution to the BLM movement in 2020. Really beautiful.
Fats Domino
3/5
I'm cheating. Can't find this album for the life of me, so I just listened to "Fats Domino Swings." All of these songs are basically the same anyway. Still great, though. It's simple but wildly influential, and this ole' boy could play a damn tune. Fats smacks. Cool cat Fats. Fats Cats. Swingin' a bat, Mr. Fats wit da Hats? Alright.
The Libertines
2/5
This feels very uninteresting to me. Sort of completely blends in with literally everything else. Super simple, super homogenous, super British. Thought there would be something special here due to their troubled relationship. Nope. It's completely vanilla. Jesus.
Fave tracks:
- Don't Be Shy
- The Man Who Would Be King
- Narcissist
- The Saga
- What Became of the Likely Lads
Girls Against Boys
4/5
I disagree with this kind of stuff being written away as "noise rock." I think that music exists, and I don't think this is it. There's enough melody here for it to certainly qualify as something above "noise," and I think it leans closer to punk, or maybe metal. Which I fuck with. I feel particularly cool walking around listening to this album. Also because it's so niche. This is a win for me. Maybe I end up dropping this later, but for now it's a 4.
Fave tracks:
- In Like Flynn
- Go Be Delighted
- Rockets Are Red
- Learned It
- Get Down
- 7 Seas
- Billy's One Stop
Snoop Dogg
4/5
Everyone needs to get the fuck over themselves about the lyrics on this album. It's 90s rap bro. That's like the whole point. And damn I felt like a sly motherfucker riding the train and listening to this. "Ain't No Fun" is pretty egregious, I won't lie. But whatever man. Oh by the way, please don't forget about my homie Easy Dick and The Jackoff Hour. It's happening at 12 o'clock tonight.
Eminem
3/5
There's...so much to unpack here, it's actually ridiculous. And unfortunately I don't really have the time or patience to get to all of it. There's no denying Eminem is a master of the form. He touches on so many interesting questions on this LP, about his place in the industry as a white guy, about the power words hold (or not), and within all of it is a ton of genuinely funny satire. For me, the actual sound of the music is pretty trash, so that drops it a lot. I also feel like at times, it's genius, and at times, it's perhaps too on the nose. What do I know. I'm giving it a three.
Fave tracks:
- Who Knew
- The Way I Am
- The Real Slim Shady
- Marshall Mathers
- Kim
Nas
5/5
Third hip-hop album in a row! And it's this one. Hooooooly mother Mary.
Just about the greatest hip-hop album I've ever listened to, save for maybe The Low End Theory. A dark, gritty, raw portrayal of NYC in the 90s. It's personal, it's depressing, and it's proud. What a masterpiece.
Travis
3/5
This was really, really pleasant to listen to -- but, I'm realizing that that's sort of the point. Sort of a more mass-appealing Radiohead vibe, which I guess is why I like it -- but, thinking about it more, I don't know if there's enough going on here to rate it much higher. Superb vocals, though.
Fave tracks:
- Writing To Reach You
- The Fear
- As You Are
- Turn
- Why Does It Always Rain On Me?
- Luv
- She's So Strange
Van Halen
4/5
I've always been biased toward this music because I grew up listening to it with my mom. There's something stupidly fun about these glam-rock/hair-metal groups, and the nostalgia certainly helps. I'm not going to sit here and say that this is the most genius songwriting ever, or even that this album is particularly exceptional -- but damn it all this is fun, and Alex can play the fuck out of those drums, and Eddie can play the living fucking daylight out of that guitar. And, other than that"I'll Wait," there are basically no misses. Four stars.
The Replacements
3/5
I really liked this, but I feel like it's just a little too hit or miss for a stronger rating. I like the sort of post-punk/Green Day/rocker vibe going on here, but it's not super...consistent? Which isn't a bad thing, per se. I don't know. The musicianship comes and goes, and when it's here, it's solid. Again, I liked this.
Fave tracks:
- I Will Dare
- We're Comin' Out
- Androgynous
- Black Diamond
- Unsatisfied
- Gary's Got a Boner
- Sixteen Blue
Steve Winwood
2/5
I can dig some 80s cheese every once in a while, and I honestly enjoyed most of this album. Sort of a less-complex, overall-worse Phil Collins vibe. And you gotta put some respect on an artist who plays all the instruments you're hearing on the recording. But, I can only rock with synth-drums for so long, and once again I find myself just wishing I were listening to Genesis instead.
Fave tracks:
- While You See A Chance
- Arc Of A Diver
- Spanish Dancer
- Night Train
Wu-Tang Clan
4/5
Clearly this is an incredible album, and I really did enjoy it. For some reason though, it just...doesn't quite do it for me like some other hip-hop records. I don't know. Maybe I'm just not the biggest fan of the flow here, and also musically it feels a bit more repetitive -- probably a by-product of it's positioning near the beginning of hip-hop as an art form, but still. I've tried for a while to really get into Wu-Tang and I just never quite seem to be able to.
Fave tracks:
- Bring Da Ruckus
- Wu-Tang: 7th Chamber
- Can It Be All So Simple
- Da Mystery of Chessboxin'
- C.R.E.A.M. (Cash Rules Everything Around Me)
- Method Man
- Protect Ya Neck
The Pogues
1/5
Jesus Christ man. Maybe I would like this if I was listening to it live at a renaissance faire. Or at a pub. And actually, I probably would like it then. But not while I'm just trying to cook some fucking eggs, or drive to Aldi. Christ this was long. Weirdly I am glad I listened to this, because man is it unique. Just sort of unique in a bad way. Yarr. By the way, Guinness sucks.
Fave tracks:
- Metropolis
- Fiesta
The Jesus And Mary Chain
1/5
Most people seem to say that this was the birthplace of shoegaze -- personally, this feels more like the genesis of a new genre: lazy-fucking-crap-punk
Goddamn man. I liked Darklands. This is just not it. I don't get the appeal; noisy, painful, and confusing.
Fave tracks:
- Just Like Honey
- Cut Dead
G. Love & Special Sauce
5/5
Hoooooly Jesus I G. Loved the crap out of this. Apparently I'm in the minority here but gah damn this dude can groove. I get that it's kind of "lazy" feeling, but I think it contributes to an aesthetic that really works for me. Rebel Without A Cause type beat. As a big Beck fan, this is kind of giving a more musically-inclined Beck. What's not to love. I will say, the album ever so slightly overstays its welcome and those last two songs aren't the greatest thing since sliced bread; but who cares. I dig the special sauce. Indeed I do.
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
Like probably everyone else here, I knew "Somebody to Love," "White Rabbit," and "Embryonic Journey" heading into this listen. Already, three completely unique and distinct hits that all deserve to be popular. Turns out the rest of the album is more of the same theme. I think the age kind of shows, and obviously psychedelic rock/true hippie music isn't going to be "in" forever. But, it's sure an iconic album, and overall it's musically super strong.
Fave tracks:
- She Has Funny Cars
- Somebody to Love
- My Best Friend
- Today
- 3/5 of a Mile in 10 Seconds
- How Do You Feel
- Embryonic Journey
- White Rabbit
- In The Morning
- J.P.P.Mc Step B. Blues
- Go To Her
Pavement
5/5
I really fucking loved this man. For the most part I was pretty solidly at a 4 while listening -- a perfect example of true indie-rock, and sort of that early Radiohead vibe that I just adore. And then they hit us with "5-4=Unity." Suddenly, this isn't just another indie album. Suddenly, they're trying something interesting and musically different. And it may not be the best song ever, but it's certainly cool as hell. Hence the five star rating: a slam-dunk indie-rock record with a little seasoning to push it above the crowd.
Not a huge fan of "Heaven Is a Truck" or "Hit the Plane Down," but I'm giving it a pass.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
3/5
Pretty incredibly generic. I've got nothing bad to say about Mr. Petty and his band of lusty gentlemen. I've also got nothing particularly great to say either. This album came and went like a sneeze. Kinda fun while it's happening. Immediately disappears from memory.
Fave tracks:
- Rockin' Around (With You)
- Breakdown
- Strangered In The Night
- Fooled Again (I Don't Like It)
- Luna
- American Girl
The Shamen
1/5
What did I gain from this? What did I learn? Did I grow, did I hear, did I feel something new? Did I dream? Did I laugh? Did I cry?
No. I sat in Chicago traffic for an hour listening to a fucking Logic preset. I don't even think this was pioneering work according to anyone that matters. Don't get me wrong, this was perfectly listenable. But what the fuck are we doing here?
Yes
4/5
Honestly a great first prog rock album for people to "try out." There are flavors of Genesis, Rush, and even Pink Floyd in here, as well as enough uniqueness in Yes themselves that makes this a real treat (IMO) to listen to. I can acknowledge that there are better prog albums out there, so I don't think I can realistically give this a 5, but it's a damn solid 4.
Hawkwind
1/5
I am reviewing this album two weeks after it was generated for me. Not because it took me that long to formulate my thoughts, or because it impacted me in any meaningful way. Simply because this motherfucking rhino-turd is 2 hours and 12 minutes long, and every single second of it is a bloated, meaningless, boring crap fest. I mean seriously, what the fuck was this like live? 58 middle aged dudes with body odor standing motionless drinking porters and burping? This is so repetitive and pointless it's almost hilarious. The one good thing I can say about this album is that it's got some freaking awesome cover art. Boy was I disappointed to discover that it doesn't earn the design at all. Fuck you, Space Ritual.
Joan Armatrading
5/5
Fuck it, I loved this. Kind of can't believe I hadn't heard of this, especially back when I really used to be into this sort of singer-songwriter kind of music. On top of that, it's damn soulful, and her voice is absolutely stellar -deep, sultry, and versatile. The ballads drag for me - and actually, I kind of don't care for them at all. But everything else is so good, I kind of don't care??
Fave tracks:
- Down To Zero
- Help Yourself
- Water With The Wine
- Join The Boys
- People
- Somebody Who Loves You
- Like Fire
- Tall In The Saddle
Beck
3/5
I love Beck. But this is probably my least favorite of the ones on here, and by a wider margin than I remembered. I get why people don't like his music. But the things people criticize him for generally work for me; the sort of "fuck it, throw the kitchen sink in too" approach to music. It's fun, comical, and for the most part, bangs real hard. I just think he does it better in Guero. Also is he a scientologist??
Fave tracks:
- Devils Haircut
- Hotwax
- Lord Only Knows
- The New Pollution
- Novacane
- Jack-Ass
- Where It's At
- Sissyneck
- Readymade
- Ramshackle
Buena Vista Social Club
4/5
So pleasant to listen to. Makes for just about the best album to put on while cooking that I've had in a long time. I don't know that I can give this a five - just not quite enough variety here - but this is pretty wonderful.
Dire Straits
5/5
My god, Dire Straits are fucking solid. I've always known and really enjoyed "Brothers In Arms," and even though several of those songs are damn near perfect, there are some funky misses as well. Not the case here. Back-to-back-to-back hits; phenomenal songwriting, smart lyrics, and some of the best fucking guitar playing I've ever heard on an album. I mean - Jesus! Tasteful, effortless, and always connected to the music around it. This was wonderful.
Julian Cope
4/5
Fuck it man I liked this!! This strikes me as a situation where this guy just made whatever the hell he wanted to, regardless of what would sell or be popular. So, yeah, it's weird as fuck. The transition from "Beautiful Love" to "Western Front 1992 C.E." is like getting flash-banged in the Disneyland parking lot. And some of these songs absolutely do not work. But a lot of them really, really do. It's interesting, artistic, and a lot of times, really really cool.
Fave tracks:
- Double Vegetation
- East Easy Rider
- If You Loved Me At All
- Soldier Blue
- Head
- Hung Up And Hanging Out To Dry
- The American Lite
- Las Vegas Basement
The Temptations
3/5
I expected to absolutely love this, and for the most part I did really enjoy it. But boy does it take a dive about 4 songs in. We start with "Cloud Nine," and immediately know that we're in for a record with something to SAY. "Runaway Child, Running Wild" is the absolute winner of the album to me, no questions asked; it's gritty, powerful, and plain good music to boot. I figured the album would keep pushing it with more political commentary, but -- no! That's it! From then on, we just get happy-go-lucky radio hits. Now, don't get me wrong, I like them. The Temptations are hard to dislike, and they do the cheese very well. But they just don't grip me.
Fave tracks:
- Cloud Nine
- I Heard It Through The Grapevine
- Runaway Child, Running Wild
- Don't Let Him Take Your Love From Me
- I Gotta Find A Way (To Get You Back)
- Gonna Keep On Tryin' Till I Win Your Love
Alice Cooper
3/5
Pretty fine. Props to Alice Cooper for writing something a bit more complex than the rest of the glam-rock scene surrounding him. Points taken for writing something not half as good as the classic rock scene around him.
Fave tracks:
- Billion Dollar Babies
- Unfinished Sweet
- No More Mr. Nice Guy
- Generation Landslide
Ian Dury
2/5
At first I actually vibed with this, but man did it sour on me. I think bro is the most British-sounding British person I've ever heard in my life. You don't have do all that, man.
Fave tracks:
- Wake up and Make Love with Me
- Sweet Gene Vincent
- Blackmail Man
- Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll
Frank Ocean
3/5
Frank Ocean has always been one of those musicians whose name comes up from every single fucking person my age when you ask them who they listen to (alongside Daniel Caesar). I guess I've always avoided him because I'm a prick who doesn't like being mainstream -- but also because every time I've tried, it just feels too...generic, maybe? A touch lazy? Regardless, I'm glad this list made me listen to the full thing here, because it really is an admirable album. I still sort of feel the way I always had, but there are also some great songs here, some decent grooves, and solid lyricism.
Fave tracks:
- Sweet Life
- Super Rich Kids
- Crack Rock
- Lost
- Monks
- Bad Religion
Isaac Hayes
2/5
Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed this. But at the end of the day, it's still a movie soundtrack, and it's intentionally written to be in the background; the repetition makes that clear. When it's loud and funky, boy does it smack, but when it's obviously behind character dialogue...why listen to it? And, I don't mind the 70s theatricality, but it can get to be a bit much. Total "Pippin" vibes at points, and the music in that show (a classic!) feels dated to me too.
Fave tracks:
- Theme From Shaft
- Ellie's Love Theme
- Café Regio's
- Early Sunday Morning
- Soulsville
- No Name Bar
- Bumpy's Blues
Sade
4/5
Nuthin' but sax and sex on this LP, baby. Sade can hang. 80s as hell, but this time it works for me. Maybe I can rock with pop when you stir some R&B in there too.
Echo And The Bunnymen
2/5
Ah, more post punk. Another album with the perfect mix of punk's distaste for decent vocals and pop's distaste for interesting songwriting. This felt totally devoid of everything to me. Completely mediocre, start to finish. Am I missing something here?
Fave track:
- Rescue
Frank Zappa
5/5
Woah. This is right up my alley. Rock with the backbone of jazz? Jazz that rocks? Hoooooooly Toledo. Obviously I've always known the name Frank Zappa, but little did I know that this guy would probably make for my perfect next musical obsession. This is very, very, very cool. Intelligent, diverse, and solid all around. Looks like I have a lot more listening to do.
Jean-Michel Jarre
2/5
French electronica. Boof.
Listen. I don't like this. This is not for me. But I feel I must give credit where credit is due. Could I make something like this? Not even just technically, but musically? No. In fact, I wouldn't even know where to start. And that's in today's world, with today's resources -- not in fucking 1976. So while I am tempted to flip the ole' bird to mister Jean-Michel Jarre, unfortunately it's just not that simple. Also, parts 4 and 5 did kind of bang.
Still 2 stars.
Hole
5/5
Extraordinary. What exactly do you call this? Grunge? Alt rock? Riot grrl punk? Whatever it is, it's spewing with hate and vindictiveness and it's absolutely fucking rad. "I'm eating you. I'm overfed. Your milk's in my mouth. It makes me sick." DAMN GIRL
By the way, Courtney Love can sang. A monstrous performance top to bottom, in the best way.
The Who
3/5
One thing's for sure: The Who knows how to rock. I feel like this isn't the most interesting or particularly gripping album, and the fact that it's live (and perhaps a little bit rough around the edges) doesn't help. But at the end of the day, it's a lot of fun, and the musicianship is there. The freaking 11 minute jam on My Generation is proof enough of that.
Fave tracks:
- Fortune Teller
- Young Man Blues
- Summertime Blues
- Shakin' All Over
- Magic Bus
Saint Etienne
3/5
Trip hop is always a strange genre for me; in the moment I generally love it, and totally groove. But, revisiting it later, it always seems less intelligent. I don't know. Basically I enjoyed this until I didn't. Not a bad album. Very artsy.
Fave tracks:
- Only Love Can Break Your Heart
- Carnt Sleep
- Girl VII
- Spring
- Nothing Can Stop
- Kiss and Make Up
- Like the Swallow
The Who
3/5
Realistically, I just don't understand this. I feel like it's probably good -- maybe even fantastic -- but the story went completely over my head, and none of the music is particularly enjoyable on its own. If I gave this a lot more time, energy, and relistens, maybe this would shoot up a lot for me. But that's just not happening.
Fave track:
- Pinball Wizard
The Stooges
2/5
Frankly, I thought this was pretty lame. I get that it's important in that sort of "proto-punk" way; but also I feel like that just means they tried to make a rock album, discovered it was a little too hard for them, and ended up with something simpler and stupider that people retroactively deemed "punk." Woof. Brutal review today. Sorry, Stooges.
Fave tracks:
- 1969
- I Wanna Be Your Dog
The Stooges
4/5
Will be listening to both mixes and going with the highest rating between the two.
BOWIE MIX: Boy, this is a great album. NOW I see why people like The Stooges. Heavy, angry, and musical. I do think it fades a bit in the end, and I can understand people's issues with the Bowie mix -- it certainly makes Raw Power less raw.
IGGY MIX: Okay so, turns out there isn't as much of a difference as I thought. I see the arguments for both sides: one is more musical, one is more visceral; one is less exciting, the other is less listen-able. I think they're both good. I probably prefer this version of "Search and Destroy."
Fave tracks:
- Search and Destroy
- Gimme Danger
- Your Pretty Face Is Going to Hell
- Penetration
- I Need Somebody
Björk
3/5
Björk, you are one wacky son of a gun. Can I realistically say that I "liked" this? I don't know. But this is an extraordinarily bold and inventive album, and it's hard to challenge her musical prowess after a couple listens.
Fave tracks:
- Where Is the Line
- Who Is It (Carry My Joy on the Left, Carry My Pain on the Right)
- Desired Constellation
- Oceania
- Triumph of a Heart
Common
3/5
I don't quite know why -- but I didn't love this. Don't get me wrong, the material is phenomenal and a breath of fresh air, and it's by no means a bad record. I guess maybe it just feels a bit stale, or sedated, or something. Or maybe it's just a little too hopeful to grip me, which I guess is something for me to get into in therapy.
Fave tracks:
- Be (Intro)
- The Corner
- GO!
- Testify
- Chi-City
- Real People
- They Say
- It's Your World - Part 1 & 2
Miles Davis
5/5
I can't even say the number of times I've listened to this album, both for jazz education and pure enjoyment. I can sing all of Miles' solo on "So What" right along with him. The piano accents on "Freddie Freeloader" were some of the earlier accompaniment licks I learned. And there have been many insufferable times where I tell people, "there's a real argument here that this is the greatest album of all time."
Okay, hotshot. What's that fucking argument?
In a sad but understandable commonly held view, basically everyone hates jazz. Now, I think this is a pretty stupid view, but it's real. People think it sounds like a mess of noise, that it's confusing, and the fact that there generally aren't lyrics to ground you doesn't necessarily help. But here, those problems are mostly solved. Because it's modal, the chords aren't flying all around. It's stable. The solos are slower, more intentional -- without turning into sleepy background noise. It's a perfect spot, right in the middle: gentle and tame without ever losing your attention. I think that's why it's the greatest -- it's the zenith level of musicianship needed to make jazz music in the first place, on full display; and he somehow managed to pack it up and make it palatable to the masses.
Add to that the prowess of Coltrane, Adderley, Evans, Chambers and Cobb, and it's hard to challenge this record's place at the top. There is simply no one else like Miles Davis.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
ARETHA. MUTHA. FUCKING. FRANKLIN. THE GOD DAMN QUEEN OF BLUES AND THE MATRON SAINT OF SOUL. LORD HELP ME CUZ FOR THE FUCKIN LIFE OF ME I CAN'T WIPE THIS STANK FACE OFF MY FUCKIN MOUTH
Hugh Masekela
5/5
Wow man. An exceptional jazz album, top to bottom. Can't believe I don't hear this name spoken more often when discussing the genre. Maybe it's not the most complex playing out there, but boy is it wonderful to listen to.
Various Artists
3/5
Alright, so clearly this generator is manipulated just a little bit -- and thank god for that, because I certainly don't want to listen to this album any other day of the year. That being said, this is a super pleasant Christmas record; lots of nostalgia, lots of Christmas cheer at its finest. And at first, listening to the Silent Night finale, I was like: "damn. How nice is that? You don't see that nowadays -- just a sweet ole producer thanking you for listening. Nice one Phil Spector."
Turns out Mr. Spector shot a gal in the fucking mouth. Jesus Fucking Christ.
Fela Kuti
4/5
Very, very cool. Political activist African jazz-rock? I'm in. The songs are a bit on the repetitive side by my money, but it's still a powerful and surprisingly fun listen.
Fave track:
- Zombie
Miles Davis
5/5
Here, we listen to Mr. Miles Davis invent fusion, ambient music, and probably a couple other things too. We are not surprised, because he's also previously invented cool jazz. And modal jazz. And...
Utterly transfixing with, yet again, a top-to-bottom hall of fame octet that brings it all together. This album is relentlessly, hypnotically, incredibly, beautiful.
Beck
5/5
Welp, it's my favorite scientologist. I've always loved this album, and a re-listen confirms it. I know the lazy-style isn't for everyone, but it is for me, and I think he's at his strongest "quintessential Beck" on this album (not even necessarily my favorite of his, though). He has a way of making nonsense seem really, really fucking cool. And when it's no longer nonsense, boy does it hit you like a ton of bricks (see: "Missing," and "Broken Drum").
Fave tracks:
- Que' Onda Guero
- Girl
- Missing
- Earthquake Weather
- Broken Drum
- Scarecrow
- Go It Alone
- Farewell Ride
- Rental Car
- Emergency Exit
The Flaming Lips
3/5
I had HUGE expectations heading into this listen -- I feel like this album has become somewhat of a cult classic. I liked it. But I guess I don't understand all of the hype. All of the electronic sound effects take a toll after a while, and for as creative as it is, it sort of blends together in my mind. The lyrics are fantastic, I'm not a huge fan of the vocals, but at the end of the day, I think it's just a generally good collection. That's (surprisingly) about all I have to say.
Fave tracks:
- Fight Test
- Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pt. 2
- In the Morning of the Magicians
- Are You a Hypnotist??
- It's Summertime
- Do You Realize??
- Approaching Pavonis Mons by Balloon (Utopia Planitia)
The Police
4/5
Against all odds, I'm giving this album a 4. I don't like new wave and I don't like reggae, and this is a Police album literally called "white reggae." Maybe I'm growing up.
Frankly, this was a lot of fun and super easy to listen to. I drastically prefer this over Synchronicity.
Fave tracks:
- Message In A Bottle
- Regatta De Blanc
- It's Alright For You
- Deathwish
- Walking On The Moon
- On Any Other Day
- Contact
- No Time This Time
Bebel Gilberto
4/5
Well, this was just plain beautiful. Perfect music to set and forget, and if you actually tune in, you'll find that it's still interesting and strong. Phenomenal.
M.I.A.
2/5
Just not for me. To be honest, I'm a little shocked that M.I.A. has so many monthly listeners. But then, maybe I'm not surprised. This was pretty unique and interesting, but not something I'll be returning to often.
Fave tracks:
- Pull Up the People
- Bingo
- Hombre
- U.R.A.Q.T.
- Galang
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
Although I am a little surprised by the sheer number of Elvis Costello albums on this list, the songwriting is solid enough that I guess it makes sense to me. Like every other EC album, I feel like it's exactly a 7: pretty darn good, nothing overly special.
Fave tracks:
- This Year's Girl
- The Beat
- Pump It Up
- Little Triggers
- You Belong To Me
- Hand In Hand
- Lip Service
- Living In Paradise
- Lipstick Vogue
- Radio, Radio
Afrika Bambaataa
3/5
So, this was goofy as fuck. But it grew on me. Even though by today's standards, it has kind of a "Ross Geller with a Casio" vibe, I just know it was massive back in '86. This is by no means hard-hitting hip-hop, and not something you'd throw on just for fun-sies. But it's absolutely something you should listen to before you die. I lost count of the number of moments I've heard other rappers quote from this thing, or even just from pop culture in general.
Fave tracks:
- Renegades Of Funk
- Frantic Situation
- Who You Funkin' With?
- They Made A Mistake
Beatles
5/5
A monumental accomplishment. I've always known The Beatles put out great music, but this album is almost hilariously perfect. Abbey Road has both slam-dunk radio singles, and a 14 minute super-medley; both heartwarming tear-jerkers, and gritty, lustful rock. I mean, on "Oh! Darling" alone, they basically predict every Led Zeppelin song ever. And that's a legendary fucking band! And this came out in 1969!
Every single one of these lads was at the top of his game. Lennon's "I Want You" ends with the most arresting cut I've ever heard. McCartney's songwriting and playing is generational. Harrison writes the Beatles' most famous song. And Ringo is more than just a hatrack.
Now I get it. Jesus, fucking, Christ.
The Allman Brothers Band
4/5
This was a lot of fun, and I'm a big fan of the whole concept of a "jam band." Overall, this is a solid showing of it, although I do feel like a lot of the guitar solos kind of fall flat/maybe aren't the most brilliant. Still love these fellas though.
Maxwell
3/5
Maxwell. Dad to many, Daddy to all. Who knew porn could sound this good.
Fave tracks:
- The Urban Theme
- Welcome
- Ascension
- Dancewitme
- Whenever Wherever Whatever
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
2/5
This has nothing at all in relation to blues music. Dang it.
On the real, several of these songs were actually kind of a hearty, angry, vibe. Can't say that it's necessarily good music, though.
Fave tracks:
- Wail
- Fuck Shit Up
- Dynamite Lover
- Hot Shit
- Can't Stop
- Firefly Child
- R.L. Got Soul
Bert Jansch
4/5
Pretty lovely. Great lyricism, expert guitar playing, smart songwriting. It's perhaps a little dull and a little repetitive, but at the end of the day it's beautiful and highly influential. An album I've always enjoyed.
Stand-out track:
- Needle of Death
The Doors
5/5
"Riders on the Storm" alone brings this to a hearty fuckin' five. What a perfect song. Luckily, the rest of the album is also pretty damn incredible. Bluesy, moody, and cool, cool, cool. It's not without duds (L'America is just a straight up bad piece of music), but overall it's damn solid.
Fave tracks:
- The Changeling
- Love Her Madly
- Been down so Long
- Car Hiss by My Window
- L.A. Woman
- Hyacinth House
- Crawling King Snake
- Riders on the Storm
Talking Heads
2/5
Grrrrrrrrrr. Lord, I want to give this album a 1. To be frank, it probably isn't a 1. It's unique and fully formed and mostly listenable.
I maintain my current position: fuck David Byrne, fuck Talking Heads. You're sooooo geeky and silly and off-kilter. Take your grammy and go back to the fucking Rhode Island School of Design. Of COURSE that's where this band came from.
Fave tracks:
- Uh-Oh, Love Comes to Town
- No Compassion
- The Book I Read
What exactly do people like about Psycho Killer..?
Kraftwerk
2/5
I am utterly shocked that people rate this as well as they do. In what world are these sounds emotionally charged and beautiful? Listen, it's cool from a historic, achievement-in-electronica view. But I'm not gonna sit here and say that ze Deutschland Kraftwerk jungen were making panty-dropping gold here. It was experimental synth work loosely tied to some robot story. It's listenable. I think that's about all there is to say.
Fave track:
- Neon Lights
Curtis Mayfield
5/5
Mmmmmmm baby, Mr. Mayfield. God. Damn. Superfly is super fly. Soulful, funky, smart, and poignant. Pretty freaking hard to beat.
Death In Vegas
3/5
Not totally for me, but there were some cool songs here. Sort of a heavy-shoe gaze vibe. Maybe a 4 or 5 out of 10, but I'll round up today.
Fave tracks:
- Dirge
- Soul Auctioneer
- Flying
- Aisha
- Neptune City
- Luther's Funk
Rod Stewart
5/5
Turns out Rod Stewart can fuckin' rock. This album is a slam dunk in my book -- notes of country, pop, folk, and of course hard rock. It all comes together pretty brilliantly, with both expert songwriting and truly worthy covers. I still can't really tell if I like his voice. Makes one wonder how he could sing for longer than like 2 minutes like that. But damn, if it isn't unique and visceral.
Fave tracks:
- Every Picture Tells A Story
- That's All Right
- Tomorrow Is A Long Time
- Maggie May
- Mandolin Wind
- (I Know) I'm Losing You
Gang Of Four
3/5
More post punk. I gotta say, I really struggle to tell the difference between most of this stuff -- what counts as powerful new wave and what counts as more garbage? At the end of the day, I liked this more than Talking Heads.
Fave tracks:
- Ether
- Natural's Not In It
- Damaged Goods
- Return The Gift
- I Found That Essence Rare
- Glass
- 5.45
Dr. Dre
4/5
I get people saying this aged poorly, and I get the argument that this may have had a somewhat negative impact on society. But also...it's just so damn cool, man. And sure, maybe this isn't the most intelligent lyricism ever, but it still packs a punch (see: "Lil' Ghetto Boy") and it can still put half of everything that comes out today to shame. Snoop is on this album a surprising amount which I'm pretty sure I'm okay with, and for the most part this was just a hell of a listen. Thank you Mr. Dr. Dre, sir.
Fave tracks:
- Let Me Ride
- The Day The N****z Took Over
- Nuthin' But A "G" Thang
- Lil' Ghetto Boy
- A N**** Witta Gun
- Rat-Tat-Tat-Tat
- Lyrical Gangbang
- Stranded On Death Row
- The Roach (The Chronic Outro)
Method Man
3/5
This was pretty solid, but a good example of why production matters so much. By my money, I felt like the vocals were so hidden behind the amped up bass that I could hardly understand anything, and without a balanced treble on top, everything just felt really sedated and homogenous. That being said, this was still damn cool and a pleasure to listen to.
Fave tracks:
- Tical
- Biscuits
- Bring The Pain
- All I Need
- What The Blood Clot
- Release Yo' Delf
- I Get My Thang In Action
Os Mutantes
4/5
First couple notes, I figured this was a 1. Turns out it's actually pretty damn cool. Brazilian avant-garde from the 60s and it's still super-listenable and unique. One of the more surprising 4s to date.
Fave tracks:
- A Minha Menina
- O Relógio
- Adeus Maria Fulô
- Senhor F
- Le Premier Bonheur Du Jour
- Trem Fantasma
- Tempo No Tempo
- Ave Gengis Khan
Beastie Boys
5/5
Huh. Looks like the Beastie Boys are fucking rad. Hip-hop meets hard-rock. Like finding a sex tape in the back corner of the internet of your two celebrity crushes getting it on. Man these dudes are white. But goddamn it, so am I. Licensed to Ill is a bonafide-fuckin' five.
Screaming Trees
5/5
Super underrated. A pretty stellar example of grunge, with some extra flavors thrown in there that make it more unique. The vocals are solid, but not as hard hitting as some of their contemporaries, which is literally the only negative thing I can think to say. That, and “Sworn and Broken” is a stinker. Otherwise, I kinda fucking loved this album. Sick cover art too.
Incubus
5/5
Lmfao, I guess I love Incubus. Like Linkin Park if Linkin Park weren't complete nerd losers. Super fucking sick. Can get a little cheesy at times ("The Warmth," "Stellar," "I Miss You") but otherwise it stays hot. Whoda thunk!
Butthole Surfers
1/5
I guess that's on me for expecting more out of a group called Butthole Surfers
Fave track:
- The O-Men, for the memes
Nirvana
5/5
It's hard to express how good this album is. They nail it on every level imaginable -- the musicianship is incredible; the lyrics are dark and poetic and somehow so relatable; Cobain's voice is damn near perfect; the songwriting is innovative, and catchy, and addictive; and all of this on a pioneering, genre defining record. And god, this is a depressing album. But the worst part is, it's written so masterfully that you see yourself in every second of it. Devastating, essential, wall-to-wall brilliance.
Al Green
3/5
Generally speaking, I love soul music. And this was certainly a nice listen - very easy, and very pleasant. There's just something...boring here. Maybe because it all sounds so similar, maybe because it's mostly lower energy. Not even necessarily a negative - just doesn't feel like much of a standout album to me.
Wilco
4/5
This album reminds me that there's not enough sad boi music on this list. Boy, it's been a while since I listened to some good mellow indie. Now, it's not the most innovative or incredible album ever written - and sometimes I wonder if the Wilco chaps are ending all those songs so weirdly just to be unique - but this was a nice little break from the old English catalogue.
Also shoutout Chi-town. Love the corncob buildings.
Janis Joplin
5/5
Two notes at once. What the actual fuck.
Turns out Janis Joplin is indeed a monster singer, and the music behind her is freaking rad to boot. Lots of fives lately, but I'm not complaining. What a masterful album.
Soul II Soul
2/5
When I was a kid, my grandma had one of those small organs in her basement that had these music genre presets you could turn on by flipping a switch. Samba, rock, etc. I think that's what they used to make this.
It wasn't horrible. I moved my body. But damn if this isn't some corny ah music.
Fave tracks:
- Keep On Movin'
- Fairplay
- Feel Free
- Back To Life
- Ambition (Rap)
- Jazzie's Groove (Piano Version)
Peter Tosh
2/5
Peter Tosh's arguments for the legalization of marijuana:
- It's good for tuberculosis
- Goats love to play with it
- You got to
I agree with you man, but we gotta do a little better than that
Nitin Sawhney
4/5
Took me a couple listens to really appreciate this one. Never has an album been so far off from what I expected it to be. The cover art makes you think noise-rock or nu metal - turns out it's Asian pop with flavors of classical and jazz and trip-hop. I think this is absolutely a worthy addition to this list - a pretty fascinating meeting point of Eastern and Western music, and Sawhney is one of the few uniquely positioned enough to make that happen.
Now, I'm not going to be putting this album on just for kicks very often, but it was an interesting listen, and musically solid.
Fave tracks:
- Broken Skin
- Letting Go
- Tides
- Nostalgia
- The Conference
The Band
3/5
Huh. This was alright. Tiptoes ever-so-close on the line of country music, without ever dipping into it fully, which is a good thing in my book. Certainly a showcase of songwriting, and an incredibly influential album - and goddamn it, all of this from a group from Toronto, Ontario. Shoutout. But at the end of the day, it's just kind of...fine. Can't think of much more to say here.
Fave tracks:
- Rag Mama Rag
- When You Awake
- Up On Cripple Creek
- Whispering Pines
- Jemima Surrender
- Look Out Cleveland
- King Harvest (Has Surely Come)
Garbage
5/5
Turns out Garbage is not, in fact, Garbage. Man this was great. Alt, moody, but still musical and totally catchy. Loved every single song on this album.
Shack
3/5
You know, I actually really loved listening to this. It's perfectly pleasant, lots of great songwriting, and lovely vocals. But I have to admit -- lord, it's generic. Simple chord structures, simple melodies, simple themes. It's everything I despise about pop, but this time around it didn't bother me quite as much. Important album? No. An album I never would have heard of that I genuinely liked? You betcha.
Fave tracks:
- Natalie's Party
- Comedy
- Beautiful
- Lend's Some Dough
- Captain's Table
- Streets of Kenny
- Since I Met You
- Daniella
Beastie Boys
5/5
Good Fucking God I love the Beastie Boys. Potentially better than Licensed To Ill, at least maybe marginally more artistic. Still perfectly angry, loud, and oh-so-cool. New top 10 album, maybe top 5. Phenomenal.
Def Leppard
4/5
It's no secret that I hate pop, and this is basically the rock equivalent. Call it what you want: glam-rock, hair-metal, maybe even just straight up pop-rock, but it's simple as hell and endlessly predictable.
And yet, I really, really like this album.
Maybe it's just because my mom has always liked music like this. But the vocals are solid, the music is energetic, and at the end of the day it's totally catchy and still pretty damn gritty. Def Leppard gets a pass. Perfect band name.
Baaba Maal
3/5
Pretty cool. Really easy and lovely to listen to. It's pretty darn repetitive, but then, I think that's kind of the point of music like this -- circular, improvisational, somewhat meditative. Not one I'll come back to often, but I'm very glad I listened to this before I died.
5/5
Yeah, it's a five. Jesus Fucking Christ, "A Day In The Life" is one of the coolest songs ever. How in the hell did this come out in 1967? How could they possibly have come up with all of this? How were they so far ahead of their time? One of the first concept albums, one of the first prog rock examples, one of the first successful uses of eastern music in western pop -- oh yeah, and it's a legitimate cultural touchstone. Fuck me. Now, I will say -- I don't think it's as flawless as "Abbey Road." This one is perhaps a touch less timeless. Still, it's pretty freaking hard to beat.
Metallica
4/5
This is very cool, albeit really, really repetitive. I like metal, but it all sort of tastes the same after a while. This still rocks hard and is a hell of a lot of fun to listen to, but I feel like we need some more peaks and valleys here to make it more musical. Regardless, Metallica fucks. Perfect band name.
Kacey Musgraves
2/5
Pop and country. Great.
The songwriting here is pretty damn cheesy. Can't say I'm a huge fan. But, it's sonically really lovely, and she has a pleasant voice. I did really like some songs here, even if I really hated others.
Fave tracks:
- Slow Burn
- Lonely Weekend
- Oh, What A World
- Love Is A Wild Thing
- High Horse
- Golden Hour
Aphex Twin
2/5
Once again, I find myself desperately trying to figure out how the hell to rate ambient music. It completely lives in the background, which sucks, but is good? It's far from distinct and impossible to recall, which is depressing, but also the point?
What the fuck do I know. There were some grooves.
Fave tracks:
- Green Calx
- We Are the Music Makers
- Ptolemy
- Hedphelym
Paul Simon
4/5
Well, this was sure nice. It really grew on me -- listening to "Mother and Child Reunion," I was pretty damn skeptical. But after a full album re-listen, that seriously is the only dud on this record. My God, this dude can write a song. Not to mention, he has a beautiful voice and can play the heck out of a guitar. Paul Simon has the lyrical poeticism of Bob Dylan, without sounding like a dying cat. Total win in my book.
The Damned
3/5
Solid proto-punk example. I have nothing particularly bad to say here, but once again it's one of those albums that just sort of disappears as soon as I stop listening to it. Fun, solid, inconsequential.
Fave tracks:
- Love Song
- Machine Gun Etiquette
- I Just Can't Be Happy Today
- Melody Lee
- Noise, Noise, Noise
- Looking At You
- Smash It Up - Pts. 1 & 2
Minutemen
4/5
What a goofy ass album. Works all the way. I think this is just about as excellent as post-punk can get -- witty and striking without taking itself too seriously. There's some pretty impressive playing here, especially on the bass and drums, and more genre mixing than I can even keep track of. Punk, new wave, free jazz, classical, and the list goes on. Somehow they make having a fucking 43 track long album an enjoyable experience. The more I read about the Minutemen, the smarter I find them to be. Either way, this was a solid freaking album.
Fave tracks:
- Erm...too much to type. Lots of solid stuff here. 'Nuff said.
The Mamas & The Papas
4/5
Pretty lovely. Holy shit what a messy group. This is certainly a product of its time -- I could have guessed this came out mid-60s from 3 seconds of any song on the album. But, the harmonies are lovely and the songwriting is solid. Super pleasant. Only duds for me are "Spanish Harlem" and "You Baby." "Straight Shooter" is the surprising standout.
Beatles
4/5
Continually better than their previous, inching ever closer to the exceptional band they would become, but not quite arriving. The songwriting is strong, the music is fun, and the album is enjoyable to listen to top to bottom. We're still in this world of 50s/60s pop, but you can already see that they're pushing it...beyond, in some inexplicable way. Solid album.
Nirvana
5/5
Watched the full actual performance in place of just listening to the album. One moment that will haunt me forever now:
Finale of "Where Did You Sleep Last Night." Kurt's voice is and has always been pretty amazing -- harsh, powerful, but always musical. We lose that here. "I'm going where the cold wind blows. In the pines, in the pines, where the sun don't shine. I'd shiver..." It's tortured, guttural, and frankly hard to listen to. He looks lost somewhere inside himself. Clearly what he's doing with his voice is unhealthy and unsustainable, but obviously that's not the point. He squeezes out "the whole," and suddenly comes to. I don't know what to make of the look in his eyes in that moment. Is it scared? Primal? Enlightened? Furious? Then he finishes. Going where the cold wind blows: in the pines, where he'll shiver the whole night through. Maybe he saw something for himself, or about himself. I don't know. What a way to go out. Better to burn out than to fade away.
Side note: Dave Grohl is freaking precious here. The blue turtleneck, the ponytail with the red hair tie, the meek drumming with the Promark Hot Rods. Love this guy.
CHIC
4/5
One star for cultural importance.
One star for the love of disco.
Two stars for some mutha-freaking booty-shaking tasty-ass bass playing.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I just...I just don't know. I feel like there must be something with The Stones that I'm missing. I can't stand Mick Jagger's singing. I feel like Keith Richard's playing is...boring? And something about their version of rock-meets-honky-tonk is so uninteresting to me. But, "Gimme Shelter" is fantastic. Looks like I've found a hill to die on.
Fave tracks:
- Gimme Shelter
- Live With Me
- Let It Bleed
- Midnight Rambler
- Monkey Man
- You Can't Always Get What You Want
Madonna
2/5
Bewildering. Sort of really fucking cool, especially when she leans into the trip-hop. But then we move to the Middle East, which is alright, but also...why, Madonna? Are you really Buddhist? Does your yoga inspire you that much? Should you really be making this?
Fave tracks:
- Swim
- Ray of Light
- Candy Perfume Girl
- Nothing Really Matters
- To Have and Not to Hold
The Verve
4/5
I fucks with The Verve. Super musically interesting, rocks pretty hard, perfect music to walk around the city listening to.
Fave tracks:
- A New Decade
- This Is Music
- So It Goes
- A Northern Soul
- Brainstorm Interlude
- Drive You Home
- Life's An Ocean
- Stormy Clouds
- (Reprise)
D'Angelo
5/5
Holy Fucking Shit this album is criminally underrated. Once again, one of those artists that takes everything I love about music and puts it all together. R&B with the Jazz dial turned up to 11. Sly, sexy, musical perfection. RIP D'Angelo.
ABBA
1/5
I just can't do it. Maybe it's just because I've been sucker-punched into watching Mamma Mia too many times, but this music makes me want to jump off a bridge. It's certainly not the worst album on this list, but god fucking damn it this music is not for me. Feels like snorting coke and watching Cocomelon.
Fave tracks:
- When I Kissed The Teacher
- Dancing Queen
- Why Did It Have To Be Me?
- Tiger
Soft Machine
3/5
Perfect description of this album in another review here: "it's mostly great, in theory."
I think this is really good. Probably. No denying that the musicianship is off the charts, and the blend of prog rock and free jazz makes perfect sense. I guess it's just a bit too avant-garde for my taste. Probably one that deepens and ripens with every single listen, but it certainly doesn't encourage more past the first. Still, I enjoyed this.
Cream
4/5
Expectations were a little too high heading into this. I don't know quite why I had Cream set up in my mind as this sort of legendary all-timer group. This was pretty good? Kind of boring, still solid? For being called psychedelic rock, it doesn't seem to push it very far, but it's bluesy and rocky and a good time. Obviously Clapton is a fantastic guitar player, but I don't think this album showcases it all that well. Still, this was a very good record.
Fave tracks:
- Stange Brew
- Sunshine Of Your Love
- Tales Of Brave Ulysses
- SWLABR
- Outside Woman Blues
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Stevie Wonder was undoubtedly one of the greatest musicians of all time. The way he could write a hit, and elevate it to the next level with discrete theory -- insane. Of the four albums on this list, I think this one definitely comes in last place. But even still, it's a 4. What a treat.
Fave tracks:
- Smile Please
- Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away
- Boogie On Reggae Woman
- Creepin'
- You Haven't Done Nothin'
- It Ain't No Use
- Bird Of Beauty
My Bloody Valentine
4/5
Goddamn I wish this was on Spotify. Hard for me to keep it all straight in my head, but this was pretty damn cool. Take a 3 second snapshot from any point in the album and it sounds like messy noise, but put it all together and it seriously transports you. Shoegaze, maybe at its best. A great listen. Also, what a perfect opening to an album.
Radiohead
5/5
Happy Birthday to me. Fucking phenomenal. The more I listen to Radiohead's discography, the more The Bends shoots up to the top. It's just rock solid music. Alternative, catchy, hard-hitting, and complex. Top 3 Radiohead, for sure. Thom Yorke, suck my toes pleak.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
I feel like I should like this more than I do. But, it's a good example of an album challenging the way I usually listen to music -- sound first, then lyrics. I think the lyrics are what matter here, and they sure are beautiful and poignant. I think the music itself leaves something to be desired, certainly more than I would have thought. But at the end of the day, it's an incredibly important album, and one that I'm glad I listened to.
Fave tracks:
- What's Going On
- What's Happening Brother
- Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)
- Right On
- Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)
The Cure
1/5
Spooky Scary Halloween Punk!?!? :0
Oyf.
This was bad. Never have I ever heard such basic, boring, pathetic drumming put on display for an entire album. Jesus Christ, I thought the glam rock bands were bad. Holy Uninspired. Also Smith's vocals sound like they were recorded while he was pushing out a monster on the pot. So guttural.
I did not enjoy this.
Fave track:
- A Short Term Effect
The Jam
3/5
I have no problem with this album. Not necessarily my favorite thing since sliced bread, but it was a perfectly decent listen. I don't know that any of these songs will particularly stick with me but somehow I'm at peace with that. Nice work, The Jam.
Fave tracks:
- To Be Someone (Didn't We Have A Nice Time)
- David Watts
- English Rose
- In The Crowd
- Fly
- Down In The Tube Station At Midnight
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
I know, I know, I know I need to be listening to the lyrics here. He's a storyteller, and that's the whole point. And probably I would find this very valuable if I keyed in. But damn, this dude's voice sucks. And damn, this is some weird shit. I can't be too upset, because at least it's artistic and interesting, but what exactly is the point here man.
Fave tracks:
- Stagger Lee
- Lovely Creature
- The Curse of Millhaven
- Crow Jane
- O'Malley's Bar (side note: this seems to me like the epitome of this album. A long, thought-out, wacko story. Pretty cool, even if it was weird and somewhat boring.)
The War On Drugs
4/5
I fear this is right up my alley. Gotta have a little sad boi indie every now and again to cleanse the palate. No, this is not the most innovative or impressive album ever made. But damn, it's comforting. I especially appreciate how they take their time, letting the songs build and settle and fade. Big fan.
Fave tracks:
- Under The Pressure
- Red Eyes
- Suffering
- An Ocean Between The Waves
- Disappearing
- Eyes To The Wind
- Burning
- In Reverse
The Avalanches
5/5
A surprising 5. What a musical journey they take us on. Very similar structure to what DJ Shadow did with "Endtroducting....." and while I maybe don't love this quite as much as that, it's still extraordinarily impressive and totally transfixing. A genre-hopping, unbelievably creative ode to music.
Cowboy Junkies
3/5
Kind of boring as hell, but absolutely perfect for the right scenario. It's quiet and super reserved, but I have to admit that I pretty thoroughly enjoyed listening to it. Solid album to put on while mopping at 9:30pm.
Fave tracks:
- Blue Moon Revisited (Song For Elvis)
- I Don't Get It
- To Love Is To Bury
- Dreaming My Dreams With You
- Working On A Building
- Postcard Blues
- Walking After Midnight
Black Flag
4/5
Absolutely disgusting from top to bottom. But in a way, it totally works for me. THIS, to me, is what punk is supposed to be. Brutal, unapologetic, simple, and ugly. Filled to the brim with hatred. Once in a while, everyone needs something like this. A lot of punk bands boiled this music down to serve it to the masses, but it seems like Black Flag cooked it up in the first place. Respect.
Fave tracks:
- What I See
- TV Party
- Police Story
- Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie
- Depression
- Life Of Pain
- Damaged I
Miles Davis
5/5
Probably the coolest album title of all time. This dude was so good, he called out the fact that he was inventing a new genre and it fucking stuck. Nuanced, tasteful, vintage, and a type of jazz that I bet (almost) anyone can find some joy in. Someone shoot me if I ever give a Miles Davis album anything less than a 5.
Lightning Bolt
1/5
Like getting a buzz saw drilled into my head. And for some reason it takes me 41 minutes until I can finally fucking die from the sheer trauma. Or maybe this is what meth feels like. After it's been laced.
Cool album cover. Drums go hard at times. I have nothing else to say.
Fave track:
- Assassins
David Gray
3/5
My sweet David Gray. There's something nostalgic about this for me, and I wasn't even alive when this came out. I agree with some of the lower reviews here -- generic rainy-windowpane pop-rock, Y2K indie movie vibes, something you'd find preset on your phone for alarms. But also, it's really pleasant and really sweet. But also, it does all kind of blend together. But also, I feel peaceful.
Fave tracks:
- Please Forgive Me
- Babylon
- My Oh My
- We're Not Right
- Nightblindness
- Silver Lining
Johnny Cash
4/5
Sort of insanely legendary, even if the music itself isn't my favorite of all time. I feel like there's basically no celebrity who could pull off singing songs about committing crimes to people who actually got committed for those crimes, but of course Johnny Cash has that dog in him. He may just be singing about shooting his wife, and I may have actually had the idiot balls to do it, but goddamn it if he doesn't just GET me!
Very cool top to bottom. Definitely a must listen. Johnny is one heck of a storyteller.
The Beta Band
4/5
Sorry everyone else, but I guess I just really like The Beta Band. Pink Floyd vibes at times, Beck vibes at others, and sonically super diverse with some great lyricism. Second half of the album definitely loses me, but overall I really enjoyed this.
Fave tracks:
- Assessment
- Space
- Lion Thief
- Easy
- Wonderful
- Troubles
- Liquid Bird
- Simple
Taylor Swift
1/5
So, as I was listening to "tolerate it," I scrolled down on Spotify to check out the lyrics -- mostly to see if they really were as banal as it seemed like they were. That's when I see this analysis from TIME MAGAZINE:
"tolerate it holds the fifth track position...a spot Swift often reserves for her most emotionally vulnerable songs. This tradition began unintentionally but became a conscious choice after fans noticed the pattern."
In other words...
1. Taylor Swift pumps out mindless garbage
2. Swifties hunt for and fabricate meaning wherever they can
3. Taylor Swift leans into the bullshit
4. Swifties take this as having found the new messiah
In my humble opinion, Taylor Swift is everything wrong with modern music. So basic and predictable, it feels like getting spoon-fed in a high chair; so unimaginative, it encourages everyone else to chase a hit instead of true art. And don't get me started on this woman's carbon footprint. Indie folk/pop is certainly nice, and it probably was groundbreaking in the 90s. Why exactly are we getting excited when Taylor is the last one to the party? And she doesn't even do it well?
The nail in the coffin here are those damn lower case letters. fuuuuuuuuuuck you.
Frank Black
4/5
I thoroughly enjoyed this. Takes what the Pixies did and makes it just a little bit more musical which, for me, really works. Slightly overstays its welcome and not all the songs are my favorites, but overall a great listen.
Fave tracks:
- (I Want to Live on an) Abstract Plain
- Calistan
- The Vanishing Spies
- Speedy Marie
- Headache
- Sir Rockaby
- Freedom Rock
-Two Reelers
- I Could Stay Here Forever
- The Hostess with the Mostest
- Big Red
- Space is Gonna do me Good
- White Noise Maker
- Pure Denizen of the Citizens Band
- Pie in the Sky
Run-D.M.C.
4/5
Solid as hell man. So close to giving this a 5 but by the end it starts to blend together just a little bit. Super important album in the history of hip-hop and one that still sounds damn good all these years later. Even if it's just slightly on the simpler side, it's a genius record and a great listen.
Mj Cole
1/5
Sounds like music that would be playing in a clothing store where you walk in, realize a t-shirt is $89, feel weirdly judged by a sales associate chewing gum behind the desk, and walk out feeling kind of depressed
Fave tracks:
- Tired Games
- Strung Out
Hole
4/5
Very solid, but I have to say, I like it less than "Live Through This." The grit disappears a lot here, and it definitely leans more pop and radio-friendly. I get why, but it's just slightly disappointing, knowing the savagery they're capable of. That being said -- who gives a fuck. Still a great album.