150
Albums Rated
2.79
Average Rating
14%
Complete
939 albums remaining
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1970s
Favorite Decade
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15
5-Star Albums
11
1-Star Albums
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You Love More Than Most
Albums you rated higher than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| We're Only In It For The Money | 5 | 2.47 | +2.53 |
| No Sleep 'Til Hammersmith (Live) | 5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
| Since I Left You | 5 | 3.28 | +1.72 |
| Daydream Nation | 5 | 3.3 | +1.7 |
| The Yes Album | 5 | 3.31 | +1.69 |
| Heaven Or Las Vegas | 5 | 3.37 | +1.63 |
| Licensed To Ill | 5 | 3.56 | +1.44 |
| Head Hunters | 5 | 3.56 | +1.44 |
| The Number Of The Beast | 5 | 3.59 | +1.41 |
| In The Court Of The Crimson King | 5 | 3.6 | +1.4 |
You Love Less Than Most
Albums you rated lower than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abbey Road | 2 | 4.46 | -2.46 |
| If I Should Fall From Grace With God | 1 | 3.34 | -2.34 |
| Sea Change | 1 | 3.33 | -2.33 |
| System Of A Down | 1 | 3.26 | -2.26 |
| Crooked Rain Crooked Rain | 1 | 3.24 | -2.24 |
| Double Nickels On The Dime | 1 | 3.12 | -2.12 |
| Rage Against The Machine | 2 | 4 | -2 |
| The Doors | 2 | 3.95 | -1.95 |
| Headquarters | 1 | 2.87 | -1.87 |
| (What's The Story) Morning Glory | 2 | 3.84 | -1.84 |
Artist Analysis
Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Beastie Boys | 3 | 4.67 |
5-Star Albums (15)
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Popular Reviews
The Avalanches
5/5
I fucking loved this. Only familiar previously with Frontier Psychiatrist, I wasn’t expecting to be overly enamoured.
But it’s great. Really well put together and completely entertaining throughout.
My first blind 5 on this list.
2 likes
Brian Eno
3/5
This was good. Having only previously heard his later, more ambient works I was curious about this.
For the first listen, obviously a lot went over my head. It’s very dense, but kept me interested. Musically it’s solid and is interesting throughout.
1 likes
Teenage Fanclub
2/5
This was ok. Not really for me though. As the album went on I warmed a little to it but it never really went anywhere. The noisier sections hinted at the band being more raucous, only to dwindle back into safe indie territory.
Wasn’t shit, but didn’t really hold my interest.
1 likes
Rage Against The Machine
2/5
There’s no denying the impact this made to those of a certain age when RATM broke. Anthems for teenagers to be mad at their parents and the establishment, which every generation needs.
Their tired political rhetoric quickly went stale for most though (obviously), and listening to this again in 2025 it seems the music has also. It hasn’t stood the test of time very well. Front loaded and quickly tiresome, and there’s some cringeworthy moments.
It is well produced and well executed though.
1 likes
1-Star Albums (11)
All Ratings
The Velvet Underground
5/5
Great album. Probably VU’s best, certainly their most consistent.
Arctic Monkeys
2/5
It is ok. I was familiar with the more popular songs from radio and clubs back in the day.
Loved some of the lyrics, phrasing and delivery. Outstayed its welcome pretty quickly though. Good, rugged no frills production.
The Go-Go's
2/5
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Bright and energetic, but not enough to hold my interest. I got through the whole album though.
Good for what it is, but can’t see me revisiting it.
Beastie Boys
5/5
A classic. Bought it when it came out and it defined our time as kids for that year, at least.
Still holds up, albeit sounding a little dated now. They made better records, but never made that definitive record.
Otis Redding
4/5
What an absolute joy this album was. When it came up, I wasn’t sure if I was in the mood for Otis. I stuck it on anyway and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Despite already knowing a few songs, this album was just an overall injection of positivity.
A definite addition to my library, and a good example of the 1001 generator being very effective.
Eagles
2/5
Title track aside, I wasn’t familiar. This album is front loaded, and painfully goes downhill after track 3. Beige country rock.
Good for what it is. I’m aware it’s a very successful album, but upon hearing it in its entirety it’s surprising that it is. Ruined my drive home.
Snoop Dogg
3/5
Snoop Dogg’s best work. An album from my younger days. Great fun.
White Denim
2/5
I’d never heard of this band prior to getting this album in the generator, so was excited to listen.
Well played, but ultimately a bland record. I enjoy similar musics played better by others, so this flew over me. I can see how folk might enjoy it but - without wanting to sound pretentious - anybody with more than a fleeting interest in music will know this ground is covered better elsewhere.
The Mothers Of Invention
5/5
I was surprised to see this album here. Loved it for many years. Classic Zappa. I’d be curious to read what first time listeners in 2025 would make of it.
Well ahead of its time. A constantly evolving and interesting anthropological journey into 60’s America.
Minutemen
1/5
This was awful. I’d never heard of them, so when I saw it billed as “punk” I was keen to listen. Nothing “punk” about this at all. American college garage rock would be a more apt description. Only hints at being “punk” if it were punk performed by privileged white frat boys bored out of school.
Instantly forgettable songs, terrible lyrics and not much going for it at all. I genuinely question (again) why this has made any list.
No emoticon for half a star.
Bob Dylan
4/5
I was pleased when this came up because it occurred to me how long it had been since I listened to it.
A great album. I’m not overly enamoured with Dylan’s entire catalogue, but this and Freewheelin’ stand out for me. Really good to hear it again.
Sufjan Stevens
2/5
I’d heard his music previously, but couldn’t remember much about it. I appreciated this for what it is, but isn’t really my thing. I could tell this was an album that would benefit from multiple listens (as is the case for a lot of albums, obviously) but I’m not sure I enjoyed it enough to give it more time.
The songs just went over my head and didn’t keep my attention. I felt it needed it should have been more varied and challenging, but I appreciate I might have missed the entire point.
Either way, just not for me.
Beth Orton
2/5
Enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Her vocals are good, and some of the instrumentation is too. It’s all a little too safe though. Towards the end it dwindled into acoustic guitar and vocal tracks which tested my patience.
Good for what it is. Did not add.
Black Sabbath
5/5
Nice surprise. Pound for pound, my favourite Sabbath album. Groove, heaviness…and at the top of their game.
My first ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating..
Sebadoh
1/5
Bland and poor. Limp indie guitar rock.
Puny production. Forgettable songs and base level musicality. I have no idea why this record made this list.
The Stone Roses
2/5
I was surprised by this. Put off by the scene, image and hype at the time and the painful indie discos that followed.
Didn’t hate it. It has substance and musicality, and had a nice 80s feel to it for me.
Willie Nelson
2/5
I enjoyed this.
Obviously, Willie Nelson is a legend. His voice is great. For what it is, this album is good. I kept wanting the music to do more, but that isn’t the music’s fault (if that makes sense).
Terence Trent D'Arby
3/5
Really enjoyed this. Some really well crafted songs on here and the album is consistent. Needs more listens. A nice 80’s vibe, not sure if that helps or hinders it. Either way, very enjoyable.
Fairport Convention
2/5
This sounds very much of its time. Whether that is a plus point or not, I don’t know. It’s good for what it is, but not really to my tastes. Sandy Denny’s voice grated on me after a few songs too.
The Electric Prunes
1/5
This wasn’t great. Did little to hold my interest. Bland, obvious “psychedelic” overtones. Some substance to the music, but it never really goes anywhere. I think this is the bullshit Zappa warned everyone about.
The Smashing Pumpkins
2/5
Didn’t really enjoy this. It had its moments, but overall it is dull and uninspiring. Very overrated band.
Good for what it is, but no plans on revisiting.
Beck
1/5
Another tough one. From what I knew of Beck’s music previously, I expected more excitement, innovation and risks. I get that this is about his break up, but the result is a maudlin, ploddy record.
Musically it’s ok. Some arrangements that hint at being really good but never quite get there in my opinion. Again, I’m aghast that this is ranked here among truly great albums.
Rod Stewart
3/5
Enjoyed this. Would never have ventured into listening to this had it not been for this generator, especially based on how Rod presents these days.
This is a good album. Rod sounds fantastic, the band behind him are great and the songs are too. Love the production too.
Nice to hear after a couple of duff albums!
Brian Eno
3/5
This was good. Having only previously heard his later, more ambient works I was curious about this.
For the first listen, obviously a lot went over my head. It’s very dense, but kept me interested. Musically it’s solid and is interesting throughout.
King Crimson
5/5
Great album. Not my favourite KC album, but a fantastic album nonetheless.
21st Century Schizoid Man aside, this is a moody listen. Like a lot of their output, you have to be in the mood for it. The musicianship is flawless. I love Michael Giles’ drumming on this. Production is almost claustrophobic - it has the intensity it needs. More than 50 years on, the songs still hold up. And of course, the iconic cover art.
The Isley Brothers
2/5
Impeccably executed, but exceedingly dull.
One thing that stood out was how much the hit singles needed trimming. Had they not been edited, I don’t think they would have been as popular.
Not bad by any means, but nothing exciting either.
GZA
4/5
Crushing album. Catchy, heavy beats and rhymes as you’d expect from the Wu-pedigree involved.
I don’t know much about its creation or the intricacies of the record itself other that GZA and other contributors past endeavours (namely Wu-Tang and Gravediggaz), but the result is a superb album. Savage and entertaining throughout.
It *might* just overstay its welcome by about ten minutes or so for me. Otherwise it would have got 5.
Peter Tosh
3/5
This is a solid album. The songs are good, catchy and memorable. Musicianship is on point.
Probably my least favourite Peter Tosh album though. He certainly bettered it with Equal Rights, Bush Doctor and No Nuclear War, but Legalize It is worth the listen for sure.
The whole weed thing is always immediately tired, whoever does it and in whatever medium. Get passed that and it’s very enjoyable.
Kraftwerk
3/5
Not much to say, other than it’s Kraftwerk at their best. A lot more instant and catchier than Trans Europe Express and Autobahn (the only other records of theirs I’ve heard), and just fun throughout.
Paul Weller
2/5
This is a good album. Well written, well performed and the production is great. No arguments there.
It’s front loaded, and - for me - it begins to lose its appeal around the half hour mark.
Well executed, but too safe.
Stephen Stills
2/5
Another album to file under the “Why?” category.
It’s good for what it is, but I genuinely struggle to see why somebody would recommend this to be featured in this list. Bland, safe and predictable.
The Prodigy
2/5
This was alright. Lost its impact quickly on me though. I can see why it was lauded in the mid 90s perhaps, but that didn’t make my experience any better.
Jethro Tull
3/5
Good to hear this again. Not my favourite Tull album, but some great moments here nonetheless - the title track, Cross-Eyed Mary, Locomotive Breath…
Some really good subtle hooks that draw you in, which I think you only truly notice after multiple listens. I’m conscious that first time listeners won’t give this a second listen, which is a shame.
A patchy week on the generator, so Aqualung was welcomed.
Fats Domino
2/5
I wouldn’t have usually ventured into this, but it was enjoyable. I guess that is the whole point of this generator.
Grooves, catchy tunes and just generally pleasant. Not sure how many times I’d revisit it, but that doesn’t detract from its validity.
De La Soul
3/5
I was pleased when this came up being a fan of 80s early 90s Hip Hop, yet never actually hearing this album in full. I had high expectations, with it being lauded as a classic.
I was left colder than I thought I would be. Overall it has a nice feel to it and some good tracks, but just didn’t seem to hit with me. The skits are awkward bordering on cringe.
That said, for a debut album it’s solid. Definitely finds its niche around half way.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I liked this. Never listened to a Stones album in its entirety. Very much of the time, but a great feel to it. Looking forward to listening further, particularly within the list.
Good start to the week.
Talvin Singh
2/5
This had its moments.
It never really went anywhere though, or did anything to catch my attention. Musically it’s good, albeit a little too cautious. Well produced, but very easily background music and all bit new age.
Ms. Dynamite
1/5
I thought this was boring. All the talk of her potentially being bigger had she stuck around isn’t substantiated here. Reeks of Michelle Gayle levels of notoriety.
Front loaded with some very cringeworthy lyrics and overall, ideas above its station. No idea why it is on the list.
Musically it’s ok. Good for what it is, but no real substance.
Herbie Hancock
5/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One of my favourite albums, and one of the funkiest albums of all time. This, along with On The Corner, epitomise funk for me.
The playing is magnificent. The grooves groove. Timeless music. Sounds as fresh as it did when it was released. Nice to have this on this list to be enjoyed.
Monumental.
Isaac Hayes
3/5
I found this album interesting. Wasn’t what I expected at all - long, ten minute plus songs, some meandering grooves and some unique ideas. I expected short soul tunes and more focus on actual songwriting. I enjoyed it though because it totally blindsided me.
As an album I felt it did come up a little short. I either wanted it to go deeper and darker or lighter and snappier. I’m left curious about Hayes’ other work, particularly around the same period. The 8 minute-odd spoken word section in By The Time I Get To Phoenix left me wondering what the fuck was going on though.
Talking Heads
4/5
Original, ever evolving and constantly interesting. I discovered Talking Heads quite recently and have enjoyed ploughing through their back catalogue Remain In Light is a definite highlight.
Great orchestration and holds your attention throughout. I wish I’d have discovered them in the 80s as their innovation is largely lost on just their singles.
Bloody good.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
4/5
Great album. I hadn’t listened to this for a while and it is stacked full of bangers.
Beefheart gets an unfair rap due to people not understanding Trout Mask, but at the core of everything is his voice. Fantastic, powerful and versatile, nobody brings it like Beefheart and it’s on show in a different glory on SAM. Musically it’s awesome too. The songs on here could have and should have been bigger.
Safe As Milk isn’t my favourite Beefheart album but it’s definitely worthy of being on this list.
Michael Kiwanuka
3/5
This was interesting. Never heard of Michael Kiwanuka so I was pumped to listen.
Enjoyed it. I think I kept expecting it do do more, but it is brilliantly executed and well performed throughout with a good production.
Fugazi
3/5
Looking back having not been aware of Fugazi at the time, it’s clear to see the influence they had. It would have been a different story had they succumbed to a major label, but then things would have been different for everyone else too. Around the time of Repeater I was entrenched in death metal…
This album holds up. The band have a natural tightness. Comfortable balance of aggression and innovation. Makes me curious to how it would have been at the time of its release watching everything unfold.
Worthy of your time.
Spacemen 3
1/5
This was poor. Never really got going.
At times hinting at a low-rent poor Hawkwind and at others invoking Sonic Youth For Beginners, this has no conviction or substance at all. I was thinking “why?” more than anything, but not in a good way.
Maybe I’m completely missing the point, as I’ve heard the name previously but never their music. Completely baffled why this album would be ranked here.
Student gig night, £1 for a pint of watered down lager. Use of strobe light essential.
The Cult
2/5
I remember this coming out and The Cult reinventing themselves with it. Didn’t make a massive impact on me at the time but the rock press creamed over it, and obviously the singles were played everywhere.
It’s a solid enough, rock and roll-by-numbers album. The no frills Rick Rubin production is good. A lot of the songs fall short though. The Born To Be Wild cover is completely unnecessary too.
When this came up I initially thought 3/5. Now I’m listening to it again, it has to be a 2 for me.
David Bowie
4/5
Great album. So varied and interesting. The second half in particular. Looking back, it’s admirable how many risks Bowie took with this album, and a lot of his albums.
One of his best albums in my opinion.
System Of A Down
1/5
As someone of a certain age, when SOAD emerged I found them cringeworthy as I did most “nu-metal” at the time. Anyone that cut their teeth on proper metal felt the same, so just kinda let them get on with it. Which of course, they did.
Let’s not pretend this is anything spectacular though. It’s performed well and produced well, but it was never the groundbreaking debut some made it out to be.
Judging from their music that followed this (what I’ve heard of it at least) they cultivated and perfected their sound and obviously built on the foundations on display here, selling millions in the process.
But yeah, neither heavy nor that clever. One for the youth, and still sounds that way all these years later.
The Pogues
1/5
This was hard for me to listen to. That’s the point of this list though, so I persevered.
Musically of course it’s well played. Some nice ideas here and there that sadly often descend into the same snare shuffle or “jig”. MacGowan has a mean scream though, and I liked that it hinted at punk at times.
Repetitive at times and far too jolly throughout. This has been the biggest ask of this challenge so far for me personally. It is what it is, but isn’t for me.
Iron Maiden
5/5
A banger, and a solid 5.
Not my favourite Maiden album, but is pretty flawless. Invaders and Gangland may not rank amongst the other tunes, but are still good. Bruce’s first album and the album that was the flagship for Maiden’s ascendency into Metal godliness. That’s not to say their previous albums were poor in any way, just that this was a real statement of intent.
A Metal classic, and no arguments.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
2/5
I was intrigued with this. Heard the name previously but never really listened to their music.
Quite dark and noisy in places which surprised me (god knows why it did!) and definitely territory that I wouldn’t have ventured into had it not been for this list. It didn’t sound of its time either, and could have been released today.
Interesting, and with depth.
David Bowie
4/5
Second Bowie album in as many weeks.
Great album. Varied, constantly interesting and typically Bowie. I had this on vinyl years ago and initially thought it didn’t hit the heights of some of his other output, but hearing it again today, it is strong.
Lots of highlights. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Deep Purple
4/5
Really enjoyed this. A proper rock album. High octane and as heavy as fuck for the time. I don’t know why Deep Purple bypassed me for the most part over the years, despite being raised on rock and metal.
Love the production on this too - feels raw and live. Particularly Roger Glover’s bass. All involved shine here though.
Great album
Metallica
5/5
This is 5. A stalwart album and has definitely stood the test of time.
Like Fade To Black on its predecessor, Sanitarium is still the duffer here but doesn’t take the shine off the album too much - not enough to dock it a star.
I can’t see many arguments against this being a classic.
Pavement
1/5
This was bollocks. Bland indie rock.
I’d heard the name previously but never ventured into listening to them.
Not for me.
Jane's Addiction
4/5
Original and daring at the time, it was good to hear this album again.
I preferred Ritual, but there’s no doubting the energy and recklessness here. Some great tunes, one or two that could have been omitted which is why I didn’t give it the full five. I never liked the production either - always thought it sounded a little stale for the most part.
Nonetheless, an original and interesting album by a once original and interesting band. They bettered it with their next record though.
The Notorious B.I.G.
4/5
Really liked this. Aside from things here and there I’d never really listened to his music, but this was great.
I’m no Hip Hop connoisseur by any means but I know what I like and this album had me nodding throughout. Like a lot of albums of its kind, it outstays its welcome. There’s some gumph on it, but it’s still a solid 4.
Beastie Boys
4/5
After loving Licensed To Ill when it came out, by the time Paul’s Boutique was released I’d kinda lost interest. It didn’t make an impact on me at the time, but that was due to me having less interest in what they were doing.
Retrospectively, this still took a while. I think that was mainly due to me being more into their albums that followed this. Looking back now though, I can appreciate this. Energetic and fun, although definitely of its time it still works.
A little bloated, but an easy 4.
The Monkees
1/5
This was pretty generic. I’d rather have watched an episode of the TV show.
Dexys Midnight Runners
2/5
This was a bit of an odd album. Seemed to blend into the background for the most part. It hints at being interesting but never really delivers it.
I was only familiar with their singles previously, so had higher hopes. It is executed well enough (aside from the pretentious talking sections) but overall, it was just a bit dull.
Jack White
2/5
Like a pub Zeppelin. Nothing really spectacular here. Executed well enough but unoriginal, predictable and eventually nauseating.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Solid album. Not my favourite Bob Marley album but he was very consistent, and Exodus is perhaps the ideal “catch all” or first listen Bob album.
Some of the lesser known songs on here overshadow the more popular tracks for me, but there’s no arguing the overall quality of the album.
Hole
3/5
I enjoyed this. Certainly more than I thought I would. Aside from singles, hearing Hole played in clubs, and Courtney Love’s presence in the media I hadn’t actually heard their music much at all.
This is good though. Not sure how many times I’d revisit it, but I liked it. Raucous and energetic. Played with intent with a good production. I wouldn’t have even thought about listening to it were it not on the list.
Fela Kuti
4/5
Only somewhat familiar with his output prior to hearing this, I loved it. Great with my morning coffee.
Initially I wanted the music to do more and go to different places, but that was my expectation obstructing what the music actually is. Will definitely revisit, and am curious to investigate further.
My Bloody Valentine
4/5
Really enjoyed this. Brilliantly produced, ever evolving and constantly interesting. I was familiar with Loveless but none of their other output, and this surprised me. Completely different to what I expected.
Does not sound like an album released in 1988. It feels wrong giving an album a 5 on the first listen, so a strong 4.
2/5
This is ok for what it is, but there is nothing remarkable here.
Well made and well produced, just not very interesting.
808 State
2/5
This was completely uncharted territory for me. Familiar with electronic music but of this nature, so not really sure how to approach it or what to get from it.
It was ok. It didn’t completely change my world. Didn’t really do enough to show me why it would be on this list either.
R.E.M.
2/5
This was dull. Not sure why it is on the list. Being one of their early records, I expected this to be rawer and more rugged than it actually is. Evident it is before they honed their songwriting skills, or maybe before they started writing more commercial tunes.
Fine for what it is, but flaccid and uninspiring.
Ash
2/5
Another bland album rounding off a tough week for me. I’m not sure how many times I’ll write “no idea why this is on the list”, but undoubtedly several times more.
I’ve no idea why this is on the list. It’s nothing remarkable. Student rock that isn’t going to change anyone’s lives. Some second hand riffs and teenage lyrics.
It’s ok for what it is. They got better when the girl joined as at least her vocals added something to their sound.
Finley Quaye
2/5
The singles are the obvious highlights here, but the rest is drab. Overall this album just sounds shallow and unauthentic.
Nobody needs to hear this album before they die.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
So many highlights. Never outstays its welcome. No bloat. Interesting throughout.
An easy 5.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
I’m not really sure I can say anything that hasn’t already been said about this album. Good to listen to it again as it had been a while.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
3/5
This was new territory for me. I enjoyed it. I found it interesting, vast and rhythmic, but the songs seemed to all blur into one. At an hour and a half in length it did overstay its welcome a little for me, and I wanted the music to change direction but it never did.
Out of my comfort zone but in a positive way. A strong 3.
Fever Ray
3/5
I’d NEVER heard of Fever Ray until getting their album here.
Totally enjoyed it. Original and unique for the most part, and held my interest. Curious to know more about them, but this is what makes doing this challenge fun - being exposed to things you haven’t yet been exposed to.
Marty Robbins
4/5
Great album. Fantastic songs. Very enjoyable and gives me an authentic Country feel.
Pere Ubu
3/5
Enjoyed this. I’d heard it previously but never really connected with them, but this is a good album. Original and odd.
Interested to hear more and investigate them again.
Adele
2/5
Adele is fantastic and this is superb for what it is. I don’t think there can be any argument against that.
Not really for me, but I appreciate it.
Johnny Cash
3/5
I found it a little heavy going and little contrived at points, but overall I enjoyed it. It struck me that under Rick Rubin this album could have been overblown in every area, and I really like the fact that it wasn't. The sound and feel is warming. I'm not sure how many times I'd return to it though, as an entire body of work at least.
R.E.M.
3/5
I expected to not enjoy this, but I was wrong. It’s an accomplished, enjoyable album. Preferred this to Murmur.
Justin Timberlake
2/5
This wasn't that bad. Perfectly good for what it is. The singles are obvious highlights, but the album soon becomes quite samey and directionless. Not necessary to hear before death, by any means.
Marilyn Manson
2/5
This was ok. At over an hour long, it certainly lost steam around the half hour mark for me. Some really good parts, coupled with some obvious cringe. I thought I heard some NIN influence in the music and it turns out Reznor was involved in the production, so…
Better than I thought it would be.
Coldplay
2/5
There’s nothing wrong with this. It’s well played, some of the songs are good and the production is good.
It’s very safe though, and as a result very dull.
R.E.M.
2/5
My second R.E.M. album in the space of a week. For me, this one is better than Murmur but not as good as Automatic For The People.
None of them, however, are necessary to be heard before death.
ZZ Top
3/5
A solid, 70s rock album. This is the only ZZ Top album I’ve ever owned, and as much as I enjoy it I don’t feel the urge to check out the rest of their catalogue. I’m sure purists will say otherwise, but this is fulfilling enough.
Some great songs. Worthy of your time. Not sure how “essential” it is, but a good album nonetheless.
The White Stripes
2/5
Their sound becomes increasingly nauseating as the album goes on. Despite that, I appreciate the “garage” ethos and their intended presentation - which fails here.
Not necessary to hear before death.
The Undertones
3/5
Only being familiar with the singles previously, this was good fun. True Confessions stood out as being my least favourite here, but overall a good listen. I was reminded just how good Teenage Kicks is.
Enjoyed this!
Khaled
2/5
This was pretty boring. I’d never heard of Khaled so was curious. The result was a bland and lifeless album.
The cover of Imagine didn’t do it any favours either.
Not essential to hear before death.
Dr. John
3/5
This was interesting and suitably odd.
At first his voice reminded me a little of Don Van Vliet, but as the album progressed I thought that less. There’s a little psychedelia nonsense that overrides this album, but overall I thought it had some substance. Not sure how many times I would revisit it, but it’s a steady 3/5.
Pixies
2/5
Didn’t hate this. I would say that a lot of the gushing about this album, and The Pixies in general is unfounded. I guess it’s about at what point in our lives we discover bands and albums.
This was ok. Doubt I’d revisit it again. Personally, it’s not essential to experience before you die.
The Strokes
2/5
This was pretty good. Overhyped at the time - being lauded by the music press and teenagers put most folk over a certain age off. Anyone with even a slight interest in music could see how unoriginal they were and how their entire presentation by their masters was cliché after cliché.
That said, I quite enjoyed it. I really liked New York City Cops. Wouldn’t revisit it, but it was entertaining enough.
George Harrison
2/5
I had difficulty passing this. This was a slog. A difficult, drab slog.
Good for what it is, but to me it was uninspiring and far too safe. I’m not taking away anything from Harrison as a musician or as a former Beatle, but this was dull and far too long.
Nina Simone
3/5
Out of my regular wheelhouse, though it needn’t be. I enjoyed this.
Superb voice. It wasn’t what I expected, but then I’m not really sure what I expected. It’s quite sparse and her voice leads proceedings, the end result being quite solemn at times.
A good listen following a difficult week of overrated pap.
Prince
3/5
Obviously this album has some great moments. I enjoyed it. I’d never listened to it in its entirety previously though. I like how scatty it is, and even amongst the monster singles it has a feeling of dishevelment rising through it.
Great album.
Scissor Sisters
2/5
This wasn’t bad. I was expecting it to be far more difficult to get through. It is well played and well executed.
Their cover of Comfortably Numb made me smile thinking about all the enraged Floyd fans crying into their cat litter.
This is a solid record for what it is.
Iggy Pop
2/5
This was ok. I expected it to be more raucous though. Probably wouldn’t visit it again..
Yes
5/5
One of my favourite Yes albums. The sound of the band really finding their feet and the perfect balance between their sound on the first two albums and the deep self indulgence of their later work on Relayer and Tales From Topographic Oceans.
The musicianship is superb and the album flows really well. Several classic Yes songs that remain templates to this day. Production is solid like all the Eddie Offord productions, further enhanced by recent remastering.
This won’t be for everyone, but it is for me. Solid 5/5.
The Smiths
3/5
Quite enjoyed this. Never really taken that much notice of The Smiths aside from singles and in clubs, but this album was good. Morrisey’s controversies interest me in that there seems to be a lot of ridiculousness surrounding him, but at the core of it he and the band really worked.
David Bowie
4/5
Great album. My third Bowie album in the list so far, all of which have been 4 star ratings.
This is a 4 too.
Creative, entertaining and solid.
Duke Ellington
3/5
I have to be in the mood for big band jazz.
I have huge respect for Duke Ellington’s music and his influence, but never really ventured much into his music for that reason. I enjoyed this though. Very much of its time, but upbeat, uplifting and expertly played.
2/5
Nobody can really slate a band that has sold millions of records and are liked by so many. They must have done something right. For what it is, it’s a well crafted album.
I’ve never liked Oasis though, and listening to this hasn’t changed that.
Dr. Dre
3/5
I enjoyed this. Entertaining enough. Definitely of its time, and seemed to get a little samey towards the end, but was still fun.
Brian Eno
2/5
This was really annoying in places. Some parts were innovative and interesting, but for the most part it wasn’t great. Which is strange, because I enjoyed Here Come The Warm Jets.
No idea why this would be necessary to hear before dying.
Neil Young
3/5
Never really listened to Neil Young before, but I kinda knew what to expect. Enjoyed this. Didn’t blow my world apart, but it was entertaining enough.
Ice Cube
3/5
This was good. Head nodding beats. Slightly less shock value than AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, which is the only other Ice Cube album I’m familiar with.
But yeah, enjoyed this.
MC Solaar
3/5
My third Hip Hop album in the space of a week. This one was completely new to me.
No idea what he is rapping about but it didn’t detract. This was good!
Ray Charles
2/5
This was perfectly fine. It’s fantastic for what it is, just didn’t resonate with me too much.
It certainly wasn’t shit, just isn’t for me.
Bee Gees
3/5
The biggest surprise for me so far doing this project. Call me naive, but I had no idea Bee Gees did anything other than the disco smashes we are all familiar with.
I certainly did not expect this - an odd Bee Gees journey into progressive rock via folk via Canterbury, via whatever.
Wasn’t shit, but wasn’t fantastic either. Exactly what this list is all about though - expectations shattered!
3/5
This was pretty good. Kept my interest. Never heard of Sabu, so was curious and motivated to listen.
It isn’t going to change any worlds, and despite being a little predictable in places was enjoyable overall.
Franz Ferdinand
2/5
Jangly 00’s rock. Not that bad, but got very samey after 15 minutes or so.
Played well, produced well. Just not overly interesting. Not essential to hear before you die.
Blondie
3/5
This was good.
Hits aside it’s quite forgettable, but solid nonetheless.
Ali Farka Touré
4/5
I liked this a lot. Hadn’t heard Ali Farka Toure previously, but had heard some of Cooder’s work before having played with Beefheart.
This album has a really nice atmosphere and sound. The playing is immaculate, as you’d expect. A nice end to an unchallenging week in the list.
The Doors
2/5
This band were on the list of bands that I knew I would have to begrudgingly endure doing this.
Listening to this and trying to equate it to the twittering of Morrison devotees is odd because there’s really not much to see here at all. Musically it’s ok. Certainly not the work of genius that some claim Morrison to be. Vastly overrated and dull.
Struggled to a 2.
Booker T. & The MG's
2/5
This served as background music more than anything else. Flat, felt repetitive and a bit one dimensional. I kept wanting solos to develop, but each song just finds a groove for a couple of minutes then leaves. Musically it’s not bad, just uninspiring.
Can’t think why this should be something folk need to hear before they die.
Cocteau Twins
5/5
This is such a unique album. It’s so lush and intriguing. Definitely one that has stuck over the years, despite me not really connecting with some of their other albums.
I can’t give it anything other than a 5.
Teenage Fanclub
2/5
This was ok. Not really for me though. As the album went on I warmed a little to it but it never really went anywhere. The noisier sections hinted at the band being more raucous, only to dwindle back into safe indie territory.
Wasn’t shit, but didn’t really hold my interest.
The Thrills
1/5
This was woeful.
Desperately trying to sound “retro”, but instead sounding like a cruddy sixth form band. Vacuous and uninspiring. Definitely not an album that anyone needs to hear before they die.
It’s been a tough week, made worse by this.
Rage Against The Machine
2/5
There’s no denying the impact this made to those of a certain age when RATM broke. Anthems for teenagers to be mad at their parents and the establishment, which every generation needs.
Their tired political rhetoric quickly went stale for most though (obviously), and listening to this again in 2025 it seems the music has also. It hasn’t stood the test of time very well. Front loaded and quickly tiresome, and there’s some cringeworthy moments.
It is well produced and well executed though.
ABBA
3/5
I didn’t know a song on this album, which surprised me when I saw it first come up.
Really enjoyed this. Well written, well played and well produced with seemingly no pretentiousness, which, as their last album together could have been present in abundance.
A positive, after a patchy week.
Norah Jones
4/5
Beautiful voice, excellent musicianship, good songs. It all became a bit sluggish for me though around the half way point. There’s nothing not to like here, just that it isn’t something that I’d revisit very often.
Objectively it’s clearly a 5, but subjectively it’s a 4.
Beatles
2/5
The first Beatles album to come up for me on this list and I know a lot of them are already 5s, so I am definitely a fan. But…
Abbey Road is not the best Beatles album. Perhaps their most overrated though. Patchy. Production is good though.
Justice
2/5
Something a little different for me. It started well, started to wane for me significantly when the music was tainted with some awful rapping and vocals.
Nothing really groundbreaking here. Good for what it is I guess, but overall repetitive, generic, uninteresting and uninspiring.
Bobby Womack
3/5
This was great. Nothing overly spectacular with it - it didn’t try rewriting any books or take many risks, but I found it entertaining and a good listen.
Like many albums here I’d question how this is “essential” to hear, but that aside I liked it.
Motörhead
5/5
I would put this up there with the great live rock albums - Alive!, Strangers In The Night, Unleashed In The East…
Raging Motörhead at their finest.
Queen
3/5
I’m not a massive Queen fan but this was pretty good. Innovative and executed brilliantly. All the pretentiousness of 70s progressive rock. Solid.
Garbage
2/5
There’s nothing particularly remarkable about this. Played well enough, but sounds over-produced.
Unsure why it is ranked among other albums in this list.
Ray Charles
2/5
This was a struggle. It had its moments, but really didn’t do anything to surprise me or make me sit up and take notice.
I respect Ray Charles as an artist, but this really isn’t for me. At over an hour also, this was a bloated, difficult listen.
Lauryn Hill
2/5
Didn’t really enjoy this all. Good for what it is, but it sounded just tired, clichéd and dull to me - despite it being highly rated. Some really poor lyrics stood out too (“He was like the ocean and I was the sand” and “He came to me like a thief in the night”). Yeah.
Scraped to a 2.
Shivkumar Sharma
3/5
Quite enjoyed this. I was expecting something different, and this was a nice ambient accompaniment to my morning coffee. I’d have been happy if it was longer.
Paul Simon
3/5
This was good. Some interesting arrangements, and all typically Simon. Held my interest and I enjoyed it.
Not much more to say really.
Missy Elliott
2/5
From the music of Missy Elliott’s that I’d heard prior to this, I was expecting risks, creativity and excitement.
This albums wasn’t any of that.
All pretty dull and forgettable.
Solomon Burke
3/5
This was pretty good. Never heard Solomon Burke’s music before. It was nothing to blow my world apart, but it is well sung and well delivered. I’m not sure what I’d get from listening to it again, but I’ve got no complaints.
Elton John
3/5
I knew this was a rated album, and considered a classic. I’d never ventured into Elton John’s albums, only previously being exposed to his singles.
I liked this. Interesting to hear Elton John not in the “singles” context. It got maybe a little too jolly for me towards the end, but this is a worthy addition to the list.
Horrible cover art though.
Django Django
2/5
Never heard of this band prior to this, so was keen to hear something I hadn’t previously.
Didn’t really connect with it. Some nice instrumentation couple with annoying vocals. Nothing really spectacular here.
Sonic Youth
5/5
This is an album I’ve enjoyed for many years. I spent most of the time listening to it contemplating if it is a 5 or not, and which SY album is my favourite.
I concluded that this is a 5. It’s consistent, it’s raucous, it’s enjoyable. There’s no real reason for me not to give this the full rating.
U2
4/5
Despite the entity that they became, having never heard this before this was a reminder of the band they once were.
Not ashamed to say that I really liked it. Has a nice 80’s production and feel to it, and I found it thoroughly enjoyable.
Mj Cole
2/5
This was ok. I don’t know much about this type of music at all.
Turned into background music quite quickly. Did nothing to really capture my imagination. Not sure why it would be deemed necessary to hear.
Donovan
2/5
This was pretty dull. Good for what it is, but certainly nothing amazing. Plenty more interesting musics happening around the time of this release.
Elvis Costello
2/5
This was enjoyable enough. It has a nice live feel to it. Didn’t particularly rock my world, but it wasn’t bad.
Digital Underground
2/5
Wasn’t really into this.
The Way We Swing uses the riff from Who Knows (Hendrix) in such an obvious way that it seems insulting. Using the bass line for Chameleon in Underwater Rimes also just provoked an eye roll.
The songs are overly long and all stagnate. I do get that if I had heard this when it came out I would more than likely have a different opinion, and for it’s time, it’s ok.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
My second Stevie album on this list so far. Only slightly pales in comparison to Songs…, Talking Book and Innervisions but only slightly.
Still a solid album, and a high 4.
Pretenders
3/5
I’d never really taken much notice of The Pretenders. Singles aside, I didn’t really care.
This was great though. Really enjoyed it. Always bordering on stepping up a notch and venturing into punkier territory, each song did its own thing and I was on board for it all.
A solid start to the week.
New Order
2/5
Great for what it is. Perfectly good pop music.
I didn’t find it particularly interesting though, personally.
Beastie Boys
5/5
Beastie Boys at their peak. Assured, varied and enjoyable. The hardcore tracks on here deserve a mention just because they are great, but this is such a mixed bag, which is why it works.
An absolute 5.
David Gray
2/5
Good for what it is. I remember seeing him play some of these songs live on TV in his heyday with a real band and they came across so much better. I didn’t really connect with it though.
Some great songs that didn’t seem to really benefit from the addition of electronics. Made it all sound like it was perhaps trying too hard to be “current”, when they would have been better off being performed more organically.
Not essential to hear.
Elvis Presley
2/5
Everyone would have heard enough Elvis in their lives already, rendering this not essential.
It’s ok, but certainly nothing spectacular on any level.
Coldplay
3/5
I expected this to be a 2. I had A Rush Of Blood Tor The Head previously in this list and whilst it was good for what it was, it wasn’t for me.
This isn’t really my thing either but there is no denying the might of some of the songs here.
As a result, I’m giving it a three.
The Avalanches
5/5
I fucking loved this. Only familiar previously with Frontier Psychiatrist, I wasn’t expecting to be overly enamoured.
But it’s great. Really well put together and completely entertaining throughout.
My first blind 5 on this list.
OutKast
2/5
This was ok. Well put together, but largely went over my head. I’m sure with more listens it becomes clearer, but I didn’t really connect with it.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
3/5
This was new to me. The blurb on Apple Music describes it as “potent and scruffy”, which I liked, and it is quite apt.
A nice feel to it, albeit very much of its time. The playing is great too. It doesn’t do anything to re-wire my brain, but it is enjoyable enough.
Lou Reed
3/5
I enjoyed this bit after listening, I immediately felt I needed to hear it several times before fully getting it. It certainly dwindled off towards the end, but there was quite a lot for me to take in.
Will listen again, which is a good sign.