1001 Albums Summary

Interesting. Jay-Z ish

Nice listen. Hear this band’s influence in a lot of other later stuff I’ve heard. Reminds me how much good music has come out of Scotland.

Need to listen to more Bowie to gain a better appreciation. Nothing boring about this album, but didn’t move me. Probably need to listen again and more intently. I know Bowie and this album was groundbreaking, but, with some exceptions, I don’t love this record. Recognize the great musicianship though.

Really nice listen. Adele has a remarkable voice and it’s just a pleasure the ears. Some catchy melodies too. Not the genre I’m typically drawn too, but in all honesty I just like this record.

Like me this more than I expected. Ozzy could actually sing! Some sweet bass lines and the guitar isn’t just noise. Sabbath really did rock. And there are quite beautiful interludes too. Great record.

Not for me. Elvis’s music grates on me and I don’t think this album is all that good. Maybe earlier Elvis would move me more but this is crap.

Phenomenal album. Top to bottom. Absolute classic. Musically, lyrically… Neal Peart was a genius. This is an all-time great.

Hadn’t heard this one straight through before, but of course had a song or two. Neil Young is always Neal Young… just is what he is. Some bluesy numbers. Solid, but not the pinnacle of Neil Young.

Appreciate learning about this pioneering band in the NYC 70s punk scene. But NOT my jam. In fact I couldn’t get through the whole record. Really grating and irritating. Sounds like they are trying to be funny, but it’s not. Maybe just really dated and hasn’t stood up.

Less pop, more maturity than I expected. Lourde clearly struggling with her stardom on this one. Still has some good beats and hookiness, but a very different album than Pure Heroine. Brooding and introspective and darker. As far as my take… surprisingly good with decent depth. Solid record.

Had never really listened to MIA (other than Paper Planes just through pop culture). Gotta say, I’m impressed, especially since this is the debut album. I’m not a hip-hop connoisseur, and while I like some hip-hop, it’s not my go to music. But this album is good! Groovy, makes you want to move, and feels like something unique. Might have to do a deeper dive in M.I.A.

I saw Brian Eno pop up and got excited. But what a disappointment. This album SUCKS. Annoying sounds, hand claps, and dumb lyrics. Spare me from this one.

Wasn’t familiar with Eels, so was glad for the introduction. Not bad at all. A little vanilla in spots, but a good listen. I’d revisit it. Made me think of Blink 182 for some reason.

It’s the Rolling Stones. What can you say? They’ve never been my personal favorite but hard to argue with the quality. Don’t think this is their best work though.

So I get that this was a big album with big hits that have had staying power. I just don’t like ABBA. Respect though.

Average hip hop. Not bad, not anything special though.

Great record! Somewhere between Oasis and the Beatles in sonic landscape. I’ll listen to this one again.

This band just knows how to do it. Not always in the mood for CCR, but the band is just so tight and to me is quintessential Americana bluesy rock and roll.

Dark subject matters dealt with here. Post-punk sound, and influences of Clash to GnR are audible. Vocals tend to get a little to glam for my taste, but the songs are great and this album is very strong straight through. Torn between 3 & 4 stars.

Moody, sonically beautiful, and lyrically outstanding. Maybe not S&G’s greatest, but still an excellent record. Hear the Dylan influence overtly on A Simply Desultory Phillic. Almost too overt. For Emily… is such a gem.

Just a classic. Not much more to say and hard to argue with the quality of the songs on this one. The music is soothing and pleasant and fusion of musical traditions results in a masterpiece. I’m not gonna give this one 5 stars, but only because it’s not my personal favorite kind of music. But can’t give it less than 4… and wouldn’t argue with 5.

Hmm. Some really good (‘Til I Die and Surf’s Up), and some really really bad (opening track, the one about feet, and the Tree song). Never really understood the critical love for The Beach Boys, but did a bit of deep dive once this album popped up and now I understand better the musical genius of Brian Wilson, even if I don’t love all of the music. There were spots on this record that were sonically beautiful, but some of the lyrics are just putrid. So this one for me was a mixed bag. At times during the listen, I was thinking a “2” at best, but then there was some truly genius tracks, and I was thinking 4. Guess I’ll have to settle in the middle. The 2-3 great songs save this for me and I’ll give it a 3, bordering on a 2 for a third, bordering on a 4 for a third.

Really not sure how to rate this. Are they pioneering musicians or just a bunch of dicks making noise? Kuntz is bizarre bit also weirdly likeable. Definitely hear the foundations for grunge. But is this something I’d ever want to just put on to listen to? Sorry, but I think this is mostly just a bunch of moderately talented douchebags who were screwing around and got lucky here and there. Album is also incoherent in my view. Lot of interesting experimentation, but is there a vision? I guess I appreciate that they were pioneers, but seems accidental. Maybe that’s just punk. Not for me though.

Blah. Nothing much to say about this one. Couple of good hits and a decent listen, but nothing special to me about this album. Definition of average.

Some great classics on this record. And a lot of interesting psychedelic music. Definitely belongs on this list. Highlights are all the Grace Slick songs. Embryonic Journey also good. But the other songs aren’t quite as impactful. Strong record that could’ve been a lot better with more Grace Slick. I give the Grace songs a 4 or 5, the rest of the album a 3.

I actually like some of Missy Elliott’s work and I think some of her stuff is really great groundbreaking hip hop. But not this record.

So fusion of jazz and tango. Not much of a jazz guy and don’t even really now what tango is other than a dance. Gave this a try. Certainly wouldn’t have picked to listen to this on my own and probably won’t ever listen again. Kuddos to these guys for doing there thing… and if it’s spontaneous live, then that’s impressive. But it’s their thing, not mine. Zzzz. No thanks on this one.

I mean the record swings and bops and rocks. But do I really like it? Not really. It’s not bad (with the exception of Tutti Frutti which makes me want to smash the music player), it’s just not my thing.

First thought was Nick Drake. Little dodo I know that the album was written for Drake and he and Martyn were friends. Also picked up on on fusion of varieties of genres… folk, jazz, blues, rock. This is a really good record that I’d never heard of and probably wouldn’t have listened to but for this project.

What a phenomenal album. Beautiful and layered and rich and expansive. In my mind I always think of Gish and Siamese Dream as the great Pumpkins albums, but maybe because I hadn’t spent as much time with this one. Glad I relistened. The Smashing Pumpkins are a helluva band.

Flavor fuckin’ Flav! In his prime! Lyrics are sharp, incredible sampling, great hooks and bone rattling beats. Ear worms all over the place and some classics.

Didn’t know this group. And didn’t need to. WTF is this doing on this list? Trying to bring the curve down? Just absolute trash, especially lyrics. Maybe worst record I’ve heard on this list so far.

Avant garde for sure. Lots of experimental sounds. Not really pleasurable to listen too although it has some interesting moments. Also too goofy and absurd for my taste.

Decent record. Doesn’t stand out for me though. Just Ok.

It’s good. Some great… like Imagine.

Schlock

Motörhead knows how to rock.

I don’t typically listen to jazz, but when I do… Just doesn’t get any cooler.

First track “The Stars of Track & Field” starts a little slow, and I was about to write this one off, but then it hits its stride. It’s followed by “Seeing Other People” which is super catchy. From there it’s a little up and down. Has some very “Smiths” moments and the last couple of tracks are totally Nick Drake inspired. I’m willing to bet these guys influenced Vampire Weekend too. Overall, it’s a good record. Wouldn’t call it GREAT, but I liked most of it.

Bring on the synths. I used to really love OMD. My first concert, I saw them open for the Thompson Twins. Listening with a more mature ear, I find the synthesizer music a little flat and soulless (despite the religious overtones). The vocals are also more melodramatic than I recall. It’s not a bad record, but not a great one either. And for the period, I feel like there were electronic pop bands that did it better and had more of a lasting impact. Glad to see this one pop up and glad to give it a listen after all these years, but it hasn’t aged all that well. Also, there are other OMD records I connected better with. Feel like this is a 2 even though sentimentally I want to give it a 3.

Well, it's an average pop rock record with the exception of a couple of catchy rockers. But for those, I'd give it a 2.

I have a hard time with Dylan. Music great, lyrics great, but the voice and the intonation annoys me. Leaving that aside, I understand what this man did for music, and this album was a turning point. Just can't give it less than a 4. If only Bobby could sing prettier. Haha.

Another one of those records I wouldn't have thought to put on. Some really catchy funky stuff on here I found myself grooving to. Clearly hear the 70's coming (so maybe this album was a bit ahead of its time?) Not generally into Motown, although I appreciate it. On whole, I'm giving it a 3, but I think there were some moments when I coulda gone 4 on this one. I'd definitely listen again, and it seems like a good record to put on in the background while doing stuff around the house to put you in a good mood.

Pumpkins at their finest. Rich, layered, filled with emotion. The guitars are masterful. Actually, all the musicianship is elite. This record has a little more polish than Gish, but it feels just as raw and fresh. Decade-defining for sure. People talk about Nirvana and Pearl Jam as grunge-defining bands, but the Smashing Pumpkins were right there too, and arguably, the music is more complex and creative. For me, it's the balance of the raw grungy emotion and the artistic precision of the writing and music. This album sounds sooo good, and incidentally it ROCKS! A true masterpiece. 5 of 5.

Listening to albums like this is part of the reason I'm doing this project. I wouldn't have thought to listen to this record and I certainly didn't expect to like it. Thought I knew what Iron Maiden was all about, but I was wrong... at least with respect to this album. It's pretty damn good! Much more melodic than I would've expected and less screaming than I anticipated. In fact, the guy can actually sing. That said, I'm generally not a fan of the heavy metal genre, lyrically it's not exactly poetry, and it's just not really music that moves me personally, so I'm not going to rank it that highly for ME. But that said, objectively, it's definitely a good album. 3 stars.

WTF is this?! First thought based on first song was "Portishead wannabees." the whistle, the snare, the sultry vocals. Then I thought, "are they gonna break into 'Goldfinger'?" Totally 1970s James Bond vibe going on. Is that a theremin I hear? I kinda liked the first song, "Lovely Head." Then "Paper Bag" comes on and I picture a dude in a ruffly shirt plucking a guitar standing next to a lounge singer, and then the strings kick in. Not liking it so much there. Then "Human" comes on and I hear this 70s vibe again and it's got this cool funky horn section popping in and out. I'm liking that one! Then we slow down to the lounge singer jazz + theremin again. And from there on it out it loses me and gets really weird and slow and it drags and then gets annoyingly weird and unpleasant ("Oompa Radar"... just hideously awful). Can't decide whether to give this an A for effort on the uniqueness scale, or an F for being weird just to be weird and for copying Portishead but mostly failing to achieve anything close to the musical greatness of Portishead's best work. Other than a couple of moments (most of "Lovely Head," all of "Human," and I couple of other spots which I found myself being strangely attracted to, on whole I don't really like the album.

Record showcases what a great band the Stones were. Serious blue on this one. Sympathy and Jigsaw are fantastic. The beats in Jigsaw are captivating.

Cheesy. This is no for me.

The guitar

Pretty cool. Funky and jazzy and a little psychedelic. I’ve heard some other Herbie Hancock I like better (Cantalope Island for example), but this was pretty good. Not my regular jam though.

I’m not the biggest Beatles fan, but this album is filled with gems. Incredibly expansive and really runs the gamut. Some real all time greats (“Dear Prudence”, “Blackbird”, “Helter Skelter”, “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” “Revolution” to name a few) Couple of silly clunkers (“Piggies” for example) that I don’t love, but on whole objectively hard to give this less than a 5. Glad to have listened to this one all the way the through.

Oh that voice. Hard to believe Fiona Apple was just a teen when she made this album. The first roughly half the album is absolutely masterful… vocally, lyrically, and musically. That sultry rich soulful voice just pierces right through you. The second half of the album starts to drag a bit and I found myself getting a little bored with the music… although her voice is still amazing. If the second half had matched the first, this would’ve easily been a 5.

Another Belle and Sebastian record? Really? I just heard one from the list. There are thousands of great bands out there yet Belle and Sebastian get multiple albums on this list?! This record was fine… maybe better than fine. Good. Kinda catchy in places and mostly pleasant (despite some dark lyrics). And maybe if I spent more time with it, it would grow on me more. But it just wasn’t anything special to warrant more than a 3.

U2’s crowning achievement. This album is a masterpiece. No one part is greater than the whole on this record. The opening to the record on “Where the Streets Have No Names” is just awesome. The building wave of sound. The crescendo of the Edge’s signature guitars. Add in Clayton’s driving bass, and then the Mullen’s beat comes in. Finally, Bono’s vocals come… soulful and powerful and filled with passion. The band is just so perfect together on this album. “With or Without” has always been a favorite… beautiful song. Top to bottom, there is not a low point on this record. Even the album cover is iconic. May be a “desert island disc” for me.

Started really really well with the first song “Soul and Fire” (conjured Pearl Jam ). “Two Years…” also good. Then downhill for a stretch. But then some gems in the last half. “Homemade” another highlight. It’s raw garage rock, and I appreciate and enjoy a chunk of this album. But some of it just doesn’t sound great to me. Hear the Dinosaur Jr overlap for sure. I do think maybe if I spent more time with it, it could grow on me more. I listened once and was leaning toward a 2. On second and third listen I’m easily a 3 and maybe a high one at that.

I like a few tracks. Not the best not the worst.

Who knew Cookie Monster songs in German? Weird, unique, and interesting for sure. But not for me.

Dated. Repetitive. Lacks depth. And I don’t appreciate dance music.

Absolute classic masterpiece. So good front to back. Bowie was a true artist. This record is the gold standard for concept albums.

Booooooring. Snoozefest.

No thanks.

Don’t think I knew of Raekwon. Nothing special. Average gangster rap.

Classic Americana. So many great songs on this album.

Shockingly good. I saw this pop up and was initially disappointed because I assumed I’d hate it. But listened to it (twice) while working out and it was pretty good. Powerful, rageful but also melodic and ear wormy in spots. Not saying this is the best metal I’ve heard, but not bad at all. I’m not a metal connoisseur though, so maybe it’s not as decent as I think it is. But I’m giving this a 3 for a solid good album for the genre.

Disjointed amalgam of genres and sounds. Doesn’t seem like this band knows what its voice is. Some of it works better than other parts, but on whole, it loses me. Need a sense of mood or sonic theme for an album and this one lacks either. A miss for me.

I forgot how much the Foo Fighters tried to sound like Nirvana at the beginning. This is a good record for sure, but I couldn’t help thinking they were desperately trying to continue Nirvana… except it’s poppier and lacks the raw emotion and angst of Nirvana’s music. Torn between 3&4. 4 for listenability, but 3 for musical quality/originality.

Nope. Just nope.

“Skip” isn’t just the name of the artist, it’s what I shoulda done with this album when it showed up for my daily listen. Diana is particularly putrid. Dylan wannabe? War in Peace is kinda cool and psychedelic. There were a few Ok tracks in the back half. Otherwise, lame.

This one was interesting. I can hear how the album influenced a lot of artists. The mix of echoing vocals with the repetitive music is at times captivating, or maybe mesmerizing is a better word. But, at other times, I found the repetition… well… repetitive. I’d like to listen to this one stoned. I think it would enhance the record. I note that REM covered Ghostrider. That was cool to hear the original because I had no idea whose song it was. On whole, glad I got to hear this, but not something I’d likely just pick up to listen to.

Quintessential folk Dylan. Despite not loving his voice, hard to deny that this is clearly a classic. I think probably also my favorite Dylan album (or maybe Blood on the Tracks)

Delicious hip hop. Never heard this album before. So groovy and funky smooth. Loved it.

It’s fine. Chrissie Hynde is cool though.

Good stuff. Just doesn’t get me excited enough for anything more than good.

So I really like a lot of the Byrds stuff. They were an influence on my favorite band, R.E.M. While I recognized a few cuts, I don’t think I’d listened to this album in its entirety before. I hate the first song, “So You Wanna Be A Rock & Roll Star.” Totally grates on me. Then you get some more psychedelic and experimental stuff than I was expecting, and at first didn’t sound like the Byrds sound I think of … jangly folky pop rock with a 60s vibe. But I stuck with it and there are some absolute gems on this record. My Back Pages is amazing.

Oh Shit! Fun listen. Reminiscent of De La Soul in some ways, but edgier. Lot of humor, but serious messaging underneath. The music is good too!

Ugh. More Elvis. I just don’t get it. He didn’t even write the songs. I tried. I really did. Just absolute saccharin. Lacks substance.

Brilliant. The quiet chimes and then the crash first notes of Plainsong get me every time. The music is rich, mournful, and sometimes even foreboding. The sound of the whole album is seamless. The lyrics are poetry. Nothing else I’ve ever listened to sounds like this masterpiece from the Cure.

Really like this album. Not your everyday reggae. Groovy, chill, and cool. Something I’d never heard of and probably would never have listened to. This is one of those hidden gems I was hoping to find by doing this project.

Neil Young’s best in my opinion. So many classics on one record. Harvest, Heart of Gold, Old Man, Needle & the Damage Done… brilliant music, lyrics. And his unique voice is at its best on this album. This one is a 5.

It’s fine.

Not really my thing

Always thought of KD Lang as country but she’s really not, despite the country western music influence which is noticeable. I couldn’t help but think of the classic crooners like Frank Sinatra when listening to this one. Her vocals are fantastic. Don’t love this kind of music, but it’s a quality record for sure.

Angry, somewhat offensive, raw, and completely badass. Some fun old style raps in there too. The social commentary mixed with the dope beats… just great. These guys were the gold standard.

Billy Joel could write a song! Scenes from an Italian Restaurant showcases it all- one of my favorite Billy Joel songs. She’s Always a Women is another highlight. Packed with hits and songs everybody knows. Fantastic record.

Sinead’s voice. So emotionally powerful, haunting and beautiful. I hadn’t listened to this album in many years (& not sure I ever really sat down and listened to it straight through), so I’d forgotten what a powerful and gorgeous record it is. Listening to Black Boys on Mopeds made me sad to think that all these years later, the world is dealing with the same issues, and sadly, perhaps things are even worse now. But leaving aside existential human problems, and also leaving aside what I think about Sinead O’Connor’s actions and statements, the music is undeniably special, and this album is a gem.

I love this record… mostly. Mark Knopfler is one of the most underrated virtuoso guitarists of all time. The guy’s playing is incredible. Money for Nothing (except the guitar riffs which are beyond cool), So Far Away, and Walk of Life (the first 3 tracks) are the low points for me on this record. The back row-thirds of it is awesome. I used to listen to the last 6 tracks of this record to calm myself at night in high school and college. It’s beautiful and the guitar is otherworldly.

Björk is absolutely one of a kind. The soundscapes she creates in this album are so interesting and beautiful… sometimes strange, sometimes warm, sometimes unsettling. And then her voice… oh that instrument. It is wild and passionate and incredibly unique. And I love it.

Visions of You is a cool start to the record. Stirring backing vocals by Sinead O’Connor. Base lines are signature Wobble and are definitely the star of the record. I liked it. Nothing mind-blowing, but mostly good tunes and well worth the listen.

I vacillate between annoying & genius when I listen to the Talking Heads. What is going on inside David Byrne’s head? Can music be both repetitive and surprising? That’s my reaction listening to this one. Some gems for sure. The beats mixed the droning unmistakable Byrne vocals. The music sure is interesting. Some moments I’m tempted to hit skip, some moments are mesmerizing, and sometimes I’m just bobbing my head and wanting to dance around in an oversized suit. Mixed reaction summarizes my view of this record, but it’s an impressive work of musical art one way or the other.

This was the beginning of the downturn for me with U2. Maybe a couple of good songs, with “One” being the best, but overall this album is not breaking any new ground, and it lacks the passion of U2’s earlier music. Almost feels like they are going through the motions… & beginning the shmaltzy cheesy phase. Nothing really terribly bad about it, just not great.

Now I remember why I don’t listen to Megadeath. It sucks.

Started off big thumbs down for me, but I stuck with it. “Drew Barrymore” and “Prom” were smooth. The record nicely blends r&b, rap, electronic and her voice is rich and lovely. But the music doesn’t move me in any particular way, and I’m not connecting with it. The lyrics are… uh… Want to give this a 2, but feel like it at least deserves a 3. But it’s my list. So I listened to Drew Barrymore and Prom again, and those are good songs. So I’m bumping it up.

Smooth. Stevie Wonder defined easy listening. That synth/organy sound is awful though. Is that the clarinet? Not a fan. Total elevator music sound. Am I ever going to consciously choose this? No. Is Stevie Wonder classic? Sure. And everyone knows the hits. But it’s really not all that great.

Too theatrical for my taste. I appreciate some of Queen’s work, but this record is much of what I don’t like about them.

Bluesy. Overall…. Eh. I’m mean I guess it was better than I expected. I do like La Grange though. Probably deserves a 3, but I don’t really like it

WTF!!! What a surprise! This is kinda awesome! No idea something like this existed. Sonically rich and powerful. Always respected what Metallica does, but this is a new level. Genius to pair their music with a symphony orchestra. Result is a musical experience like none other. Started to drag a little in second half… it’s looong. But interesting listen!

Beautiful.

Interesting, especially his spoken explanations. Glad I heard this. Shankar is obviously a maestro in his genre. I’d heard Indian and sitar music but never really spent as much time really listening. I do think this record absolutely belongs on this list. But after a few tracks, the music got very repetitive.

The music is fine. Maybe even good. But why did I need to listen to this? It’s absolutely nothing special. It’s like a poor man’s western Elvis. And I don’t like Elvis.

F*** yeah! Pixies! How to describe this? It’s just so good! I

If you have to say you are sensational, you probably aren’t. And this band is definitively not. They sound like a joke. Absolutely horrid.

This album rocks! The bluesy guitar riffs are masterful. Punch you in the gut drums. Meg and Jack White hit you in the face with their music and it’s just awesome!

Leonard Cohen is a poet. No other way to describe him. While unconventional, the tone of his voice is so moving and rich. But it’s undeveloped on this early record. I’ve listened to plenty of Cohen’s music, but I wasn’t familiar with this album. You can hear the potential with the benefit of hindsight. His voice hasn’t quite developed the signature quality it eventually does on his later records. Still a good album that I liked. The sparse musical arrangements and moodiness create a sonic space to get lost in. But this is a far cry from Cohen at his best.

Respect Prince and like a lot of his music. Not this album though. Given his illustrious career, why THIS album made the list is beyond me. I mean gimme Purple Rain. But the music is still good and there’s a lot to listen to here.

Repetitive repetitive repetitive. Read some stuff about this record being one of the most influential of the last 40 yrs or something. Maybe something about it was groundbreaking in the 70s but that doesn’t mean it’s still any good. I mean I was impressed with my kids’ artwork when they were 3 and 4 years old, by now looking back 15-20 years later, those drawing sucked. Hahaha! I do understand that these guys used new instruments and essentially created electronic music. That’s impressive and got it hand it to them for creativity. Still don’t like the music or the record.

Not usually much of a jazz fan but this one was fun and groovy. Really found myself liking much of it. Nice discovery for me.

Possibly Dylan’s best work.

Really interesting music and a fascinating record. At least on first listen. Indescribable from a genre standpoint. Think I need to be in the mood for this, but it was really groovy. Usually not into the predominantly instrumental stuff, but I liked this. Not like anything else I’ve ever heard. Debating between a 3 and 4. Feel like the newness of it is tempting me to rate it a 4, but if i listened to it repeatedly, it would probably be a 3.

The weird and wild world of Waits. Listening to this is likely staring at a car wreck.. you can’t look away. Do I really like it? I don’t know. Definitely original. And he sure is a poet. But as far as the music goes?

60s pop cheese. Momo Told Me is a good one, but overall this is not for me.

I’ll start by saying Marvin Gaye is awesome. But, while liked a few of the songs on this record, it wasn’t my favorite. I’m saving more stars for a record of his I like better.

Didn’t need to hear this before I die. Nothing about this that I liked. Giving it a 2 instead of a 1 because Sinatra.

Never heard of this band before. Pretty good. Fun sound.

It’s fine if you like this kinda thing. I don’t.

Don’t get the Elvis Costello love. I mean he’s Ok, and there are a couple of good ones he’s done (I do happen to love to Allison, but that’s not on this record). Just not that enthused by this. Sorry.

Fiddles. Lots of fiddles. Banjo. Lots banjos. Pickin and slidin. Fun lane change.

Clown music.

Aptly named record. Lyrically musically… This is great! Didn’t think I liked Arcade Fire, but guess I’d never really spent enough time listening. I couldn’t stop listening to this one. A “discovery” for me in the sense that I will definitely be returning to this album!

Way too glam. Maybe it’s just the vocals that I really don’t like. The music isn’t actually that bad. But I will pass thx.

This feels a little self-indulgent. Just goes on and on and on. Frankly i just lost interest. Certainly some interesting experimentation (although not as much as early Genesis) and a couple of tracks I thought hit. Understand this is a concept album, but didn’t really know what the concept was. Ha! Also always love Peter Gabriel’s voice. Probably being generous with the rating here due to my Peter Gabriel bias. Could’ve easily given this a 2.

Blur is a band I feel like I’m supposed to like. But I just don’t. They are certainly not bad, and I don’t dislike the is record. It just does absolutely nothing for me.

Good and solid w/ a couple slot standouts and a few clunkers

I find this music extremely irritating. Nails on chalkboard. I hope I never have to listen to this again.

Don’t know anything about this band. Screams California (but apparently they are Irish?). First off, I really don’t like the higher pitched slightly whiny vocals. Lyrics are bland. Music that’s not all that interesting and borders on cheesy in spots. They sound like a dumbed down Soul Asylum on happy pills. One Horse Town was almost catchy and not too bad. But overall this is a loser for me.

Led Zeppelin truly is one of the greatest pure rock and roll (and blues) bands ever. There is not a weak link. Each of the musician is an absolute master at their craft… Plant, Page, Bonham, Jones. Just unreal. And this music has stood the test of time. Just as relevant and perfect as it was when it was created. And this album… can you beat the opening cut? Immigrant Song is an absolute beast!!! And the record just keeps going. From the blues-y perfection of Since I’ve Been Loving You (preach Jimmy Page!) to the raucous fun of Bron-Y-Aur-Stomp to the beauty of Tangerine. Just amazing.

Rock. And. Roll. Steven Tyler’s vocals are one of a kind and Joe Perry slays! Rock on Aerosmith!

Supposedly MC5 is this great hard rock band. At least based on this record I disagree.

Steely Fan is fine. Never really moved me though. This album is no exception.

Bold and original. A fun listen. Birthday is a highlight. Love Björk’s vocals…her voice is just an absolutely unique instrument.

Hadn’t listened to it straight through before. Hard to put aside strong negative feelings about the artist. But, it’s an Infinitely listenable album. I’ll give it a a 3 but I want to give Clapton a negative 10.

Solid. Janice Joplin cranks! Love those vocals. Great guitar too. Very solid.

Interesting. Makes you want to move, but gets a little repetitive. Good though for electronic dance music.

Lush and enjoyable. Musically interesting.

Blues, jazz influenced rick. Musical craftsmanship very good. But nothing excited me about this

Snoop Dogg in the mother fuckin’ hay-ouse. This is this shiz-nit.

Rolling in the Deep and Set Fire to the Rain are killer. Adele is just a force. The voice is so rich and beautiful and powerful. But overall, I felt like a lot of the other songs were just okay. Adele is the kind of artist I just want the greatest hits from.

She’s a talented singer. But this sucked.

Raucous start! Liked it right out of the gate. Dark. Cool. And in places, even beautiful (Loom of the Land) despite the sometimes unsettling lyrics.

Love this album. Red Rain, Mercy Street, In Your Eyes all slay! This album was absolutely the height of Peter Gabriel’s genius. Maybe it’s because I listened to it on repeat as a teen, or maybe because it’s genuinely a masterpiece…. In my view one of the all time greats and a defining album of the mid-eighties.

Hypnotic. Darkness in the vocals always, but not the music. It’s that dichotomy that is one of the aspects of the album and of Joy Divisions music generally that is so intriguing.

Could this be any harder to listen to? I tried… I really did. This should’ve been the last album on the list because then if it killed me listening to it (which it almost did) at least I could have said I listened to all the albums I was supposed to before I died. In all seriousness, kudos to this group for being sonically experimental. It’s just that the sounds are so uncomfortable and unpleasant that any value in the experimentation is drowned out by the discordance.

First off, Bowie’s fingerprints are all over this record and that’s a great thing. POP’s energetic vocals are a strength. Lust for Life and The Passenger are my favorite tracks, with the latter an all-time favorite. Always think of the Trainspotting soundtrack when I hear the tune Lust for Life. Also a good thing. All around, an excellent record that showcases Pop’s and Bowie’s strengths as post-punk artists.

Mid. Not as good as later stuff.

The coolest of COOL. It’s one of 2 jazz albums I own. Just jaw droppingly great. I don’t even like jazz, but this record is undeniable perfection.

Epitome of soul. Smooth, soulful, even joyful in spots. Can hear the southern gospel influence in his intonation and vocals. All around a great listen. Can’t not like it. Al Green may be my favorite soul artist.

Some good l. Some not so good. A bit cheesy and dated.

The thing I like about this is that is captures the live energy of James Brown. The thing I do t like is all the yelling and squealing. Brown was an elite performer, but the music is not my taste.

What do you get when mix a little very light disco, some easy listening, a touch of subpar jazz and pipe it in lot an elevator? Answer… listen to this album.

Hate the way this one starts with Kiedis’ god-awful rapping. But then it gets good. Some great melodies mixed with Flea’s funky energetic bass. Couple of beautiful chill numbers too. Just grooves and rocks and then you get doses of the Chili’s signature funky rock, punk, etc. A little of everything yet the album still feels like a coherent work of art. There a few spots that annoy me… mostly again when Kiedis raps. But overall, even though I’m not personally the biggest Chile Pepper fan, this is great album and I did enjoy giving it a full listen (not sure if ever heard the whole thing front to back in one sitting before).

First thought. I hope this improves. Second thought, ok. A little better. But Could there BE more synthesizers? 80s just before 80s. Third song… get on with it. Where are we going? Vocals are somewhat robotic. Failing to find much depth. By M.E. I am annoyed. This is not good. Observer sounds familiar. This must be the “hit.” I can’t wait for this to be over. I’ve heard the future… and this is not it. Oh wait… Cars! Now I know why Observer sounded familiar. It’s the same riff. There is certainly a consistent sound on this album. I’ll give it that. Otherwise this album sux.

Very cool hypnotic grooves and beats. Just makes you move. Not what I’d typically listen to, but this is great.

With the exception of the absolute banger, Take Me Out, this album is kinda mid. It’s fine, and the music is certainly not bad. It’s just nothing special. Again though, Take Me Out is undeniable. For that song alone the album can’t get anything less than a 3.

Highest quality folk. Little green… beautiful and melancholy. The album is lovely and the storytelling is masterful.

Without knowing anything about the band or album, I’m gonna guess it’s influential because it was punk fronted by a woman. If I liked punk, I suppose I’d like this. But I don’t and I don’t. It’s not that it’s bad at all, just not my taste. And it didn’t grow on me as I listened. I just wanted it to be over with.

Pleasant sounding music. Eclectic blend with touches of bossanova, jazz, electorinc, guitar. But nothing that screams greatness. Worth listening to and glad it was here because otherwise I’d never have heard it. But maybe better as background music.

The gold standard for 90s hip-hop + gangsta rap. Masterfully produced, infectious beats and samples, and Dre is flat out the Man. Been awhile since I’ve listened to this one, so was great to revisit this after so long. It’s still just as awesome as I remember it.

The best think about this album is the title. Spot freakin’ on. If I were stoned when I listened to this, I probably would’ve thought it was genius. I wasn’t.

Certainly inventive and some of the songs are infectious. Praise You obviously a classic. Not really my thing, but respect for this one and I kinda liked listening to it.

I mean it’s Christmas standards from some seriously good artists. Can’t hate it. But also can’t rave about it.

Funk, disco-y and pure 70s. It’s probably considered great for the genre, but I really really don’t like the genre.

Nine Inch Nails crowning achievement. The anger and rage is so visceral on this album. The music is abrasive and raw, yet it’s also a technical masterpiece. Not the kind of music I can listen to often, but when the mood is right, this album is really pretty incredible. Nothing else really compares to it. Also, side note… pretty incredible arc to Trent Reznor’s career. From this to scoring movies and winning Academy Awards. Quite an accomplished musician.

Beautiful and interesting. Can’t draw comparisons to anything else… very original. This is the kind of record I think could grow on me the more I listen to it. The coherent sound is atmospheric and minimal, but there’s a depth in the music and lyrics that is pulling me in. Giving this one a 4… a lot based on the potential to blossom for me on repeat listens. And I will most certainly return to this one to get to know it better.

I knew Kate Bush, but hadn’t listened to this record in its entirety. Of course I know Running Up That Hill, and it’s a great one, so no initial thoughts with that tune. But then 2 more songs in, and I’m thinking “”Eureka! Kate Bush was Björk before Björk was Björk!” So many similarities in the way Bush uses her voice as an instrument to the way Björk does. Really cool. Anyway, lot to like here, but some I didn’t (Waking the Witch was like nails on a chalkboard). Bush was truly an innovator in pop and the stuff she did set the stage for many to follow.

Good lord this is long… so many waltzes and jigs. Look, I love me some Irish music. But I’ve heard more interesting Irish music in a pub on open mic night. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the Waterboys. The music is nice. But completely and utterly devoid of any originality, excitement, or passion. Give me the Pogues, or shit, even the Irish Tenors! This music is the definition of mid. Sorry ‘boys.

Energetic and fun. Definitely rocks. Bit of a whirlwind. Not sure I can sink my teeth into though, but need to listen to it a few more times. 3.65 stars.

Uplifting. While Bob Marley didn’t invent reggae, he certainly made it accessible to the world. And this album feels genre-defining. Marley’s voice is a beautiful thing. Can’t imagine not liking or at least appreciating this.

A “desert island disc”’for me! One of my all-time favorite albums. This music was some of the most interesting and original I had ever heard as a high schooler (when I bought this record). I’ve listened to it hundreds if not thousands of times over the years and it never gets old. The Stone Roses defined the Manchester sound. Reni’s drums and rhythms are an absolutely mind-blowing. Who else drums like this?! And Mani’s(RIP) bass is the perfect compliment in the rhythm section. Overlay all that with Squire’s cascading guitar melodies, sometimes funky & slightly psychedelic, sometimes wa-wa-infused, sometimes Hendrix-sequel , always amazing. Then put all that incredible creativity and musicianship with Ian Brown’s vocals. It’s simply sublime. This album is absolute perfection.

I like Morissey fine, although the whining voice can sometimes get a bit grating. This album is good. But it’s not “must listen before you die” good. Morrissey’s best work was with the Smiths. That band had all the right elements and made incredible music. Morissey’s solo work just wasn’t as special. Again, this record is totally fine, with a few standouts. But that’s about all I can say for it.

Rod Stewart is OK. And this album is better than good. Lot prettier in spots than I was expecting. Definitely here Stones influence. Am I gong to reach for it again, probably not, but a decent listen.

The gold standard in southern blues rock, the Allman Bros Band is awesome, but good lord some of these songs go on forever on this record. If I were seeing them perform this live, would probably be great. But the overly indulgent jams are too much on a recording. Just a bit tedious. Also, TOO much organ.

Well, this sure is punk. Appreciate the punkiness of this punk. It’s raucous, loud, rebellious. But with the exceptions of the Ramones, not a big fan of the genre. Still though, it accomplishes what it set out to do well, so gotta give it at least a 3.

Other than some cool drums cool in spots, this didn’t work for me at all. The only track I felt the groove on was 808080808… sort of. And Sunrise was pretty cool too. But like the title of the former, this album was so repetitive, and not in a good trancelike way. Every track felt like a beat with a little (mostly annoying sounding) electro riff on top of it over and over and over. Granted EDM isn’t my jam, but this one overall wasn’t remotely interesting and I looked forward to it being done.

What a force! Powerful passionate and a little angry. Some serious catharsis going on here.

It’s the Beatles so doesn’t that mean I’m supposed to think it’s amazing? Well, I do appreciate what the Beatles did for modern pop/rock. And a few of their albums, regardless of whether one “likes” them, are undeniably influential artistic achievements that an automatically classics. I don’t think this one falls in that category. The cover art is certainly iconic! And a few of the songs are great (Carry That Weight, Come Together). What’s with the mini-songs though? The little 1-2 minute diddies? The music is great but then it just stops. Feels almost like they were undeveloped musical thoughts. Is that blasphemy? Anyway, I want to give this a 3, but feel compelled to give it a 4. No, this is my list. This is a subpar Beatles record.

Good. Highlights transition from punk to post-punk. Couple of guitar lines/sounds made me think of Peter Buck! That’s a good thing!

So freaking creepy. Gotta hand to the guy for matching the aesthic with the mood of the music. Taking out the shock value of Marilyn Manson generally and the real creepiness, there’s decent music in there. The hit, Beuatiful People is downright catchy… while maintaining the creep factor. It’s an uncomfortable listen, but it’s not bad at all.

From driving rock, to acoustic stomp and clap, to “opera”. Queen is just Queen. Much of Queen is too glam and dramatic for my taste. Mercury’s voice is unique and ridiculously good… Although is it me or is there a bit of channeling Robert Plant in spots ( In Love With My Car) and then “Lazing…” totally channels some Beatles before breaking into the signature Brian May guitar. Then You’re My Best friend is cheese and Broadway. Do not like that schlock. On to ‘39 with its acoustic flavor with a stomp and clap kicking in, and then like Woody Guthrie. But then the little opera interlude. Queen. Haha! Like this one until the opera crap bars. Sweet Lady sucks. Seaside Rendezvous is quintessential Queen. And not for me. Man, this record is all over the place. Back half of the record goes pure theatrically opera. Is it genius or unfocused experimentation that doesn’t do anything original and just tries or to copy lots of other styles with a dramatic flare and backing vocals added? Probably somewhere in the middle. But Bohemian Rhapsody is an undeniable all-timer. I mean on the strength of Bohemian Rhapsody alone, this album has to get at least a 4 (even though I really don’t personally like this at all).

So this one is tough. First off, I respect the heck out of Springsteen and I really like much of his music. And there a couple of great songs here.. The Rising, Paradise (to name a couple). But otherwise, it’s a bit unremarkable. Understand that this record marked a hit of a return for Springsteen, when compared with the rest of his body of work, this doesn’t seem like a “1001 Must Listen” album. Again, it’s good… all Springsteen is good. But this is just mostly unremarkable.

WTF did I just listen to?! Was this like a spoof band from a Borat movie?

I have a bit of anti-Elvis Costello bias. Except for the song “Allison” So I endeavored to listen with particularly open ears. I just can’t connect to the music. I don’t know what it is. The music is inoffensive. His voice is ok (although not my thing and sometimes annoys me a little). There are a couple of “nice” songs too, but I just can’t ever imagine ever reaching for this album. What mood is it for? What am I missing? This is probably a 3, but it’s my list, so I’m going 2.

Black Sabbath rocks. The bass is surprisingly funky and really good on this record.

AC/DC also rocks. Just classic and fun. Makes me want to throw a few lite beers and party back in Gastonia where I grew up!

Grungerific. Squarely in the vein of Nirvana meets Smashing Pumpkins, Mudhoney seems like they were almost as good as some of their contemporary grunge counterparts, but a slightly lesser version. This is a really good record, and one that I think I’d enjoy more with each listen. However, again, it’s just not quite as good as comparable bands of the time.

These guys were innovators. Like the album or not, they set the stage for a lot of the great post-punk music that would follow. As an avid REM fan, I know they were influenced by Television. Not comparing the bands, just saying you can hear the influence. The song Marquee Moon is killer! Those guitar lines riffs are so cool. Tom Verlaine RIP.

This was the biggest thing going when I was in 5th grade. So it sure feels like. A classic. Listening now, the synthesizers are a bit much! Oozing 80s. But Eddie Van Halen’s guitar licks are masterful, love this or hate this. Personally, it’s not for me, but there are so many hits on this album and I know the lyrics to almost every song. It was a cultural phenomenon when released and it still (admittedly) kinda rocks. The height of pop “hard—ish) arena rock.

Wonderful music. Makes you want to party in Havana. Perfect for background dinner party music. The musicianship is excellent. Get a real cool vibe here… and there is a consistent theme and concept throughout the work. Cool record.

Lame. Really didn’t like this. Sappy, cheesy, unimaginative. I know Raitt can sing. And Have a Heart is an enduring tune. But that’s not enough to salvage this.

All of Led Zeppelin is masterful. This record is much more subdued than I recall. For a debut record , this is a remarkable achievement. No one did blues infused rock and roll better than Zeppelin. Only reason I’m giving this a 4 instead of a 5 is that this is not the best of the best, and “You Shook Me”can get a tad tedious. (Maybe just that one). Basically Zeppelin gets even better and this album isn’t “perfect” like arguably some of their other records are. So I need to leave room for those other even mor

Finally some Radiohead! Syncopation and polyrhythms galore. Inventive, original, and a satisfying listen. Really every time I listen, I find more in each track. They are just genius. One of the great groups of all time. I note though that this not my favorite Radiohead work, but still on another plane. Hope for more later in the list so I can dole out some 5s!

Public Enemy is awesome. Good politically charged lyrics. Not their strongest album though.

The sampling on this record is next level. Lyrics also ingenious. Not my personal favorite Beasties record though, even though it was certainly groundbreaking. So for that reason… a 4 for me.

Another KD Lang album? One wasn’t enough I suppose. Zzzzz.

Cool, but got boring.

Prog rock! I definitely enjoy me some Yes. Roundabout and Long Distance Runaround are highlights here. And very cool version of America. Didn’t even know Yes covered it. Love what they did with this. As much as I like much of the record, it does meander a bit. And the a few of the tracks are self-indulgently long. I think there are better Yes albums, but on whole, a quintessential prog rock Yes work.

This is a beautiful record. Textured and lovely, and then powerful in spots.

John Prine is one of the greatest American singer songwriters of all time. The storytelling on this album is absolutely masterful. “ Hello in There” is one of the saddest and best songs ever written. “Angel from Montgomery” is another beauty. And how about the opener? “Illegal Smile” is funny and philosophical all at the same time. I just love this album. This is deserving of the list if ever an album was!

Well this one was really interesting. Never heard of this artist before. Wasn’t sure what to make of it at first. First thought on first track was something about this reminds me of James Blake. Piano, emotive vocals. The vocals are so unique… vibrato… gender fluid too. That fluidity matches the lyrics and the themes. What is going on here? Beautiful… odd.. so soulful and moving. Gorgeous and melancholy. Clearly the singer is recounting some very personal feelings and the authenticity of their emotions translates into work of art that is hard to turn away from. I think this album is something special. Even if I never listen to it again. Regardless of the star rating, albums like this that I never would’ve listened to but for this list are what I love about this project.

Love the collaborations with Thom Yorke. PJ Harvey is just downright good. Have nothing else to say about this one. Great indie rock album.

Rock ‘N Soul. Aptly titled. Except really more R&B ‘N Soul. Very 60s feel. Burke has a great voice and the album is pleasant. Reminds me of an Otis Redding. Good record but not remarkable to me.

Nope. Repetitive instrumental grating annoying noise. Nothing about this gave me any pleasure or evoked any emotion other than annoyance at having wasted my drive to work listening (tolerating) this. I will say the bass on at least a couple of tracks was notably interesting. But that doesn’t save this.

Saxamaphone.

Dark, stirring, intense. Definitely not for every mood. But for brooding or self-loathing, this music is the balm. Shut the lights and just immerse yourself in it.

Better than I remember. On its own, not a bad album, but I know what U2 is capable of, and this album is subpar for them. It’s a little tame and doesn’t cover any new ground. But the songs are pretty good.

This is just pure unadulterated excellent ROCK.

Very pleasant music. This is good, although I can’t figure out when I’d ever want to put it on. What mood does it evoke? It’s better than elevator music, but it’s not exciting, or melancholic, or angry, or soothing. It’s just nice music. Nothing remarkable about this at all, but nothing offensive either. Solidly average.

Nick Drake’s music is absolutely heartbreakingly beautiful. Gets me every time. The guitar is virtuoso and his vocal tone and subtle voice are a match made in heaven. Highlights: Way to Blue… so spare yet so sonically rich. Then ‘Cello Song. The cello mingling with his voice after he asks the girl to reach down and lift him into her place in the cloud. Time Has Told Me is great too … country guitar meandering throughout. This album is sublime.

An absolute classic. There is not a weak link on this record. Springsteen at his peak. From the album cover to the opening notes of Born in USA, this record grabs the listener immediately and demands attention. The storytelling and stirring music keeps the listener captivated. A true cohesive work. Springsteen paints pictures of working class Americana and the pursuit of the American dream. He sings of passion and despair. Throughout it feels so authentic, In addition to the great songwriting and unforgettable anthems, the album also boasts exceptional musicianship, not just from Bruce, but the whole E Street Band. Easily one of the greatest records ever.

Only two things worth noting here. 1) Aguilera does have an exceptionally powerful soulful and sultry voice. 2) Alicia Keys is great on the piano on the one number she’s featured on. Beautiful is a highlight.

2nd Deep Purple in like a week. Hmm. The live record was better, but his is solid hard rock w/ a dash of prog in there. Some of the songs are freakin long.

Do you like bass-forward artsy goth rock? If so, you might like this. Bauhaus was THE original goth rock band and kudos go to them for making some very original music. I will say that in terms of listenability, I like the parts (Peter Murphy solo and Love and Rockets) better than the whole… especially Peter Murphy’s solo work. Again, groundbreaking and original. Torn between a 3(how much I personally like it) and a 4( true influential album).

If listened to early Floyd, and I thought maybe some solo Syd Barrett, I had some assumptions going in here. I was way off. This was much more approachable and much less strange than I expected. It was really listenable and good! Very noticeable Beatles influence. Lyrics are cryptic in spots but in a an intriguing way, not in an an off-putting way at all. I love Dark Globe. Had forgotten about this gem and didn’t know it was on this album. You can hear Barrett’s musical genius, but you can also hear a little of the madness. It’s a great record that I’m glad I got promoted to listen to in its entirety.

With the exception of the song “Tusk” (which is much better live!) this album is a real snoozefest. This is elevator music with the exception of Stevie Nick’s voice on the tracks when she sings. Fleetwood Mac has made some really good stuff, but this album isn’t that. Absolutely boring.

What the crap is this? I’ve heard of The The and I think I’ve listened to something they did, but didn’t remember liking it much. I remembered correctly. Don’t like it. Not much more to say.

I think you either love or hate Tom Waits. While I don’t fall squarely in either camp, I found this album to be wonderful. Waits is so unique and brilliant, even if the occasional track is somewhat hard to listen to at times. Take the opener or Dave the Butcher. Irritating. But most of the album is marvelous. Some absolutely beautiful songs. And some amazing storytelling, enhanced by Waits’ signature gravelly vocals. All in all this is a unique work of art. This would be a 5 for me but for the couple of duds and the fact that after awhile it can start to grate a bit. I like my Tom Waits in doses. But really close to a 5.

When this popped up as my listen for the day, I was excited to revisit the Eurythmics. I always remember really liking the song “Sweet Dreams are Made of This.” What a let down. This record either hasn’t aged well, or maybe it just wasn’t ever all that good. Annie Lennox has a special voice and it’s a pleasure to listen to her sing (& she’s cool as hell), but the music here is overly synth’d and flat. So disappointing. Also, Sweet Dreams Are Made of This is still a good track (again credit Lennox’s vocals), but not nearly as great as I had remembered.

Loved it. Never realized how much I like Arcade Fire, but this is the second AF record on this list I handy really paid attention to in the past. But having done so now, I’m sold. Just really good freakin rock anthems.

This feels like what I imagine Radiohead would sound like if they were forced to fit a pop mold. Less edgy and interesting.

The little forays into jazz and rock don’t suit Joni Mitchell. She is one of the great American folk artists. This is outside of what she excels at and it’s not good jazz or rock…or folk. Artists experimenting with new styles and sounds can work. But here it doesn’t. And who knew there were songs about pinball that weren’t by The Who? I will say Mitchell is a poet and the lyrics and storytelling are good. But still, I don’t like it.

From the opening bell tolls and iconic guitar lead in of Hell’s Bells, this album is balls to the wall!

The rhythms are mesmerizing. Takes you to a foreign land. Delta blues meets world music! This is unlike anything I’ve heard. Quite interesting. Guitar playing is also remarkable.

Very difficult to listen to Kanye West objectively. Before I knew what a shithead he is, I liked a lot of what he did and thought he was a musical pioneer. Not this record though. Leaving aside my disdain for him, I found lyrics to be misogynistic, juvenile, and crass. The music wasn’t breaking much ground here either. His earlier records were worlds better. This one doesn’t deserve to be in this list.

This is good. Fun listen and the Kinks are always great. Not sure I’d call this a “must listen” album though. Again, some catchy fun songs, excellent drumming and all around enjoyable. But nothing over the top special. I think some of their other work is more unique and iconic.

A lot of classics on this one. On the strength of Hotel California alone, this has to be better than average. That said, the Eagles are great, but a little vanilla. Remember liking them more when I was younger.

Oh no thank you. Dark and angry and way metal-y. Nothing for me here.

Cheesy horns and back up singers. Too shmaltzy.

Interesting. My kid loves Frank Ocean so really was interested to give it a good listen. It’s very smooth and listenable. Lyrically strong too. But I don’t love it. Good. Not great. Open minded about more Frank Ocean though. There’s plenty here to like.

A Forest is one the great Cure songs. M is also awesome. But the rest of this album sounds like a band that is starting to develop its sound but hasn’t yet matured. The music is not as complex and rich as the Cure’s later music becomes. It’s also kind of repetitive. Again, the foundation of what’s to become a great band is clearly there. You can hear it’s coming. Just not there yet. But still really good.

Starts off decently enough with a couple of good songs (Sound and Vision being the best), but then it devolves. A lot of it sounds like improvised experimentation. The second half of the record gets very tedious with long boring instrumentals. Bowie is an all-time great, but I don’t think this album is.

Absolute musical genius. Pure and simple. If this album isn’t a 5, then what is? Even the freaking iconic cover art is a 5! The mood and theme of the album is singular throughout. A complete work start to finish. This a true album, not just a compilation of songs. Finally, lyrically and musically the album is perfect. An absolute masterpiece.

Yes! Superb record. Syncopated awesomeness. Radiohead is an original. No other band really sounds like them. The music and lyrics are brilliant. I can get lost in this album… the memorizing rhythms on some of the tracks absolutely absorb the listener. Some beautiful moments in the back half too.

Pillar of Indy guitar rock with a little punk edge. Grungy before grunge. What a solid record from a great time in Indy music. Could do without My Friend Goo, but otherwise great from top to bottom.

It sure is jazz. No doubt about that. I’m not the best judge of jazz, so take this with a grain of salt. This music did not move me and I didn’t find it to be particularly interesting or inventive. Sure, it’s smooth, but it’s not for me.

More jazz. Second jazz record in a row. The good thing is that this one is actually GOOD! Can’t beat Miles Davis… cooler than cool. This album sounds much more improvisational and less structured than other Miles Davis I’ve listened to. But I don’t know much about jazz. I hear more electric music (guitar, keyboards) than I would’ve expected. Also, a lot of rock influence in there. Almost a a jazz/rock fusion especially on disc two. Really like what I hear.

Nice pop folk rock. Some catchy tunes, like I’ll I Want. But overall, I’d say it’s an average record.

Who knew Animal from the Muppets actually did put out a record? The speed of the drumming is kinda of impressive. It’s actually not quite as bad as I had anticipated, but good lord this is not something I’d ever want to listen to again.

Break out the bong and channel your inner Beavis. Cypress Hill has a signature sound. It’s infectious but also can tend to get annoying after awhile. Small doses of Cypress Hill can be fun, no denying. But it all sounds very similar. Tough call here. These guys are good, but I got tired of it by the end. Couple of songs in I was leaning 4. By the end I can’t justify a 4.

No shortage of Black Sabbath on this list! Only a quarter way through and this is the 3rd one! But hey, I’ve developed a whole new appreciation for these guys. Never realized just how great their music is. Always thought of Ozzy as just shock rock, but wow, the music is amazing. This album just crushes. Amongst the greatest hard rock records ever I believe. War Pigs, Paranoid, Iron Man are highlights.

Great record. Maybe Neil Young’s best? Powderfinger crushes. Young is an exceptional lyricist. My favorite of his songs. Great juxtaposition of distorted powerful guitars and driving rhythms on some tracks next to other mournful quieter tracks like Sail Away and Pocahontas. Also love the authenticity of the live recordings. Really great album.

This band sounds sounds like the Byrds, but not quite as catchy or interesting. Lyrics a little bland and cliched. Certainly pleasant melodies and all the overlapping vocals are nice. Some fun guitar on some of the tracks. Also a little Beach Boys-y. But again, not nearly as interesting or good. Maybe it was more groundbreaking for its time. Not a bad record at all, but I feel like I’ve heard this music elsewhere but better.

I know Ray Charles is great and all, but this is not at all for me. Has a big band flavor I just don’t like.

I don’t know what the hell I just listened too. It wasn’t bad… probably won’t hear it ever again though. Lots of accordion and French for first thing in the morning.

I mean I suppose it’s very good electronic music. Also, I feel like they had better, more influential albums. This is a perfectly good record, but in the end, it’s not really for me.

Fun, energetic, raw and fantastic!

Pleasant and smooth. But a little dull. 3+3= wait for it…. 3. See what I did there?

Beautiful, interesting, and a nice listen. Something I never would’ve picked up. Classical meets jazz piano. And I admit I liked it. The man is incredibly talented. I love the passion with which he plays too. The audible “Ahhh…” and “”ohhh…” in some of the pieces almost songs like he is making love to the piano and orgasming as he plays. You can literally hear his pleasure. And the fact that this is live and improvised (I believe) makes it even more remarkable. Great listen.

I find the sound of each song very repetitive. Lyrics are cliched. Although maybe not back in 1967. Perhaps it was groundbreaking then?

The god of electric guitar! This record is undeniable!

Didn’t know this group before this album came up. I hear Velvet Underground. Interesting sound. Recognized the voice so looked them up and learned it’s Jonathan Richman. Never knew he had a group. Worth the listen. Better side of good, but not great.

Was excited to see this one pop ip because I know how influential this band was for so many other bands I love. But I’d never really listened to their material before. Maybe this isn’t the best album, or maybe it’s just not as good as I’d hoped. It’s ok. Might grow on me over time too and there were a few tracks that caught my attention but In general I was underwhelmed.

Meh

Such a gifted storyteller and songwriter. Not the best Paul Simon record but still excellent. Duncan is a highlight.

Dramatic schlock with a bit of a bit of a punkness to it. Don’t get it.

Finally some R.E.M.! R.E.M. is my all-time favorite band and I love everything they have done! So I could probably rate EVERY album of theirs a “5” when compared to other music. I will be a little more critical here and view this album through the lens of how to rate this alb when I know what R.E.M. is capable of. Green was a real breakthrough commercial success for the band. It follows Life’s Rich Pageant and Document which are great rock records. Green is a bit softer edged, although Turn you Inside Out, Orange Crush, and Get Up, certainly rock. Highlights for me are World Leader Pretend (an amazing political commentary and incredible song), You Are the Everything (one of the most beautiful songs ever written) and Orange Crush (a true banger… the rawness is exhilarating). Despite the highs, the album is a little weak in the back half, and Stand can irritate. In my view, Green is probably the band’s 6th best album. Hope the 5 in front of it make the list too! This is a great, if slightly flawed album that still return to frequently.

Mellow Neil Young (except the angry “Southern Man”… a highlight on the record). This is a good Neil Young album… leans more into folk than rock. But he’s at his whiniest in terms of vocals. I listened to it a few times and after enjoying it on listen 1,nit started to grate on me a little bit guess. His more rock-centric stuff doesn’t tend to do that to me as much. Still a 4 though.

Absolutely insufferable. How the hell is this on this list?!

Dreamlike quality to this music. Desire Lines is an absolutely awesome song. The rest of the album is a nice listen too, with some other interesting tracks. But not sure it’s outstanding in any way. It’s solid alt/indie rock with a pop bent. Want to give it a 3.5.

Packed with classics. The best of 70s guitar-based hard rock. Steven Tyler’s vocals are also exceptional. Expect what the F is with Big 10 Inch Record? Cheeky, but it’s out of place here n this album.

Didn’t dig the last Stevie Winder album that popped up. Tried to leave expectations at the door when listening to this one. First half is just boring easy listening music. I know how talented he is, but this is just so uninspiring. Then “You Haven’t Done Nothing” starts and the funk vibe and cool bass got me bobbing my head a bit. But then back to elevator music. Sorry Stevie.

Let’s get down! Funky disco time! Oh man… FREAK OUT, C’est Chic! Now that damn song is stuck in my head. Look, I’m sure this is good funk (disco?), but I just can’t do it. Some of it is nails on chalkboard for me. Sorry. But the again, does kinda make you wanna party.

Wow. TWO Cocteau Twins records on this list?! Whispy voice. Music is cool. Good not great indie.

I thought I knew Hole, but I guess I never really listened to them with attention and I don’t think I’d ever heard this album front to back. I really liked it! Much more accessible than I had imagined it would be. It’s melodic and it rocks! Lyrics are great too. Just great rock and roll that made me crank and the volume and bob my head and play drums and air guitar on the steering wheel while I listened to this album on repeat yesterday.

Was difficult to find this album. Ended up using YouTube so it wasn’t ideal to listen to in the car. I feel like I need to spend more time with this one to truly appreciate it. It’s smooth and cool and jazzy, but then politically charged and spoken word. Not sure how to rate … not my personal taste, but also objectively interesting and the artist has a lot to say. I’m gonna give it a 3, although it probably warrants a 4. I also understand a lot of folks think this isn’t the most representative music of Sot-Heron’s catalog. The Revolution Will Not be Televised (which I do know and think highly of) might’ve been a better place to start.

Not really like anything else I’ve listened too. Instrumental cool kinda EDM meets hip-hop? Quite repetitive though. Generally favorable view of this, but it it lost me after awhile.

Ethereal indie pop. Innocuous and pleasant enough but uninteresting.

This is the Radiohead album that first grabbed me. I absolutely love this record! Top to bottom, a force. It lacks the pervasive polyrhythms that define later Radiohead, but OMG this album blows me away. The Bends, Fake Plastic Trees, My Iron Lung… list goes on. It’s thematically consistent throughout, a complete work. Melancholic, rousing, powerful, heartbreaking, passionate, stirring, cathartic … all at the same time. Desert island disc for me. A true all time great!

A third rate attempt at sounding like Hendrix and Zeppelin. Maybe at the time it was interesting, but it’s not that heavy, blues, or hard. And the recording is sub par.

So these are the guys responsible for Quiet Riot?

I loved this. Soulful and rich. Few can sing like Otis Redding. I was a few songs in and thinking I was gonna give this a 5, but then it occurred to me how many of these songs are covers. It’s just a compilation record, not a true “album.” So for that reason, I’m downgrading it to a 4. But that doesn’t diminish how enjoyable this is to listen to.

This is just annoying as all get out. I actively hate it. I could not get through this very bossanova nightmare.

A foundational 80s rap album filled with catchy hits that are true classics. Tricky, My Adidas, Walk This Way… I can still remember the SNL performance with Aerosmith! I’d give this a 5, but it has aged a bit. The beats feel a bit rudimentary listening with a modern ear. And after the blistering start to the record, it peters out just a little. But it’s still awesome and important.

Cheese and glam… but also a little nostalgia. Not the worst of the 80s arena rock but not that great either. This bubblegum “hard” rock music and its ilk didn’t appeal to me then and I still think it sucks.

Greatest Brit punk rock band of all time (no offense to the Sex Pistols). Clash set the standard. It’s incredible to think this is a debut album. So strong top to bottom. Want to give this a 4.5 because London Calling is even better and I need room for it when comes up.

It’s kinda fun and funky hip-hop but not reallly for me. Still, objectively it’s at least a 3.

Very Scandinavian sounding. Hear some Björk influence for sure. Especially vocals in When I Grow Up. Overall it held my attention and I generally liked most of it. Some of it was (especially male vocals) blah blah blah whine and mope. But Not bad for electronica overall. Pretty good.

I want to mosh. THE American punk band.

Had a hard time connecting to this music and the vocals annoyed me a bit on a couple of early tracks. But then it gets kinda fun and feels like it could playing at a cool party. Overall music is absolutely fine, and I’m sure it moves many people. For me , fun but meh.

I listened to this CD on repeat in high school. So happy to revisit it in its entirety. Nothing complicated about the music… just catchy as hell and so melodic. A great one album phenom.

What a voice and what a singer songwriter. A true American musical icon. Sweet Baby James, Fire and Rain are classics. Tempted to go 5 here, but as a complete album there are a couple of unremarkable tracks. Still great though!

Meh. Not huge fan of

First impression — this sounds like Kate Tempest. The rapping style, the English accent, even the quality of her voice. Also hear Sault in the music and beats especially on the second track, Boss. Liked the reggae influence mixed in. Pleasantly surprised with this one! Found myself wanting to listen multiple times. This is one of those records on this list that is newer (2019), so will it stand the test of time yet? It’s catchy, and interesting and raw and direct. I think so. Really good one that I’d never heard of before.

Hard for me to highly rank albums that consist primarily of covers. Sure, the musicianship is great and the blues sound is, well, perfectly bluesy. Jagger sounds excellent and Keith Richards’ guitar and Watts’ drumming are all awesome. The Stones are a seminal blues rock band and are deserving of all the praise. But again, this album is mostly covers. They show off their talent and you can tell they are bound for greatness on this debut record, but can’t give it anything more than a 3 because it’s mostly not their own.

Loud and FAST. Forget heavy metal, this is speed metal. It’s funny, I respect the heck out of Metallica and I like some of their work quite a bit, but this album was a disappointment to me, even though I know it was widely considered one of the greatest heavy metal albums ever. I’d never listened to the whole thing before, so I was excited when it popped up. But I quickly discovered this was not for me. The tempo is so fast it feels like it eats the songs. I just can’t appreciate what they are doing because the guitar and drums are so accelerated. Maybe that’s why I personally like some of their later material better. So, objectively, this probably should be a a 4 or 5. But for me, it’s a 2. But because it is a pivotal and quite influential album, I have lt at least give it a 3. I won’t begrudge all the 4 and 5s out there. I get it. Just personal taste here.

I need to listen again maybe. Left absolutely no impression on me. Not bad not good. I’ll relisten and amend if I need to.

Love the Dead and the Dead live. This recording is tedious though. Several much better live recordings out there. Rarely do I hear the Dead come on and look at my watch. I did while listening to this one. Do like the rendition of St. Stephen though. Overall, mediocre at best. Not sure why THIS particular recording ended up on here (give me Barton Hall, Cornell ‘77 or Without a Net, or one of the many other mindblowing shows).

Solid 70s rock and roll with a blues influence. Nothing remarkable to me though. It’s fine.

A cult classic. Weirdly catchy and cultural touchstone in the 80s. Nothing else quite like it. Really takes me back to junior high school. Thought this was so punk and rebellious! Still a great one.

Beautiful moving music.

Politically charged and aggressive. Hear it in the angry lyrics. At least one or two tracks musically sounded a little like Cypress Hill. Pretty solid, but there’s political gangster rap that hits harder and is lore interesting to me.

I’m sure this is very good big band / jazz. Totally not my jam. Just really don’t like this kind of music.

Wow!!!!! One of my favorite albums from my all-time favorite band pops up on my birthday!!!! And it’s the band’s 5th album… on the 5th day of the 5th month. Serendipity! One of the all-time best college rock records ever made. R.E.M. in their prime. It’s raw, politically charged, powerful, and one of a kind. Stipe’s lyrics and vocals are absolutely next level. The voice is indescribably stirring… and… it’s just passion and power and beauty and rich. So rich. The music Buck, Mills and Berry create together is just perfect. No part is greater than the whole. Mills is such a secret weapon too. The band is one unit that has mastered the art of creating amazing music together. This album is part of the fabric of my being (along with Life’s Rich Pageant). I love EVERY R.E.M. record, but this is one is objectively an easy 5. It’s perfect. Every single song. For the uninitiated, listen to these a few times: Welcome to the Occupation, Disturbance at the Heron House, the One I Love, King of Birds. A desert island disc for sure.

Bowie was an innovator. Changes.

Jangly. Poppy. Feel like I’m running out of things to say about the Beatles. To summarize… much respect, but never really developed a love for them. Recognize the contributions to modern pop and rock, but never really feel like putting on one of there records (with the exception of maybe Sgt Pepper). Still, it’s the Beatles and this record was mostly enjoyable.

Solid rock and roll. Good, but not great. Petty does get to great on other records, but this one still feels like he’s trying to find his voice.

Pearl Jam’s greatest album. Raw, emotional and pure. Vedder’s voice gives the music incredible depth and in my view, his vocals elevate this music from excellent to otherworldly. The band is so powerful. The record does not have a weak point. One of my favorite albums in my college years.

This screams 60s. Vocals are so dramatic and operatic. Too much organ. Too much falsetto. Psychedelic or experimental folk? Some of it sounds a bit like Jefferson Airplane. But not as good. The music meanders and seems a little self-indulgent. The lyrics? 🤮 “I love upstairs. I love her downstairs. But I love my lady’s chamber”? Really? I found the second half of this record significantly worse than the first half. I understand he has better albums, so if he pops up on this list again, I’ll try to by open minded. But this one is no bueno.

Forgot how good these guys were. Cornell has an amazing voice. Fantastic record.

Man this is bad. Lyrics are shit, music is uninteresting. Cheesy. I understand the cultural significance of Elvis, but I can’t stand most of his music. It’s just not good in my view.

Starting with the good… “My Girls” is awesome. Love the melodic sonic landscape. It’s quite hypnotic. As is a lot of this record. But that hypnotic quality can also get a little boring in places where it’s not quite as catchy like in “My Girls.” Certainly an interesting album worth listening to though. And new listen for me, although I’d heard of the band before.

I remember the buzz around the album/band when it came out in the late 80s. To me it was pop hard rock…too glam in sound. The lyrics have good strong political messages, and I like Glover’s voice well enough. It’s energetic too. But I just don’t love the music. And other than the band being one of very few in the genre with a Black singer, the music isn’t really notable to me, even though the hits are recognizable.

Vaughn has an absolutely gorgeous voice. Not really my jam, but I did find it very soothing and pleasant as I drove with this album in the background.

Another classic Zeppelin record. So. Damn. Good.

Meh. A little better than I expected but feel like this is overrated

Raw and angry. It’s good, but I can hear a bit of immaturity in the album that gets polished (in a good way) in their later work. Love has such a good voice, but her yelling masks it. This feels like alive is trying to act a part instead of being herself. I do like the record though. Just not as much as other Hole work.

What an amazing record for so many reasons. First… Johnny Cash. The voice. What a legend. Second, this makes you feel like you are at the prison for the show. Just the whole mood, and his comments, and the warden interrupting on the intercom. Amazing how it takes you there. And song choices and how the prisoners respond. Just a genius recording. Not to mention how great the songs are. A special record.

Nothing remarkable about this light punk record than that I have no idea why this is on this list.

I am totally unfamiliar and unversed in this kind of DJ music. It sounds cool but I really need to listen to this more carefully and probably more than just a once through to better understand what I think about it. Certainly glad it was on this list so I could check out a new to me genre. I’m giving this a 3 because it’s definitely not bad. But I don’t think I love the genre even if it’s interesting

They don’t call him the King of Pop for nothing. Thats what this record is… purely unadulterated pop. Overly produced, saccharine electronic sounds, and Michael Jackson making his patented squeals and stuff. Many of the songs are super catchy though. Hard to deny. But other than creating ear worms that wont go away, I can’t say I like it. But like the Beatles, I acknowledge what people like about it and I see (kinda) why he was an icon. I’m gonna give this a 3, because I don’t love or hate it. I also don’t think this is Jackson’s best work. So I’ll save a higher mark for Thriller.

Don’t know how I losses these guys while I was in HS and college. Squarely in the genre I loved so mush then… shoegaze fuzzy guitars and Brit indie pop. I like this, and I think it sounds like the kind of record that would just continue to grow on me. Looking forward to revisiting.

Archetypal Brit pop album. I couldn’t place who the voice reminded me of and then it came to me… Suede. But these folks were doing it long before Suede. And really better. You can hear stuff in this record that was most definitely influential. Common People is a great tune. Really liking this record… very solid. Surprised I kinda missed this group in the 90s. Squarely in a genre I enjoy. Can really hear a Bowie influence in this. But I actually like this better. Will be relistening to this one! Good find.

Not even close to as good as What’s the Story… granted, that’s a high bar. But I just find this Oasis record mediocre. There are absolutely some bangers and the guitarwork is excellent and fun. But this album just doesn’t do it for me. But it’s also not bad. Squarely a 3 for me.

It’s all about Orton’s incredible vocals. The music is an afterthought. I love the quality of her voice. And Stolen Car is awesome song!

Possibly the first hip hop album I ever bought. I remember how popular this was. Felt like everyone had it. Still kinda fun and some good social commentary.

Totally uninteresting 70s glam rock. Absolutely nothing remarkable about this. Only thing I like is that REM name drops them in Man on the Moon. Otherwise forgettable.

2 songs in, and I’m loving this. Ok… the rest of the album did not disappoint. This music is just fun (in places), moving (in places), and infectious throughout. Just grooves. Such a find. Would have never known about this group or this “desert blues” music from Mali but for this project. This is one of those records I was hoping to find . Absolutely love this! Adding to my regular rotation.

Annoying synths. Overly dramatic vocals, that I don’t think are very good or very pleasing to listen to. Lyrics are blah. Basically just alt 80s schlock. Didn't like this band then, don’t like this band now.

Unique but irritating. Vocals feel flat. Mostly. Some of it is kinda hypnotic.

I refuse to patronize this antisemitic hateful person by streaming this album. And even if I did, I couldn’t objectively listen to this or rate it. Fuck you Kanye West. 1 for being an absolute shithead.

ABBA had a baby with Queen. And it’s ugly.

Decent. Nice pretty songs. A little tame. Time of the Seasons is a great tune.

Did I hear the foundations of alt country in A Child’s Claim to Fame?! Rest of album hits it all. Some bluesiness. Some hard electric guitar. Some folk. Some psychedelic folk and rock. Quite eclectic. Love Stills’ voice. Neil Young also sounds really good on this record. Overall it’s good, with some very good moments, but also some clunkers (the non-Young/Stills songs mostly). It previews great things to come from some of these guys. But it also shows why the band only achieved moderate success with this lineup. So almost a 4 , but I’ll say a 3.

Is there even a question? Easily one of the greatest rock albums of all time. It’s as perfect as it gets. There’s not much more to say.

How the hell did this make it on this list??!!!! Awful lyrics, horrendous falsetto, unoriginal music, this downright bad. I hope I never have to listen to this again.

I’ve always liked this Madonna album even though I’m not a huge Madonna fan. It doesn’t sound like any of her other records, even though some of it is dance music, sort of. There’s a distinct mood and feel conveyed and It’s sonically consistent and cohesive. The soundscape is rich with a beautiful depth. Feels quite spiritual. Which sounds strange because some of it is EMD, or house, or electronica (or whatever this style is called). Vocals are excellent throughout. Wondering about “Shanti.” Is it cultural appropriation? I think it’s more exploration than appropriation and doesn’t feel out of place. Clearly an exploration of faith and spirituality. I think this record is excellent… probably the only Madonna album I’d ever say that about. Almost a 5, but it peters out a little on the last couple of tracks.

Springsteen is the gold standard when it comes to telling stories of Americana. His songs instantly transport you to a depressed mill town, the rust belt, real blue collar Jersey… Anytown USA. He sings with such conviction and heart. While this isn’t necessarily his best album top to bottom, it’s quintessential Bruce.

I guess the bottom line here is that it’s just not for me. Kinda funky, but I’m not connecting with the music.

I’ll start by saying S&G are amongst the greatest singer songwriters of our time. (I guess really Simon). The first half of the record listens kinda like a book and feels cohesive (the songs between the Bookends Themes). It works as storytelling and America is an all time great. What a song. Voices of Old People is interesting interlude and, although not a song, it enhances the themes and storytelling. Then I’m not sure what happens. Fakin’ It and Punky’s Dilemma just plain suck. As does At the Zoo. WTF? Didn’t know they could write such crap (maybe those were Garfunkel songs? Haha). Of course Mrs. Robinson and a Hazy Shade of Winter are both phenomenal. So overall, mostly an excellent record, but one that loses its way here and there on the second side. Coulda been a contender for a 5, but the misses downgrade this one.

Cool record. Knew of Lloyd Cole, but hadn’t really listened to a record before. I hear similarities to Echo and the Bunnymen. Liking the guitars particularly. Taking me back to the bands of 120 Minutes in the late 80s. While I do like it, it’s not terribly remarkable and there are better records in the Brit pop Indy genre. For that reason 3.5.

Dolly Parton is underrated. I saw her in concert once because my wife dragged me. Holy shit! She was incredible! Such talented performer who puts on an incredible show! But leaving aside her showmanship and stage presence and aw shucks likability, she’s a damn good musician. Her songs are crafted beautifully and tell vivid stories. The opening track here is the best, but it’s all very good. Not a 5, but excellent nonetheless.

Classic. This is the 80s hard rock album by which all others were measured for a long time (& maybe still are). It took the genre to the next level. The record was inescapable too. It was on everyone’s car stereo when I was in high school. All the time. And it’s actually held up. Mr. Brownstone, Paradise City, My Michelle, and of course Sweet Child O’ Mine are highlights. But this album never lets up front to back. This is one that’s clearly deserving of status on this list.

I saw these guys in concert open for someone. This is better than i expected. Hard with some originality. Little repetitive.

This one put Pixies on the map! Raw. Original. Took some punk roots and grunged it up. Also smart and melodic and even a little catchy despite the rawness and abrasiveness of the aggressive guitars. Kim Deal is the secret weapon here…. Both the killer bass lines and backup vocals. Never duplicated. So many bands took influence from these guys. Not the least of which was Nirvana. Pixies (and this album particularly) are under-credited for the role they played in shaping the best music of the late 80s/early 90s and even beyond. This is a phenomenal album. An easy 5 for me (as Doolittle will be when I get to it… it must be on this list too).

Cohen is a poet and I love his rich baritone voice. His voice isn’t as good here as it gets later in his career, but it is still gorgeous. Seems to be really channeling Dylan on a couple of tracks on this record. Such a warm record that envelopes you. It’s dark and sad and devastating and beautiful. Not the pinnacle of Leonard Cohen though, so only giving it 4 because I know there’s another level out there.

I’ve never really liked Steely Dan, but some of it’s not bad. This however is. It’s cheesy easy-listening jazz hands stuff. Fagen’s vocals aren’t bad. But I just think this annoying as hell. Sorry.

Went in blind on this one. No idea what to expect. And then the French circus music kicks in. Uh-oh. If first impressions are important, things are not going well for this one. Then a serious left turn into grating treble heavy noise with angry French lyrics/screaming. Hmmm. Not really better, but certainly surprising. And then something closer to good music. All in the first track. Exhausting nearly 8 min track. And then a quickie punk/sort of industrial /heavy metal track less than 3 mins. Head spinning. This one was a level up from the experimental track 1. Foreboding French lyrics that I have no idea what the meaning is. Track 3. Best so far. Solid industrial rage. Track 4. Shit circus music again. Accordion is not my fave. Almost sounds like he is trying to be Tom Waits, but not nearly as good. In fact, this track is ass. Track 5. Speed metal and French anger screaming. No thanks. Track 6. I don’ve the pretentious sound of the French language. The music in the background here is above average metal. But I hate the French screaming. Track 7. If it isn’t more of the same, I’ll be damned. This one isn’t terrible. Or good. Track 8. Hope I never have to listen to this ever again. More industrial. Hear the Kraftwerk influence in this one. DO NOT LIKE. Why am I spending so much time analyzing this one when I clearly don’t really like it? Because I’m on a plane on summer vacation. Ha! Track 9. Ok, little groove to start. Not the worst track. This one is tolerable and a little bit interesting. Reminds me a little of a band I once heard but can’t think of the name. Not the Cult, but? Hmm. Last track. Thank God. Nothing more to say at this point. I will give them this… it’s avante garde and not really like anything else I’ve heard. If this is your jam, I think there’s quality in there. It’s just absolutely not for me. I hope to not listen to this again.

An interesting listen for sure, especially all the very dated commentary. Performances sure were different in the 1950s. Ellington is obviously an exceptional musician and his band is also top notch. I just know so little about this kind of jazz. It doesn’t speak to me personally, but it’s objectively good…. Or maybe even great. I’m just not qualified to say much about it. Apologies, but because of my own ignorance and the music isn’t my taste, I have to give it a 3.

Just read about this guy. How come I’d never heard of him before? Apparently extremely accomplished. It’s smooth and cool. Very polished soundscapes. Super mesmerizing. Chill. World music + electronica. Letting Go sounds a little like Portishead. Towards the end, began to get a little bored. Overall, this is pretty good.

Surprised to see even more Tom Waits, especially this one. As always, high cool factor. Starts out very bluesy… and stays that way. Halfway through, and it’s good… not bowl me over great. Although Jersey Girl is better than good… what a fantastic song. Ruby’s Arms is a beautiful ballad too. Waits’ signature storytelling is there. And the unmistakable gravelly voice is central. On whole, this record doesn’t attain the next level of musical and poetic genius that a couple of his other records do, but the highlights, Jersey Girl and Ruby’s Arms, alone make this record better than average. Really a 3.5 for me. Side note here, album cover is very creative. Love the concept.

Total classic. 44 minutes of pure musical genius, truly. And so glad this came up on the list. Haven’t listened to this record straight through in a long time. I almost forgot how incredible it is. Mind-blowing really. From start to finish. The sounds, the musical journey, the guitar, the keyboards, the bass, the drums, the lyrics, the cohesiveness of the piece. It’s all there. And with the exception of the song Wish You Here, you really can’t just list listen to tracks. It’s meant to be taken in as a whole… listened to as one singular work of art. It’s an immersive experience. Such a remarkable album.

The Eagles are one of those classic rock bands that I have mixed feelings about. On the one hand, they were cool to listen to in high school, and are sort of iconic. Yet, on the other hand, they are really pretty cheesy. I’ve always liked Don Henley’s voice, but not so much Glenn Frye. And this dichotomy of like/don’t really like, is kinda how I feel about this record. Take it Easy, and Peaceful Easy Feeling are really great listens, but Chug All Night is kind of a piece of shit.

Decent, but not terribly remarkable. His baritone voice reminds me a little of Peter Murphy. Couple of the songs were pretty good. Couple less good. All in all,

Heart achingly beautiful record. This is true Americana. The storytelling here is unmatched. In my view, Springsteen’s finest album.

Way bluesier than I recall. The Doors have a magic sauce. Something about the combination of the players, the lyrics, the vocals. Real sexy blues rock with a psychedelic edge. Makes me think of L.A. for sure. Amazing record.

Love it or hate it, this is undeniably one of the great pop albums of all time. It’s just hit after hit after hit.

Funky, smooth, and well, super fly.

Experimental start. Cool use of right/left channels for effect in Crosstown Traffic. Voodoo Chile is just cool… Although also long. Very long. Maybe a little self-indulgent. Little Miss Strange: guitar is interesting but who is singing?! Sounds almost like Beatles. Some really good moments on this record, but also some weird stuff. A little disjointed. The back half gets really good though and you get to hear the Hendrix genius on the guitar. Overall, despite its flaws, this is some of the best electric guitar music ever made.

Sold post-punk punk. Fun listen. Got me pumped up a little and I liked this more than I expected to. Thought I’d listened to these guys before, but I guess not in depth. I could see returning to this one.

Just annoying very dated scratching and pop crap. Really hasn’t stood up over time. Although didn’t like this then. Certainly don’t like it now. Not sure what the hype about Neneh Cherry is.

This one was definitely interesting. Very original DJ music. A little all over in terms of style, but quite inventive. As with a lot of DJ music, some of it gets repetitive, but this one much less so than a lot of others. I did feel myself grooving on a couple of tracks. It’s sort of good ambient music to have on while you’re doing something else. I’d say this is better than average DJ music, and while I don’t think I’ll ever reach for it again, it was worth the listening to. Another one I’d like to give a 3.5 to. I’m going 3, because even though I liked it, it didn’t really move me much. Just head-bobbing good.

Aptly named band, aptly named album.

Extremely mid-80s. Height of synth pop era. And it’s too not bad for that genre. Kinda fun in spots in an 80s kinda way. The title track Welcome to the Pleasure Dome is a good one, albeit a little long. Could totally see that being played at Studio 54 and in the clubs in NYC with everyone dancing and doing coke. Quite a gay party vibe too. Relax is the highlight for sure. That song was truly everywhere in the mid 80s. And while maybe by today’s standards the lyrics are tame, back then this was really pushing the envelope. War, Born to Run, San Jose are covers (seem like filler) At least they put a twist and their own stamp on War with the voiceover and different musical arrangement. But Born to Run is basically a slightly glammed up straight cover of the original. And it’s not nearly as good as Springsteen’s classic. It’s a low point on the album for me and really detracts from the record. Also doesn’t fit thematically… definitely not a gay party song. This is clearly a one album wonder band. Relax was definitely ubiquitous in the 80s, but that doesn’t mean this album is a must hear even though it was impossible to avoid in its day. It’s better than a 2, but not much.

Not as good as Goo. But still good. For me, some of it is a little too angst-y and lacks melody. But some of it is great. Love Chapel Hill. Lyrics are awesome on that one… but I’m bias as a CH resident. Tend to like the Kim Gordan songs better. Again, good, but not their best work.

That voice and the poetry. Suzanne is just a classic. Beautiful. As for the rest of the album, it’s all there. But I don’t think it’s nearly Cohen’s best. Drags a little. But again, still beautiful music.

Psychedelia abounds. Some of it sounds like the Byrds. But darker and less light. Man Track 3 sux. Most of the album isn’t too bad, but it feels like they are trying a too hard. Lyrics are very cliche. Also, the band name?! Thought this was gong for be a parody album. Ha!

Tough like a ukulele?! What the F ? This is ridiculously awful. Lyrics are juvenile and not terribly inventive. How many times on how many songs can you say rectum? Or anus, or butt or doo doo, Is this guy 5yo? And the whole gynecologist exam thing… unbelievably childish. Beats are not bad, but kinda simple and uninteresting. Not breaking new ground. Why is this on this list? An example of really bad rap to compare with the really good rap so you can hear the difference?