187
Albums Rated
3.52
Average Rating
17%
Complete
902 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1950
Favorite Decade
Metal
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
29
5-Star Albums
6
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
Top Styles
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Permission to Land
The Darkness
|
5 | 3.14 | +1.86 |
|
Machine Gun Etiquette
The Damned
|
5 | 3.16 | +1.84 |
|
British Steel
Judas Priest
|
5 | 3.29 | +1.71 |
|
I Should Coco
Supergrass
|
5 | 3.35 | +1.65 |
|
Home Is Where The Music Is
Hugh Masekela
|
5 | 3.35 | +1.65 |
|
Smash
The Offspring
|
5 | 3.36 | +1.64 |
|
The Fat Of The Land
The Prodigy
|
5 | 3.4 | +1.6 |
|
...And Justice For All
Metallica
|
5 | 3.42 | +1.58 |
|
Ellington at Newport
Duke Ellington
|
5 | 3.43 | +1.57 |
|
Paul's Boutique
Beastie Boys
|
5 | 3.46 | +1.54 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Beautiful Freak
Eels
|
1 | 3.27 | -2.27 |
|
Isn't Anything
My Bloody Valentine
|
1 | 2.75 | -1.75 |
|
m b v
My Bloody Valentine
|
1 | 2.72 | -1.72 |
|
A Grand Don't Come For Free
The Streets
|
1 | 2.64 | -1.64 |
|
Idlewild
Everything But The Girl
|
1 | 2.58 | -1.58 |
|
Moss Side Story
Barry Adamson
|
1 | 2.52 | -1.52 |
|
Amnesiac
Radiohead
|
2 | 3.41 | -1.41 |
|
Aftermath
The Rolling Stones
|
2 | 3.36 | -1.36 |
|
Music From Big Pink
The Band
|
2 | 3.35 | -1.35 |
|
No Other
Gene Clark
|
2 | 3.19 | -1.19 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Metallica | 2 | 5 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| My Bloody Valentine | 2 | 1 |
5-Star Albums (29)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Thin Lizzy · 1 likes
4/5
Are #ThinLizzyFridays a thing? Cause I may have to start making them a thing. This was such a fun album to get on a Friday! A great live album filled with some of the best hard rock songs you will ever hear. Some of the songs fall flat for me and there were a couple of them I found myself wishing I was listening to the studio version, but it doesn't take away from the fact this is a solid slab of hard rock.
The Darkness · 1 likes
5/5
Always knew "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" but never listened to the full album until now. It was so much fun! Simple, catchy, and full of infectious riffs. It knows exactly what it is and isn't trying to be anything else. I'd probably give it a 4.5/5 if I could but I have no issue giving it a 5/5.
Billy Joel · 1 likes
4/5
The theme of this week's albums so far appears to be "fun and a 4/5."
This was my first time listening to a full Billy Joel album (instead of just the hits I know) and it was a great one to start with (thanks generator!) Fun, catchy piano driven tunes from top to bottom. There were a few songs I knew going into it (I didn't realize how much I enjoyed "Only the Good Die Young"), and couple I knew but didn't know the name. The songs that I was unfamiliar with didn't do anything to dim my impression of the album and became some of my favorites such as "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant."
We've been on a great streak this week and I hope it keeps going tomorrow.
4/5
Side note: I was surprised to discover this is the only Billy Joel album on this list. Surprising given that Elivs Costello gets like 6
1-Star Albums (6)
All Ratings
Manic Street Preachers
4/5
I don't really listen to a lot of indie rock but this was a great album! Lots of bops on the album. My one gripe is at times it was hard to understand what the front man was saying, and this is coming from someone who listens to a lot of death metal
The Who
3/5
Hard to believe this is a debut because they sound very mature at times. Its also a lot blusier than I was expecting. That being said, knowing what this band would become on later albums makes this album feel like its lacking something
Black Sabbath
5/5
I don't think I can say anything more about this album that hasn't already been said. It rules! I would recommend listening to it during a thunderstorm as it only enhances the experience
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
This is my first time listening to a full Smashing Pumpkins album. The hits on this album are classic at this point. I think this album is just too long. If you trimmed it down to one album of all the bangers its an easy 4 or 5 star album
Marvin Gaye
4/5
I could feel the 70s shag carpet as I listened to this album. I will never be as smooth or sexy as Marvin Gaye but this album let's me pretend I am.
The Clash
5/5
I adore this album! One of the greatest punk/ska albums ever and a hugely influential album in the development of my musical identity.
The Doors
4/5
Never sat down and listened to a Doors record before but I fully understood their place in rock history. I throughly enjoyed this album. The hits are hits for a reason but even outside the hits this album is incredibly solid
Everything But The Girl
1/5
Of all the albums on this list, this is certainly one of them. Instrumentation is cool at times. The one thing it has going for it is that its not the worst thing I've ever heard. Its just boring and uninteresting
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
Another one of those bands who I've never heard a full album from but understand their place in rock history. This was an incredibly solid album. It didnt blow me away by any means but I didn't mind returning to it as my day went on.
Nick Drake
4/5
I had never heard of this artist or this album before getting it today and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it! It sounds like an indie record from the late 90s/2000s so I was shocked when I double checked the year and it said 1969.
The Rolling Stones
2/5
This is my first time listening to a Stones album that wasn't their greatest hits and it'd fine? I know they have some classics under their belt but I don't think this should be one of them. Paint it Black slaps though
N.E.R.D
3/5
First hip hop album that came up for me. Its fun! A cool mix of styles. The kind of album I could put on in the background of a party and it would go over well.
Slint
2/5
I know this album is for someone. I just don't think I am that person.
The Monkees
3/5
I don't get the hate this album is getting. As an album its perfectly fine. I wish some of the songs had more energy but its not this offensive Beatles copy as some of the reviews make it out to be.
U2
3/5
I am not a U2 fan and this album did not magically turn me into one. However, this album surprised me with a more enjoyable listening experience than I thought I was gonna have by getting assigned a U2 album on a Friday
The Police
3/5
First time listening to a full Police album and I enjoyed it for the most part. Its another album I wish I could rate 3.5 stars because its good but not good enough to warrant a full 4/5 to me
Christina Aguilera
2/5
Its hard to pull off a double album. I give Christina an A for effort but this album is too samey to keep my interest. Like most double albums, if you trimmed the fat and released it as one album it would be better. The lead singles from this album are still bops though
Otis Redding
4/5
I thoroughly enjoyed this album. Crazy that this album is as good as it is being essentially a covers album that was recorded in a day. I guess when you've got the talent that Otis Reading has you can do both of those things effortlessly.
Pink Floyd
4/5
Like The Doors I've never sat down and listened to a Pink Floyd album front to back until now. This was a great one to start with. Somehow the band manages to make 6 tracks and about 45 mins worth of music seem to seamlessly fly by. Its an album that doesn't drag on or feel too pretentious given its in the prog genre.
Radiohead
2/5
First Radiohead album experience and it was...fine? I had convinced myself, from bits and pieces of songs I had heard, that Radiohead is not a band I would like and this album didn't do anything to change that belief.
3/5
I don't know many albums that start off with a three song run that features some of the band's biggest hits like this one. However the rest of the album after that is just ok and doesn't do much to change my opinion about U2 any more than their last one did.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
One of the best, if not the best, debut albums ever released. Beginning to end nothing but bangers. Some of the greatest rock songs of all time are on this album. Fantastic listen!
Stevie Wonder
5/5
A double album that doesn't feel like a slog is a hard thing to accomplish but Stevie manages it with infectious grooves and catchy melodies. I can't say enough good things about this album. If I could I'd probably rate it 4.5/5 but for the sake of this challenge I will give it its full 5/5.
The Slits
2/5
I didn't know what to expect when I got this album. I just want some of whatever they were on when they were making it. Some of the weirdest ska/reggae/punk I've ever heard. Just not in the best way. The cover of "I heard it Through the Grapevine" is cool
Van Morrison
3/5
A bit of a mixed bag of an album in terms of song quality, but a fun listen none the less. Another album that would get 3.5/5 if I could officially give half star ratings.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
A fun electronic/rock/alternative album. Not the greatest thing I've ever heard but I definitely could have gotten something WAY worse on a Monday. It also made me realize the version of "Heads Will Roll" I'm the most familiar with is a remix
Fleet Foxes
3/5
I was never a fan of the indie/folk sound in the mid to late 2000s, but I enjoyed this album more than I thought I was going to. It didn't make me a fan of the band or sound by any means. But I have a better understanding of it. Or maybe that's the nostalgia this sound invokes talking.
Boston
5/5
Excuse me Boston, but I was not familiar with your game! I had no idea what to expect after "More than a Feeling" but what I got was non-stop, high quality, high energy, rock and roll. If I would dock it anything its that some of the songs can sound kind of samey. If I could give it 4.5/5 I would but as it stands I have no issue giving it a full 5/5
Fats Domino
4/5
Never listened to Fats Domino before but I found a playlist of this album and loved what I heard. Sometimes that early rock and roll hits just right and on an early morning commute, these songs hit just right.
AC/DC
4/5
Never heard an AC/DC album in full. Beyond the hits of Highway to Hell and If You Want Blood (You Got It) lies an incredibly solid slab of hard rock. While it can be one dimensional at times (as with a lot of AC/DC's music) it was an enjoyable listen none the less.
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
I've always understood The Boss's role in the history of rock music but never been a fan. Unfortunately, this album, as iconic as it is, does little to change my mind about him. The hits on this album are still fantastic but the songs outside of those hit are just ok and nothing to write home about.
Fishbone
4/5
This is an incredibly modern sounding album for something released in 1988. I can see how the genre switches from track to track could be jarring for some listeners. For me this album combines a lot of my favorite genres and was just an overall fun album to listen to.
Pavement
2/5
This album sounds like if you took all the basic, stereotypical, and boring sounds of 90s alternative rock and put it in a bottle. It just felt like it never fully got going.
Songhoy Blues
4/5
I had ZERO idea of what to expect when I got given this album, but what I found was an incredibly groovy and infectious blues album. I don't know if "desert blues" is an official genre, I just know I'm now a fan and need to find more of it.
Public Enemy
4/5
It takes skill for a group as politically charged as Public Enemy is to make an album that not only says a lot but presents its message in a fun and funky package. Few can pull it off and Public Enemy pulls it off expertly. I may prefer Fear of a Black Planet just a little more to this one. But that doesn't take away how great and innovative this album is.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
I had never listened to a full Bob Marley album before this one, but I knew the impact this album had on the greater music landscape. The hits on this album are huge, but beyond them are some fantastic songs. If you want to try to get someone into reggae, this is album you tell them to start with. It was also the perfect album to pull on a Monday morning.
My Bloody Valentine
1/5
Never listened to My Bloody Valentine before and after this album I don't think I will again (unless of course they appear again in this challenge cause mama didn't raise a quitter).
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
My first Nick Cave listening experience and it was perfectly fine. Certainly not the best thing I have ever heard but far from the best. More importantly it didn't turn me off of listening to more of his stuff should it pop up later in this challenge.
Daft Punk
3/5
My first Daft Punk listening experience was...fine. Great music for my early morning commute but it definitely feels like a debut. Good ideas and some hit singles, but knowing the history of this band you know bigger and better things are on the horizon.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
From a debut in Daft Punk's "Homework" that felt very much like a debut to a debut that sounds like a band that has been playing for 10 years and already has a few albums under their belt. This album kicks ass. I was familiar with some of the songs but I never listened to it all the way through and I am very happy that I was given the opportunity, and on a Friday no less!
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Second Zeppelin album in a row and third double album during this experience. I think this is the best double album I've heard so far. It doesn't feel like its super long, even though its an almost an hour and a half. I think the first album is better than the second one but there aren't any songs I would get rid of to make this album better.
Eagles
3/5
*Insert quote from The Big Lebowski about hating the fucking Eagles here* Its fine. Nothing really to write home about. "Take it Easy" is a bop.
The Damned
5/5
A high octane punk rock thrill ride from start to finish. This album has some of my favorite Damned songs in "Love Song" and "Noise, Noise, Noise." There are a few duds in the track list but they don't detract from how great this album is.
Pink Floyd
3/5
A classic in every sense of the word. However, I do feel like its a tad bit overrated. Another Brick in the Wall (all 3 parts) and Comffortably Numb are dope but outside of that I felt like I was wanting more. If I could give it a 3.5/5 I would but I think in this case I'm gonna round down to a 3/5
The Notorious B.I.G.
4/5
Another debut that doesn't sound like a debut. The hits "Juicy" and "Big Poppa" are huge but thankfully most of the other tracks aren't lacking either. A few lines haven't aged well, but I don't know how received they were at the time. As such its a fantastic rap album and is an easy 4/5 for me.
Kraftwerk
4/5
This album sounds EXACTLY like I would expect an album by a band called Kraftwerk to sound. It was the perfect accompaniment while I was setting up my classroom this morning. I am also struck by how modern it sounds. You could have told me this came out this year and I'd believe you. It also grew on me with subsequent listens.
Richard Hawley
2/5
Is this what people mean when they describe music as "Americana?" (Funny enough recorded by a British dude) An ok mix of blues/jazz/folk that sounds like something I'd here in a department store. I will give it props that it did fit my early morning commute perfectly. However, when the sun came up and I was more awake I gave the album another listen and found it a bit drab and boring and I wish I was listening to all the artists that clearly influenced this album rather than the album itself.
Lauryn Hill
5/5
Slept on this album for a while before finally listening to it for the first time a few years ago. Now I fully understand why it gets all the praise and accolades constantly thrown its way. I don't think there is anything else I can say about this album that hasn't already been said so I'll just say that this is one of the easiest 5/5s I've given during this experience.
Grizzly Bear
3/5
While I've never been the biggest fan of indie music, this is one of the more unique sounding indie records I've heard. It didn't do anything to make me more or less of a fan of the genre, but I enjoyed my listen.
Jimmy Smith
4/5
Can we take a moment to appreciate this album cover? 10/10 no notes. I had no idea what to expect when I pressed play on this album but what I found I very much enjoyed. Jimmy Smith apparently popularized using the Hammond organ in jazz music and it created such a unique and enjoyable vibe. One I will have to remember to return to in the future. I also need to check out his other stuff. He has a Christmas album and a version of Peter and the Wolf I want to listen to.
Muddy Waters
5/5
Don't think I could have asked for a better Monday pull. Always knew the name Muddy Waters but never listened to him until now. This album was fantastic! So much groove, so much soul, its infectious!
Ice Cube
4/5
First time listening to an Ice Cube solo project and I was surprised how much I liked it! Similar to Public Enemy, Ice Cube blends incredibly groovy beats with very poignant lyrics. Might explore the rest of his catalog because of this album.
Fugazi
3/5
I've had lots of people tell me, because I like heavy music, I should listen to Fugazi. I never did until now and I can see why. From the crunchy guitars to the shouted vocals there were things on this album I liked. However, nothing really wowed me. I'd probably give this album a 3.5/5 but for the sake of this experience I'm rounding down to a 3/5. I'm sure I will hear more Fugazi and maybe like one of those other albums more.
ABBA
4/5
Love me some Abba! Up until now I've only known the hits so it was fun to listen to a full album. This was a super fun listen filled with simple, catchy songs. Even the songs that weren't the big hits were enjoyable, which is something I can't say about every artist. Easy 4/5.
Beatles
5/5
Another fantastic Friday pull! I do love me some early Beatles as I grew up listening to the Red Album compilation and this album was so good! The hits are massive but even some of the other songs don't take away from the full album experience. The three track run of "Tell Me Why," "Can't Buy Me Love," and "Any Time At All" in the middle of the album is the kind of run any band would kill to have at the back half of the album. For my first Beattles album during this experience I couldn't have asked for a better pick.
Green Day
5/5
Unbelievable Monday Pull!
Not only is this a generation defining album but it is one of my favorite albums of all time. It was an album that had a huge effect on my music taste as well as my development as a person. Hearing these songs again takes me right back hearing this album for the first time in middle school. My first concert was Green Day touring this album and I also got to see them play this album in full last summer. Another easy 5/5 for me.
Morrissey
3/5
First time listening to Morrissey ever so I had no idea what to expect, let alone from an album cover where he's holding a Tommy gun. What I found was a decent rock album very reminiscent of the time it was released in. The track "Irish Blood, English Heart" sounds like it could have been on The Killers's Hot Fuss. Easily a 3/5 for me
Aerosmith
3/5
I've never been the biggest fan of Aerosmith. In fact I've always thought of them as being a tad bit overrated. This was the first time I listened to a full album of theirs. It is a very solid piece of rock and roll but doesn't do much to sway my overall perception of the band. I might give it a 3.5/5 if I could, but for the sake of this experience it gets a 3/5. Solid but not good enough to push into 4/5 territory.
TLC
3/5
A prime example of an album that is carried by its hits. Now don't get me wrong "Creep" and "Waterfalls" are massive hits and bops to end all bops but they do a lot of heavy lifting. The rest of the tracks leave a lot to be desired, especially when compared to those two tracks. Also I don't think we needed 4 interlude tracks.
LCD Soundsystem
4/5
Always heard the name, but never heard the music. This album was a lot of fun! Groovy, funky, energetic, and chill all at the same time. Easily a 4/5 for me.
The Smiths
3/5
First time ever listening to The Smiths. While I know this isn't THE album by the band, I still enjoyed the tracks on here. Not the best thing I've heard so far, but far from the worse and I can't ask for more than that on a Monday.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
2nd Bob Marley album in my first 100, but I'm not complaining. There were moments where I thought I liked this one more than Exodus but after listening it all the way through I think I like Exodus more. This is not a bad album in any way and I would probably give it 3.5/5 if I could. However I have no problem rounding up to a 4/5.
Eels
1/5
A real head scratcher of an album in that I can't figure out why this album would be included in a collection like this. Its a generic and underwhelming slab of 90s rock and I could think of several albums that should replace it in this collection.
The Sonics
4/5
Looking at the cover and the title I was expecting an attempt at copying the Beatles, however what I got was very different. Its fast, raw, and almost proto-punk at times. A totally unexpected gem of an album.
Snoop Dogg
3/5
Snoop is a hit maker and "Gin and Juice" and "Who Am I" are all timers. However, an album maker he is not. While the rest of the album isn't bad by any means, the rest of the songs don't pack the same punch as the hits. I'd easily give this album a 3.5/5 if I could but it'll get a 3/5 cause its not good enough to round up to a 4.
Sister Sledge
3/5
I have a hunch this experience is going to have me listening to far more disco then I would have listened to without it. I don't hate that, I've never been one to hate on disco and if the albums keep being as solid as this one I won't become a hater. A fun, groovy album that I would probably rate a 3.5/5 if I could, but one that is not good enough to get a 4 so its getting a 3.
Madonna
2/5
I didn't expect much from late 90s era Madonna and it met my extremely low expectations. Some good beats here and there that are reminiscent of the time period. The title track is a bop and sticks out like a sore thumb in a sea of mediocrity. I know she has her highlights but this ain't it.
Heaven 17
3/5
Never heard of this band before today. Didn't know what to expect. This album was a lot of fun! A little samey at times but didn't take away from the overall experience. I'd give it a 3.5/5 if I could. I was going back and forth if I should round up or down for my score. Upon a second listen I think I'll round down. Didn't have enough to push it into 4 territory.
Alice Cooper
4/5
Never listened to a full Alice Cooper album but I was familiar with the hits. This was a fun album! Quirky at times, catchy at others. Looking forward to any other of his albums on this list.
Guns N' Roses
5/5
I realized this morning that as familiar as I am with this album, I've never actually listened to it front to back. Glad to report that this album is much more than its hits! Sure the hits are overplayed but they are massive for a reason. A fun and infectious slab of hard rock and a great album to get on a Friday. Another easy 5/5 for me!
The Prodigy
5/5
Always knew the Prodigy, but never listened to a full album of their's. I didnt expect to like this album as much as I did! Super energetic and a ton of fun! It does feel like it drags a little towards the back half but nothing to fully take me out of the experience. I'd probably rate it a 4.5/5 but have no issue giving it the full 5/5
Christina Aguilera
3/5
After the last Christina album that was over an hour I was nervous about this one. However, I didn't realize how many hits she had from this album! As long as it is I found myself not getting bored of it. However, not all of it is gold and I think if you get rid of the interludes and a song or two and its easily a 4/5. As it stands its an enjoyable 3/5.
Björk
3/5
First time listening to Bjork and to me this album is like the equivalent of looking at a modern abstract painting or sculpture. It may not be for me and I may not fully understand what's going on, but I can still appreciate the talent that goes into creating art like that. I don't know if all of her albums on this list are like this (because I'm sure this isn't the only one) but that's where I'm at with this one.
Funkadelic
4/5
To quote The Prodigy from when I was listening to their album earlier this week: "Oh my God that's some funky shit!" 3.5/5 that I have no problem rounding up to a 4.
Lou Reed
4/5
My first Lou Reed listening experience was actually a lot more enjoyable than I thought it was going to be. I definitely had a preconceived notion of what this album was going to sound like and I was wrong and I'm glad I was. You can hear the Bowie influence in the melodies he chooses to sing as well as the overall vibe of many of the songs. He's not trying to sound like a Bowie clone in any way, but the sound of Lou Reed with a David Bowie filter on it is a sound I can get behind.
T. Rex
3/5
Always heard artists I like cite T. Rex as an influence so I was excited to listen to this album. Honestly I thought it was going to be heavier. There are some moments where it gets heavy but I was expecting more. The song quality is also a bit of mix bag with the lead single "Bang a Gong" doing some heavy lifting. The stuff that is good is good enough to keep it at a 3/5. I just wish the quality was more consistent
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Second Stones album in my first 100 albums and I was nervous after I didn't like the first one, but this album surprised me. I know its effectively a covers album, but they're not bad covers and I enjoyed listening to this album. I would probably give this one a 3.5/5 if I could, but because I enjoyed it (and enjoyed it significantly more than the first one I heard during this experience) I'll round up to a 4/5.
My Bloody Valentine
1/5
2nd My Bloody Valentine album in my first 100 and after this one I can confirm I am not a fan of these guys. I find them boring and a bit pretentious. The good news is, there is only one more of their albums on this list. The last album got a 1/5, this one gets 1/5, and baring anything crazy I'm anticipating the third one also getting a 1/5.
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
2/5
Never heard of this artist before this album and honestly was underwhelmed by the whole experience. Some good moments here and there but overall just kind of flat. I'd probably give it a 2.5/5 if I could but it never did anything to bump it to a 3 so it gets a 2/5 from me.
David Bowie
3/5
My journey through the 9 albums David Bowie has on this list begins at the very end. After 20 plus albums over his career I can respect Bowie for experimenting on this album (I'd also be shocked if after that long of a career he didnt experiment in some way). While I didn't dislike the experiments (as some other reviewers seem to) I didn't like it enough to give it anything more than a 3/5.
Beck
4/5
I'll be honest, I only know Beck for his song "Loser" so I had zero expectations coming into this album. I came away really liking it! Its a fun eclectic mix of styles and sounds that kept my interest the entire time and on a Monday after a holiday break I couldn't really ask for anything more.
Bob Dylan
4/5
First Bob Dylan record in this experience and first Dylan record I've ever listened to front to back. I really enjoyed it! Always liked the better known Dylan songs but never dove into the albums until now and it has me looking forward to the other Dylan records on this list.
Frank Black
2/5
More artists need someone to tell them "hey maybe 23 songs is too many for one album, maybe split it into 2 with separate release dates?" cause man this thing is bloated. Some good stuff here and there but nothing really memorable and I think the length has something to do with that. Split it into two and do a sort of release like SOAD did with Mezmerize and Hypnotize and I think you've got two decent albums instead of one that feels like a slog.
Supergrass
5/5
You could have told me this album came out in 2005 instead of 1995 and I would have believed you. Regardless this is an unbelievably solid and very fun alternative rock album. I have no complaints and no problem giving it 5/5.
Elvis Costello
3/5
Given that he's got 7 albums on this list I have a feeling I am going to have a well formed opinion on Elvis Costello by the time this experience is done, but I digress. This debut sounds like a debut. Its a bit rough around the edges. Some good songs here and there. Its fine. Nothing special. The kind of album you accept as a debut and hope it gets better as the career goes on.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
2nd Stones album in this experience and this one is significantly better than the first one I got. Those big hits are hitting and the other songs in-between don't take away too much from the album. I'd probably give it a 3.5/5 if I could but I have no problem rounding it up to a 4/5.
Circle Jerks
4/5
Short, fast, loud, raw, and punchy. I can't ask for much more from my hardcore punk.
Fun fact: supposedly a young Tony Hawk was skating at the pool the cover photo was taken at and is standing just out of the frame.
George Michael
3/5
A nice, enjoyable pop record with some bops on it. Not the best thing I've heard in this experience so far and far from the worst. Perfectly middle of the road.
Ravi Shankar
4/5
As someone who has no experience with this kind of music, this was a great place to start. I loved the intros before some of the songs. I was primarily listening to it while I was setting up my classroom and occasionally I would give a stank face based on something I heard in his playing. If I can knock it for anything, its that I don't think this has the easily and immediate re-playability as most of the albums I've heard so far. Regardless I enjoyed it and its an easy 4/5 for me.
Talking Heads
3/5
My first time listening to a Talking Heads album all the way through. It was fun and quirky but nothing really beyond that. Would probably give it 3.5/5 if I could but it will end up getting a 3/5 because I didn't think it was that good to warrant a 4.
Funkadelic
3/5
Honestly thought I was going to enjoy this album more. Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy it but more to the tune of a 3/5 than a 4 or 5.
The Allman Brothers Band
4/5
If you had asked me, before this experience, to listen to an over hour long Alman Brothers live album I would have politely declined. However, after listening to it I am surprised how much I liked it! I'm usually not a fan of live albums, or jam bands for that matter, and while this album isn't going to change that I can sit here and say that this album is a solid 3.5/5 but for the sake of ratings I have no problem rounding up to a 4/5.
The Coral
4/5
After hearing some debuts that sound like debuts its always a pleasure to hear one that sounds as polished as this. This is an incredibly solid and incredibly fun record. There were a few songs that didn't hit for me (like the throwaway intro track) but they didn't take away from my overall enjoyment of the record.
Cornershop
3/5
It's a fine indie rock album. Some of the fusion of genres is cool and Brimful of Asha is going to be stuck in my head the rest of the day. I could've done without all the instrumental tracks those did nothing for me.
Thin Lizzy
4/5
Are #ThinLizzyFridays a thing? Cause I may have to start making them a thing. This was such a fun album to get on a Friday! A great live album filled with some of the best hard rock songs you will ever hear. Some of the songs fall flat for me and there were a couple of them I found myself wishing I was listening to the studio version, but it doesn't take away from the fact this is a solid slab of hard rock.
Duke Ellington
5/5
I am a simple man. I see Duke Ellington, I give 5 stars.
If I was to nit pick, I could do without the banter tracks. I'm sure there is an argument to be made that they help with immersion but either tack them on to the song that's being introduced or get rid of them altogether. This is a small critique that in no way takes away from how wonderful these songs are and how fantastic the performances are on this album.
Nirvana
5/5
Unbelievable Tueaday pull! One of the greatest rock records ever released. Nothing but bangers front to back.
Soft Machine
3/5
I'm gonna be honest, that first track started and I thought this album was heading straight to being a 1 or a 2. However, as that song continued and went into song 2 I started to enjoy this album more. It didn't swing all the way to a 4. I think some of the solos go on for way to long and it's an album that I know I would enjoy more if I was listening to it high, but a 3 is a score I didn't think it would achieve when I first started playing this album.
Various Artists
3/5
This was a fun Christmas surprise. I heard that everyone gets this record on their first Christmas. It's a fun collection of songs with some absolute classic versions of tunes that I will definitely be adding to my Christmas playlist.
Fun fact: this was the day that I learned that Phil Spector was both a convicted murderer and died of Covid
3/5
I know this is not *the* PJ Harvey album, but for my first time listening to her I thought it was fine. Nothing blew me away and nothing made me want to stop listening.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
Didn't know what to expect getting a double album from Nick Cave this Monday, but I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. I definitely liked the first disc more than the second. I'd probably give the first disc a 3.5 or 4 on its own. The package deal however gets a 3/5.
Jamiroquai
4/5
Always heard the name but never listened to them until now. It's an enjoyable album that clearly wears it's influences on its sleeves. Although I would never say I prefer this to those artists it draws influences from, I had a lot of fun with this record and could see myself returning to it in the future.
Supergrass
4/5
Last album of 2025!
I swear this experience is trying to turn me into a Supergrass fan (and it may be working). I loved "I Should Coco" and was excited to listen to more from them. I did enjoy this album, but not nearly as much as their debut. I would probably give this album a 3.5/5 if I could, but for the sake of this experience I have no problem giving this album a 4/5.
I also saw that this is the only other Supergrass album on the list so I may have to check out the rest of their catalogue sometime in th coming year.
Peter Frampton
3/5
First album of 2026!
A solid rock live album. Some of the songs hit, such as Show Me the Way, and others didn't, like their dragged out cover of Jumpin Jack Flash.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
Second Elvis Costello record so far and one that I had higher hopes for given I knew three of the songs going into it. Alas, while I did like it more than his debut, there isn't much here outside of the songs that I knew (with maybe the exception of "Lipstick Vogue"). I still love those songs in the context of the record, especially "Radio, Radio." I didn't hate the record by any means, but two albums in (out of like the 6 or 7 of his on this list) and I am starting to question why so many of his albums are included in this collection.
Charles Mingus
4/5
I don't think I fully understood this album the first time I heard it a few years ago. Returning to it today, and knowing more of what to expect, I have a new found appreciation for it and enjoyed it more this go around. Plus for the first album I got upon returning to work after winter break, I could have gotten a lot worse.
Randy Newman
2/5
Damn really coming on strong with those lyrics in the first song huh? Even after that, the lyrics that don't involve slurs leave a lot to be desired and I did find myself questioning why it was in this collection to begin with.
The Darkness
5/5
Always knew "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" but never listened to the full album until now. It was so much fun! Simple, catchy, and full of infectious riffs. It knows exactly what it is and isn't trying to be anything else. I'd probably give it a 4.5/5 if I could but I have no issue giving it a 5/5.
Barry Adamson
1/5
If the goal of this album was to potentially get Adamson hired to write more film music, then I think it failed. I wouldn't hire him if I was a movie director. Some cool ideas here and there but overall I found myself bored and questioning why this album was included in this collection
DJ Shadow
4/5
Didn't know what to expect when I first got this album. Having never listened to an instrumental hip hop album I was worried that I was going to miss the vocals. Happy to say that I did not and that this album exceeded my expectations. Its a great, chill album that is perfect for an early morning commute and the kind of album you can easily put on in the background at a small get together.
Beastie Boys
4/5
First of three albums from the Beasite Boys in this collection and the first time I've listened to a Beasite Boys album front to back. It took me a couple of listens to fully appreciate it. While rough at times being a debut, the fun and quirkyness of the beats and their flows makes up for it. The run of "Girls," "Fight for Your Right," and "No Sleep Till Brooklyn" is incredible for the middle of the album. Solid 4/5.
Beastie Boys
5/5
Second Beastie Boys album in a row (and going chronologically which is nice). I had heard so many good things about this album and I was excited to finally listen to it. Way more polished than the debut, excellent and very creative production. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Probably would give it a 4.5/5 if I could, but I have no problem rounding it up to 5/5.
Metallica
5/5
Unbelievable Wednesday pull! While not my favorite Metallica album, that's AJFA (also on this list) by a slim margin, this by far Metallica's best album. Battery is one of the best opening tracks of all time. From their its nothing but banger after banger and killer riff after killer riff. Nothing else to say except this album rules!
The Electric Prunes
3/5
Didn't know what to expect from a band called "The Electric Prunes" but what I got was an eclectic collection of songs. Some were good despite their style coming out of left field, like "Sold to the Highest Bidder." After two 5/5 albums in a row I was due for a drop in quality. I'm just glad the fall wasn't too sharp.
Wilco
4/5
An album that was on in the background a lot while I was growing up but I never actually listened to it until now. There is some nostalgia aiding my listening experience, but overall I did enjoy listening to this album. Wasn't a huge fan of the first 3 tracks, but the run of tracks from "War on War" to "I'm the Man Who Loves You" is phenomenal. Indie is hit and miss with me and this is one of those rare instances where it does hit. Solid 4/5.
Hugh Masekela
5/5
Never heard of this artist before getting this album today but damn what an introduction! Funky, groovy, while sounding surprisingly modern. Honestly you could have told me this album came out last year and I would have believed you. Is it a tad long? Maybe, but there is enough variety here and it never felt like it dragged. It made me potentially want to explore more of his catalog. Easy 5 for me.
The Offspring
5/5
Always been a fan of The Offspring from the hits. This was my first time listening through an entire album and it ruled. The hits are awesome and, more importantly, the songs in between the hits only add to the overall album experience. I've been on a good streak lately and this keeps it going
Sly & The Family Stone
4/5
When Sly Stone passed away last year I took it upon myself to listen to his greatest hits, since I was unfamiliar with his music. Seeing the track list of this album made me realize I should've just listen to this instead since a bunch of songs on this album are on the greatest hits. The songs in between the hits were a bit of a mixed bag, but it doesn't take away from the overall experience. Easy 4/5
R.E.M.
3/5
Always knew REM for the hits and fully understood their role as an innovator in the indie music sphere, but never listened to a full album of theirs. It was fine. "Radio Free Europe" is a bop, but everything after that doesn't do much to move the needle for me. Not bad, but not great either.
The Black Keys
3/5
Never jumped on The Black Keys hype train when this album first got released and listening to it for the first time now doesn't make me wish I did. The songs that I recognized were cool, but its too repetitive at times. Could it have been made better by slimming the track list down from 15 to like 12? Maybe, I still don't think it would make me give this album more than anything but a 3.
Television
4/5
I had always heard about this album and the influence it had on so many genres of music but had never listened to it until now. I quite enjoyed it. You can hear the bits and pieces certain bands took to craft their sound. I'm glad this album lived up to the hype everyone had been giving it. While I don't think its good enough to get a 5. I have no problem giving it a 4/5.
Kate Bush
4/5
Something something Stranger Things
Ok now thats out of the way, this was another album I had heard people hyping up. I am glad to say, similar to the Television album I got yesterday, that it lives up to the hype. While I don't think its the greatest thing I've ever heard I can appreciate the unique instrumentation and sound choices. Especially for a pop record. Also side B of the album lives up to its description of being about "a woman drifting alone in the sea at night" 3.5/5 that I have no problem rounding up to a 4.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
First time listening to a Leonard Coen album and this was a great album to listen to while driving around after a snow storm. Something very blue (the color, not the feeling) about this album. An enjoyable listen but not much more than that. 3/5
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
Hip-hop, especially modern hip-hop, can be hit or miss with me. But when it hits, it hits and Kendrick's magnum opus definitely hits. Don't get me wrong I have not read all the dissertations written about this album but I can greatly appreciate the messaging in many of the songs as well as the wide mix of style and influences he has on this album. This is one of those rare albums that is over an hour long but doesn't drag at any moment and feels shorter than it is. While not my favorite hip-hip album of all time. Its definitely my favorite one I've heard so far during this experience.
The Zombies
3/5
It sounds like the Beatles got together with the Beach Boys to make a psych rock album. I enjoyed it. I also have to give credit to the band for closing with the song that would become their biggest hit, at least in the US, don't see that too often. Also wild to throw in an anti war song in the middle when nothing else has been anywhere near touching that subject. 3.5 that I'd round down for the sake of this experience cause it wasn't good enough to get a 4.
David Bowie
3/5
Second (of nine?) Bowie albums on this list. I am thankful that I read the description of this one before listening otherwise I don't know if I would have fully understood what was going on. Some of the songs on side A are cool and I would have been curious as to how they would have sounded fully fleshed out. I've also never thought of myself as an ambient fan but there were some cool soundscapes on side B. Maybe that was because I heard it on my early morning commute. Either way 3/5.
Britney Spears
3/5
Wild Tuesday pull!
As a millennial I will try to not let nostalgia cloud this review too much. This album has an incredible opening three track run. Three huge hits to get the party started. After that however its a mixed bag of 90s pop. Fun at times and boring at times. I'd probably give this album a 3.5/5 if I could but its gonna get rounded down to a 3/5.
The Pogues
4/5
I do love me some Celtic folk punk and these guys are the OGs. Similar to how I can hear where some of my favorite melo-death bands were influenced by At the Gates's "Slaughter of the Soul," I can hear where some of my favorite Celtic punk bands were influenced by this band. As a cohesive album some songs hit more than others, but the overall experience was enjoyable enough for me to give it a 4/5. I think the only way this could have been made better is if I got it on Saint Patrick's Day.
Van Morrison
3/5
I don't think a double live Van Morrison album would have been at the top of my mind when it comes to inclusion in a collection like this. But I guess 1001 albums is a lot of music. The album is fine. Some cool songs, some songs where he does a Jamaican patwa for no reason. 3/5
Van Halen
3/5
I've always been a casual Van Halen fan. Always understood their influence and knew their hits and this album as three of their biggest ones (which also happen to be some of my favorite songs of theirs). However, the songs outside of them (with maybe the exception of House of Pain) felt generic and uninteresting. I'd give it a 3.5/5 if I could off of the strength of those hits, but for this experience its getting rounded down to a 3/5.
Fugees
3/5
I don't know what it is but I just can't get into this album as much as I would like to. Maybe because while it is catchy and groovy at times I find at other times it just kind of fades into the background? I don't know. 3.5/5 that isn't good enough to get a 4. So 3/5
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Third, and final, Bob Marley album on this list. I have really enjoyed all three of them. Marley was always an artist I knew and respected but I never did a dive into his discography until now. I have a new found enjoyment and appreciation for him and I think more people need to dive into the songs other than the hits cause there is some good stuff in there. 4/5
Public Image Ltd.
2/5
The wiki blurb for this album said that upon release this album got a 2/5 from a publication. That seems like a fair rating for this album. It has a horrendous start but gets redeemed towards the middle starting with Annalisa through Attack. On Fodderstompf Lydon sounds like Mort from the movie Madagascar so that made me chuckle.
"Yay I'm a sacrifice!"
2/5
Dolly Parton
4/5
What a delightful album to get on a Thursday. I haven't gotten many country albums so far and the ones I have gotten haven't been great. This was a nice breath of fresh air.
The Cure
3/5
Always knew The Cure but this is my first time listening to an album of theirs. Its quite the experience sonically. At times it sounds like if I was on a Gothic drug trip. I found it surprisingly enjoyable despite the dark atmosphere and depressive lyrics. However as enjoyable as I thought it was it did tend to drag towards the end and become a bit one note. Still I am looking forward to the other Cure albums in this generator. 3/5
The Band
2/5
God damn this album is mid. I'm convinced if it wasn't for "The Weight" and the ties to Dylan this album wouldn't be on this list.
Nina Simone
5/5
I did not know, before I first heard this album, that this album was made with leftovers from previous recording sessions. Artists wish their leftovers sounded this good! The power in her voice is astounding and captivating. The variety in the songs is great and she executes them to perfection. Easy 5/5
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
An album I listened to for the first time a few years ago after hearing how great it was and seeing it on countless lists. My reaction after hearing it all the way through was "Oh, I get it now!" This album lives up to all the hype people have given it. A classic in the truest sense, stacked front to back with nothing but bangers. Another easy 5/5.
N.W.A.
4/5
I think this album has grown on me since I first listened to it. The first time I heard it I didn't think it was much past the two big singles. Now returning to it years later I find that while the rest of the album isn't as great as the first two tracks, they don't bring the record down as is so often the case. A dated album at times, while at the same time being, unfortunately, still poignant. Solid 4/5
Michael Jackson
4/5
140 albums in and I finally got my first Michael Jackson album.
I can't imagine, as an artist, trying to follow something up as massive as Thriller but MJ does an amicable job. The hits are massive but unfortunately I found the songs in between the hits to be a mixed bag. A solid 4/5 album.
Also shout out to my friend Tyler from elementary school who danced to "Speed Demon" in like the 4th grade.
Fun fact: this album was released on my birthday
Ray Charles
5/5
Country/western music through the lens of Jazz, Blues, and R&B. Given that these genres share musical it makes sense that a concept like this would work and Ray Charles executes it to perfection. Charles manages to put these songs through a different musical lense without having them lose their country/western core. I don't know many artists who could pull this off so effectively. 4.5/5 that I have no issue rounding up to a 5/5.
Neneh Cherry
2/5
Generic late 80s/what would become early 90s Pop/R&B/Hip-hop with some interesting ideas here and there. Ultimately this one gets filed in the "Why is this included on this list?" folder. 2/5
Brian Wilson
3/5
This is a wild album in that there are some moments that would do a number on me if I was under the influence of drugs. I understand the significance of this album and why it would be included in a collection like this. I just wonder if it would've sounded better if it had been released back in the day with the rest of The Beach Boys in on the recording? I guess we will never know. As it stands this album would get a 2.5/5 from me but I will round up to a 3/5 for the significance and the fact that I don't feel like this is a total waste of space in this collection.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
Always like Janes Addiction and was surprised to see them on this list. But I dont think I've ever heard this album in full before today. Its fine. While it is fun and enjoyable at times some of the longer songs have the tendency to drag. 3/5
Beatles
4/5
A classic in the truest sense of the word and I will never deny it that. However, I have always been a fan of earlier Beatles records and this album, though as classic as it is, did not move the needle. There are some timeless songs on here (although a few have been beyond overplayed at this point) but, for me, as an overall album experience it was not as amazing as so many people have said.
4/5
Soundgarden
4/5
Wild Monday pull!
Always knew Soundgarden's hits but never listened to a full album until now. Its very enjoyable! The hits still hit and the songs in between don't drag the rest of album down (as is too often the case). However it is a long album and does drag a bit towards the end, but not enough that it totally ruins the experience. 3.5/5 that I have no problem rounding up to a 4/5. I've definitely heard worse on a Monday.
Al Green
3/5
First time listening to an Al Green album. I instantly recognized the title track the moment I hit play. Although I never knew the song was called "Let's Stay Together" or that it was an Al Green song until now. The rest of the album is fine but nothing comes close to being as good as the first song. This is an album I'd give a 3.5/5 to if I could but for this i will round down to a 3/5 as it did not have enough to move it into 4/5 territory.
Norah Jones
4/5
An album that was always on in my house growing up but I never heard the full thing until now. Its really good! The songs that were hits still hold up the other songs are wonderful as well. I especially like her version of "Cold Cold Heart." I feel like this would go best during a spring day while I'm relaxing on the porch so I tried to put my mind there while listening to it instead of the rainy morning commute I had while listening ing to it. If I could knock it for one thing its that it does get a bit one note at times but that is really my only complaint for what is a really great album.
4/5
Sonic Youth
2/5
The beauty of this experience is that I am listening to artists I have never gotten around to listening to before. In this case, I had always heard about Sonic Youth and their influence in music but this is the first time I have ever listened to an album of theirs. The downside f this is that for fans of the band I may not be starting in with a good album to fully appreciate what a band has to offer. Which brings us to this album. I know this is not *the* Sonic Youth album but I also do not know if it is a good place to start in their discography it being a double album and all. As it stands it falls into the problem with most double albums in that few bands can acutally make an enjoyable double album that doesn't feel too bloated. There are some songs that I dig and others that should not be in this track list (such as the multiple songs where the vocalist sounds like they are literally throwing up in the microphone). I look forward to getting more Sonic Youth to get a complete picture of what a band hah s to offer. With this one though I am giving it a 2/5 as the misses greatly outweigh the hits.
Paul Simon
3/5
My first encounter with Simon and/or Garfunkel in this experience. It was enjoyable for the most part, even with the interesting choice to lead the album off with a reggae tune (but then again after listening to it I don't know where else you could have put it in the track list. I did enjoy the cool mix of styles Simon brings on this album and "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" still slaps. However, the album did not do much to move the needle above a 3 for me. I have a hunch this won't be the only album featuring Mr. Simon I will hear during this journey and I am curious to see how the other albums compare.
Pink Floyd
4/5
Another great Monday pull!
Another classic to end all classics and my 3rd Floyd album in this experience. It takes a bit to get going with the first three tracks but once it gets going it contains some essential classic and prog rock tracks. I wasn't wowed by it, but it was enjoyable nonetheless
Is it better than "Wish You Were Here?" No. Is it better than "The Wall?" Yes. As such I'm giving it a 3.5 and rounding it up to a 4/5 for the sake of this experience
The Velvet Underground
3/5
Always knew the Velvet Underground and understood their place in rock history and their large influence over genres like punk but this was my first time listening to them and it was fine. I enjoyed some of the songs such as "Some Kind of Love" and "Pale Blue Eyes" but the overall experience didn't move the needle above a 3/5 for me so thats what it gets.
The Teardrop Explodes
3/5
Never heard of this band before today but I dug what I heard. 60s psych rock viewed through an 80s lens. Could easily file this in the "I don't know what this is doing on this list" folder, but I am not mad that its here. Which is more than I can say for other albums in that folder. 3/5
Gene Clark
2/5
Never heard of Gene Clark before today but I am always excited to listen to a new artist. The album started out fine. Nothing ground breaking, but it kept my interest. My mood began to sour about halfway or so through the record when I realized I was getting bored with what I was hearing. Unfortunately, it never got back to that beginning feeling.
2/5
Sigur Rós
3/5
"Icelandic Post-Rock" is a new phrase in my music genre vocabulary and to be honest I didn't hate what I heard. It was a fantastic soundtrack to me setting up my classroom in the morning and I can see this being the perfect accompaniment to a rainy or cold morning. I don't know if I would listen to this record under any other circumstance. I also don't know if it is something I would return to after my time listening to it as part of this experience. Because of that I'm giving it a 3/5. Thankful to it for expanding my sphere of genres I've listened to but not enough here to make me a convert to the genre.
Wu-Tang Clan
4/5
Another classic pull on a Monday!
Of all the 90s hip hop albums I've heard so far, this might be my favorite. It might be because of the different members taking turns on the tracks creates variety compared to an album with one person. It might be the contrast between the aggressive deliveries and the laid back beats. Whatever it is, I dig it. Not all of the tracks hit in the same way as some of the bigger hits and I think that is the reason I am not giving it a 5. But it doesn't take away from the fact that this is a classic if there ever was one. 4/5
Bob Dylan
4/5
Second Dylan in this experience and another one I really enjoyed. It starts with the big hit in "Blowing in the Wind" but it doesn't lose any steam from there. Is it perfect? No, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I know there are quite a few Dylan albums in this collection and I hope I don't get bored of them as they get suggested to me.
4/5
D'Angelo
4/5
First: RIP D'Angelo
Second: I don't understand the hate this album is getting. I have heard many people singing D'Angelo's praises but had been putting off listening to him because I knew he had an album in this collection and I am glad I finally got it.
I know this isn't *the* D'Angelo album, as that is Voodoo which I will get around to listening to, but this album isn't bad by any metric. A chill and groovy slap of 90s R&B, soul, and a bit of jazz (see When We Get By). I get that it can be a bit one note at times, but when that one note is being sung by a voice as good as D'Angelo's I have little to complain about. 4/5
Side note: 3rd 4/5 this week! Hopefully this streak continues.
John Coltrane
5/5
The generator is really generating this week! Three 4s in a row and now this! One of the greatest jazz albums ever created!
Coltrane is joined by an all star cast on this album. Elvin Jones on drums, McCoy Tyner on piano, and Jimmy Garisson on bass. All giants on their instruments and all help make this album the masterpiece it is. I could see for someone who isn't a huge jazz fan that there aren't any melodies to latch on to, as other Coltrane tunes have. But as someone who loves Jazz, this is an easy 5/5 for me
Neil Young
3/5
First Neil Young encounter during this experience and the first time I've ever listened to him. It was fine. I had a great run of albums leading up to this one so I'm disappointed there (not Neil's fault). Regardless of when I would have gotten this album I'd probably rate it the same, 3/5. Its very middle of the road for me but fortunately does not scare me away from the other Neil Young albums that I am sure will pop up on this list.
Massive Attack
3/5
One thing I have to give this experience credit for is exposing me to more electronic music than I have listened to up until now. I've gained a greater sense of just how vast this genre is (I could've guessed this was the case as few genres are one note, but its nice to hear it for myself).
That being said, I know this is not *the* Massive Attack record and while there were some cool bits here and there it didn't do a lot to move the needle for me. 3/5
Nightmares On Wax
3/5
When I tell you I had zero idea of what to expect with this album, I mean I had ZERO idea of what to expect. What I got was a chill and enjoyable mix of electronic music and reggae.
This is one of those "file away for future use" records. It was fine in the usual environment I listen to these records (on my morning commute/setting up my classroom) but it would have been made even better if I was chilling on a beach, getting high, hosting a party, or some combination of those. As it stands it gets a 3/5 maybe leaning more to a 3.5 but an easy 4 given then right circumstances.
Judas Priest
5/5
Judas Priest are one of my favorite bands so I was thrilled to finally get this album! I forgot just how good it was. There are some absolutely timeless riffs in these songs. From "Breaking the Law" to "Living After Midnight" and all inbetween. Its an easy 5/5 for me.
Side note: I can see why this album, over other Priest albums, is included in this list. However, I would have included Painkiller instead of, or addition to, this one as I think that is the far superior Judas Priest album.
The Streets
1/5
I couldn't quite pin this album down. At times it felt like parody and sounded like something I'd hear in an early 2000s flash animation. At other times there were moments where I could tell it was genuine and wasn't too bad. If it is a parody it isn't a very good one. Overall I think the bad greatly outweighs the good this is another album for the "Why is this on this list?" folder and a 1.5/5 rounded down to a 1
Miles Davis
5/5
What a way to end the week! One of the most essential albums ever created, regardless of genre. This is the jazz album that you recommend to someone when they say they are trying to get into jazz. An all star cast of players (I always forget both Coltrane and Cannonball are on this album). The definition of a flawless album.
On a personal note, this album taught me how to swing. This isn't hyperbole, my drum teacher told me to put this album on and just keep time with what Jimmy Cobb is playing. It transformed the way I play jazz. Playing so laid back while at the same time being incredibly locked in the pocket does wonders to a developing jazz drummer.
Last side note: I had a teacher once say that this album is/was so popular that Billboard had to stop counting it because otherwise it would continue to appear on the chart. While I can totally see that as feasable for an album of this magnitude I have yet to confirm the truth behind his statement. Take that as you will.
Oh and if it wasn't already clear - 5/5
The White Stripes
4/5
First of three White Stripes albums in this experience. I remember some of the singles from this album on my iPod growing up. These included "Blue Orchid" (a killer way to start this album) and "My Doorbell" but I was surprised that I recognized more songs than I thought, such as "Little Ghost" and "The Denial Twist." The songs other than these are a fun collection of various styles that make for a fun overall experience. While far from perfect, and far from The White Stripes's best album, I still had fun with it and I can't ask for much more from an album on a Monday. 3.5/5 rounded up to a 4/5
David Bowie
3/5
Third Bowie album in this experience. Starts and ends with two absolute bangers in "Young Americans" and "Fame." However, in between the songs didn't do much to move the needle for me. With a discography as prolific as Bowie's not all of them are bound to be fantastic.
3/5
Adam & The Ants
3/5
If I had a nickle for every time I listened to a song with "ant" in the title on this album I'd have two nickles. Which isn't a lot but its weird that it happened twice right?
Jokes aside I liked this album a lot more than I thought I was going to. I never knew what to expect from track to track and I mean that in a good way. Sure some of the songs aren't great and this album as a whole is far from flawless but sometimes all I ask from my music is that it puts a smile on my face and this album certainly did that. 3.5/5 rounded down to a 3/5 because there isn't enough here to push it to a 4
Nirvana
4/5
This is like the grunge equivalent of Michael Jackson following up "Thriller" with "Bad." Does it have some bangers? Yes! Do the songs that weren't hits drag down the quality of the album? No! Is it better than the absolutely stacked album that came before it? No! Is it still a high quality album? Yes!
4/5
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Ending my week with some Stevie Wonder is always a welcomed thing. This album was a lot of fun. Funky, groovy, and the only way Stevie can. While I don't think its better than "Songs in the Key of Life" (which I've already gotten) and it didn't do enough for me to give it a 5, it was still an enjoyable record to listen to.
4/5
Iggy Pop
4/5
If Lou Reed's "Transformer" was Lou Reed with a David Bowie filter than this is the Iggy Pop equivalent. Which works in my favor because I like both Iggy Pop and David Bowie. The title track along with "The Passenger" are classics for a reason and the songs inbetween are great as well, with "Sixteen" being the one exception. All in all I can't complain with this as my Monday pull.
4/5
Air
4/5
Another cool electronic album in this experience and a chill, jazzy one at that. Another one that is perfect for early morning drives and one that could accompany "Smoker's Delight" on a party playlist. Something that could disappear into the background but when you do catch part of it you find yourself bopping along. I enjoyed this one way more than I thought I was going to. Sometimes a bit one note but it doesn't ruin the entire experience for me.
3.5/5 rounded up to a 4
Arctic Monkeys
5/5
Its been a while since I listened to this album (or even thought about this band) and I forgot how many bops this album has! The energy starts right from the word go and rarely lets up. If I could knit pick something negative its that some of the songs towards the back end tend to blend together, however this doesn't take away just how good this album is. The wiki blurb says this is considered one of the best debut albums ever and I think it deserves that moniker.
4.5/5 rounded up to a 5
CHIC
3/5
This experience has made me purposely listen to more disco than I have before starting it. So far I have heard quintessential songs by quintessential artists. "Le Freak" from this album being a new addition to the list. Unfortunately, like other disco albums I've heard, the rest of the songs outside of the big hit don't do much for me. It was enjoyable, but not amazing.
3/5
Stan Getz
4/5
I have yet to encounter a bad jazz album in this experience so far. This is like a perfect album to listen to early morning/late at night. This is not a 2pm on a Tuesday record. Very smooth and very chill. I can appreciate how none of the songs feel like they over stay their welcome. Especially since the album can start to feel one note at times and its what, I think, keeps this record from being higher than a 4/5.
Talking Heads
4/5
Second Taklking Heads album in this experience. I liked this one a lot more than the first one I got. Fun and a bit goofy while at the same time being incredibly groovy. Of course "Psycho Killer" is an all timer but I think the rest of the songs aren't slouches either.
3.5/5 rounded up to a 4/5
The Undertones
4/5
An extremely modern sounding record that is part punk, part brit pop, and a whole lot of fun! Not much more I could ask from my Tuesday pull. It does tend to become a bit one note and some of the songs started to blend together towards the end, but it doesn't change how much fun I had listening to this album.
4/5
Billy Joel
4/5
The theme of this week's albums so far appears to be "fun and a 4/5."
This was my first time listening to a full Billy Joel album (instead of just the hits I know) and it was a great one to start with (thanks generator!) Fun, catchy piano driven tunes from top to bottom. There were a few songs I knew going into it (I didn't realize how much I enjoyed "Only the Good Die Young"), and couple I knew but didn't know the name. The songs that I was unfamiliar with didn't do anything to dim my impression of the album and became some of my favorites such as "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant."
We've been on a great streak this week and I hope it keeps going tomorrow.
4/5
Side note: I was surprised to discover this is the only Billy Joel album on this list. Surprising given that Elivs Costello gets like 6
3/5
A loud, raw, and ultimately important record in the development of punk but one that in the end falls flat for me. Not bad, but not good either.
I would have been interested to hear what would have happened if they gave these songs a studio recording. I know it would take away some of the rawness but maybe it would have improved the cohesion of the songs? We will never know.
Still love the title track though!
3/5
Prince
3/5
180 albums in and I finally get my first Prince album and an interesting one at that.
Even though this album is more stripped down instrumentally than other albums I'm impressed that Prince manages to make a drum machine groove harder than most human drummers. I think that just speaks to his talent as a musician.
However, even though I think there are some bright spots on the album, this album feels more like a collection of songs rather than a cohesive album.
At the end of the day while I enjoy the different styles that Prince showcases the album shows, once again, just how hard it is to make a good double album.
3/5
Metallica
5/5
Sick at home with a stomach bug, but the generator gave me my favorite Metallica album. Everything's coming up Millhouse!
5/5
Love
3/5
A perfectly fine slab of 60s psych rock. Nothing new or crazy going on here. If you like psych rock I'd imagine you'd enjoy this album and if you don't, I don't think there is enough here to change your mind.
3/5
2Pac
4/5
My preference in the 2Pac vs. Biggie debate changes frequently. After listening to this album I am very firmly on the 2Pac side. This album effortlessly combines great beats with incredibly thoughtful lyrics (see "Dear Mama" and "Lord Knows"). I know this has kind of always been 2Pacs thing but this is the first time I've experienced it in a full album context and not just from a greatest hits album.
4/5
Grant Lee Buffalo
3/5
An interesting album where I can simultaneously hear what bands influenced its sound and all the bands that were potentially influenced by it. Ultimately an album I will more than likely not be returning to after today but I didn't hate that I had to listen to it.
3/5
R.E.M.
4/5
Halfway through the R.E.M. in this collection and I like this one a lot more than the first one I got, Murmur. It helps that this one has one of my favorite R.E.M. songs in "Man on the Moon" but I can't deny how good songs like "Everbody Hurts," "Nightswimming," and "The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonight" are. Some of the other songs don't hit as well as the ones I listed above so for that reason I'm giving it a 3.5 rounded to a 4/5.
John Lennon
4/5
Opening tracks don't get much bigger than this one. Huge footsteps for the rest of the album to try and fill but the rest of the album is enjoyable. A cool collection of styles including "I Don't Want to Be a Soldier Mama" which sounds like it was plucked from the early 80s. This is my first solo album from a Beatles member in this experience so I am excited to see how the rest compare.
3.5 rounded up to a 4/5
Sleater-Kinney
4/5
Sleater-Kinney is probably the first band that comes to mind when I think of Sub-Pop Records, but I've never listened to them until now. I really enjoyed it! Its raw, both in instrumentation and production, yet catchy at the same time. A bit one note vocally as the album goes on but thats really the only bad thing I have to say about it.
4/5