Snoop's delivery is velvety smooth and Dre's production is slick but it doesn't really press my buttons. Sadly I prefer the C&W parody of Gin & Juice....
Not listened to in years. Was big at universitity in certain circles. Did not spark much joy.
Our Lips are Sealed and We Got the Beat are great singles. Unfortunately stretched across whole album it got a little tiring even though its only 35mins- not sure if it was pitch of vocals - but certainly best in small doses for me.
Love this album - have had it on CD for years so very familiar with the extended double album issue rather than the original shorter vinyl issue. Favourite track is the mini opera of a "quick one while he's away" - which is only on the double album.
I have always enjoyed the singles - had not listened to the album previously and not sure what to make of it after 3 listens. It sounds like they are having fun - but I think of Sting as being so po faced and serious that it does not quite ring true for me. A disappointing 3.
Not really my bag. She does have a good voice and I liked some of the beats/ production - but lyrically too icky / uncomfortable in places. Educational - but will not be returning.
I really like the Kinks - their greatest hits album is wall to wall bangers - and there are a few of them on this album. There is a notable drop in quality to the album tracks - but after listening a few times they are all working their charms. The sound quality /production is pretty dog shit tho unfortunately. Fav track David Watts.
I love Hounds of Love. A few duds on the rest of the album - but more than out weighed by the classic singles and few other gems.
It did not spark much joy. When the metal was toned down it was okay - although does not do much for me.
Big fan of PSB - this album marks the shift to more grown up adult pop from the Smash Hits tastic bangers of Please and Actually (which are peak PSB for me). Some classics on here like Being Boring and Jealousy but a few that IMHO are a bit meh so its a high 4.
Only know FGTH from the three big singles - Relax/ Two Tribes and Power of Love. Whilst the first two are clear classic 80's bangers - they don't really do it for me - partly because I have no particular childhood memories linked to them so fail to trigger any hit of nostalgia. By contrast I really like the sentimentality and Christmas vibes of Power of Love. As for the rest of the album thought it was particularly disappointing with a number of weak covers (fury apart) that did not really bring anything to the party. The rest of the songs were paler rehashes of Two Tribes.
I never got into Cyrpress Hill as a youth and have maintained a low opinion of them since. Was therefore surprised to discover that I quite enjoyed the album and that it had quite a groove. The songs do tend to sound all the same and lyrically there does not appear to be a lot going on but I enjoyed the listen (mostly in my car being a mean bitch in South Gloucestershire). Its probably a 2/5 but will give a bonus point for surprising me.
Have listened a few times and its got a real groove and energy to it. Enjoyed a lot.
My third favourite Beatles album.
A double album.... unfortunately only managed a couple of listens through (and it probably needs a few more). Enjoyed it - but nothing really jumped out and grabbed me but equally nothing repelled me. So I guess that makes it a solid 3. If it was not so long and I had more time to listen a few more times it may have crept up to a 4 as enjoyed the sound.
A pleasant listen - some nice moments - nothing particularly standout but equally nothing ugly. It's kinda my jam but not sure what its doing on this list.
Beginning to think I don't really like the Smiths. I used to have The Queen is Dead on CD and did really enjoy it. I now find I really struggle with Morrissey both as a person and vocally. I had not really listened to Meat is Murder before - and IMHO its weaker than the above with no real stand out tracks and too much whining Morrissey.
Not listened to this in years. I was big into Moby at the time and purchased the album before it exploded and became the soundtrack to everything. Unfortunately overexposure is to the detriment of the songs as it diminishes their emotional impact as you just think of the shit its been used to flog or crap tv moments soundtracked. Shame.
Only knew Blisters in Sun previously which is stone cold classic. On first listen I found the rest of the album a bit meh- but its a real grower and by third listen I was onboard. Its not great to work to - but great in the car.
Dirty and fuzzy and whilst not as accessible (or good) as their first album its pretty awesome - other than The Gift as spoken word songs are annoying. Love the drumming on Sister Ray. A high 4.
Great power pop - My Best Friends Girl/ Just What I Needed absolute bangers.
Sultans of Swing is a great track. Like the atmosphere of the album and the general vibe although a little bit too much country for me.
This a proper retro trip and ode to Ms Greenslade. Used to love this album and not listened to it years. Still sounds great - and alot better than many other albums from this era. Banging.
Not sure why I did not listen to them first time round as this would have been right in my wheel house. Listening now its wholly unremarkable indie rock. Its an easy listen and vocals are fine - only gripe is why is a UK band writing about being sick of parking cars in valet parking. Feels a little fake.
Moments of beauty crossed with Monthy Python esq moments of cod medieval silliness.
Fav track A Very Cellular Song
Makes you think what greatness he could have achieved had lived long enough to fully develop/ mature as an artist...
Do not particular like KL's delivery - the song with Snoop really highlighted this for me - it just leaves me cold. Musically there as a lot going on (too much) and it just feels over produced and makes me yearn for simpler times.
ave had listened to this a few times - and whilst its a pleasant and easy listen very little of it stuck with me. Tracey Thorns' vocals are distinctively haunting and really carry the album with the backing mostly trip hop by numbers. Quite telling that its the remixes that tend to bring the EBTG tunes to life. Fav song: Single.
Whilst I can appreciate Snoops delivery, the influence of the album for emergence of West Coast rap and the laid back vibes - unfortunately for me - this is massively overshadowed by the lyrical content and its endless swears, sexism and bull shit gangsta bravado.
Not really a country fan - but enjoyed this and believe that Dolly's a good person. Some lovely harmonys although a little twee in places.
Two absolute 60's bangers with Somebody to Love and White Rabbit - unfortunately everything else is a bit forgettable. Really half arssed album cover also.
I've listened to this album a lot over the years. To be honest I have never really got it as an album. There are a few absolute classic slices of pop perfection (in particular Sloop John B and Wouldn't it be Nice) but a lot of it sort of washes over me.
I saw Roots tour this album back in the day and they were awesome - one of best gigs I've been to. Saw them a few times following this and they never quite recaptured the magic. Have not listened to the album in years - and unfortunately time has not been so kind. A few bangers eg the seed / Rock you / Rolling with Heat - but overall a bit messy and unfocused.
For reasons known only to me I was a big early Radiohead fan in the Pablo Honey era then really went off them - even to the point where I was one of the few people at Glastonbury in 97 and 2003 not to see their seminal gigs. Have grown to appreciate them more in the years since - and whilst I prefer their later albums this is still packed with classics - that I think have aged well.
I guess in 1981 this was pretty cutting edge and set the template for the rest of the decade as all the eighties cliches are are here. i like the vocals and the sentiment of Fascist Groove Thing but rest of songs are pretty forgettable.
I love the Who - and whilst they would defn go to make better albums there are a few classics on here - my generation / kids are alright. Not a 5 but a strong 4.
A few cracking tracks - Scar tissue, Californication, Road Trippin & Parallel Universe - and a lot of bang average/ poor fillers inbetween. I definitely lean towards the Frusciante influenced tracks rather than more traditional BSSM slap bass funky tracks... Scraps a 4 due to the strength of the above songs.
Love the album cover. Not quite so sure on the album. Its a good length so have listened to it a few times and whilst its generally very pleasant (and i can see the Beatles comparisons) not much really lands with me. Without You is unfortunately in the played to death camp and Coconut is on the wrong side of fun. I do like Jump into the Fire - that has a groove.
Sounds great as one song on a mix tape or a soundtrack - a whole album is a little bit too much. I really like the vocals and the vibe is fun but not sure I would readily come back for a whole album...
Its hard to listen to this album without feeling sad about how her life panned out (same feeling as listening to Whitney Houston's I wanna dance with somebody). She has a fantastically powerful and emotional voice and I really enjoyed it. Stand out track - Blackboys on Mopeds. Was going high 4 - but think it just edges into 5.
Utter guff. Was expecting some hands in the air soft rock. Not prog rock wank. I thought my musical tastes were maturing but that was a real struggle.
I did not get it at the time and still don't really get it. She had a great voice and a very tragic end but jazzy pop noodlings not my bag.
Its sort of Wu Tang adjacent but not as good as lacking all ingredients. I do like Method Man's delivery and the pace of the songs. Not wholly down with the lyrical content tho. A low 3.
Love the energy and the fuzzy bass. Have heard better versions of most of the covers (not least by the Beatles). Not sure its one of the 1000 best albums of all time but gave me joy.
Imagine it was great fun if you were there. Beginning to realise (with the odd notable exception) that I don't like live albums.
I used to love Marc Bolan - especially given his tragic early death just around the corner from my Gran's house. Summer is heaven in 77 and all that. Works best as a greatest hits as he had some banging singles but quality threshold dips across the albums
A load of guff. To have a wank fest solo as the 2nd track sets the tone for me. His singer voice has a nasty sneer to it. A terrible Kinks cover and the ice cream song is cringe. I was going to score it 2 - but have talked myself into a 1.
He can certainly write a catchy tune and it is well produced with great backing but and its a big but... his vocals do not really work for me. With the right voice this could be a 5 as I think the tunes are great - unfortunately I'm probably a high 3.
Not classic Bowie for me - but incredibly powerful given what David was going through at the time.
Once in a Lifetime is such an all time classic it overshadows everything else on the album. On first listen not much else jumped out at me and I found the 80's bass twang and David Byrnes vocals annoying. On repeat listens it did grow on me - but I did not love it - other than Once in a Lifetime.
Beginning to realize that I am in a post hip hop phase - cannot listen at home due to the kids and feel a bit ridiculous listening to it in the car in rural Somerset. Generally enjoyed the beats and the variety of the rapping - although struggled with the lyrical content at times.
Apart from Poison had not really listened to Alice Cooper previously. Was expecting it to be harder/ more in your face - rather than fairly tame MOR rock - with some rather silly lyrics in places ( I love the dead ?) Enjoyed it much more than I was expecting with some catchy hooks/ chorus. Fav track: No More Mr Nice Guy.
Have listened about 5 times and whilst I have enjoyed it - its a surprisingly poppy/ accessible - nothing has really stayed with me or made its way on to a playlist.
I really like the brooding menace of Chan Chan - and have heard this track a lot over the years. The rest of the album is a bit more forgettable although a pleasant listen.
I like a bit of Elvis - but not slow country Elvis with his nasal vocal vibrations chomping on every syllable. Love Suspicious Minds and In the Ghetto - but everything else borders between meh and annoying.
One good ish tune (the album opener) and then the rest fairly generic 60's pysch rock (probably being unfair as these guys apparently invented the genre). There is a good reason why the electric jug never caught on.
I listened to a lot of Springsteen during covid. Late 70's / early 80's are my peak Springsteen years and whilst Darkness on edge of Town is my favourite album this is a close 2nd. I dig the dark tones and low-fi musical sparseness.
Another CD from the collection - but not an album I have listened to recently. He's got lovely smooth vocals - but its all a little bit polished and a bit trying too hard to be retro in places.
A strong 3 - some good tunes - sadly Smoke on the Waters impact is much diminished due to over familiarity. Would not rush back - but nothing made my ears bleed.
Bought this as a teenager as I think Q magazine had called it one of the albums of the 60's. I tried very hard to like it but it never really connected. Listening again now I can appreciate the lushness of the arrangements and the psychedelic leanings.
I enjoyed Machine Head as I liked the chunky rock groove esp Smoke on the Water. This live album takes the rock groove on a very long walk through the woods to see granny and stopping of at the shops on the way home. Musically they are clearly talented and must have been great to be there - but I dont need an extended drum solo and guitar noodling 12 min versions esp the yelping breakdown in the middle of Strange King of Woman. Which is a shame as there are some real moments when it rocks.
Whilst I love the Velvet Underground I have always found John Cale a little bit too avant-garde for me so I was not particularly looking for to this album. Was therefore very surprised by its folky/pop vibes which I really enjoyed. Will score a 4 for now and will certainly listen again.
Whilst Adele can certainly sing her voice is not really my jam. I enjoyed the plodding/brooding melodrama of Hello - but everything else was very vanilla X-Factor ballads. Lyrically its pretty dumb and thematically its all very samey about the one that got away. Perhaps by the time we get to 50 Adele will have a bit more range in what she writes about.
Starts well with the two singles that continue to get airtime as they are great funky tunes. Thereafter I lose interest fairly rapidly - 80's funk not my bag especially slap bass and the quality of the tunes gets weaker as album progresses.
I was always a big Stone Roses fan and due to misplaced tribalism never really listened to the Happy Mondays. I know the big tracks very well and they have a great groove. The album tracks a bit more of a mixed bag and I am on the fence about Shaun Ryder. You can hear the strong Andy Wetherall influence in the mix. Not quite a 5 for me.
Really enjoyed - not as good as Celebrity Skin for my money - but still a great listen and far better than majority of their contemporaries.
Really enjoyed this. Bowie's influence/ input/collab is thickly spread throughout. I like the tempo - feels like a good laid back Summers album - although its currently deepest darkest winter.
Classic. Given the Bristol connection this was on heavy repeat when I was a teenager. I have continued to listen over the years and it still sounds great.
I had not listened to this album before (despite being a Queen fan in my youth). Looking at the track listing I think there's only 1 track that I knew from the greatest hits - Seven Seas of Rhye - which is a banger. The rest of the album is a bit of a grower and is good fun albeit a bit bat shit crazy and all over the shop - with Queen clearly given a bit too much time to experiment in the studio. Interesting to hear echos of future Queen tracks amongst it all. Doing this list is making me realise that I like English 70's prog rock/ heavy (ish) metal - which is very much a surprise to me.
Not as bad as other metal albums is about the only positive thing I can say.
Will not be listening again sorry Britney. BOMT remains a classic - everything else is forgettable and sounding pretty dated. BOMT drags it to a 2.
I really like TigerMilk by Belle & Sebastian and have listened to that album alot over the years so I know it well. I have not listened to "If You're Feeling Sinister" previously and I was largely underwhelmed. The whimsy is very much there - but the charm/ catchy hooks appear to be lacking. Very disappointing and surprising given this album was recorded very close to Tigermilk.
Big fan of the Velvet Underground - although my listening never really went beyond the first album and a greatest hits - so I had not listened to this album as a whole previously although I know half the tracks. Its surprisingly mellow and a little bit slight - although it does feature one of my favourite songs of all time - Pale Blue Eyes - and on the basis of this one song alone it scores a 5.
A few years back I listened to Back in Black alot and really got into the album - but did not explore the rest of the ACDC catalogue. Very much enjoyed Highway to Hell - not quite as polished as BiB - but it rattles along at non stop pace and is a great undemanding listen. Not quite a 5 but a high 4. No stand out track as they all pretty much sound the same - not really a criticism as I enjoyed the whole.
Random name for an album - but a great cover. Surprisingly enjoyed the album - given I disliked the first few songs as found them very saccharine and ridiculous when Barry (?) talks. But it picked up - got a bit Beatles derivative in part and a bit over the top - but liked Trafalgar and Lion in Winter in particular.
I was looking forward to this as I own a Tom Petty Greatest Hits that I enjoyed but had not ever delved deeper into an album. Was unfortunately a little disappointed. "American Girl" is a classic and stands head& shoulders above the rest of the album - which is a little bit vanilla by comparison with no real stand out tracks after 4 listens. A solid 3.5.
Enjoyed it. Surprisingly poppy and it zips along with hardly a dud track apart from the Imagine cover....
Not sure i will return but glad I listened.
Much prefer this to 1999 - more poppy/hip hoppy less funk and slap bass. Only managed one and a half listens as its another effin double album so this is only my initial view (although I doubt I will listen again to form a more fuller view). The over reliance on drum machines dates it and makes it feel disposable. A few zingers - Sign of the Times, U Got the Look and I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man but quite a lot of filler.
Very pleasant and chilled late night background cocktail lounge music. Doesn't get my juices flowing but its not going to make any ears bleed.
Constant Craving still sounds good after all the years. The rest of the album is pretty dull by comparison. Very vanilla.
Was quite excited by this a mix of punk/country with lots of violin. Enjoyed the opening track a lot - unfortunately it lost its way a bit with a bit too much spoken word and not enough fiddley dee.
Good fun rockabilly surf garage rock. Great rolling drums and jumpy guitar licks. Would be awesome live.
I'm not a particularly funky person but I enjoyed this -esp the title track. Side B gets a bit loose but still enjoyed it.
Absolute classic - would have been awesome to see live. Whole Lotta Love has such an epic guitar riff.
Have managed to nearly get to 50 without hearing or knowing about this album. Terrible name and pretty terrible album. Probably just scraps a 2 as not quite an ear bleeder. Maybe if I knew more about them I would dislike them more.
Hmmm. Its very very 80's. Too much 80's i think. The opening 3 songs (Red Rain, Sledgehammer, Don’t Give Up) are fab - Red Rain was new discovery and I really liked it. The rest of the album is a bit blander and smothered by the 80's vibes. He's a local boy so gets a bonus point - but not sure I can give it a 5 based on 3 great tracks and living down the road.
I really liked Lorelei - its right up my alley moody/ etheral 80's gothy vibes. Unfortunately rest of album goes a bit too far down the etheral road and forgets that songs need tunes.
The opener is iconic - and the rest of the album has a groove - although its a fine line between groove and cheese. Its an interesting historic artefact with some great playing but cannot help feel its missing something.....
14 year old me would have loved this album. Slightly older me did enjoy this slice of classic soft rock. A fair few bangers and not many fillers. Leaning towards a 4 which is more than I expected.
I loved Bob Dylan when I was 12 and was I listening to my Mums records. She had three Bob Dylan albums and this was my favourite one. It still is my favourite Bob Dylan album - although I have not really listened to Bob much since I was 13. Subterranean Homesick Blues is a banger and I can still nearly remember all the words. I should listen to more Bob Dylan.
Couldn't stand Jamiroquai when I was younger thought Jay Kay was such a bell end. Whilst my views and tastes have changed and mellowed over the years - this still makes my ears bleed. Not aware of what Jay Kay is upto currently - but would put money on him still being a dick.
Have listened to this a bit too much. Its a near perfect album - spoiled only by small fact that Phil Spector shot someone in the head.
More dark please sir.
His gravelly voice is perfect for the reflective end of life musings. The backing is perhaps a little bit ripe at times but generally hits the sentimentality sweet spot.
A high 4.
Enjoyed alot. Maybe because the Sun is shining (its July) and the laid back jazzy grooves are working their magic. Lovely smooth delivery and lyrics that would not upset your nan.
I like the pacing / production / scratching and the lyrically delivery. Not mad keen on the alien concept but it mostly goes over my head. Nice to have a DJ Shadow mix.
Not my bag. Was surprised to find that after a couple of songs my brain had adjusted and ears stopped bleeding and that some of the later songs actually had choruses where the vocals were actually sang. Notwithstanding that it is still scoring a big fat 1.
Connected and Step It Up are good nostaligia trips although rest of the album is pretty unremarkable. I seem to remember the lead singer being a bit of a bell end but cannot remember why. Mystified why this on the list - what ground did it break? Who of todays artists owe their career to the Stereo MC's? Why not put the Venga Boyz on the list?
I have a Nick Drake greatest hits so I know a few of these songs very well and its a lovely melodic listen. I had not realised what a troubled and shortened life he had.
Really enjoyed it. Knowledge of JC limited to greatest hits and the American IV album - particularly Hurt. He has a powerfully honest and lyrical voice that tells great stories with real empathy. I don't know much about country music but JC is the benchmark for me - and I have yet to hear anybody better. A great live set with real energy and chemistry with the crowd
Hokem Pokem cowboy shizzle. Very vanilla disposable stuff.
He's got an amazing voice but as an album of covers it feels quite dated and bitty.
A new discovery for me.. its not really my jam but I did really enjoy it. Its a eclectic mix of styles that hangs together well and grooves along. Very accomplished for a debut. Its a very high 4 - that could turn into a 5 if I listen a few more times (which I probably will)
Proud Mary's a cracker. Everything else a bit swampy and plodding and vocals a little overwrought. Its a 3.5 for me - rounding down to 3.
I had never heard of this before and was quite intrigued by the cover as I'm partial to a bit of sea shanty / folk rock. But fuck me what a disappointment. So bland and limp - how an earth did this make the list? What boundaries is it pushing or who has it influenced. Its not offensive so should be a 2 - however I'm giving it a 1 given how disappointed I was.
I have not listened to this since doing my A levels and had forgotten how much I enjoyed it. Great beats and great lyrics delivered well without any b/s (apart from the skits).
Love a 6 track album - sub 40 mins lovely. Golden Years is a banger - although on repeated listenings I think Station to Station edges it for me. I need a better hi fi.
Enjoyable - great skill on display and has an energy and vibe but not my cup of tea .
I enjoyed this album a lot first time around - but given he is now a Nazi I will not be listening this time round.
I just don't get jazz. Can appreciate the snippets but fail to see the overall picture or journey. I feel that I'm open to most things - but this just makes me feel a bit stoopid as I just don't get it.
Fun album. Benchmark for rock
I really enjoyed the opening & closing tracks - but everything else in between was all rather samey chuggy country dad rock.
Lovely voice and atmosphere - but failed to move me.
I quite like the big songs but have never really got the Foo Fighters. Listened to it 3 times and still did not spark a reaction. I like Dave G but can take or leave this.
Dumb poodle hair 80's soft rock! yeah! Rock! I love Rock! lets Rock! All the songs sound the same and appear to all be about the same thing (Rock!) - but its inoffensive and well produced and quite fun to drive to.
A new discovery for me - which surprises me as back in 97 this would have been right up my street so am surprised it passed me by. Really enjoyed the discovery - will defn listen again. Solid 4.
Enjoyed - smooth vocals. Only problem for me is that cannot really relate to Cowboy songs about horses so kinda washed over me with no emotional hook.
Have never really listened to this album before - and really only know the singles :Tonight, Tonight, 1979 and Bullet with Butterfly Wings which are all great songs (although not quite as good as Today). At 2 hours the rest of the album feels bloated and quite varied in tone. Unfortunately do not have the time the album probably needs for me to give it enough listens to fully appreciate it. After my first run through I think that Siamese Dreams is the much stronger album.
oo sterile , too much sax, too noodly and lacking in spontaneity. Only highlight was Peg - although the De La Soul version is so much better.
Amazing voice - unfortunately the songs/production are just so dated that does do her justice.
Not as good as I remember. Magic Number / Eye Know / Potholes in my Lawn / Me Myself and I are still laid back classics. Unfortunately there is alot of filler tracks and crappy skits that disrupt the listening experience and unfortunately means its a 4 and not a 5.
I did not have this album first time around. Am over familiar with the singles and they still hold up - but otherwise underwhelmed with the rest of the album - do not think I have missed much.
A real mixed bag - Mrs Robinson remains one of my favorite songs ever - but other songs like Fakin it are very underwhelming.
I liked it - I knew a few of the tracks previously but had not listened to the whole album before. I cannot find any fault with it and there are no dud tracks it just does not really connect with me - possibly its the vocals which are a bit blunt and lacking emotional connection for me.
I'm on the fence on this - I really like the olde english medieval vibe and there is some great musicianship on display - but in parts it just disappears up its proggy arse - eg Battle of Epping Forest - and just becomes noise.
I'm becoming an old caveman dad rocker. Really enjoyed this - nice organ, thumping drums, guitar solos and bonkers vocals. The middle of Child in Time is particularly great (my view may be coloured by how much its been used in film/tv)
I have never listened to the whole album before. Enjoyed it a lot. Mardy Bum and You Look Good on the Dance floor are absolute bangers with great indie energy and bounce. Rest of album is pretty good and I like the slightly sneery vocal delivery. My only complaint would be at times there are a few too many words - I like my indie rock a little bit dumber.
There are some good moments on this album, but it’s way too long. A few songs are great, others get the noise/song balance wrong and drag on. I can see why it’s respected, but not sure I would return often. Good in parts, hard work in others.
Van used to live on my old square in Bath (before my time) and was apparently seen staggering around wearing a hat.
Never really been a big Van Man fan. Did enjoy this though although I don't actually like the Moondance song.
I have not listened to this as a whole album before although I am familiar with a number of the songs. I really enjoyed it. There are some really great catchy pop hooks and it hangs together well as a concept album (I'm generally not a fan of concept albums). Fascinating to see how English nostalgia was already a thing in 1968 and compare it to current times and how many people would bite your arm off just to get back to the 60's,,,,
Kids is a 5 star banger. Rest of album - including the other singles is not as good as I remembered. Feels a bit soulless and formulaic.
Modern it is not. Funny to think that once it was. Great vocals and cosy big band vibes.
Easy 5. Whilst not my favourite Beatles album its leagues above their contemporaries.
Enjoyed it. Great sound for a 1960 live album.
Had low expectations going in and sad to say they were met. I generally like dirty/ industrial/noise - but it needs to be paired with a good tune/ some joy / great vocals. Unfortunately Trent's lyrics are pretty dumb (but not in fun way) and too low in the mix. Don't care for the drum machine and more more noise noise sonic overload. JC's version of Hurt far superior - although that song does show that Trent can write decent lyrics.
Enjoyed it - a couple of bangers - and some interesting soundscapes. Vocally its a little bit effected and lyrically makes me feel old :-(
Not enough cheese.
My most enjoyable Jazz album so far. The drumming gave it a more regular rhythm and it felt less noodly. Only managed 3 listens so not yet a convert - but could see myself returning and enjoying it more.
Did not know he was Scottish. Unfortunately this does not gain him any extra points. A couple of good tracks - particularly Season of the Witch. Unfortunately I really dislike the title track - with the guitar really giving me a head ache - which makes it a 2 for me.
Not in the mood for thrash metal today.
Really enjoyed it. I generally like my rap family friendly with low swears or racial epithets and not so much about Ice cubes dick. This delivers with a killer opening 4 tracks. It gets a little repetitive thereafter and could do with a little bit magic to funk it up a bit.
Have not really listened to much Pink Floyd as had previously dismissed as wanky toss when i was in my punk phase and never really revisited this opinion. Roll forward 30 years or so and its much more up street and very much enjoyed large parts of the album - unfortunately there are some wanky bits like the sax solo - but still happy to give it a solid 4.
Really wanted to like this - but was a struggle.
Another one I can listen to on CD. Bought it years ago as some list told me that I should. Not initially my bag but listened to it enough that its grown on me and now I love it - other than save the children which is a skipper - super smooth vocals and great arrangements with powerful vocals with tracks that blend seamlessly to together. Whats not to like (other than save the children).
Another album I bought first time around due to the reviews that I did not love as much as I thought I should. Listening again 20 years later and after the first song - Drive - I thought yes this is a 5 and I am finally old enough to appreciate REM. But then REM atrophy kicks in and it starts to loose its sparkle and Stipes vocals start to grate and the songs start sounding all a bit samey and just does not emotionally connect with me (with one big exception). At the time Everybody Hurts was played to death - but hearing it fresh again its a cracking song. The one song that does really connect (and I have listened to on heavy rotation since day 1) is Nightswimming which I absolutely fucking love.
Not bad. At times it threatened to be good but never really pushed on through. Wholly unremarkable.
Enjoyed the first few tracks - and I thought maybe this will be a unknown gem for me as I am partial to a little bit of soft country rock. Unfortunately the quality begins to diminish and they all begin to merge into one big country twang. It reminded me a little of Cardigans country album - long gone before midnight - which I love and have listened to hundred of times. I'm sure if I listened to this enough it would grow alot more on me but sadly only managed a couple of listens due to its length. A high 3.
I found Want One very irritating. This was more interesting. I still don't like his vocal stylings and i find most of it pretentious guff. However there were some nice bits but overall not for me.
Good fun and zips along.
Tiny Dancer is a great song. Rest of album less so. Felt a bit too broadway with a bit too much storytelling going on.
Enjoyed the atmospheric guitars / percussion - but struggled with the singing - which for me fell on the wrong side of wailing and were a little annoying. Really wanted to enjoy it - but cannot see me returning.
Whilst Eminem can write a catchy pop tune (my name is) and the Dr Dre production is good - I don't like his lyrical delivery and I find the violence/ misogyny of the lyrics pretty vile - don't really care that its tongue in cheek and he doesn't really mean it - there is a limit to how many times I can listen to a song about murdering girl friends/ wives.
Enjoyed it. Not quite a 5 for me. They have a great / unique sound - which gets a little samey over the course of the album. I prefer the slower numbers - especially when Meg sings. A good stomp.
Less than the sum of its parts given the talent involved. Slow and plodding and recorded badly to my inexpert ears.
Loved it.
The only Sonic Youth album I own - and actually purchased it shortly after it was released. Did not get it then and it has taken quite a few listens over the year to appreciate it. Until doing this list I had not listened to any other Sonic Youth albums and can now say that this is my favorite Sonic Youth album as it feels tighter and more focused. It also features Sugar Cane which I believe is their best track.
Pleasantly surprised. Particularly enjoyed Phantom of the Opera. More heavy rock than heavy metal.
Not really listened to this album before - I know and really like some of the classic tracks - Tangled up in Blue / Shelter from the Storm - but not that familar with most of the tracks. They are not the most immediate songs as lyrically quite dense but I'm sure they reward repeated listening. My initial reaction on a couple of listens is a 4 but I'm sure it would be a 5 if i could listen a few more times. ...
A new discovery for me and its all very pleasant electro/ indie and would undoubtedly grow on repeat. Only managed two run throughs and I enjoyed it - but nothing really grabbed me. All sounded very similar to foals/ pale impala - both of whom I'm partial too. Confused as to its inclusion on the list. Especially when fellow Leeds band Alt-J are omitted and their album won a mercury prize and I think had a much greater impact on wider music scene.
The singles are okay - but its pretty repetitive lowest common denominator stuff. Very 80's very packaged and very dumb. The low point being TV dinners ...
"This one's kinda tough
I like the enchiladas
And the teriyaki too
I even like the chicken
If the sauce is not too blue"
A low 2.
I do like Lana Del Ray and I think the opening two tracks are great - she can write a really great chorus. But then the album sort of peters out and gets a bit meh.
My third and final Hendrix album - what a tragedy his life was cut so short and crazy to think what he could have created had he had the opportunity to further mature and develop as an artist. I had not really appreciated his breadth before. As double album its unsurprisingly a bit all over the place and a bit baggy here and there - although there are plenty of genius moments - not least All Along the Watchtower - absolute banger and defining song for the era. I preferred Electric Ladyland as an album but AATW alone makes this a 5.
Really enjoyable listen. Surprisingly jaunty and poppy. Very much enjoying "walk on".
Disappointing that only 1 Underword album is on this list given some the other electronica albums that made it. I love Underworld and this is probably my 3rd favourite Underworld album. Its a 5* even without the later addition of Born Slippy - which still sounds amazing even though I've heard it 3 million times.
Was listening to this in the car and was a bit underwhelmed thinking it was a little pedestrian. Listening to it again (and again) on my hifi and can fully appreciate the warmth of the record (especially when weather is so foul).
Macca has always been my least favourite Beatle and I have always found his lyrics borderline twee and naff (and do have a similar view on his personality). So I approached this with a fairly negative mindset - so was genuinely surprised to discover that I rather enjoyed it - very catchy tunes - esp Mrs Vandebilt. Still a bit on the light and fluffy side with no moments that truly moved me - but very listenable and enjoyable.
I don't know whether its just because the suns shining and I'm driving but I really enjoyed this today. Up Around the Bend is an absolute banger. Loving the swampy vibes.
Was aware of Nas but had not really listened to him previously. Really enjoyed it - great beats - strong smooth lyrically delivery and no gimmicks.
I just don't get Steely Dan. So bland, so lounge, so jazz light so lacking joy / energy/ so clinical.
It's a 5 based on the singles alone - with the filla not being too bad either (other than He's so unusual which sucks). Absolutely love girls just wanna have fun - it triggers this weird 80's Americana nostalgia vibes within me. Good times. Shame the song from Goonies not on this album.
Strong 4. Some quality tunes - strong 80's vibes (sometimes to the detriment of the songs) - a couple of bum tracks (Pimpf?) mean its not a 5.
I've had Rattlesnakes on my playlist for years and really enjoyed but never delved deeper. Really enjoyed - whimsical 80;s indie pop. Particularly liked Down on Mission Street. Its not going to change the world or really get the juices flowing but its a very pleasant listen.
I think the opening sample is saying "I think its shit" which kinda sums up my view of the album.
Have listened to this about 5 times now and its a real grower. I started a bit meh low 2 - but its swampy/country charms have worked on me and its now a 5 and added to my spotify favorites.
was a big fan of this album when first released and I really remember being desperate to see the live tour with the flying trabents. Listening to it again now it feels like the dictionary definition of bland. It just washes over me with the exception of "One" which I still have a soft spot for.
I really like the Who - but prefer them as a singles band and I have never been that fond of the rock opera leanings. This album opens/ closes with two absolute classic Who tracks - with Baba O'Riley being one of my all time favourite songs. The tracks in between are not quite as strong - but slowly work their charm and do just enough to make it a 5.
Sorry. Have had enough late 60's Californian psychedelia. Having listened to (and loved) the Hendrix album on the list I cannot see the point of records like this as it so inferior. Would normally give it a 2 but have lost all tolerance.
I really liked his subsequent album "Gold" - but this rather washed over me - a bit generic and a bit forgettable.
Enjoyably silly - slightly over stays its welcome - but good memories of seeing them at Reading.
I remember being super pumped for this to be released and then being a bit disappointed that it was not Nevermind 2. Not much has changed 30 years later.
I do enjoy at bit of Kraftwerk. Generally prefer the non vocal tracks as the vocals are a little tired and cliched now. Strong 4 but not a 5 as do not feel any of the tracks really connect with me.
The first track started really well with the violins giving it quite an atmospheric folky vibe - I bit like the excellent Nick Cave soundtack for Jesse James. Sadly rest of the album is a bit meh and gets a bit Byrdy, jazzy and bland.
Beachside cocktail music. All very nice and groovy in the right time and place. I'm not a jazz guy and this did not make my ears bleed and generally funked along.
A classic that takes me back to living in Axbridge and playing on repeat whilst spending hours playing championshop manager. Simpler times.
I know the singles well as they soundtracked the era so a nice nostalgia trip. Did not really get on with Frank - but this album is a much more commercial sounding - with a very retro soul vibe which is a much easier listen. Great voice/ great production.
A lovely blast of sunshine - helped by the fact its super hot today. I want your love's an absolute bop. Enjoyed it alot more than I was expecting. So influential.
I liked the opener - Amsterdam - that had some energy to it. Thereafter it was a bit too chatty / cabaret for me - and as my french is dog shit i had no idea what was going on so all the wit in the lyrics was lost on me. He has an interesting voice tho. 2 feels harsh but I will not be listening again.
Ive tried Willie a few times and just doesn't work for me. This feels like a load of country versions of classic cheesy American tunes with nothing really to elevate it? What am I missing?
Lively spiky indie fun. Enjoyed alot first time around. Slightly repetitive and runs out of steam.
I have never really got into Happy Mondays apart from the singles that everyone knows. Have listened to this a few times and its not really doing that much for me. Whilst many of the tracks have a decent groove I struggle a little with Shaun Ryders vocal shoutings.. Listened about 3 times and struggled to pick a track that stands out. Feels quite baggy and messy.
A bit of a slog. Not If You Were the Last Junkie on Earth and Everyday Should be a Holiday are great tracks - but rest of the album is a real disappointment. Lots of fairly bland instrumentals / jams and forgettable album fillers. Disappointing.
Still sounds great and still on regular rotation.
I randomly bought this a few years ago - I think because I liked Fast Car - and its a great song that showcases her voice wonderfully. The other two big singles are very strong also :
Talkin’ Bout a Revolution and Baby Can I Hold You Tonight. Unfortunately the rest of the album is pretty forgettable and bad eighties production.
Loved this album - had just moved to Guernsey and listened to it on my 30 min walk in/ back from work. Still rocks.
The two big singles are bangers. everything else is a little bit 80's bland for my taste so only a 2... not quite a 3
It has some good moments - but feels quite dated and a bit joyless (stark comparison to screamadelica). I saw them at Glastonbury in 97 and assume they must have been playing his album - all I can remember is they were pissed and awful.
Listened a couple of times and whilst there were some nice moments (particularly the strings/ classical bits) they were eclipsed by longer periods of meh. Its a borderline 2/3 for me - but I doubt I will return so its probably a 2.
This was a bit of a struggle for me. I don't even like Mr Blue Sky. Can't quite put my finger on it - I find over produced, too much surface, too perky , too much going on , too many harmonies.
Another album I was able to listen to on CD. My favourite Beck album, Lovely.
I really enjoyed this. Some great bass and guitar noodling. I like the tempo and Lou Reed esq delivery. Opening track was strongest and it slightly looses its mojo towards the end.
Unfortunately my tolerance for late 60's psych is very low now. This was more fun then many of the other examples on this list but way behind the Hendrix gold standard so not sure what the point is.
My least favourite Beatle and this does not really change my view. I quite like the demo/bagginess and that many tracks sound like discarded Beatles out takes.
I have never been a Neil Young fan but starting to appreciate him through this list. My journey must now be complete as I loved this album. Its gold.
Like a weaker mash up of Queen, 70's Elton and Pink Floyd. Not without merit but not enough for me to come back. A low 3.
Hawkwind always makes me think of Derek Smalls. This album has not changed that view. Some enjoyable long jams with groovy bass and honking sax. They certainly got value from their space effects box. Not the greatest sound mixing with the vocals often a bit lost and muffled - although what lyrics I did catch were ridiculous with portentous guff of the spoken intros. A low 3.
The strongest of the 3 Kraftwerk albums on this list by far. The others had great tracks but could not sustain over the album. On Man Machine every track is a banger - absolute landmark album.
ome decent catchy power pop. Confused why including live version over the studio version as personally find the sound quality quite muffled and the vocals a bit lost - plus the crowd interaction does not really add much. Would possibly score a 4 if was studio album as the tunes are good - was going to give it a 3 but then heard the last two tracks. Goodnight would be bad enough on its own but to include all the encore B/S (I really don't like the faux predictability of encores) looses it another point.
Randomly saw an Oasis tribute band a few months ago - which was funny as the lead singer was about 3 ft tall so struggled with the Liam swagger and the "Noel" couldn't stop smiling and waving to the crowd. It did remind me that Oasis have a lot of songs that are ingrained into me (despite not listening for many years) and that they still sound good (unlike a lot of Britpop that has not aged particularly well). Their first album was always my favourite - with Slide Away my pick.
Strong title, strong cover and strong opener and I'm thinking its a definite 5. Sadly it flags a little esp on By the time I get to Phoenix, but still a groovy & funky 4.
Was vaguely aware of Nightmares on Wax - but was expecting a more dubby / stoner vibe for private school reefer boys. Was therefore a bit surprised that its much more commercial/jazzy ambient and upbeat than was expecting. Its a perfectly pleasant background listen - but having listened to it twice I cannot recall a single song/ movement - its all very superficial and empty. Hardly a nightmare.
I surprisingly enjoyed Vauxhall and I despite my dislike of Morrissey's vocals, his personality and his politics. You are The Quarry is less charming and more overtly whinny and you can see the beginnings of shift rightwards. Did not enjoy.
Not my usual jam but I liked the funky jam vibe - have played it a few times and enjoyed grooving along despite a bit too much sax. Probably a 3 but the sunshine is nudging it up to a 4.
The first album I ever owned and I loved it then. Not so sure now. Its iconically late eighties and it defined the era. It is also rammed full MJ vocal tropes (Shamone) to the point that I found some songs hard to listen due to how much piss has subsequently been extracted over the years in relation to them that it jarred every time MJ squeaked. Dirty Diana/ Smooth Criminal are still great tracks tho and there is not much filler other than Speed Demon.
Frank's got a lovely set up pipes unfortunately the slow mournful vibe of the album not really working for me today (maybe because its sunny).
Really liked this. Had not listened to the album previously but was recognized many of the songs from all different places. Loved Big Ship in particular. Listened to a lot of country today so this is a sweet relief and probably explains me squeezing it to a 5,
Whilst I have listened to Neon Bible and The Suburbs a lot I do not think I ever went back to listen to the Funeral so hearing most of this album fresh. Without the familiarity or prior listening the album feels a little one dimensional and dour. Fortunately I do like the dimension they are in so I did enjoy it.
I'm sure it was great if you were there - but not sure this recording does it justice. Does James Brown not have any good studio albums?
Absolute solid gold classic 5.
Massive fan of Lindsey Buckingham in this era currently. I'm getting old I like Fleetwood Mac.
I do not really not know much about country music - but I know I do not like this. I think the pacing is too jaunty and the voice lacks character for me. Not bad just not for me.
A very mellow easy listening Jass/bossa nova / samba. Too easy in fact as it just disappears into the background.
Great album title and a great album. Enjoyed a lot. Was not really aware of their pre 80's stuff apart from "pyscho killer" and for some reason I thought they were Australian... Not a dud track on album.
A new discovery for me. Musically very dense with a lot going on and whilst there are some great hooks and melodies it just did not connect with me emotionally. Have listened to it a number of times over a number of days to give it a chance to grow - but just not sprouting. Maybe its the vocals. Maybe its just too earnest and trying to hard. It lacks spark and joy.
Was not expecting a country album. A lovely smooth voice - but not really my bag - very MOR/hotel lobby vibes.
I surprisingly enjoyed this a lot. She has a great voice and I like the story telling - although lyrically very dated.
I've listened 3 times but have been a bit distracted so but can barely remember anything about it. Nothing offensive but nothing that grabbed me. Some nice moments - did not feel too proggy but overall lacking oomph.
Planet Rock is a classic slice of 80's hip hop. Its great. Unfortunately the formula wears a little thin over the rest of the album which lacks the bite of the opener.
Found this is a bit of a dirgy slog lacking any moments of joy. I have never really got Dinsosaur Jr - bought one of their albums at the height of grunge but ended up swapping it.
Did not like this. Felt fake - all surface and no depth. Reminded me a lot of the David Holmes album on this list which is of similar vintage and similarly the songs sound dated and shallow. The slower jazzier piano numbers felt faux and lacking the warmth of some of the jazz classics on this list and felt jarring against the upbeat tracks. Not for me.
I never really liked Supergrass. Not sure what it was but something about them never connected with me. The singles have a fun energy and helped define the era. The album tracks are a bit meh.
Little did we know when this came out how Coldplay would become the global monsters of banality and the favourite band for people who dont like music but do like flashy lights. I bought this album and enjoyed at the time - listening again kinda hurts but the songs are still good despite being burned into my consciousness over the years. Saw them play this live and they were good and did need the flash and the bangs.
Love the National - not my favourite National album (prefer "trouble will find me" and "I am Easy to find" but still a very solid 4
A lot of nostalgia for Madness as their greatest hits was one of the first albums I bought. Listening again after all this years was a bit of a struggle to be honest. Suggs vocals are pretty irritating and whilst they do have some catchy tunes (like our house) - it all feels a bit moronic and music for people who don't really like music. A very low 3
Through this list I've become a little partial to 70's Southern rawk. This album doesn't quite hit the same spot - a bit too much country, a bit too bland and lacking killer songs and far too long. Some nice moments - but too much meh in between and I'm not really down with Southern rebel revisionism.
The great thing about short albums is that you can listen to them multiple times and give them the chance to grow and work their charms. Initially gravitated to the stand out tracks : AForest / Play For Today but on third play I am starting to really enjoy nearly all of the tracks and its a solid 5.
Strong nostalgia hit with this one. I think I saw them play it live a couple of times which was good fun. Not really listened much in the 20 years since apart from the inescapable Mr Brightside/ Somebody Told Me. Listening again and it feels a bit too polished and flat and lacks real emotion for me. Its very listenable - but doesn't get the juices flowing. Should be a 2 but gets a nostalgia point.
Opening two tracks are definite 5's and amongst the greatest/ campest rock songs ever ... but then unfortunately the wheels fall off and it becomes a bit meh. Two out of Three not as good as I remembered it (I loved it when i was 13) and Paradise by Dashboard Light does not really do it for me.
Unfortunately the opener:The Old Gold Shoe reminded me of the Rainbow song by Kermit and that kinda killed the album for me. Whilst he does switch up the vocals to some whispering or a crappy falsetto amongst other styles the album did not improve. Everything felt very pedestrian. The songs are 6 mins plus as they all start with 2 mins of repetitive chord progressions which kinda exhausted my patience.
Today is one of my all time favourite songs.
I have the album on CD but I don't think it ever was on hard rotation - other than to play Today- and I have not listened to it in years. I really enjoyed listening to it today - perhaps in part because I listened to it straight after the much inferior Pearl Jam.
Was only vaguely aware of Bert prior to listening to this album. Really liked the pared back home recording vibe of Bert & his guitar - the playing in particular is excellent - especially on the instrumentals when he really gets going.
Wholly unremarkable - no real stand out tunes or moments. Sounded pretty shonky. Thought it was debut so was surprised this was 5th album and so far from the polished behemoth that's the later day Aerosmith.
A fun easy listen - great horn section and some great grooves - especially towards the end of the record. A bit too much sax in places. Not sure will return that often so its a high3.
I have not really listened to that much Metallica and was under the impression that they were better than their peers and the acceptable side of thrash metal that everyone can get on board with. Maybe this is true of their later albums - but I found this a struggle and only marginally better than Slayer/ Anthrax/ Megadeath and way inferior to Iron Maiden/ Deep Purple (recent listens ). Its all very repetitive - very mechanical drumming and chuggy guitars and pained vocals. There is no fun or theatre to it.
Victoria is a banger and the rest of the album does not quite match it. Although after a few listens the rest of the album did grow on me and there are some great guitar hooks and lyrics. The production sounded really ropey to me - with everything sounding quite muffled and fuzzy.
Had pretty low expectations - and on initial listen I thought the songs all sounded the same and it was as a little bit lightweight. On repeated listens it has grown on me and it works really well as background music to work to with a decent groove and not too in your face. Lyrically its pretty interesting when you do tune into the vocals. Its a 3.5 but feeling generous so will round to 4.
