1001 Albums Summary

Listening statistics & highlights

272
Albums Rated
3.21
Average Rating
25%
Complete
817 albums remaining

Rating Distribution

Rating Timeline

Taste Profile

1970
Favorite Decade
Punk
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
33
5-Star Albums
18
1-Star Albums

Breakdown

By Genre

Tap a bar to see the albums behind it

Top Styles

Tap a bar to see the albums behind it

By Decade

By Origin

Albums

You Love More Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
New Boots And Panties
Ian Dury
5 2.68 +2.32
Porcupine
Echo And The Bunnymen
5 3.09 +1.91
Junkyard
The Birthday Party
4 2.15 +1.85
High Violet
The National
5 3.23 +1.77
If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
5 3.32 +1.68
Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
5 3.32 +1.68
Juju
Siouxsie And The Banshees
5 3.33 +1.67
Sound of Silver
LCD Soundsystem
5 3.43 +1.57
Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
Sex Pistols
5 3.45 +1.55
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
5 3.46 +1.54

You Love Less Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
A Night At The Opera
Queen
1 3.95 -2.95
Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
Wu-Tang Clan
1 3.6 -2.6
1984
Van Halen
1 3.49 -2.49
Crime Of The Century
Supertramp
1 3.4 -2.4
The Predator
Ice Cube
1 3.24 -2.24
Vivid
Living Colour
1 3.21 -2.21
Deloused in the Comatorium
The Mars Volta
1 3.18 -2.18
The Wall
Pink Floyd
2 4.13 -2.13
Permission to Land
The Darkness
1 3.13 -2.13
Led Zeppelin II
Led Zeppelin
2 4.09 -2.09

Artists

Favorites

Tap an artist to see their albums

ArtistAlbumsAverage
Beatles 4 4.75
Radiohead 3 4.67
Neil Young 2 5
Johnny Cash 2 5

Controversial

Tap an artist to see their albums

ArtistRatings
Simon & Garfunkel 2, 5

5-Star Albums (33)

View Album Wall

Popular Reviews

Hms Fable by Shack

This gets lost in the sea (geddit?) of late 90s jangly, indie pop and as a consequence, sounds like many other bands of the time. Captain's Table is great song but not enough to lift the album above 2 stars.

Dr. Octagonecologyst by Dr. Octagon

I was not familiar with this artist nor album which reflects my paucity of knowledge of hip hop. This quickly lost me. The intricate lyrics and sci-fi atmosphere left me cold.

Porcupine by Echo And The Bunnymen

It remains a mystery to me that at the time, U2 became one of the biggest bands in the World and Echo and the Bunnymen didn't. Better songs, better musicians... Porcupine and War were released in the same month in 1983. Compare and contrast.

Cloud Nine by The Temptations

Took me to cloud nine, a couple of stand-out classics

1-Star Albums (18)

All Ratings (272)

Funeral by Arcade Fire
Oct 02 2025
Deja Vu by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Oct 05 2025
Murmur by R.E.M.
Oct 22 2025
Nilsson Schmilsson by Harry Nilsson
Nov 07 2025

Really enjoyed this album. Without You was one of my Mum's favourite songs, so a bit of a nostalgia fest.

Harvest by Neil Young
Nov 08 2025
Green by R.E.M.
Nov 09 2025
Blue Lines by Massive Attack
Nov 17 2025

I was slow to get to Massive Attack in the early 90s, but when I finally got there, the mash up of genres and collaborations wowed me. In many ways, a groundbreaking album, and arguably not their best.

Time Out by The Dave Brubeck Quartet
Nov 18 2025

An album defined by one tune, a great tune at that

Homework by Daft Punk
Nov 21 2025

To paraphrase LCD Soundsystem, Daft Punk is not Playing At My House - too much repetition

Machine Head by Deep Purple
Nov 22 2025

I knowledge this is a classic of the genre

Let It Be by The Replacements
Nov 23 2025

Not too familiar with The Replacements. Reminded me of The Stray Cats. Liked it

Done By The Forces Of Nature by Jungle Brothers
Nov 24 2025

Lots of hip hop on 1001 so far. This felt like entry level, with a melodic background. Enjoyed it.

Woodface by Crowded House
Nov 26 2025

Rugby, wine, kiwifruit, Crowded House, some of the many things NZ has given the world. This is an excellent pop album.

Elephant by The White Stripes
Nov 28 2025

Anthems

Crime Of The Century by Supertramp
Nov 29 2025

Not my thing, although I'll avoid the temptation to say it's a musical crime

Imagine by John Lennon
Dec 02 2025

Some classic tunes

Tragic Songs of Life by The Louvin Brothers
Dec 03 2025

There's a limit to songs about loneliness, pine trees and broken hearts...

Foo Fighters by Foo Fighters
Dec 04 2025

There aren't many great drummers who became great singer/songwriters, but Dave Grohl is one. This transition from the back of the stage with Nirvana to front stage with Foo Fighters is an impressive album. Some powerful songs.

The Score by Fugees
Dec 06 2025

I enjoyed this album, as much for the re-working of some familiar tunes as anything, and, like De La Soul, on the melodic end of the hip hop spectrum. But, now hoping for some 1001 variety

Dec 07 2025

Some welcome grunge and a fantastic album to boot

Sunshine Hit Me by The Bees
Dec 08 2025

The Bees is a new band for me. All a bit vanilla

Document by R.E.M.
Dec 10 2025

Probably REM at their best

...And Justice For All by Metallica
Dec 11 2025

Played in the car while driving north yesterday. I enjoyed it, but Maggie not so sure!

Live! by Fela Kuti
Dec 12 2025

Should be dancing in a field listening to this, really enjoyed it.

Beauty And The Beat by The Go-Go's
Dec 13 2025

An album salvaged by one of the best pop songs ever written

Hounds Of Love by Kate Bush
Dec 16 2025

I'm not sure I've listened to this entire album before. Thoroughly enjoyed it, what a magical voice she has

Blood On The Tracks by Bob Dylan
Dec 19 2025

My knowledge of Bob Dylan is, at best, patchy. I don't think I've listened to this album in its entirety until now, and what a great album it is. I like the rootsy folk sound and melodies. I read a couple of reviews which provided some context for the heartfelt, angry lyrics.

Kind Of Blue by Miles Davis
Dec 20 2025

A test of an album in the 1001 listening format for me is whether I'll make room to listen again. Kind of Blue falls into this category

Sister by Sonic Youth
Dec 21 2025

NOISE

Iron Maiden by Iron Maiden
Dec 23 2025

Good to hear Running Free again

Licensed To Ill by Beastie Boys
Dec 27 2025

Fighting for the right to party

A Date With The Everly Brothers by The Everly Brothers
Dec 29 2025

I enjoyed listening to the Everly Brothers and hadn't realised that they first recorded Love Hurts. But as Maggie commented, its a bit samey.

Tea for the Tillerman by Cat Stevens
Dec 30 2025

Didn't manage to listen to the whole album, but what I did hear, calm melodies and interesting lyrics

Dec 31 2025

I didn't get all the way through this album. What I did hear was chaotic, and a bit proggy in places

Cafe Bleu by The Style Council
Jan 02 2026

The transition from The Jam at the time was tricky and some people reacted against Paul Weller and The Style Council. I wasn't one of them. Great album

Kings Of The Wild Frontier by Adam & The Ants
Jan 04 2026

Driven along by the Burundi beat, great to hear again. Oh to be a first year student

With The Beatles by Beatles
Jan 06 2026

A great collection of their songs and covers. I didn't know until now that it was released the day JFK was assassinated

Moondance by Van Morrison
Jan 07 2026

Van the Man, master of Celtic Soul. Excellent album.

Illinois by Sufjan Stevens
Jan 08 2026

Quirky and listenable, although perhaps a relief that he didn't complete an album for all 50 States.

Truth by Jeff Beck
Jan 09 2026

To quote Andy, leaves me a bit cold, but salvaged by Mr Stewart

In Rainbows by Radiohead
Jan 10 2026

One of Radiohead's best albums, although I cannot remember what I paid at the time.

Grace by Jeff Buckley
Jan 11 2026

A sad yet uplifting album with some beautiful songs, orignals and covers. It is a stunning debut made all the more poignant because the second never came.

Solid Air by John Martyn
Jan 12 2026

Thoroughly enjoyed Solid Air, perfect Sunday morning listening

Vanishing Point by Primal Scream
Jan 16 2026

Excellent album which demonstrates the versatility of PS

Van Halen by Van Halen
Jan 17 2026

So short, I listened twice and completed my 48 year reappraisal. Great cover of You Really Got Me, and Runnin' With The Devil leads you in nicely. Apologies to Jess M from VIth Form for me not being more receptive at the time. It's not that far from punk rock after all.

Next by The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
Jan 18 2026

A reference point for many on their music journey, but not one of mine. That said, I enjoyed the trip back to the early 70s.

Electric Prunes by The Electric Prunes
Jan 21 2026

First time listening to this album, and the last

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Jan 22 2026

Tom Petty was deemed an alternative, fresh sound in the mid 70s. These things are all relative

Porcupine by Echo And The Bunnymen
Jan 23 2026

It remains a mystery to me that at the time, U2 became one of the biggest bands in the World and Echo and the Bunnymen didn't. Better songs, better musicians... Porcupine and War were released in the same month in 1983. Compare and contrast.

Different Class by Pulp
Jan 24 2026

Includes a couple of great Pulp songs but not a different class

The Modern Lovers by The Modern Lovers
Jan 25 2026

This album placed me in the inter-tidal music zone, ebbing and flowing between early 70s soft rock and mid/late 70s punk, thus between 2 and 4 stars. I finished on the latter.

Play by Moby
Jan 26 2026

Taking electronica into the mainstream

Court And Spark by Joni Mitchell
Jan 27 2026

I enjoyed an upbeat Joni Mitchell

Queen Of Denmark by John Grant
Jan 28 2026

I like John Grant in relatively small doses. The songs on Queen of Denmark are cathartic and I enjoyed listening

Parachutes by Coldplay
Jan 30 2026

Harmless, innocuous, safe, forgettable but saved a bit by Yellow, the tune which launched them into the musical stratosphere

Blue by Joni Mitchell
Jan 31 2026

I rated Court and Spark as 4 star, so this has to be 5.

Synchronicity by The Police
Feb 02 2026

The Police past their best, but still a good album

Feb 03 2026

My own personal Jesus. A moving and evocative collection of songs as he neared the end of his life. Close to perfection

Feb 06 2026

The album showcases the joy and sorrow of The Pogues. Poignant lyrics, beautiful songs, then party anthems. And Fairytale of New York takes this into 5 star territory for me.

If You Can Believe Your Eyes & Ears by The Mamas & The Papas
Feb 07 2026

Dreamy melodies evoking sun, sea and surf boards. But like The Beach Boys, it becomes a bit repetitive

Rocks by Aerosmith
Feb 08 2026

I got to the end and enjoyed this album more than expected, up to a point. I can see the Led Zep comparison and the lineage to Nirvana. In short though, too screamy and repetitive

Definitely Maybe by Oasis
Feb 10 2026

It's the picture of Rodney Marsh in the fireplace which firmly plants this in the 5 star category. A great debut album which I associate with the onset of parenthood. It sounds as good today.

I Should Coco by Supergrass
Feb 11 2026

I should say so! Britpop at its finest and Alright is one of the iconic tunes of the genre.

Heartattack And Vine by Tom Waits
Feb 12 2026

I broke my own rule and read some reviews before voting. The quote from Rolling Stone that "Tom Waits finds more beauty in the gutter than most people would find in the Garden of Eden" (or words to that effect) captures it.

Faith by George Michael
Feb 13 2026

A great pop/crossover album. Took me back to the heady days of the late 80s. The eponymous Faith is probably my favourite track.

Rock 'N Soul by Solomon Burke
Feb 14 2026

Sweet soul sound

The Man Who by Travis
Feb 16 2026

Didn't enjoy it first time and no better now. Not even saved by the Ealing connections

Dookie by Green Day
Feb 17 2026

Not quite The Ramones

Skylarking by XTC
Feb 18 2026

An ambitious album which works in places. XTC was an unusual band, responsible for some great songs.

John Prine by John Prine
Feb 19 2026

New to me and it will take a few more listens

Caetano Veloso by Caetano Veloso
Feb 20 2026

I really wanted to enjoy this album, but on first listen, it didn't fire. I will listen again.

Paul Simon by Paul Simon
Feb 21 2026

I'm in the camp that likes Paul Simon's ventures into different musical genres. Not quite Graceland, but great songs and songwriting nevertheless.

Soul Mining by The The
Feb 22 2026

Soul Mining sits comfortably among the defining synth-pop albums of the early 1980s, think Dare, Vienna, Speak and Spell. The (reinvented) Human League, Ultravox and Depeche Mode became huge, The The didn't. The recognition of their influence has been retrospective. Uncertain Smile and This is the Day are pop classics.

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac
Feb 24 2026

This has always been a favourite of Maggie's, indeed she owns a vinyl copy. So, this is a joint vote. There's some great songs, timeless classics. Songbird alone merits 5 stars.

Meat Puppets II by Meat Puppets
Feb 25 2026

Not an album I recall listening to before, so probably needs another go (so much music, so little time). However it didn't really grab me and not salvaged by the Nirvana covers in the MTV session.

Mott by Mott The Hoople
Feb 26 2026

Mick Ralphs passing in 2025 didn't make MC's final list in January. His influence is apparent here. An excellent album.

Orbital 2 by Orbital
Feb 27 2026

Large it. Throwing some great shapes.

You Are The Quarry by Morrissey
Mar 01 2026

Mozza remains a sharp lyricist despite his unfortunate mutterings post-Smiths. This is a great collection of songs.

Pelican West by Haircut 100
Mar 02 2026

I'm awarding 3 stars for Nick Heyward et al. There's nothing too serious about this album, instead enjoyable jangly pop and lightweight jazz funk. Wear your favourite shirt and yellow jumper and have a fantastic day.

Mar 04 2026

Chvrches' albums never quite match their live performances IMO, although the synth-pop and loops make for enjoyable listening. Lauren Mayberry's lyrics often strike a sharp contrast to the upbeat sound.

Come Find Yourself by Fun Lovin' Criminals
Mar 05 2026

Accessible rap sticking it to.the man

Sticky Fingers by The Rolling Stones
Mar 07 2026

Not at their best but good nonetheless

Peter Gabriel by Peter Gabriel
Mar 08 2026

Another great album from that seminal year, 1977

So by Peter Gabriel
Mar 09 2026

Peter Gabriel at his best, enhanced by numerous collaborations. A wonderful album.

Zombie by Fela Kuti
Mar 10 2026

Joyous dancing in a field music

Smile by Brian Wilson
Mar 12 2026

Not a fan of Brian Wilson post Beach Boys. Sadly, a pale imitation

Giant Steps by The Boo Radleys
Mar 18 2026

Working from memory, groundbreaking and inventive at the time

Quiet Life by Japan
Mar 19 2026

Set aside the Roxy Music comparisons and enjoy this album in its own right. Great to hear again after such a long time.

Rubber Soul by Beatles
Mar 21 2026

Fab Four at their best

Punishing Kiss by Ute Lemper
Mar 23 2026

I didn't know this album, so tried to listen with an open mind. That closed quite quickly. Some potentially interesting collaborations even though I've never really got the Divine Comedy, but didn't work for me.

Cloud Nine by The Temptations
Mar 24 2026

Took me to cloud nine, a couple of stand-out classics

The Sounds Of India by Ravi Shankar
Mar 25 2026

Others cite him as a key influence, but not me

Lady Soul by Aretha Franklin
Mar 26 2026

Classy lady

Led Zeppelin by Led Zeppelin
Mar 27 2026

MC and 1001 have encouraged me to challenge various musical prejudices, Led Zeppelin being one. It must have been an explosive debut album at the time.

Juju by Siouxsie And The Banshees
Mar 28 2026

Juju is up there among the best punk / post-punk albums. John McGeoch's guitar shines through and is perhaps as characteristic of the band's sound as the voice of Siouxsie Sioux.

Fifth Dimension by The Byrds
Mar 29 2026

I struggled with this album and didn't complete listening. It jumps around, it lost me

Ray Of Light by Madonna
Mar 30 2026

A great collection of songs, far superior to the Like a Virgin era.

Disintegration by The Cure
Mar 31 2026

The album that did temporarily mark their disintegration. The high, or perhaps low, point of the Cure. A classic

Junkyard by The Birthday Party
Apr 01 2026

Chaotic, relentless, uncompromising- love it!

Hard Again by Muddy Waters
Apr 02 2026

I've never felt more like singing the blues when City win and United lose...go Muddy

Safe As Milk by Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
Apr 03 2026

Listened while in the car, so I was not givingthe music my full attention. What I heard was variable, a strong start which petered out. John Peel was a huge fan while at his most influential. But not really for me.

Songs In The Key Of Life by Stevie Wonder
Apr 04 2026

Some great songs on this album but a fair bit of filler too. It's a long album as a consequence and I found myself drifting into other thoughts.

Viva Hate by Morrissey
Apr 05 2026

Obviously there's a Mozza fan lurking in the 1001 editorial team. Four albums, really? This lacks the bite of You Are The Quarry and mostly feels like a pale imitation of The Smiths. That said, there are a couple of stand-out tracks, Everyday is Like Sunday and Suedehead

Dear Science by TV On The Radio
Apr 06 2026

I feel I should have enjoyed this more than I did, perhaps another listen is required. While guitar-driven, I enjoyed the funky, afrobeat components, but it all felt a bit jumbled. File under listen again.

Apr 08 2026

The last knockings of Brit Pop and it shows. This lacks the dynamism and excitement of what went before, and sounds a bit sad and rambling. Perhaps that was what was intended

Led Zeppelin III by Led Zeppelin
Apr 09 2026

My Led Zeppelin discovery continues apace. I like the contrast between the rocky first half of this album, which reinforces my preconceptions, and the folky, acoustic second half.

GREY Area by Little Simz
Apr 10 2026

I a big fan of Little Simz, so four stars automatically. She played a wonderful show at EOTR in 2021 coinciding with Sometimes I Might Be Extrovert, which is a five star album. Grey Area displays her talents as a rapper with acute social observation.

Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen
Apr 11 2026

Haunting and stark, stripping away the arena-rock sound to reveal raw, folk-driven storytelling. Solemn vocals and grim, honest stories of American desperation, so still relevant over four decades later, and a timely antidote to five pints of Landlord.

High Violet by The National
Apr 12 2026

I owe this album for two things. First, my introduction to The National. I was slow onto the band, my discovery coming with High Violet. Second, they headlined Latitude in 2011, the year I returned to music festivals. This is a beautiful collection of songs, driven by the drums and bass of the Devendorf brothers, the guitars of the Dessner brothers, and Matt Berninger's baritone. And is there a better pop song than Bloodbuzz Ohio? Five stars for an album which is arguably not even their best.

Axis: Bold As Love by Jimi Hendrix
Apr 13 2026

A real mix up of sounds and rhythms and great songwriting. I like the range on show.

Apr 14 2026

An album almost as old as me and one not especially familiar, despite various familiar songs. Neither had I appreciated the significance and impact of the fusion of soul and country at the time. I thoroughly enjoyed listening while varnishing the pergola in the April sunshine

Melodrama by Lorde
Apr 16 2026

I think Lorde stands above many of her singer-songwriter contemporaries. This is a great collection of pop songs, driven by heartfelt lyrics.

16 Lovers Lane by The Go-Betweens
Apr 17 2026

Inoffensive bubbly pop songs. From the Trans-Tasman rivalry perspective, not up there with the New Zealand contemporaries.

Electric Warrior by T. Rex
Apr 18 2026

A glam rock masterpiece spanning anthemic rockers like Get It On to melancholic tunes like Cosmic Dancer. Boogie meets folk meets sleaze, an electrifying sound which inspired a generation.

Hms Fable by Shack
Apr 19 2026

This gets lost in the sea (geddit?) of late 90s jangly, indie pop and as a consequence, sounds like many other bands of the time. Captain's Table is great song but not enough to lift the album above 2 stars.

The Rolling Stones by The Rolling Stones
Apr 20 2026

Probably the album that first cemented American R&B in British blues rock. Essentially a covers collection show-casing the guitar interplay of Keith Richards and Brian Jones. A portent of what was to come, music shaking the British establishment.

Bad by Michael Jackson
Apr 21 2026

I didn't really get Michael Jackson at the time and that hasn't changed

The Libertines by The Libertines
Apr 22 2026

A wonderfully chaotic collection of songs from a band falling apart at the seams. It balances jagged guitars with tender, poetic lyricis, the influence of Mick Jones being very apparent. Can't Stand Me Now is a painful duet which documents the fallout of Pete Doherty and Carl Barât, and a song I managed to squeeze into the Fielding Primary School PTA Quiz during my 11-year stint as co-quizmaster.

Dr. Octagonecologyst by Dr. Octagon
Apr 23 2026

I was not familiar with this artist nor album which reflects my paucity of knowledge of hip hop. This quickly lost me. The intricate lyrics and sci-fi atmosphere left me cold.

Cross by Justice
Apr 26 2026

I was expecting something more akin to Air, only to encounter multiple samples. All a bit incoherent but OK once I got into the groove.

Moss Side Story by Barry Adamson
Apr 27 2026

This took some time, but eventually it clicked for me. It's all a bit doom and gloom, although some light does creep in. It started with one star and ended with three.

Surf's Up by The Beach Boys
Apr 28 2026

Some good songs and some not so good. The environmental theme is well-intentioned but clunky. It feels like the band was running out of steam.

Low by David Bowie
Apr 29 2026

Is Low a high point, probably. Not my favourite album of his, but still a work of genius.

The Holy Bible by Manic Street Preachers
Apr 30 2026

A raw, visceral album from an angry band. The angst of Richey James is evident and the songs sound like them prophesying his subsequent disappearence.

May 01 2026

An enjoyable blend of gospel, post-punk with touches of jazz, electronica and some slick guitar. All this, with a capella thrown in.

Wonderful Rainbow by Lightning Bolt
May 03 2026

Even noise rock needs some simple things like structure and a touch of melody, both absent here. I checked to see if they have ever played at 2000 Trees, but seems not. They would fit well on the Cave Stage on a wet Friday afternoon. Enough said.

Blonde On Blonde by Bob Dylan
May 05 2026

Enjoyable stuff and classic Bob Dylan, but a bit too long

At San Quentin by Johnny Cash
May 06 2026

Music with a heartfelt message and his famous middle finger. Protest music at its best

Face to Face by The Kinks
May 07 2026

Arcadia meets property purchase meets swinging 60s, it wears a bit thin for me.

At Fillmore East by The Allman Brothers Band
May 08 2026

Sums up my relationship with jazz

Garbage by Garbage
May 09 2026

A great album mixing genres and driven by Shirley Manson's slightly scary lyrics and style. It flowed against the mid-90s indie tide and great to listen again.

Marquee Moon by Television
May 10 2026

This is a masterpiece. Not many artists can carry an eleven-minute title track as effectively as Television. Another album from that seminal year.

The Bends by Radiohead
May 11 2026

Another masterpiece. No sophomore slump with this album.

Superfly by Curtis Mayfield
May 12 2026

I was not familiar with the album nor the film. I'll now watch the latter. Soulful and funky, a great collection of songs which obviously tell a story.

Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
May 14 2026

Two albums for the price of one, displaying the incredible range of Nick Cave and Warren Ellis. What a joy.

May 16 2026

Another Curtis Mayfield album that is new to me. The combination of funky guitars, his falsetto voice and social commentary is a joy to behold. Great album artwork too.

Rage Against The Machine by Rage Against The Machine
May 19 2026

Almost 25 years on and America is still corrupt.Heavy Metal + Hip Hop = Rage

Blackstar by David Bowie
May 21 2026

As with much of David Bowie's, this is a mixed bag. There is no stand-out track and some of it meanders. In contrast, there's the feeling of a genius at work.

Vivid by Living Colour
May 22 2026

Derivative and dull

After The Gold Rush by Neil Young
May 23 2026

The title track alone warrants 5 stars. A wonderfully melancholic and angry album, mixing acoustic and electric. Possibly Neil Young at his best

Here's Little Richard by Little Richard
May 25 2026

A-wop-bop-a-loo-mop-a-lop-bam-boom! The foundation of rock and roll.

Let It Bleed by The Rolling Stones
May 26 2026

Some standout tracks on a bluesy-soaked album. I gave it two bank holiday listens. Why hasn't You Can't Always Get What You Want become a football anthem in the vein of Hey Jude?

Fly Or Die by N.E.R.D
May 27 2026

Feels like 101 other things I've listened to over the years and I'm left asking what's the point of this album? Dull proggy-like rock which does not hold my attention.

Tracy Chapman by Tracy Chapman
May 28 2026

An album to stir memories of the late 1980s. It sounds as powerful today. The album was a stunning debut and Fast Car is a fabulous song. I haven't tracked Tracy Chapman since, so it was a joy to return to her eponymous work.

Unhalfbricking by Fairport Convention
May 29 2026

After two listens, I'm beginning to get it. Fairport's Cropredy Convention here we come.

Red Headed Stranger by Willie Nelson
May 30 2026

A concept country album sounds ominous but I was pleasantly surprised. Thr stripped-back feel chimes with my perception of country music.

Jun 01 2026

Heartbreak, glamour, romance, one of the soundtracks of the 80s produced by the man who invented the 80s.

Out Of The Blue by Electric Light Orchestra
Jun 02 2026

"Teenage nostalgia, although objectively I would never play this album. As background music, it reminds me of my formative years, but it shouldn't see the light of day today"

Highway to Hell by AC/DC
Jun 03 2026

Excellent title track, great preparation for a day in the hills.

Imperial Bedroom by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Jun 05 2026

While a very listenable album, it doesn't have the raw emotion and energy of his earlier albums.

Abbey Road by Beatles
Jun 06 2026

"Shows the versatility and breadth of The Beatles' music. At this late stage of their career, it's an exemplary demonstration of their immense talent and innovation. Includes such memorable tracks as Something (the only Beatles song sung by Frank Sinatra) and Here Comes The Sun. It also includes an astonishing medley of half finished tracks which blend together brilliantly, finishing with the line the love you take is equal to the love you make, the epitome of the 60s vibe"

Young Americans by David Bowie
Jun 07 2026

So, so, although Fame and Young Americans comfortably take this into 3 star territory

Teenager Of The Year by Frank Black
Jun 08 2026

Never have been a great fan of The Pixies, and this hasn't altered my view.

Seventeen Seconds by The Cure
Jun 09 2026

Gloomy, miserable, the end of post-punk Cure. This much Paul and I agreed upon, however, he scored 2 stars, me 4. So we compromised on 3.

The Pleasure Principle by Gary Numan
Jun 10 2026

Give me Numan over Freud. I enjoyed listening to this after such a long.time. It was a ground-breaking album in the dying embers of punk, synths replacing guitars. It will never catch on. Lots of doom and introspection. Cars and Metal are the stand out tracks.

A Love Supreme by John Coltrane
Jun 15 2026

This capped a day of jazz having been at Meltdown in the afternoon for Kamasi Washington's tribute to Miles Davies, John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins.

Bossanova by Pixies
Jun 17 2026

Not a great fan of the Pixies. All a bit samey.

21 by Adele
Jun 20 2026

I enjoyed this album much more than I anticipated (the joy of 1001). Her version of Longsong reveals similarities with Robert Smith, evident in her song writing - beauty in pain and sadness. An unexpected 4 stars.

Wild Wood by Paul Weller
Jun 21 2026

The third incarnation of Mr Weller and a return to some of the things which characterised the sound of the Jam.

Jun 22 2026

All things 1980s - synth pop, high production video, compelling cover artwork, catchy tunes. The MTV generation in a nutshell. This album gave us some iconic pop songs, but overall it's bland and derivative.

Electric Ladyland by Jimi Hendrix
Jun 24 2026

One of the albums that is referenced by so many as an influence. It's long and self-indulgent at times. I listened while driving and found my mind wandering to other thoughts. That said, I recognise the impact of some of the songs

Movies by Holger Czukay
Jun 25 2026

I enjoyed this album. While wary of drawing parallels with other bands, it reminded me of the Durutti Column (will they appear in 1001?). It fuses various influences to create hypnotic electronic dance rhythms.

Fear and Whiskey by Mekons
Jun 26 2026

My knowledge of Mekons was restricted to their early punk ramblings, characterised by basic musicianship and angry lyrics. Therefore this came as a suprise, venturing into pastures new. It didn't grab me, but two stars for the pivot.

Heroes by David Bowie
Jun 27 2026

Another 3 star Bowie album. The title track is one of the best pop songs ever written, but the remainder is a mixed bag.

S.F. Sorrow by The Pretty Things
Jun 28 2026

Bloated and rambling, didn't complete the life journey of SF Sorrow.

Gorillaz by Gorillaz
Jun 30 2026

Hip-hopping around the genres. Excellent album by a virtual band

Jul 02 2026

This took me all over the place as the artist seems to take on the world. At its heart though is a very listenable album.

The Queen Is Dead by The Smiths
Jul 04 2026

As relevant today as in 1986, probably The Smiths at their peak. The trademark interplay of Johnny Marr's layered guitar playing and Morrisey's witty, self-deprecating lyrics. And the Queen is dead.

Exile In Guyville by Liz Phair
Jul 05 2026

New artist to me. The songs didn't hold my attention, nor the angsty lyrics.

Jul 06 2026

Made for a very chilled Sunday morning listen and met with approval at home.

Appetite For Destruction by Guns N' Roses
Jul 07 2026

Sweet Child O'Mine and Welcome to the Jungle are the popular, stand-out tracks, but a great album all round. Slash's guitar and the voice of Axel Rose create this instantly recognisable sound. Is Sweet Child O'Mine the most covered song of all time?

Jul 08 2026

A fish in the sea of early naughties indie, but set apart by the melancholic shoegaze. Listening again, I feel I should have enjoyed this more than I did.

The Infotainment Scan by The Fall
Jul 09 2026

The Fall at their gloriously chaotic best. Sharp lyrics, guttural delivery, driven along with fury. Only another 30 albums to imbibe.

1984 by Van Halen
Jul 10 2026

Didn't reach the highs of 1978 Van Halen. Despite Jump, which is a catchy song, too much screeching and questionable lyrics leave this in one star territory.

Reggatta De Blanc by The Police
Jul 11 2026

The Police's interpretation of white reggae never achieved the critical accalim of The Clash. Perhaps that's because the latter was better at it, or that Joe Strummer was deemed more cool than Sting. I liked both interpretations. This is a great collection of pop songs and probably The Police at their peak.

Lam Toro by Baaba Maal
Jul 12 2026

Music for the season, really enjoyed this

The La's by The La's
Jul 13 2026

There She Goes is a catchy pop song, instantly familiar and the calling card of The La's. I was much less familiar with the rest of the album. It's an enjoyable collection of tunes.

A Girl Called Dusty by Dusty Springfield
Jul 14 2026

Boy, she can sing. This is a wonderful collection of soul ballards from one of Ealing's finest. There are a couple of duff tracks, but more than offset by the remainder. Is her version of Anyone Who Has a Heart better than Dionne Warwick? Discuss

Sound of Silver by LCD Soundsystem
Jul 16 2026

Five stars even before I listened again. Punk-Funk-Techno-Dance Rock supporting lyrics about ageing.

25 by Adele
Jul 18 2026

This didn't surprise or engage me in the way 21 did. It feels like rolling out more of the same, perhaps the songs that didn't make the first cut.

Jul 19 2026

I did not know Laura Nyro. I enjoyed her soulful sound and the blend of jazz, folk and soul. Enjoyable enough but not an album I'll rush back to.

Horses by Patti Smith
Jul 20 2026

It's been a long time since I listened to Horses. Portrayed as the first punk rock album, it is raw and stripped back, with poetic, angry and compelling narratives.

Jul 21 2026

The influence of this album cannot be underestimated but the tracks which it comprises are repetitive and dull. However 1001 has prompted me to search out the film of the album which I don't recall seeing when released.

Green Onions by Booker T. & The MG's
Jul 22 2026

An enjoyable collection of instrumentals, mostly covers, with the standout Green Onions. The characteristic sound of the Hammond organ shines through

Bongo Rock by Incredible Bongo Band
Jul 23 2026

A second day of instrumentals peppered with covers, although perhaps more accurately referred to as sampling. This became repetitive quite quickly

I See A Darkness by Bonnie "Prince" Billy
Jul 27 2026

I couldn't download the album, but from what I know of BPB I anticipate sad, sad, sad, and beautiful. So a shot in the dark 3 stars

Arise by Sepultura
Jul 29 2026

Sepultura would sit comfortably at 2000 Trees and I have it on good authority that the promoters have tried to book them, without success. Time has run out as it seems the band is about to call it a day. No loss as far as I'm concerned.

Bad Company by Bad Company
Jul 30 2026

Competent and harmless enough, but reminds why and how in the mid-70s the arrival of punk changed music for me.

Teen Dream by Beach House
Jul 31 2026

Pleasant enough dream pop with echoes of the Cocteau Twins and Mazzy Star, but not matching the highs of either.

Back To Black by Amy Winehouse
Aug 01 2026

A modern soul classic dripping with sadness and heartbreak. Wonderful song writing delivered with searing honesty.

Chore of Enchantment by Giant Sand
Aug 02 2026

It's not a promising sign when an album starts with an Overture, but I got past it. I enjoyed the country-ish, Lou Reed-ish sound.

Rio by Duran Duran
Aug 03 2026

Pop songs relecting the heady days of the early 80s. These songs moved new romanticism from the periphery to the mainstream, losing some edge along the way. An enjoyable assembly of catchy tunes and videos and it was a pleasure to listen again.

Franz Ferdinand by Franz Ferdinand
Aug 04 2026

Post punk twangy guitars find a tune. This is a great collection of pop songs presented with style and cool. I enjoyed the return to FF's debut album.

Boy In Da Corner by Dizzee Rascal
Aug 05 2026

I consulted my son about this album. He remains a big fan of Dizzee Rascal and suggested a high rating. I really wanted to enjoy Boy In Da Corner but found my attention waned quite quickly. I've landed on three stars in recognition of DR's contribution to UK grime even though it's not my thing.

The ArchAndroid by Janelle Monáe
Aug 06 2026

While this album contains some catchy tunes and interesting mixes of genres, overall it is rambling and chaotic. I lost interest towards the end.

Who's Next by The Who
Aug 07 2026

When is a rock opera not a rock opera? When it's Who's Next. Listening from start to finish leaves the feeling of a missing story linking the individual components, which is no surprise given the album's origins and the proximity to Tommy. The excellent Baba O'Reilly and Won't Get Fooled Again create a Who sandwich whose filling sometimes lacks a bit of flavour.

The Wildest! by Louis Prima
Aug 08 2026

"Raunchy mix of demented gibberish, blaring sax, and explosive swing, which rocked as hard as anything released at the time." Took the words out of my mouth.

White Light by Gene Clark
Aug 09 2026

When an album pops up on 1001 which has not crossed my radar, I'm reminded of how much music has passed me by. I guess that's the point of the exercise. White Light is in this category. I was captivated by this album, mixing folk and country, held together by a singer-songwriter performing with genuine feeling.

Revolver by Beatles
Aug 10 2026

An album which has echoed down the generations and whose influence is apparent across a wide musical canvas. And a great collection of songs. It's up there with Rubber Soul.

Hot Rats by Frank Zappa
Aug 11 2026

Lots to absorb with this blending of rock and jazz delivered by musicians at the top of their game. It meanders at times, as did I.

Femi Kuti by Femi Kuti
Aug 12 2026

High energy beats, jazz and funk in manageable chunks, harnessing rage in the rich tradition of protest songs.

Cut by The Slits
Aug 13 2026

The Slits never claimed great musicianship but in a way that was the idea. A groundbreaking band whose lineage is evident today. The dub reggae influence infuses the album, epitomised by Typical Girls, the standout track.

Aug 14 2026

Stark, raw, angry and not a particularly pleasurable listen. The album's strength lies in its simplicity, from lyrics through to production, although it's a poor relation to Imagine.

Endtroducing..... by DJ Shadow
Aug 15 2026

This album probably requires more time than I have given it. Sampling makes the experience muddled and stilted, masking some interesting fragments of jazz, funk and rock.

Goo by Sonic Youth
Aug 16 2026

There must be a Sonic Youth fan lurking in 1001 as we still have others to come, including Daydream Nation. Goo launched SY into mainstream consciousness, including mine. Noise and rage, catchy guitar twanging, visceral lyrics, the SY trademarks, and, of course, the coolest woman in rock and roll. Looking again at the cover artwork and dialogue, it is in bad taste IMO, but this has not affected by star rating.

Rings Around The World by Super Furry Animals
Aug 17 2026

Neo-prog pop melodies, with some country and death metal thrown in. Jumping around genres makes for an interesting album, but my attention wandered. I'll aim to see them at the upcoming EOTR Festival, but my attention may wander.

Boston by Boston
Aug 18 2026

Up to now, Boston was not much more than a feeling to me. I enjoyed this piece of Americana complete with some boogie woogie. Great instrumental combinations, although not always supported by great lyrics. I didn't have room for this in 1976, so it's good to make some space 50 years later.

Wordsmith

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Album origins are grouped into three buckets: US, UK, and everything else. “Other” means the artists you rate highest are from outside the US and UK.