1001 Albums Summary

This is what listening to "classic" albums is about for me. In listening to this album, I developed an appreciation for rock music. I understand from other criticism that WPSIAM isn't the most complex or creative music but that's what makes it easier for a rock newbie to digest. The core elements are all here and executed well - catchy guitar riffs and bass lines, excellent drums that keep you on your toes and of course packages the relatable lyrics through Alex Turner's unique vocals. My first listen through my thoughts were "yep that's the Arctic Monkeys". It was my second listen through with more attention to the lyrics that it resonated with me. I was born in Northern England but moved to Australia when I was young and this album provided a glimpse into what could have been my life - drinking, partying, picking up women (sometimes unsuccessfully) and unsavoury characters. It sounds bleak, and maybe it is, but it pulls at a part of me that yearns to head down the local with the lads and just be an idiot. I like this album but I don't think it is exceptional: 7.5/10

Amazing piece of electronic music. The sampling in this album is top tier. I genuinely don't know how people have the ability to stretch, warp, manipulate specific samples to fit so cohesively with each other. Obviously this album has the bangers everyone knows but the other tracks definitely deserve a proper listen too. Can see how this album could have laid the foundations for future releases in the electronic/punk/rock crossover such as pendulum, skrillex or chase & status. Iconic.

Every song on this album is great. The vocals, the sounds, the lyrics are all really good. Melodrama successfully captures the impressive range of teenage feelings, whilst not always relatable for me but I can see how they could be for others - from the ecstasy of parties and love and friends to the subsequent lows - the hangovers, the heart break the loneliness. Lorde's voice is unique, raw and beautiful and the processing is used to good effect. The production is very nice too - lots of lush synths, pianos, strings and pops, no shortage of hard hitting drums and a sprinkle of off kilter sounds. A 4 feels harsh because I don't think this album does anything wrong. I can see why people would give this a 5, especially if the lyrics resonated even more for them. For me, I think taking more risks in places would have elevated it to a 5. 8.3/10

Hadn't really listened to this album before. Kanyes debut album rewards those who dive in and listen for the impressive use of samples. The lyrics are cheeky and catchy and while never seeming to go too deep, there are some great one liners. Too many skits to make this an album I'd want to listen to back to front to often. Kanye's production goes hard and he often finds a way to take it to another level. Not my favourite genre and I'm late to this 20 year old record which hampers my personal rating: 7.8/10.

Not my genre, not my time. When reviewing these albums, I try to acknowledge the context with which it was released. I have found it becomes harder to appreciate the cultural significance of albums the older they are and you rely more on how the music makes you feel. I don't know much about blues or rock music yet to tell you how good I think this album is. La Grange is the only song I have heard and I must say it does get me charged hearing it. I think if I gave the album more of a listen, it would grow on me more. It's an overall tight production that I don't find hard to listen to but not one I am currently reaching to put on again. 6.3/10