1001 Albums Summary

Album #1 ACDC: Highway to Hell Good album to work out or do something high energy to, but once the adrenaline dump kicks in, there isn't much substance to it. Still, a fun listen and the title track is a classic. Best Tracks: Highway to Hell, Touch Too Much, Walk All Over You Worst Track: Beat Around the Bush Score out of 10: 5.5

Album # 2 Echo and the Bunnymen: Ocean Rain Before I started listening to the 1001 album list, I had listened to around 400 albums, most of which came in the last year and a half, as before that, I would tend to only listen to albums of bands that I truly became infatuated with through individual songs. It was rare for me to become obsessed with a band to the point that I would desire to listen to all their songs in album form; it was a feat that only seven bands were able to achieve in the first few years of my actively listening to music. At the time, I was only really familiar with the most famous bands of all time, the Beatles, ACDC, Led Zeppelin, etc, so any band, even a notch lower in popularity, felt like finding a hidden gem. Now that I am more knowledgeable about music, I expected to see at least 5, and likely 6, of those 7 formative bands on this list. I now write this having heard around 401 albums since this is only the second album I have had generated, and to my great surprise, it is an album from that very seventh formative band, whose inclusion I would not have anticipated on this list, Echo and the Bunnymen. It is not that I feel they are unworthy of this list, as they are no doubt one of the most important and influential post-punk bands of all time. But I suppose their lack of cultural impact within my generation has led me to become naive about just how high they truly do rank amongst the musical hierarchy. I was first introduced to the band, like many, through their iconic single "The Killing Moon," which is, for my money, one of the most entrancing and magical songs of all time. Hearing it for the first time compares to my experiences with songs like "Made of Stone" by the Stone Roses, and "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" by the Smiths. A song that once you've heard it, you just know that it was made for you. Listening to Ocean Rain in its entirety became the only natural conclusion after hearing a song with such a timeless quality to it, to the point that it remained in my top 5 most listened songs in each year since I've heard it. And the album absolutely does not let down its shining star, like so often with one-hit-wonder albums (which Echo and the Bunnymen most certainly aren't). Beautiful poetry layered with enchanting instrumentals that pull you into this dark yet exciting world. Never a dull moment, and not a single bad track, and if you think otherwise, you must be a c-c-c-cucumber. Though I have heard almost every Bunnymen album at this point, Ocean Rain remains my most cherished, and holds a definite spot in my top ten albums of all time, the album which enhanced my love for 80's music and introduced me to the idea of post-punk. A very warranted inclusion in the list, and I have a feeling it will be a while until something compares to my second album. Best Tracks: Killing Moon, Nocturnal Me, Angels and Devils Worst Track: None Score out of 10: 10

Album #3 Sister Sledge: We Are Family An album, which, on initial instinct, I assumed would not be for me. Disco music has essentially been reduced to a joke since one night in the late 70s when everyone went from dancing to it in the club to pretending not to have ever enjoyed it overnight, practically nullifying its impact on every generation to come. Yet despite that, I was already very familiar with the infamous title track “We Are Family”, a song which I feel as though I have known my entire life, despite never once seeking it out or desiring to learn more. As a kid, this song was definitely not one that I considered to be cool, an opinion which I also held towards the only other disco song which has remained culturally relevant, “Stayin' Alive” by the Bee Gees; and as such, disco as a whole was a genre that I completely wrote off. Yet I have always been fond of the loosely tied and similarly maligned era of music which subsequently followed the Disco era, which is 80s New Wave and Synthpop. Even the cheesiest songs in the genre provide me with some sort of sonic pleasure. So it really shouldn’t have surprised me as much as it did that I actually quite enjoyed this effort from Sister Sledge. The title track remains a tad corny, yet still harbours feelings of optimism and unity, which makes it a rather comforting antique in today's world, where optimistic music seems almost extinct. Though my favourite song has to be “Lost in the Music”, which is just a simply beautiful song and represents disco at its highest that I’ve experienced so far. Definitely not an album I would have ever checked out willingly, but one that was a lot of fun and I’m glad to have heard. Best Songs: Lost in the Music, He’s the Greatest Dancer, We Are Family Worst Song: You’re a Friend to Me Score out of 10: 7

Album #4 The Who: Who's Next Simply one of the finest Rock albums ever made. The album could have been called “The Best of The Who”, and no one would have batted an eye. Classic Rock was the first genre that really gripped me when I started listening to music, although at the time, I would only listen to playlists comprised of greatest hits rather than albums. The desire to listen to an entire album only arose when I noticed the same cover appearing next to multiple songs, which, when you are specifically seeking out the most popular and widely acclaimed songs, can be rare. Few albums can boast to having even one song which will go down as a classic throughout generations, a song which will still be played during the climax of a movie or sung at a karaoke bar in 2083, yet Who’s Next might just have three of them. “Baba O’Riley”, “Behind Blue Eyes”, and “Won’t Get Fooled Again” are three of the most recognizable and powerful rock songs ever recorded, and upon discovering all three and noticing that very same picture of four British dudes next to a stone slab next to each of them, I knew I must listen to the entire album. And the supporting cast of songs doesn’t disappoint. It’s hard to say there is any filler on this album; every song brings something to the table and never outstays its welcome. That being said, the three songs mentioned prior, whose standard shouldn’t be expected, ultimately do shine so brightly that the other appear dim in comparison. When you have three songs of that calibre, the others can appear ordinary in comparison. I will admit I don’t get that same spike of dopamine when “My Wife” kicks in that I do when the opening piano to “Baba O’Riley” plays. Which may be unfair criticism, but to me, that results in the album being a touch uneven and prevents the 5-star rating. Best Songs: Baba O’Riley, Won’t Get Fooled Again, Behind Blue Eyes Worst Song: My Wife Score out of 10: 9.5

Album #5 Funkadelic: One Nation Under a Groove Music to clean your shit by. I definitely wouldn’t consider myself to be a very funky guy; in fact, I do believe that there is a considerable lack of funk within me most days. Combined with the fact that I am also extraordinarily sober and have potentially the whitest music taste of all time, this album did not seem like one that was likely to resonate with me. However, having never heard a funk album before, I suppose I didn’t really know what to expect. One thing that became immediately apparent to me is that the concept of ‘funk’ is fairly fluid, as most of the lyrics and songs revolved around this idea of funk operating in many different scenarios. Playing funk music, being funky, cleaning your shit to the funk, etc. It reminds me of that Eric Clapton quote about how it is more artistically impressive to continuously explore the same theme over and over again, rather than delve into multiple themes. Though in his case, he was talking about having his body operated like a gundam and in the case of George Clinton and Funkadelic, that theme, which is explored ad nauseam, is the Funk. The lyrics appear nonsensical and repetitive, often talking purely about the funk and its effects in different scenarios, which seems like they are meant to be intentionally open to interpretation, so whoever is tripping whilst listening to the album can feel an extra sense of relatability to fuel their paranoia. I believe that the ‘funk’ actually serves as a metaphor for a deeper and more impactful message. The two concepts that are continuously brought up are funk and shit. In the case of shit, it can be seen in many songs, particularly those involving the infamous ‘doo doo chasers’. My interpretation is that the funk represents all that is good, and the shit is all that is bad, which is why funk music is said to wash away the shit from your ass like an enema, or something along those lines. By giving into the funk and the groove, all the problems you and the nation have fade away for at least the duration of the album, and if everyone were to partake in the funk, the nation would prosper. I particularly enjoyed the spoken-word elements of the album as I found them amusing and thought-provoking at times, and the guitar work was also especially impressive. Overall, a very promising introduction to funk and a very fun album. Interested to hear more from Funkadelic. A very high 3 stars, nearing a 4. Best Tracks: One Nation Under a Groove, Who Says a Funk Band Can't Play Rock?! Promentalshitbackwashpsychosis Enema Squad (The Doo Doo Chasers) Worst Track: P.E Squad Rating out of 10: 7.5

Album #6 Roxy Music: For Your Pleasure Another favourite album of mine prior to the list. The story of Roxy Music goes that Bryan Ferry and Brian Eno met one fateful night while waiting for the train in a complete chance encounter, and then went on to form one of the most influential bands in British music's history. Though the albums that they recorded together all came out in the early 70’s, their sound and influence can mainly be heard within music that came out in the 80s. Their ahead-of-their-time sound went on to inspire many musicians of the next generation, most importantly to me, Morrissey of The Smiths. Brian Eno’s involvement really needs no defence; there isn’t a human walking the planet today who can’t appreciate at least one project which he has worked on; he is undoubtedly one of the most important figures in modern music. Eno had a great influence on some of my favourite albums before I even knew who he was, Remain in Light, The Joshua Tree, and Viva La Vida, to name a few albums which I cherished before learning of his existence. From there, I discovered that not only did he produce, but he was a key member of another band that I loved, Roxy Music. All that without even discussing his solo career, which is up there with every album that I’ve listed. So the main point of contention for why this album seems to have less than 3 stars on this site, despite being wildly influential and having a major involvement from the unhateable Brian Eno, would be the role of Bryan Ferry. It isn’t a surprise to me that people would dislike Ferry’s singing style, as it is very eccentric and not perfect in a traditional sense. Yet to me, there is no other vocalist who would have been able to separate Roxy Music from the rest of the pack as Ferry did. The whole gimmick behind Roxy Music is that they are the band that plays in the half-empty high-scale nightclub at 3 am, which wouldn’t work without Eno’s lush synthesizers accompanied by Ferry’s emotive crooning. Do The Strand might just be one of my favourite songs of all time, a song that is almost unrivalled in emotion that never fails to immediately immerse me in the album. I always find myself hoping it would go on longer when it comes to an end. In my view, there really isn’t a bad track on this album, with only maybe the Bogus Man slightly outstaying it’s welcome. Easily warrants a spot on this list, and I suspect it won’t be the last appearance of Brian Eno, or maybe even Roxy Music themselves. Best Tracks: Do The Strand, Beauty Queen, For Your Pleasure Worst Track: The Bogus Man Score out of 10: 9

Album #7 Keith Jarrett: The Koln Concert Nothing bad about this album, really, just not my thing. The context in which I heard this album is probably ideal for a first-time listen. I was coming back from my 10 pm Philosophy exam, on my birthday, in a snowy yet moderate weathered night. As I rode the subway, a man dressed in an all-white pristine suit with a ponytail and a massive scar across his face, looking straight out of a David Lynch movie, began to dance. Almost seeming as if he were too listening to the piano playing of Keith Jarrett, he would slide when the subway bounced, and spin when it stopped. I’ve seen a lot of characters on the subway, but this guy almost seemed mythical, too put-together to be crazy, and too eccentric to be normal. He almost seemed to gain energy when the piano picked up, and slow down when it stopped. However, this brief amusement would turn out to be the high point of the album for me, which could also be due to part 1 clearly being the superior part. Overall, I feel as though there was a lack of truly expressive moments. I’m not claiming to know how to play better than Jarrett, nor am I saying I even understand just how impressive this improvisation was; just that I tend to enjoy music with huge payoffs. Part one is, in my opinion, the closest we get to that, but parts 2 and three tend to get a bit repetitive. This is the first album of this kind I have heard, so I’m not able to critique it for what it is, but simply what I wish it were. That said, there wasn’t really an unenjoyable moment; it remained pleasant throughout, though I wasn’t a fan of his occasional moaning. If it kept the momentum of part one and maybe trimmed a little fat, I would prefer the performance more, yet it is no doubt an impressive album and one that I feel I could grow to appreciate as I diversify my tastes. But for now, aside from the brilliant part 1, I don’t know how much I’ll return to this one. Best Tracks: Part 1, Part 4, Part 2 Worst Track: Part 3 Score out of 10:6

Album #8 ABBA: Arrival I have always considered myself a fan of ABBA, due to the indisputable fact that they have some of the greatest and most fun singles and hits of all time. Despite this, I have never been too enticed to listen to an entire album, except for the iconic compilation album Abba Gold, which is one of the finest greatest hits albums ever assembled. Arrival, however, does not reach the same heights, but is still able to hold its own. Even Arrival could read as a collection of hits, which is a testament to ABBAs ability to make each song feel important and special. The album’s only weakness for me comes in some of the lyricism, particularly in When I Kissed The Teacher, which doesn’t exactly paint the lush imagery in my mind which normally occurs when listening to songs such as Gimme Gimme Gimme, Winner Takes It All, or Waterloo. One of the factors that attracts me to ABBA the most is how each of their hits paints a vivid picture through storytelling and emotion. Which is why another of my least favourite tracks on the album is Money Money Money, though it has nice piano playing, and lyrics which do attempt to say something, the chorus simply doesn’t immerse me; in general, I’m not a big fan of repetitive one-word choruses. However, there are two songs on this album which I would consider perfect, and some of the most ethereal and engaging pop songs I’ve ever heard. One being of course, Dancing Queen, ABBA’s most popular song and for a reason, doesn’t matter if you are a 16-year-old girl or a 45-year-old man, when this song is playing, you feel as though you are the centre of attention on the ballroom floor. But my favourite song has to be Fernando, the storytelling in this song is beautiful as it tells a tale of revolution, liberation, and love, and truly evokes the feelings of euphoria. ABBA is just one of those bands I could never hate, and even though I don’t love every song on the album, I also don’t dislike any of it. Best Tracks: Fernando, Dancing Queen, Knowing Me, Knowing You Worst Track: When I Kissed The Teacher Score out of 10: 8

Album #9 Rush: Moving Pictures As a Canadian, I have always felt that we have consistently punched above our weight in the music world. There was always at least one prominent Canadian artist or band at the peak of every genre, and in Canada, those artists would become especially heralded. The older generation had Neil Young, Leonard Cohen, and Joni Mitchell, who are three of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time. Then came the Bachman-Turner Overdrive and the Guess Who, who were commercially successful hard rock bands. The 90’s were dominated by women with Celine Dion, Shania Twain, Alanis Morissette, and eventually Avril Lavigne becoming some of the biggest pop stars in the world. And eventually the 2000s would birth some of the most celebrated and influential indie bands of all time, with Arcade Fire, Broken Social Scene, and Godspeed You Black Emperor. Even today, Canadians remain at the top of the charts with Drake, Justin Bieber, and the Weeknd being some of the highest-selling artists of all time. Yet when the question comes down to who was the greatest Canadian band of all time, there are only two answers. The first answer is the one most Canadians would give you: The Tragically Hip. The Hip were by far the biggest cultural music act in Canada, despite having little to no impact overseas. They were far from the most technically talented musicians, but they made music that spoke to the souls of Canadians. Then the answer which most non-Canadians would give you, Rush. Rush never seemed to be as celebrated by the Canadian mainstream; in fact, they were actually the biggest in the United States and Europe. They were almost the inverse of the hip, three incredibly talented top-of-the-line musicians, who made extremely complex and technical prog rock. Though this led to them being undervalued at the time, it is my opinion that this will lead to Rush becoming far more relevant in the long-term. Countless bands have cited Rush as an influence, whether it’s because of Geddy Lee’s bass, Neil Peart’s drums, or Alex Lifeson’s guitar. As far as three-piece bands go, Rush was pound-for-pound the most talented. Though this led Rush to become more of a music-nerd band due to their long and intricate music, there was one album which was able to propel them into the mainstream, Moving Pictures. This album almost reads as a greatest-hits album, containing some of their most popular songs, including: YYZ, Red Barchetta, Limelight, and of course, Tom Sawyer. There is absolutely no filler at all on this album, with each song containing sounds that sound out-of-this-world, combined with thought-provoking lyrics that make you want to sing along. In my opinion, this is Rush’s magnum opus, and a very strong contender for the greatest Canadian album of all-time. Rush is a band which should be treated like gods in Canada, yet for most they are just another band on the Classic Rock station. Best Tracks: Limelight, Tom Sawyer, The Camera Eye Worst Track: None Score out of 10: 10

Album #10 The Beach Boys: Surf's Up On paper, an album called “Surfs Up” by “The Beach Boys” should be the most generic-sounding surf-rock and sunshine pop ever created, relegated to only being played during yacht parties and over beach volleyball cutscenes in Top Gun. Yet the album cover indicates that there may be a level of irony to the nomenclature, depicting a warrior and his steed seemingly approaching the end of their journey, almost in a horseman of the apocalypse style. This album, much like The Beach Boys' crowning achievement, “Pet Sounds,” indicates why they were compared to the Beatles at the time. Not only can they create irresistible pop melodies, but they are also capable of experimenting with their music and exploring darker themes. One thing that always separated the Beach Boys from the Beatles, however, was just how unapologetically American they were with their themes. At the time, there was a great sense of post-war optimism in the United States, almost a sense of naivety, which appeared in some of the Beach Boys' poppier early albums. Yet in Surfs Up, however, much like the title of the album appears to take something joyous and make it melancholic, they focus less on American optimism and more on the cynical reality. Exploring themes of environmentalism (A Day in the Life of a Tree), death (Til I Die), and Police Brutality (Student Demonstration Time). Even the song ‘Disney Girls’, which at first may seem like a more traditional Beach Boys pop tune, has an underlying sense of sadness about it, and when examining the lyrics further reveals it is about a man who escapes his disappointing reality with fantasies of fictional Disney Girls, knowing that love will never be found in real life. No doubt the centrepiece of the album is the title track. Closing the album on such a sad yet beautiful note, the song includes some of the Beach Boys' finest imagery and lyrics. Yet my favourite song off the album has to be Long Promised Road. This song also explores the themes of depression and dissatisfaction of life, but what sets it apart from the others on the album is the uplifting and irresistible chorus, which encourages you to fight back and overcome your obstacles. Something about this album just has such an intriguing atmosphere about it. I never did consider the Beach Boys to be anywhere near the Beatles since I wasn’t as familiar with their discography, but if this album is anything to go by, then it seems as though the Beach Boys may have multiple albums which are capable of going toe-to-toe with the Beatles' best. Take a Load Off Your Feet and Student Demonstration Time in particular seem to be pointed to as the weak points of the album, and whilst I would agree, I don’t think either track is that bad. I also don’t agree with the criticism that they are thematically inconsistent, as to me, the theme of the album seems to just be general grievances and struggles, and a back and forth between cynicism and optimism, which can be seen in both songs. Best Songs: Long Promised Road, Disney Girls, Surfs Up Worst Songs: Student Demonstration Time Score out of 10: 9.5

Album #11 Elis Regina: Vento De Maio I am not very familiar with music in languages other than English, and Portuguese music wouldn’t necessarily be the first language that I would think to explore musically. And it seems that even if I were familiar with the scene and Elis Regina herself, even then this album wouldn’t be the first one that I would check out. It seems there was an error in including this album, since it is actually a compilation album from 1998, not a regular album from 1978, as the book says. However, when it comes to the music, I was actually pleasantly surprised. It feels like entering a Brazilian dive bar on vacation and not understanding what anyone is saying. A sense of exploration; I find that most of the charm in listening to lyrics in other languages is that emotion becomes incredibly more relevant than substance. It doesn’t matter what they are saying, only how it makes you feel. There is almost a dreamlike essence to some of these songs for me, like I just can’t quite make out what they are saying. Her voice is very expressive at times, and you can really tell she is putting a lot of heart into the music. It’s harder for me to discern individual songs, but the only one I didn’t really like was the closing track since it had some weirder sounds in it. Gonna be hard to find playlists to incorporate some of these songs into, but wouldn’t be surprised if I return to a few tracks. Best Songs: Tiro Ao Alvaro, Saudade Eterna, Se Eu Quiser Falar Com Deus Worst Song: Aprendendo A Jogar Score out of 10: 5.5

Album #12 Elbow: The Seldom Seen Kid I feel like, on paper, I should love this album. I am quite enamoured with British culture since consuming their television, film, sport, and music from a young age. My top ten favourite bands would all be British except for Pixies. Part of the reason I love British music so much is the lyricism, the cynical and witty views that most Brits have always endeared me. Britpop is my favourite genre of music, and I am even quite charitable to most post-Britpop. I enjoy early Coldplay, Keane, Boa, etc. Yet for some reason, this album just doesn’t do anything for me. I went in expecting to like it, and by the third track, I could tell that something was off. My least favourite decade for music is definitely the 2010s. I feel as though most rock music began to become infected with the stomp-clap indie sound that emerged in the late 2000s; this sound can be identified seeping through this album, but primarily in the song “Grounds for Divorce,” which is constantly backed by literal stomps and claps. I find this song to be really out of place on an album which appeared to be a slower and more lyrical listen at first. There are some interesting and clever lyrics, but I struggle to fully enjoy them due to the singer's voice. I normally like hearing blatant British accents in music, yet for whatever reason just feel grated by his voice. It’s hard to really understand why I don’t enjoy this, while liking many similar albums. It’s not terrible, but to me it just felt a little subpar, and not an album which should be considered one of the 1000 essential albums. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this list in relation to the 2000s and onward, but if this makes the cut, then I'd better also see some quality indie rock like Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, Killers, Interpol, Arcade Fire, etc. Also, probably not on here, but the Divine Comedy’s Absent Friends would fill this slot much better. Best Tracks: One Day Like This, Starlings, Mirrorball Worst Track: Grounds for Divorce Score out of 10:5.5

Album #13 Phil Spector: A Christmas Gift For You Christmas music isn’t necessarily something that I get too engrossed in around the holidays; that isn’t to say that it doesn’t have its place, however. My only real familiarity with Phil Spector before this was that he murdered something beautiful; of course, referring to “Let it Be” by The Beatles. Oh, and he also killed a woman. So overall, not someone I ever intended to explore further. But the production of this album is actually pretty good, though the vocal performances certainly elevate it. This is a very solid selection of Christmas songs; if this were the only Christmas album in your collection, you would probably be alright. My favourite performances come from the Ronettes and Darlene Love, and I’m not too big a fan of Bobby B. Soxx’s tracks, specifically Here Comes Santa Claus, which comes directly after the beautiful “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” and feels quite out of place. As far as Christmas albums go this is probably the best, though I’ve not heard any others; but the album really only has a place in one month, so I can’t rate it too highly. Best Tracks: Christmas (Baby Please Come Home), Sleigh Ride, Parade of the Wooden Soldiers Worst Track: Here Comes Santa Claus Score out of 10: 7

Album #14 Beck: Guero My first time hearing a Beck album in full. From what I knew of him through his hits, I was expecting something pretty quirky and out there. The first half of the album was definitely that, though I think that I did find the charm in it, which I was afraid might be lost on me. However, the second half, though not bad, seemed a lot more ordinary; at times sounding like music you might hear in a Lincoln commercial. I feel as though Beck is at his best with offbeat,t humorous lyrics, and eclectic vocal styles, the best of which, in my opinion, came in Que Onda Guero. I can’t say I was ever bored listening to this, though, and I actually respect Beck for creating his own sound entirely. I’m pretty sure this isn’t Beck’s most lauded album, so I wouldn’t be surprised to see him again, and I definitely would be curious to hear more from him. Best Tracks: Que Onda Guero, Girl, Missing Worst Track: Farewell Ride Score out of 10:6.5

Album #15 The Sabres of Paradise: Haunted Dancehall Honestly, the name and cover of the album seemed intriguing, along with the fact that it was an obscure 90s album I’d never heard of, I was hoping to be pleasantly surprised. But the album is just not for me, I don’t ever really put on music just to zone out, and I can’t imagine ever actively listening to over an hour of repetitive, sonically uninteresting noises. There were a few parts near the end that I started to enjoy, but for the most part, I just couldn’t even stay focused on the music. I don’t know much about IDM, but I’d be pretty disappointed if this is the pinnacle of the genre. Best Tracks: Chapel Street Market 9 am, Haunted Dancehall, Wilmot Worst Track: Bubble and Slide (sounded like a wet fart) Score out of 10: 3.5

Album # 16 The Clash: The Clash I remember the first time I heard the title track to London Calling, and immediately I fell in love with such an energetic and powerful song. It wasn’t too long after that that I decided to listen to the album in its entirety, which was rare for me at the time, especially for an album that was over an hour. Songs like Lost in the Supermarket, Spanish Bombs, and Train in Vain quickly became some of my most played. I have always considered myself a fan of the Clash, even venturing into their album Combat Rock; yet, somehow, I never felt compelled to listen to their self-titled debut, and what a mistake that was. This thing is all certified bangers, the true essence of a punk album; short, energetic songs that have something to say and stick with you. The length ensures that it never once begins to tire on you; at no point was I ever anything but engaged when listening. The opening track sets the stage perfectly and might just be one of my favourite Clash songs. I feel like I can’t say that the album is better than London Calling, since the highs on that album are timeless, but I will say that it is certainly more consistent throughout, with no song feeling like below a 7. It’s not hard to see how The Clash were able to separate themselves from the other garage punk bands of the time, and why their legacy has remained far superior to that of their peers. Best Tracks: Janie Jones, Deny, Police and Thieves Worst Track: 48 Hours Score out of 10: 9

Album #17 N.W.A.: Straight Outta Compton I don’t listen to rap music; it’s not that I “don’t think it’s real music” or anything to do with cringeworthy political beliefs, I simply wasn’t raised with it, and it lacks a few things that I look for when listening to music. As dumb as it sounds, one of the main reasons I don’t go out of my way to listen to rap music is because, when I do listen to music, I like to sing along; and if I get in the habit of singing along to rap music, I might start letting the Hard-R’s fly like the Burger King guy. Which, as a white guy, would be less than ideal. In all seriousness, though, I have only heard one full rap album before this (Graduation obviously), which I did enjoy, so I haven’t written off the genre entirely, and one of the reasons for doing this list was to see if there was maybe a rap album that I would love. No better place to start than with one of the first breakthrough mainstream rap albums, “Straight Out of Compton. I have already heard a few tracks off this album as they are simply unavoidable; I also possessed some familiarity with Ice Cube as he was a favourite actor of mine growing up, especially in his career-defining role as Nick Persons in “Are We There Yet?”. I can’t criticize the lyrics too harshly because they are a product of their time, but I didn’t find myself blown away by the penmanship, though I’m sure that they weren’t trying to write Highway 61 or anything. I did, however, find the writing to be quite funny at times, specifically in the song “I Ain’t The One”, which, as simple as the premise for the song is, I did laugh at the Burger King line. Though there were some enjoyable tracks, I really can’t see myself returning to most of the album, but I can definitely see why it was influential and how it resonated deeply with people from Compton. Best Songs: Straight Out of Compton, Express Yourself, I Ain’t The One Worst Song: Dopeman Score out of 10: 5

Album #18 Klaxons: Myths Of The Near Future This was the kind of album I was hoping to come across, an album I’ve never heard of, from a band I’ve never heard of, in an era that I haven’t dug too deep into. When it comes to the classics I’ve heard the vast majority, and though I am happy to hear them again as my preferred eras of music is 70s-90s; it is always a nice surprise to find something unknown. It’s not that this album blew me away and became an instant favourite, but it was a definite enjoyable listen and not an album I would have ever heard otherwise. The 2000s indie scene has been something which I have greatly enjoyed; however, I haven’t dug too deep below the surface, mainly listening to the most famous bands such as The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, Interpol, Arcade Fire, etc. This album does sound very 2000s Euro-club scene, and although I’m not much of a raver, I can certainly appreciate how they bridge dance and punk music into a fun and energetic album. Not every song was great, but none of them were terrible, and the highs were some pretty great and fun tracks. Best Tracks: Golden Skans, It’s Not Over Yet, Gravity’s Rainbow Worst Track: Four Horsemen of 2012 Score out of 10: 6.5

Album #!9 Kanye West: Yeezus Went into this album expecting to hate it absolutely. I am already not a big rap fan, though that’s more from a lack of exposure than a quality perspective. Previously, I have heard two full rap albums: Straight Out of Compton (by way of this generator) and Graduation (Friend’s recommendation). Though I did actually quite enjoy Graduation, I am under the impression that it is sort of the rap album that you show to non-rap fans. But, out of all mainstream rappers, I have always assumed that I would like Kanye the most due to his reliance on sampling and production, focusing on melody along with the lyricism, which is lost on some rappers. That said, Yeezus, from what I know, is meant to be his most controversial album. I understood it to be more abrasive and experimental than his other albums, to the point that it even put off some of his fans. I really didn’t know what to expect this album to sound like. Experimental hip-hop is sort of just a phrase to me. I have no real understanding of what it would sound like (though I did see Danny Brown live, I didn’t know any songs, so it was mostly just noise. But honestly? It sounded completely normal. I can see how the production can be off-putting, as it is very suffocating at times, but for the most part, I actually really liked the grimy atmosphere that it created. I see a lot of criticism towards this album stems from either the production or the lyricism, which is said to be very obnoxious and egotistical, which, of course, it is, but at least as someone who is not entirely aware of Kanye, I sort of interpret it as satire. The consistent themes of the album seem to be that Kanye has gripes with the state of black culture and how materialistic it is, while also acknowledging himself as the pinnacle of that culture as a ‘godlike’ figure. That could be a misguided interpretation, as I didn’t read too deeply into the lyrics. Kanye is just pretty funny. I did find myself laughing at a few of his lines. The sampling and production are what truly set Kanye apart from other rappers that I have heard; they shine brightest on the tracks ‘Black Skinhead’ and ‘Bound 2’, which I believe to be the best tracks. Though not every song lives up to those standards, and some songs are more obnoxious than the rest, overall, the album was actually surprisingly good. I don’t think it is as enjoyable as Graduation, but I did find it to be more interesting, for good or bad. Best Tracks: Black Skinhead, New Slaves, Bound 2 Worst Track: I am a God Score out of 10:6

Album #20 Jay Z: The Blueprint This album is specifically made for New Yorkers, contains lots of regional references and slang, disses Illmatic, and came out on 9/11. If you are the average bodega-visiting, chopped cheese-eating New Yorker, then this is your Abbey Road. Most of the beats and melodies were pleasant, but Jay-Z’s lyricism was often lost on me. It feels like he really believes that his story is so inspirational and unique that everyone must hear it and acknowledge his brilliance. Yet at the same time, he comes across as insecure, feeling the need to respond to every bad review and detractor, rather than just let his greatness speak for itself. Some of the songs were pretty obnoxious as well; specifically, Girls, Girls, Girls, which, for some reason, received a second part. I also thought phrases like “For shizzle my nizzle” were just something people said to mock rap, but there is a whole song dedicated to speaking like that. It is also pretty long, which I find to be an issue for most rap albums. That being said, it isn’t too hard a listen, and I can see its appeal pretty clearly. There wasn’t really a time when I was actively hating it, so I can’t say that it is bad. Best Tracks: Heart of the City, The Ruler’s Back, Song Cry Worst Track: Girls, Girls, Girls, Part 2 Score out of 10: 5.5

Album #21 The Police: Reggatta De Blanc I’ve always been appreciative of the Police, as they definitely have undeniable talent within their musicianship, as well as their hits being some of the finest songs of their generation. Yet at the same time, I’ve never been wholly grasped by them. Message in a Bottle is a perfect example, probably the best song on the album, sometimes when I hear it, I love it; other times, complete indifference or annoyance. Every Breath You Take is immune to that phenomenon, but every other Police song for me is very mood-dependent. I’m also not too big a fan of the whole reggae thing, or Sting’s lyricism at times, and though I do respect the other members of the band, their songs are often low points of their albums. I really feel like I should like The Police more than I do since I love New Wave and 70s and 80s music, especially bands that have solid albums mixed in with the hits. Yet I’ve never been fully convinced by an entire Police album. I will say, though, that they truly did carve out their own niche and managed to do it extremely well. Best Songs: Message in a Bottle, Walking on the Moon, Bring on the Night Worst Song: Does Everyone Stare Score out of 10:6

Album #22 Echo and the Bunnymen: Crocodiles I was already surprised to see one of my favourite bands, Echo and the Bunnymen, show up once on this list in only my second album; though it did make sense that their crowning achievement, Ocean Rain, would make the cut, but now, after just twenty more albums, they have made their second appearance. I do, however, think that they are deserving of multiple placements, of course, and can see why their debut “Crocodiles” was chosen, as it was truly an innovative album for post-punk; ushering in the grandiose and dreamlike production of post-punk whilst maintaining the short song structure of traditional punk. But unlike the other post-punk bands of the era, Echo and the Bunnymen, whose biggest influence is very openly The Doors, introduce a psychedelic aspect to the mix. What results is truly one of the most original-sounding bands of all time that would go on to influence bands such as U2 and Arcade Fire. Though I do love this album, it might not even rank amongst my top 5 Bunnymen albums. This is mainly due to the album having fewer songs that are in my constant rotation, though the album is still very consistent and doesn’t really have a miss. For what it is, this album couldn’t receive anything less than four stars, though I am awfully biased. Best Songs: Stars Are Stars, Do It Clean, Villiers Terrace Worst Song: Happy Death Man Score Out of 10: 8.5

Album #23 The Style Council: Cafe Bleu I did go into this album already being a big fan of The Jam and Paul Weller in general, so it was only a matter of time before I listened to The Style Council, as they were already on my radar. So, going in assuming that I would enjoy it, I was surprised to see just how poorly it has been reviewed on this site. Some of the reviews here are absolutely vitriolic, calling it boring, tasteless, and nonsensical. So I grew even more curious to hear how Paul Weller could create something so divisive, as for the most part, The Jam is universally loved. And to my not-so-great surprise, this is actually good, and you guys are tripping. Yes, this won’t be for everyone, and the changing of styles could be a put-off (especially the rap track), but in my opinion, it was never too jarring; everything seemed to belong amongst one another. And the highlights here are some absolutely wonderful songs. The ‘boring’ parts are simply pleasant and short instrumentals that don’t derail the momentum in any way. I suppose if you aren’t a fan of sophisti-pop in general, this might seem obnoxious, but I’ve never been too put off by pretentiousness, unless it was laced with arrogance. Weller’s influences in Black music culture have been well established, with a lot of The Jam songs being heavily influenced by Motown; so it’s not a surprise to see him dip his toes into soul a lot here, and even be an early adopter of hip-hop (though how successfully he adapted it is up for debate. Overall, it wouldn’t rank amongst the best Jam albums, but this is a very solid effort from Weller, and proves his talent to alter his style so drastically and create something nice. Best Tracks: My Ever Changing Moods, Here’s One That Got Away, You’re The Best Thing Worst Track: A Gospel Score out of 10: 7.5

Album #24 The Pogues: If I Should Fall From Grace With God A fairly topical album, as I got it not too long after Christmas, meaning that Fairytale of New York was still fresh on my mind, as that song has become a Christmas staple. But I suppose unless you’re Irish (which I’m not), the rest of this album would remain a mystery to you (as it did me). And though I think, in the end, Fairytale of New York remained my favourite song, there is still a lot of stuff here to like. I immediately like the traditional Irish accent and the attitude that comes with it, which naturally lends itself quite well to energetic punk. Hate of the English is seeping from most tracks, which I find amusing as an outsider. The only track I would pick for worst would be Metropolis since it lacks any of the energy which makes the rest of the songs so infectious. Overall, a very fun and interesting record, which serves as a cultural timepiece and provides a fresh experience to the non-Irish. Best Tracks: Fairytale of New York, Turkish Song of the Damned, Thousands are Sailing Worst Track: Metropolis Score out of 10: 8

Album #25 Julian Cope: Peggy Suicide This is not an album that was anywhere near my radar, as far as I can tell, it wasn’t on anyone else's either. From what I gather, Julian Cope is a cult-favourite eccentric singer-songwriter who never really broke into the mainstream, outside of his bubble in England. This album, Peggy Suicide, is his sixth studio effort, and certainly, from what I can gather, his most ambitious. A 75-minute behemoth consisting of everything that Cope’s mind had to offer, exploring a wide variety of genres and themes. To be completely honest, I was not looking forward to this, despite the genre listings being mostly up my wheelhouse. Maybe the lack of expectations is why I enjoyed this as much as I did. There is a lot to enjoy about this album, and the variety ensures that almost everybody will have at least one song which they like. Though the variety, and specifically the length, also hinder the album and prevent it from ranking too highly in my estimation, as the listen can feel a tad disjointed. The most comparable album that I have had on my list so far would be Guero by Beck; both Beck and Cope are eccentric style-benders who possess immense talent and seek only to appease themselves. However, that comes at the cost of mass appeal (which I’m sure they aren’t worried about). All in, though, there were definitely more songs I enjoyed than didn’t, but I’m not sure I’ll be too eager for a relisten anytime soon. Safesurfer and Beautiful love will likely join the rotation, however. Best Tracks: Safesurfer, Beautiful Love, Pristine Worst Track: Western Front 1992 C.E. Score Out of 10: 7

Album # 26 Outkast: Speakerboxxx/The Love Below Nobody forced me to listen to this entire album, I wasn’t held at gunpoint, my family weren’t threatened, there was no tangible pressuring encouraging to listen to every single track; and yet for some reason I felt compelled to. My feelings about this album may very well be exacerbated by the fact that I felt I had to sit and listen to it for over two hours, but if your album can’t be enjoyed in one sitting, make it shorter. I find it hard to believe that the highest-selling rap album of all time, one that has the audacity to last over two albums, has only one track that people remember. I understand that this is essentially two albums being packaged as one, but the fact is that it is listed as one album, so I will treat it as one. I’m already not a big rap fan, and this album summarises all of my preconceived grievances with the genre. The first of which is the length; it seems that every rap album goes on for at least an hour, despite being some of the most repetitive music possible. The reason for the length most of the time is that, somehow, a precedent started to add shitty skits in between the songs, which literally no one enjoys. Pretty much every skit on here actively annoyed me, especially Where Are My Panties. I mean, who is that even for? Are people just sitting around with their boys jerking off to an Outkast album? Both sides of the album have general themes, Big Boi’s half is mostly him trying to be taken seriously as an independent rapper and prove that he isn’t the Art Garfunkel to Andre 3000’s Paul Simon (very generous comparison), which is why he repeatedly mentions Outkast and their previous works; and calls upon big rapper features to add legitimacy to his side and give people a reason to want to listen to it. Andre’s side is essentially just him trying to prove that he is straight, being on the verge of busting on half of his tracks and skits. I very rarely like overly-sexualized music, and this is not an exception; it doesn’t help that a lot of Andre’s lyricism comes off as very juvenile to me, especially off-putting was his use of “poo-poo” in the track Roses (which somehow seems to be the second most successful song from the album. “Ya’ll don’t want to hear me, you just want to dance.”, Ok Andre, let’s hear you out: “Nature knows I want you, but not unless you want me too, so spread, spread, for me”, never has a lyric explicitly requesting consent sounded so rapey. Unlike Big Boi, who calls upon famous rappers to feature on his tracks, Andre only invites female artists. Which, judging by the contents of his lyrics, appears only to be in an attempt to have sex with them. Overall, Speakerboxx was mostly inoffensive and generic rap; I actually never actively hated it, though Church was a weak point as it came off as very loud and preachy compared to the rest. But, even though Andre’s side had the only notable tracks, it was the side on which I realized how much I was dreading the start of every track. I will never listen to this again; Hey Ya is the only song worthy of a playlist (except maybe the last track, but I probably enjoyed it extra due to the relief it was finally ending), and I know that I am probably wrong in having this opinion. Maybe if this thing were even just an hour, I wouldn’t feel this strongly, but once this discontentment creeps in, it’s hard to silence it when there is still an hour left of the album. Best Track: Hey Ya, My Favourite Things, A Life in the Day of Benjamin Andre Worst Track: Church/Spread Score out of 10: 2

Album #27 Ravi Shankar: The Sounds of India Seeing how I live in Toronto, I am already very well acquainted with this album as I experience the sounds of India every day. In all seriousness, though, I do respect the vast influence that Indian culture and spirituality have had on much of Western music; the most egregious example being George Harrison and The Beatles, whose psychedelic eras can be directly tied back to Indian music. The issue for me, however, is that I am sitting around sober in a Canadian winter listening to this, rather than high off hallucinogens in an Indian temple. This is the sort of music you need to be completely immersed by and let take over you for its true form to be revealed. In my current listening conditions, I am unable to be grasped by the music, often having trouble distinguishing one sequence from the next. Ravi does warn of this in the introduction, which states that harmony and rhythm are not to be expected, which, unfortunately for me, is something that I actually quite enjoy in music. Maybe my unfamiliarity with the sitar as an instrument also provides a barrier. I do find it quite strange that this album seems to be the Indian music representative on the list; it is barely meant to be heard as a standalone album, but rather just an introduction to the sounds that comprise Indian music. It kind of feels like a cop out, and there are probably far more interesting Indian albums that could be included in the list. Overall, can’t say I enjoyed listening to this one, and it didn’t help that it is the album directly following my least favourite album so far (Speakerboxx/ The Love Below), which also happened to drone on for ages. But funnily enough, Ravi’s daughter, Nora Jones, was featured on that album, so it seems my least favourite albums share the same DNA Best Tracks: Dadra, Maru-Bihag, Sindi-Bhairavi Worst Track: Bhimpalasi Score out of 10: 2.5.

Album #28 Fats Domino: This Is Fats Domino I ended up listening to Fats Domino Swings since I couldn’t find the other album, and it just seemed like a compilation album anyway. Swings seemed to have most of his memorable songs, so I went with that one. An album that is really more essential to listen to for its influence rather than how well it has held up. That isn’t to say it’s not an enjoyable experience, but even less than 10 years after this came out, music had evolved so much to the point that this just seems glaringly outdated compared to music from the mid-60s, which, to me at least, holds up tremendously. But when listening to this album, you can hear the groundwork forming for what would make up much of the rock and roll movement. There are some lovely and timeless songs here, though the production will forever hold it back from appealing to modern audiences. Funnily enough, a few months ago I watched the movie 12 Monkeys, in which the song Blueberry Hill was a prominent part of the plot; and just a few days ago I watched Marty Supreme, in which Timothee Chalamet and Tyler The Creator, ghost ride the whip to the song The Fat Man. So it seems that Fats has remained an icon for his era, as both those movie plots centre around the 50s in some way. Best Songs: Blueberry Hill, Ain’t That A Shame, The Fat Man Worst Song: Bo Weevil Score out of 10: 5.5

Album #29 Buffalo Springfield: Buffalo Springfield Again I might be saying this because of Canadian bias, but judging from this album, it isn’t hard to see why Neil Young went on to have the most successful career post-Buffalo Springfield. In my opinion, the three standout songs on this album just so happen to be the three penned by Neil Young; with Broken Arrow especially being one of my favourite Young songs, its experimentation reminds me almost of A Day in the Life with how it segments its styles. That’s not to say that Young was the only talent of the group; however, of course, his frequent collaborator Stephen Stills also has some high points on the album, specifically Bluebird. It seems the only real weak link was Dewey Martin, who didn’t write any songs, but the one that he provided vocals for, Good Time Boy, was easily the worst. Due to the collaborative nature of the album, it does seem to vary in quality, which results in a bit of a disjointed listen. Most of my interest in this album is due to its relevance to Young’s career, as in my opinion, he is one of the greatest and most influential musicians of all time, so hearing him in the infancy of his career is certainly something that I would consider essential to any Young fan. The other songs are solid enough to make the listen enjoyable, and the run time is short, so it doesn’t outstay its welcome. Best Songs: Broken Arrow, Expecting to Fly, Mr. Soul Worst Song: Good Time Boy Score out of 10:7

Album #30 Bee Gees: Odessa The Bee Gees are sort of like the chameleons of music; not to be confused with The Chameleons, who blow the Bee Gees out of the water. If you were to ask someone what Bee Gees album would be placed on a list documenting the most essential albums of all time, most would instantly go to their wildly successful disco-era, with songs such as Stayin' Alive and How Deep Is Your Love remaining culturally relevant long after disco faded. Or if you were perhaps more of a hipster, you would point to their earlier psychedelic albums, such as the Bee Gees’ 1st. As someone who never got into the band, I often hear mention of them followed swiftly by: “Their earlier stuff was actually better. But never once have I heard of their hour-long concept double album “Odessa”. The concept seems to revolve around a ship that has gone missing, though I didn’t delve too deep into the lyrics during my listen. I can understand why this album has received middling reviews on this website, as it certainly does feel like a weird selection. It almost feels like the Bee Gees are trying to do their best Beatles imitation at times, which for the 60s is not out of the ordinary. Side note, I am incredibly surprised to find out that they are actually Australian, as this seems like one of the most British albums of all time to me. The lyricism is quite simple, but perhaps that lends to them attempting to tell a story, I’m not sure. But the highlights for me come through the melody; there really isn’t a song here that isn’t at least pleasant and simple to listen to. I actually quite like the classical and orchestral instrumental tracks as well, though I can see how they would come across as boring. It’s not an album which I would recommend to everyone, as I myself didn’t exactly fall in love with it. But if you are a fan of pretentious baroque pop, with lush instrumentals, it is quite a nice album. But not one that will exactly blow you away. Best Tracks: Seven Seas Symphony, First of May, I Laugh In Your Face Worst Track: Whisper, Whisper Score out of 10: 5.5

Album #31 Bob Dylan: Blood on the Tracks There isn’t much that I can say about Bob Dylan that hasn’t been said already, and anything I do come up with certainly wouldn’t be of any particular note. I try not to idolize any other person, as I am quite cynical when it comes to talent; often believing that luck and circumstance are the primary facilitators of success. I do find it easier, however, to appreciate the greatness of those whose prime I did not have to live through, since it’s easier for me to think less of them as a person and more as a general figure that is attached to their accomplishments. But if I were to have grown up alongside the generation of good old Robert Zimmerman, I truly hope that I would have been unbiased enough to see him for what he is: a once-in-a-generation artist. It is impossible to accuse Dylan of having no talent or ingenuity since he simply exists within his own realm. Nobody else was writing the way Dylan wrote, singing the way Dylan sang, or conducting themselves the way Dylan did. Every single one of Dylan’s songs would be the greatest story a lesser artist would have ever written. The experience of listening to his work is unlike listening to any other form of music; he truly elevated the art of music into its purest form. As someone who greatly appreciates lyricism, even over melody at times, it’s hard for me not to glaze Dylan, but I will try to refrain from this point on. Every song on Blood on the Tracks is brilliant to the point that it doesn’t require explanation, and I won’t even bother. What I will talk about is the meta nature of the album, perhaps being the most famous breakup album, Blood on the Tracks, is essentially just Dylan putting out his couple therapy sessions after his divorce. The album covers all the aspects of divorce: heartbreak, anger, sadness, and in my favourite track, “If You See Her, Say Hello,” Dylan presents the eventual acceptance after the divorce. All of the themes throughout the album are apparent to me, and I appreciate them, yet I am reluctant to give this album a 10 due to the simple fact that I haven’t actually experienced much of them myself. I think that I understand what this album has to offer, yet I know that I am not even able to connect to it on a level that so many others can. So, though it is a masterpiece, and no doubt a worthy five stars, for me to give it that rating would be stolen valour in a sense. So until I go through a messy divorce and lose custody of the children, and listen to this album while sipping back a Coors Light and speeding through town in my Honda Civic, or whatever it is divorced people do, I will refrain from giving it the perfect score Best Tracks: If You See Her, Say Hello, Idiot Wind, Tangled Up in Blue Worst Track: Meet Me in the Morning Score out of 10:9.5.

Album #32 Throwing Muses: Throwing Muses Really unique and interesting album that I hadn’t heard of before. As a fan of Pixies, I can sort of hear similarities in the eccentric vocal inflections and quick change in volumes and tempo, which seems like that was the late 80s alternative style. Also think the vocalist sounds like Geddy Lee at times, which is funny. The lyricism is pretty good, especially for how young they were when the album came out; though I would probably relate to this album’s themes a lot more if I were a teenage girl. The first half of the album is pretty damn good, but around the middle and towards the end, I find myself getting a little tired of the abrasive style. Even then, the album never strikes me as being bad, and at its best, it is certainly good. One of the more interesting bands that I have discovered from this list, and I would definitely listen to more from them. Best Songs: Green, Hate My Way, Delicate Cutters Worst Song: Soul Soldier Score Out of 10: 6.5

Album #33 Chicago: Chicago Transit Authority I was already a familiar with Chicago due to the fact that I used to peruse every classic rock playlist Spotify had to offer, and Chicago’s greatest hits such as “If You Leave Me Now” (which I am also aware due to it being in Los Santos Rock Radio), “25 or 6 to 4”, and “You’re The Inspiration”. I did quite enjoy some of their songs as I am partial to some 70s pop/soft rock; Breakfast in America being the pinnacle of the genre, of course, though I never felt compelled to listen to a full album. Naturally, upon receiving this album, I assumed that it would be par for the course of what I was used to from Chicago; however, I was quite mistaken. This album has some elements that would later turn into their more accessible sound and structure, with songs like “Does Anyone Really Know What Time It Is” not sounding too far off from their later work; but the track has a two-minute jazz instrumental introduction; similarly, “Beginnings” closes with a repetitive, almost obnoxious jazz instrumental. Clearly, the band was attempting to be progressive, though they hadn’t quite figured out what that meant yet, since prog rock was in its infancy and jazz was seen as the de facto form of progressive music. But seeing how In The Court of The Crimson King came out in that same year, it’s hard to cut them too much slack for including a track like “Free Form Guitar” (which I interpret as the bands best effor at imitating the sounds of a car using a guitar??) and stretching the album to almost an hour and twenty minutes, when King Crimson showed just how grand yet succinct a progressive album could be. If this album were cut down, even to just around an hour I think I would be comfortable giving it at least a four star, I even do enjoy the 15 minute closing jam session “Liberation”, it’s just that this thing feels like it certainly has some bloat, and if I were to relisten to the album it would primarily be the first half, and the last few tracks. In saying that though, this is still a really solid and fun album, filled with great musicianship and interesting ideas. I can see how fans of this album would be disappointed with the band's more watered-down direction moving forward. Best Tracks: Questions 67 and 68, Beginnings, Introduction Worst Track: Free Form Guitar Score out of 10:7.5

Album #34 The Who: My Generation Really solid effort from The Who, before they fully established their own unique sound. Similar to the early Beatles, the sound is more ‘simple’ and stripped down, but each song presents a catchy melody that keeps you engaged. I enjoy the mod sound in general, and especially the bands it went on to influence (specifically The Jam). Overall, a good and important album from what would go on to be one of the best bands of all time. Best Songs: My Generation, Much Too Much, I Can’t Explain Worst Song: I’m Man Score out of 10: 7

Album #35 Ramones: Ramones One thing that I find interesting about the early stages of punk is its use of Nazi and fascist iconography as a form of counter-culture. The obvious examples being the first punk bands out of the U.K like the Sex Pistols and The Clash, and with Ramones being generally given credit as being the first big American punk band, it is consistent that they too would adopt this habit in their debut. Even though the intentions weren’t to be fascist, and people at the time understood that, if a modern punk band of today were to try that, I feel like the nuance would be lost. I can’t imagine Parquet Courts rolling up to perform Wide Awake whilst looking like Hitler and Guebbels. Aesthetics aside, though truly much of the punk scene was built upon aesthetics first, music second, which is why the songs are often short and simple; the music of the Ramones is undeniably fun. It possesses a raw energy which just makes it hard not to identify with, unless you are truly devoid of either youth or joy. The topics and lyrics are also quite simple, with the songs often having one express purpose: “I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend” is a song about wanting to be someone's boyfriend, “Judy is a Punk” is a song about Judy being a Punk, and most egregiously. “Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue” is a song about the sense-datum theory of perception and whether or not we truly ever experience anything, or it is all a form of qualia interpreted and localized entirely within our brains. This album is undeniably influential, and in my opinion, still a really enjoyable listen, depending on the mood. If I want something introspective and intelligent, I’ll go with Dylan, but if I want to sniff some glue, Ramones it is. Best Tracks: Blitzkrieg Bop, Judy Is a Punk, Beat on the Brat Worst Track: Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue Score out of 10: 7.5

Album #36 Dr. John: Gris Gris From what 60s psychedelic music I’ve heard, I have often enjoyed it; though of course, for me that means bands like The Beatles, The Doors, Love, and The Jimmy Hendrix Experience. Psychedelic elements mixed in with genuine melody and rock structure. So when I hear about the genre’s reputation as often being over-indulgent ‘hippy bullshit’, I never quite understood. But after hearing Dr. John’s “Gris Gris”, and discovering that it is apparently heralded by the boomers as being one of the finest albums of all time, it’s clear to me that the ayahuasca was hitting too good in the 60s. The album is very minimalistic, with not a lot going on instrumentally in most songs, and the vocal delivery not being very compelling. It feels like the only way you were meant to enjoy this is by taking mushrooms with a shaman in the bayou, in which case I’m sure this music acts as a great vessel to open your brain up with. The songs do possess some interesting moments, specifically for me on “Croker Courtbullion”, I actually really like the instrumental, but it is ruined by mindless wailing and animal noises. There just isn’t enough here for me to want to give it more of a chance, and I am just going to resign myself to accepting that it isn’t for me. Best Tracks: Mama Roux, Croker Courtbullion, I Walk on Guilded Splinters Worst Track: Danse Fambeaux Score out of 10:3.5

Album #37 Screaming Trees: Dust Grunge is a genre that I have barely delved into. In fact, it’s not even my favourite culturally defining, regionally locked, 90s alternative rock genre that would go on to inspire a commercially successful yet critically panned “post” variant; that would be Britpop. Although I have listened to almost every Britpop album, despite not being alive in the 90s and not being British, that same enthusiasm never extended to me for grunge, despite them being sister movements in a way. Both genres have a “Big 4”, for Britpop that was of course Pulp, Oasis, Suede, and Blur, and for grunge that was Nirvana, Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, and Pearl Jam. Of the Grunge four, I have only listened to Nirvana, due to their cultural significance, and Soundgarden, because Black Hole Sun is such a banger. But for both genres, beyond the big four, there was a series of bands coming up around the same time, who, due to how powerful the movements were, were either trying to attach themselves to the genre or being attached to the genre by the media. It seems to me that Screaming Trees, despite being grunge in name, are moreso grunge by association. There are definitely elements in the production as that was the way rock albums were produced in the 90s, but when I listen to “Dust”, I pick up on influences from a wide variety of genres, far exceeding most grunge bands. I had no idea who Screaming Trees were before listening, and from my research, I determined that they were just some irrelevant grunge band that the curator of the list must have been salty weren’t bigger than they were, so he threw them in the list. I didn’t have high expectations, like I said, I’m not the biggest grunge fan, but frankly, the album rocks. Practically every song on this thing goes hard, yet also doesn’t give me a migraine like some grunge/metal music. I almost hear post-punk elements in some of the songs, which is always a good thing. I had to listen to this one twice, because I knew I liked it the first time, but I wanted to see just how much I liked it, and the answer was a lot. So far, this is definitely my favourite album on this list from a band I have never listened to before, and it is from a band I never would have expected. Kind of sounds like if the members of Led Zeppelin formed a Nickelback cover band, which is pretty sick. Best Songs: All I Know, Look At You, Sworn and Broken Worst Song: Dime Western Score out of 10:8.5

Album #38 Ray Charles: Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music Obviously, Ray Charles is a legend, and the songs he is covering and repurposing are also iconic; yet this album just fails to captivate me. Funnily enough, an album being marketed on the back of turning classics into modern-sounding songs becomes outdated very quickly. If this album concept were to come out now, instead of Ray Charles turning classic Western and Country songs into ‘modern’ soul and R&B songs, it would be something like Taylor Swift covering Fiona Apple songs and turning them into hyper-pop, or Imagine Dragons covering Smashing Pumpkins and turning it into stomp-clap. My point is that modernity is an empty concept and ever-fleeting; it is impossible for something to remain modern. One moment, a sound is innovative and fresh, then the next, it is played out and corny. That is why the classic albums which engage me the most are those that attempted to establish something new rather than relying on what the ‘modern’ sounds of the time were. The only artist I can think of who accomplished that would be David Bowie, as he essentially just adapted his style to whatever was cool at the time, though that's more to do with him having his finger on the pulse of the culture, rather than trying to emulate the popular music of the time. For what it is, this album is obviously important and impressive, yet I really just have no desire to listen to it again for whatever reason. Best Songs: I Can’t Stop Loving You, Bye Bye Love, You Don’t Know Me Worst Song: Hey Good Lookin’ Score Out of 10: 5

Album #39 Rush: 2112 One of my earliest memories of discovering music was searching for the top ten songs of all time on TheTopTens, which was a website that I treated as scripture as a kid. Most of the top ten wasn’t too surprising to me, even as a kid who didn’t know much music: Queen, John Lennon, and Michael Jackson. But one name stood out to me, I don’t particularly know why, maybe due to its name just being a series of numbers, or the undeniably tacky cover seeming out of place, but 2112 by Rush caught my eye. Knowing what I now know about diehard Rush fans, I’m not surprised that the song got boosted as high as it did on that site, yet at the time, the reviews talking about the technical wonder that was this song really did intrigue me. So naturally I went to check it out, and to my dismay it was over 20 minutes, a concept which was so foreign to me at the time that I couldn’t even understand how someone could listen to a song for that long. Though as a Canadian, Rush were never too far from me, and years later, through discovering Moving Pictures, I finally delved into Rush’s catalogue, and of course, 2112. The song does live up to its reputation and completely warrants its length. Rush has always sounded like music from the future, even today, which is technically the future from when the music was released; it still holds this magical quality. If you don’t like the title track, however, you simply won't like this album, as not only is it half the length of the entire album, but it is also definitely the best song here. The supporting songs are still some gems and do enough to ensure that the title track is on an album worthy of it. Though it isn’t my favourite Rush album, or song for that matter, 2112 is definitely the most important album for Rush as it established their sound and set them off on a run of albums that would make them legends. Best Songs: 2112, The Twilight Zone, Tears Worst Song Passage To Bangkok Score Out of 10: 8

Album #40 Madonna: Ray of Light Despite never listening to her full albums, I have been known to enjoy a Madonna hit, particularly Like a Prayer and Material Girl, which are absolute bangers. From what I have gathered, however, this is no average Madonna album. Acclaimed as being the album which took mainstream pop into the next level, at least experimentally speaking. Though not as experimental as some pop of the time, such as Bjork, this album is extremely out there for a record with the level of success that it had. I’m not much of a pop historian, but I can definitely see some influences that have come from this album. One of my favourite modern albums is Titanic Rising by Weyes Blood, which also mixes pop structure with atmospheric and trance-like elements; though not a like-for-like, it is clear that an album like that can flourish due to the popularity of this Madonna album. But legacy aside, the music is also pretty damn good. I wouldn’t say that I fully love this album, but I certainly really liked it. It does go on pretty long, but it never really loses you in the process. The spiritual natures of the lyrics fit well with the lush instrumentals, and result in an experience that has the capacity to elevate one into ascension, though I never quite reached that myself. I wasn’t able to fully embrace myself in the world it was creating, instead feeling more like an observer from a distant planet. So though I am aware that this album didn’t provide the same experience for me as it did many others, I can still say that the experience I had was quite good. Best Tracks: Sky Fits Heaven, Ray of Light, Drowned World/ Substitute for Love Worst Track: Shanti/ Ashtangi Score out of 10: 7.5

Album #41 Nightmares on Wax: Smoker's Delight Four Kings Casinos and Slots ass music. There really is no reason for this album to go on as long as it does, without offering anything captivating. I guess that the point is to zone out and smoke to the album, but if that is the intended purpose, then why even include it on this list? Much like the Sabres of Paradise album I got earlier, I either just don’t like 90s techno, or the curator is making some very curious selections. Because, from what I gathe,r neither album seems to be particularly well-received. Either way, I guess this album is a must listen if you are a stoner in the mid-90s who is repulsed by the idea of substance in art. Overall, just painfully boring and unnecessary. Best Tracks: Nights Introlude, Stars, Mission Venica Worst Track: Pipes Honour Score out of 10: 3

Album #42 Violent Femmes: Violent Femmes The Violent Femmes ' self-titled album is one that, in theory, should be an unbarably cringe listen. An acoustic punk album, with songs from the point of view of the most annoying guy you knew in high school, performed by an overly dramatic and whiny vocalist. There are some really good bands/albums that I’ve hated for less, and yet this is one of my favourite albums of all time, at least in the top 50. Somehow, through all of the madness is one of the most fun and engaging albums of all time. I have been hesitant to recommend this album to people because of the sheer improbability of its brilliance. I keep thinking that I must be crazy and this is actually terrible, and whoever I show it to will think less of me, but then I am validated when I hear them singing Blister in the Sun the next day. If you have ever experienced angst, you will resonate with this album, and even if you haven’t, just ignore the lyrics, and the songs are so energetic that they will still bang. I am not entirely sure how else to describe this album; it really is just an absolute singular, no other album quite possesses its aura. It will make you feel things that you didn’t know music could make you feel. Add it Up, Kiss Off, and To The Kill will absolutely hype you up. Blister in the Sun, Gone Daddy Gone, and Prove My Love will have you dancing and singing. Please Do Not Go, Confessions, and especially Good Feeling will have you entirely lost in memories and solemn self-reflection. One of the easiest listens, most consistent albums, and pleasurable experiences you can have with music. Nothing more I can say, the album is ethereal and hard to describe, which is how I know it is perfect. Best Tracks: Good Feeling, Add it Up, Blister In the Sun Worst Track: NONE Score out of 10: 10

Album #43 The Velvet Underground: White Light/White Heat I really am not surprised to see this album have a rating that falls below a 3. If someone were to, like me, get this as their first Velvet Underground album on the list, but unlike me, had never heard any of their music prior, then it is completely reasonable not to enjoy this album. As a massive fan of The Velvet Underground, I am thankful that my introduction to the band was their debut and not White Light/ White Heat, because frankly, I definitely wouldn’t have been ready for this. Part of me sometimes wonders if the only reason that I and many others were able to give this album the benefit of the doubt is due to us already considering The Velvet Underground geniuses, which gives us a predisposed idea that it will be good. If Tom Macdonald were to drop this album tomorrow, I have a very strong feeling that this album would not be as heralded as it is. But regardless of the meta reasons why I like this album, musically, it also has a lot to like. Whereas their debut album with Nico has moments of harshness and noise, it also has many areas of respite for the listener to feel safer in amongst the chaos. Songs like Sunday Morning, I’ll Be Your Mirror, and Femme Fatale are gentle and comforting, meaning you never get lost in the madness of say European Son or Black Angels Death Song. White Light/ White Heat, however, provides you with no such safety; it is a non-stop trip through chaos. Even the songs which appear to be normal, like the title track and Here She Comes Now, have an underlying sense of malintent, whether it is because of the lyrical content, or the noisy guitars. A song like The Gift, which is a 10-minute spoken word story about a man shipping himself to his girlfriend and being stabbed to death through the box, to the backing music of harsh guitars, somehow isn’t even the most intense experience on the album. The album is most famous for its closing track, a 17-minute beast known as Sister Ray, in which Lou Reed twists a tale of Transgender girls sucking on his ding-dong until they eventually kill each other. White Light/ White Heat is far from my favourite Velvet Underground album, as for me personally, their self-titled albums are untouchable. And it would probably be the last one that I showed to a friend, I was trying to get into the band. But it is undeniably one of the boldest and most unique albums of its time, and though it seems that the band was mostly making it with the intent of being as abstract and funny as possible, it still actually sounds good. The Velvets didn’t invent avant-garde with this album, but they certainly influenced a good deal of musicians who would go on to push boundaries in similar ways. But I wouldn’t fault anyone for thinking that this is overly pretentious, yet vulgar, ’60s drug-induced slop; because it absolutely is, and it’s amazing. Best Songs: Lady Godiva’s Operation, Here She Comes Now, Sister Ray Worst Song: I Heard Her Call My Name Score out of 10: 8.5

Album #44 Marilyn Manson: Antichrist Superstar I never thought that I would listen to an entire Marilyn Manson album in my life, let alone one that goes on for over an hour. I have for a long time considered myself opposed to metal, or at least the type of metal that involves incessant screaming and loud guitars merely for the purpose of uneasing the listener; because at the end of the day, as a listener, I prefer to be at ease; so I never listened to, or had the intent to listen to, anything like this. My only experiences with Marilyn Manson were being scared of him as a kid, Bowling for Columbine, and hearing that he removed his ribs to suck his own dick. I always just assumed he was some gimmick shock musician, all imagery no substance, to trick angsty teens into thinking they were able to fight the power by being edgy. So I was very surprised when his mangled face showed up as my album for the day, on a site that is meant to curate the most essential albums of all time. Do people actually consider him a good musician, or was my initial assessment of him correct, and this album is here on cultural relevance alone? After listening, I’m still inclined to opt for my original understanding. The album actually wasn’t as abrasive as I was expecting, though I really don’t know why I expected an hour and 15 minutes of screaming and guitar noise that would make Sonic Youth blush. The lyrics are certainly of their time, I think I get that he is meant to be playing a character, a rockstar who seems to hate everybody and acts with reckless abandon. But you couldn’t get away with dropping as many slurs as he does throughout this thing today. Not that I have too much of an issue with it, as I’d prefer for nuance not to be lost and art not to be dumbed down so people don’t get offended, but he isn’t exactly saying anything too insightful here. Lots of terms appear revolutionary, but are also mixed in with slurs to scare people and invoke a reaction. “Everybody is someone’s N word” and in the next breath “We hate fascists and capitalists”. But Manson hardly takes a leftist approach in his ideology, instead opting for the edgy centrist “hate everyone equally” approach encapsulated by the song ‘1996’ (on which he says the word superstar as if he was announcing Edge’s entrance in WWE) where he is supposedly anti-money, anti-gay, anti-white, anti-black, but most of all, anti-making a coherent political statement, am I right? Though it is probably pointless to try to examine his lyrics, and I am not going to listen to it again to get a better understanding. I think the main reason this album resonates with people is through the emotion and attitude presented throughout. I can see someone in peak teenage angst belting out one of these songs as a cathartic exercise, and there are some songs here which I actually could see amping me up if I were feeling particularly devious. Trent Reznor's production is also undoubtedly good. I don’t necessarily love every moment of it, but that’s more to do with me not being the biggest industrial music fan. To me, the weakest part of the album might be Manson himself (is he meant ot be Marilyn Manson or is that the name of the band?), often coming across as annoying and tacky. Not an album I would ever want to listen to again, because though I am a fan of horror movies, and fucked-up stories, for whatever reason, that has never translated to my enjoyment of music, I often gravitate to more melodic and enjoyable rather than something that would disturb me. Though this album never actually even managed to make my skin crawl like I thought it might, it mostly just made my eyes roll. A hard one for me to rate, as it was definitely more listenable than I thought, and enjoyable at times; yet that enjoyment requires a lot of cognitive dissonance. So I could see maybe giving it a two-star, but seeing how he is a literal sex criminal, it really doesn’t help make this album any less tacky, and so it definitely deserves its one star. An interesting experience, though. Best Songs: Man That You Fear, Tied Up Dried Up and Dead to the World, Cryptorchid Worst Song: Irresponsible Hate Anthem Score out of 10: 2.5

Album #45 Led Zeppelin: Physical Graffiti Somehow never got around to listening to this one in full before. I’m often intimidated by double albums since a lot of them are just needlessly long (Outkast…), and I find myself just waiting for the good songs to wash up on shore from a sea of trash. I have, however, heard and enjoyed Led Zeppelin 1-4, and I do consider myself a fan of their music, though they would hardly rank amongst my most listened to artists. When I first started seriously getting into music, it was exclusively classic rock, so naturally Zeppelin were heavy in the rotation through their classic songs; I mean, what kind of guy hears Stairway to Heaven for the first time and doesn’t seek more by that band? But even though I’ve liked every album I’ve heard by them, with Led Zeppelin 4 potentially even being a 10 for me, I just never feel compelled to listen to Zeppelin. I think that it’s a pretty mood-dependent band for me, probably due to Robert Plant’s vocal style; sometimes his moaning and whining can give me a headache, other times it brings me to completion. It’s sort of a cliche at this point that if you were to make a supergroup of the best musicians from each instrument, you would wind up just reassembling Led Zeppelin, but enough has already been said about just how talented the band is. Physical Graffiti was an album I was already familiar with, as I’ve listened to the hits quite a bit (particularly Kashmir, which, even before this ranking, was already a top 3 Zeppelin song for me), but its length deterred me from ever listening to it in full. I sort of just assumed it would be some hits mixed in with mindless noodling and overly-dramatic self-falatio from Plant, but damn was I wrong. There is not a single bad or uninteresting song on this album, and it definitely doesn’t feel like it lasts for over an hour. Every song keeps you engaged and flows into the next one quite well. I do think that disc one outshines disc two, simply because every song on it is nigh on perfect, but the fact that disc two doesn’t even feel like a noticeable drop off is a testament in itself. I think the only reason I am not giving this one the full five is due to the fact that I sort of get lost in the album, even when I try to focus and pay attention to each song as it changes, I blink, and suddenly I’m 12 songs deep. Which isn’t even a bad thing since it means that the album is captivating, but combined with Plant’s vocal delivery, it sort of becomes hard for me to decipher what he’s saying and differentiate the songs at times. That is probably just a me issue though and definitely nit-picking, but if I even feel a bit of reluctance to give out the 5 star, I tend to play it safe. Best Tracks: Kashmir, Houses of the Holy, Trampled Under Foot (What a 3-song run) Worst Track: Black Country Woman Score out of 10: 9.5

Album #46 Youssou N'Dour: Immigres Pretty cool album, definitely not one I ever would have listened to. The album is pretty short too, so it doesn’t outstay its welcome despite the song lengths being a bit long. Sort of falls into the same category as Vento de Maio for me, an enjoyable album, but since it’s in another language, it doesn’t have too much re-listen potential for me. While it’s on though, it is quite fun; the horns especially were good. I do wonder if there is a non-English album on this list that will truly captivate me; I feel like a lot of my enjoyment from music comes from the lyricism and being able to sing along, and since I’m a pathetic monoglot, I’m resigned to English albums. So though it isn’t bad, it’s gonna be in the 5 range for me, which isn’t a bad score per se, just means not much desire for a reslisten. Best Tracks: Immigres/ Bitim Rew, Badou, Pitche Mi Worst Track: Taaw Score out of 10: 5.5

Album #47 Frank Ocean: Channel Orange Since I’m Gen Z, I’ve always heard from people around my age that Frank Ocean is the G.O.A.T., and that Blond and Channel Orange are among the greatest albums of all time. Despite this, before listening to this album, I genuinely couldn’t name a single Frank Ocean song; it’s likely that I’ve heard one and might recognize it, but I wouldn’t have been able to tell you it was Frank Ocean. I knew that he was popular, but I didn’t expect for him yo have almost 40 million monthly listeners and multiple songs with over a billion streams, after seeing that I thought that I would for sure recognize some songs from this album, but the only thing I ended up recognizing was that the “potato flew around my room” meme was a parody of “Thinkin Bout You”. Going into this knowing all of Ocean’s praise and the mystique around his persona, I did expect something pretty spectacular, especially since I didn’t really have any idea how it would sound. Maybe it was due to my high expectations, but nothing about Channel Orange seemed that special to me. Don’t get me wrong, it is a good album, pretty consistently enjoyable, with no distractingly bad tracks on it; but there wasn’t really anything here that felt groundbreaking and blew me away. I suppose if it were the younger generations' introduction to R&B, it would have felt quite refreshing coming out of the indie-rock-dominated 2000s; however, what R&B that I do listen to is much older, and I definitely prefer the 2000s indie-rock to this. I never have related much to overly sexualised R&B, though I understand that it is the sort of music that is supposed to make you horny, I guess, which isn’t exactly why I listen to music; this is reflected in my pretty harsh score for “The Love Below”. Ocean’s lyrics at times seem a bit hollow to me, but overall they aren’t too bad, just with the way people talk about the guy, I was sort of expecting the next Bob Dylan with Marvin Gaye’s voice. On his voice, it’s obviously very good technically, but there are times when he goes really high, and I’m not sure if it is how it is mixed, or what, but I find it pretty grating. There is that one Carseat Headrest song where they say give me Frank Ocean’s voice, and I’ll be your rock god, but frankly, no vocal performance on this album matches Sober to Death, so I’m not sure why they were asking for a downgrade. This review seems harsh, but I did like most of the songs, Earl Sweatshirt’s verse was good, and though I’m not the biggest Outkast fan, I thought Andre 3000’s verse was solid. Bad Religion is a pretty powerful song, and the closest that Frank Ocean got to matching the praise I hear thrown at him. Definitely a solid album though, and I can see myself potentially enjoying Blond a good bit if it is meant to be much better than this. Best Songs: Bad Religion, Super Rich Kids, Lost Worst Song: Pilot Jones Score out of 10: 6

Album #48 Charles Mingus: The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady Seeing how I have been on the site RateYourMusic before, I am aware of Charles Mingus, and particularly this album of his, The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady. This is because I have browsed the all-time best album chart, and this album happened to catch my eye; it is a bit juvenile but me and my friends thought the name Mingus was funny and since we don’t listen to jazz, Mingus became sort of a joke amongst us, a reference point for pretentious music that we would never listen to no matter how many dorks on RateYourMusic said it was good. Jazz is a genre in which I frankly never had any desire to explore, even though I consider myself somewhat intelligent, and I do often like art which some consider pretentious; at the end of the day, when it comes to music, I am pretty basic. My favourite albums are those that are built upon catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and pleasant instrumentals. If an album doesn’t have at least one song that I can belt along to word-for-word, then I’m not really interested. Jazz is sort of the polar opposite of that ethos; it is intentionally complicated and inaccessible, with no clear melodies or memorable lyrics. It is sort of a cliche that Jazz is extremely technical and impressive music, played for a small audience, while rock music is technically simple yet played for a massive audience, of which I find myself amongst. But despite my reservations towards jazz, I knew that I had to give this album a fair shake, if not simply due to its universal acclaim, then for its reputation amongst my friends. My first listen was about what I expected; it was good for a jazz album, insofar as I enjoyed it about as much as I figured I could enjoy jazz, probably around the 7/10 range. However, it was on my second listen that I started to actually realize a few things about this album, jazz, and myself. This won’t be an extremely technical review, since the things that I enjoyed about the music and wish I were able to express with words are simply alien to me; I can’t even properly identify what instruments were playing in certain passages. But what I can hopefully convey are the emotions that I felt. The biggest revelation that I had during my second listen is that jazz (or whatever you would call this) should not be considered the same art form as simple rock or pop music. My biggest disservice to the genre was holding it to the standards that I would expect from those genres, but thinking about it now, it is lunacy to try to compare this and something like What’s The Story by Oasis. Jazz, much like rock/pop, is an art form which focuses on auditory perception to invoke emotion, and that is where the similarities end. I previously assumed I wouldn’t like jazz due to its lack of the song structure that I was used to, specifically, lyrics. But what I noticed about The Black Saint and The Sinner Lady was that, though there were no words being spoken, there was still communication. Each instrument was speaking to the other as if they were engaging in open discourse at a symposium; a story was being told not through explicit words, but through a form of communication that ignores your brain and speaks directly to your soul. The words will be different for each listener, as they are vague yet powerful, conjuring up the most buried memory and fleeting feeling that you have ever experienced. At times, the music is chaotic, which is why the album can have some sort of barrier upon entry. It is hard for someone like me with no technical understanding to differentiate the noises and try to make sense of what I’m hearing. But once you are able to stop asking for the answers, and instead start listening to them, you find the beauty amongst the chaos. The actual music feels so familiar to me, yet at the same time sounds like nothing I’ve ever heard. Most of my experience with jazz has come through its usage in cinema, which is why the album has such a cinematic and picturesque feel to me. There are parts of the album that almost sound like an old western movie, then a few moments later, it sounds like the climax to a thriller. The Black Saint and The Sinner Lady is a reminder of who you are, an experience which explores your soul and lays it bare. I still think that after hearing this, I’ll be able to enjoy simple music, but at the same time, I wonder if, as a society, we have regressed in our art. I have always enjoyed classical music for its ability to express emotion so colourfully, so I’m unsure why I wrote off jazz, as it sort of feels like the spiritual successor. I had a moment of realization mid-way through the final track, that my shitty 20-dollar Amazon wireless earbuds were capable of creating noises so impactful; such a small and insignificant object has the potential convey such technical and emotive sound. This whole blurb of text definitely comes across as some guy who tried psychedelics for the first time and thinks he is the only one who has undergone ego-death, but I’m just excited that I’ve actually had such a unique experience with music that I wasn’t expecting. Part of me wonders if I’m waxing lyrical a bit too much; maybe it wasn’t actually that good, maybe I just like the idea of what I’m describing more than what I actually felt. But regardless, it certainly won’t be the last time that I listen to this album, and this certainly won’t be where I end my newly discovered interest in jazz. The only part of this album which I would say wasn’t perfect was the first track, which has sort of an abrasive string sound that kept repeating, and ending on a pretty chaotic note; but it’s hard to dock it points for that since it was clearly intentional in setting up the subsequent tracks. I almost don’t want to give this album a 10 since it is incredibly tacky for the one jazz album that I listened to, which just so happens to be the most well-regarded jazz album of all time, to have supposedly blown my mind in such a way. But from what I gather, this album is actually one of the harder Mingus albums to get into, so the fact that it clicked for me this early proves to me that I actually might like jazz a whole lot more than I thought I did. So if I end up becoming a jazz aficionado like I suspect I might, I will always look back to my first experience with the genre, and so I will undoubtedly have to give this album it’s flowers (or I’ll never listen to another jazz album again, change this rating to a 7, and think “man what was I on that night”). Also, the title is one of my favourite album titles, even before I ever thought I would enjoy it, and Mingus has a lot of aura on the cover. Best Songs: Trio and Group Dancers, Group Dancers, Duet Solo Dancers Worst Song: None Score out of 10: 10

Album #49 R.E.M.: Document Of the R.E.M. albums that I’ve heard, I’ve enjoyed all of them, and of the ones that I’ve heard multiple times, I’ve really enjoyed both of them (Murmur and Automatic for the People). So I’m unsure why I never decided to give R.E.M. a complete discography listen. To me, they are sort of just an always the bridesmaid never the bride type band, consistently enjoyable, yet never my absolute favourite. When it comes to 80s alternative bands from the United States, I’m far more likely to put on some Pixies or Replacements. But that doesn’t mean that R.E.M. aren’t around that level, they are a band with undeniable hits (which this album has a few of), as well as having really consistent and fun deeper cuts. Document leans more into the sound of Automatic for the People than it does Murmur, more conventional and clean-sounding, with quirky lyricism. I do think that I prefer the earlier R.E.M. stuff, which has a more hazy feel to it for me. End of the World was the first big R.E.M. song that I found, and it probably remains my favourite from this album, such an undeniably fun and energetic song. The only bad thing about R.E.M. is that they spawned a series of imitators who just simply weren’t as talented or clever as them, but thought they were. As a Canadian I have seen firsthand the good and the bad R.E.M. clones, on one hand we have the Tragically Hip who borrow R.E.M.’s sound yet make it their own through themes and lyricism, and on the other hand we have The Barenaked Ladies who attempt to steal R.E.M.’s formula but with even more quirkiness, the result is an abomination like the song “One Week”. Though I wouldn’t put Document amongst my favourite albums by R.E.M., it is still a great album by most standards. I like the commentary on labour throughout, and there really isn’t a bad song here. Best Songs: It’s The End Of The World As We Know It, Exhuming McCarthy, King of Birds Worst Song: Lightnin’ Hopkins Score out of 10: 8

Album #50 The Prodigy: Music For The Jilted Generation Though I am a very big fan of one massive wave/movement of music that came out of the United Kingdom in the 90s, that being Britpop, I have related all that much to its rival movement, which is the electronica buzz. Whereas Britpop is a reimbracing of traditional British rock and pop music, electronic music instead attempted to establish a new sound, one movement looking to the past, and the other to the future. Ironically, when it comes to electronic music, the future (or the present) never was able to eclipse its roots. Whereas the 90s had artists like Aphex Twin, Air, The Chemical Brothers, and The Prodigy, nowadays we have dross EDM by the likes of Alan Walker, TheFatRat, and Vikkstar123. Maybe that is why I have never been into electronic music; I have always associated it with Roblox montage videos, or more favourably, the Rocket League soundtrack. Interestingly, Music For The Jilted Generation also gave me video game vibes, but moreso old school 90s game vibes, like Sonic or Marvel vs Capcom. I definitely do prefer this album to what I’ve heard of contemporary electronic music, and it probably is the best electronic album that I’ve received from this list so far, as it is far more interesting than Haunted Dancehall and Smoker’s Delight. Though it does have something in common with those albums, which is that it goes on for far too long, like seemingly every '90s album. The length didn’t bother me too much, however, as I decided to boot up some Rocket League while listening to this thing, so it all felt pretty natural. A song like Voodoo People, while good, definitely went on to influence some pretty dire and obnoxious EDM that your little cousin would play from his tablet. I think for an electronic album, this was actually pretty good, but I wouldn’t be too eager to return to most of it. Best Songs: No Good (Start The Dance), 3 Kilos, Voodoo People Worst Song: One Love Score out of 10: 6

Album #51 The Libertines: The Libertines The Libertines are a band which somehow skirted past my radar, despite me being a fan of the garage-rock revival of the 2000s and most British indie music. The first time I heard of them was when reading the NME top 100 albums list, on which they had two albums, which was strange for me, considering I had never heard of them. I know that NME is pretty controversial in their blatant English bias, but truthfully, I have the music taste of a 50-year-old British man, so I found myself agreeing with a lot of the list. So I have been meaning to check out the Libertines for a while, but I just never got around to it. What I will say is that I do think that NME overrated the band, but I also think the backlash that they have received from that is pretty umwarramted, this is a damn good 2000s indie record. It reminds me of the Arctic Monkeys in the instrumentals and singing style, but instead of being on cocaine like the Monkeys were for their debut, The Libertines are on quaaludes on this album. They lack the raw energy that Arctic Monkeys had, but that doesn’t necessarily make this worse, just a lot more mellow. I think if you like this sound and scene in general, you are going to like this album, pretty much non-stop bangers and fun songs; however, if you were alive during this time, I can see how you might have become inundated with the genre and felt that this album was simply more of the same. For me, this is an album which I will almost certainly return to, though it wouldn’t be my first choice from this era. Best Songs: What Became of the Likely Lads, Music When The Lights Go Out, Can’t Stand Me Now Worst Song: Don’t Be Shy Score out of 10: 8.5

Album #52 Kate Bush: Hounds of Love One of the most lush-sounding albums that I’ve ever heard. Normally, when you think of dream pop, you would imagine artists such as Cocteau Twins or Beach House, who focus much more on atmosphere rather than lyrical substance and storytelling, trying to capture a hazy, dreamlike nature. But not every dream consists of you falling in and out of rainbows and trying to make sense of your surroundings; some dreams feel real, scary, and important; all of these emotions are covered on Hounds of Love. Though it isn’t dream pop in the traditional sense, Kate Bush evokes memories of experiences that I’ve never had in the material world; they must exist on a non-linear plane. When hearing Running Up That Hill, I remember ascending to heaven to haggle with God himself like an Indian street vendor. When I hear Waking the Witch, I remember summoning my sleep paralysis demon and engaging in fiery combat. The threads that Kate Bush spins are so fantastical, yet innately universal; none of us has run alongside the Hounds of Love, yet all of us know the feeling. This album has proven itself to be everlasting in its influence and impact. I started this review preparing for a caveat where I mention that though it is brilliant, it isn’t quite a 10, but frankly, I think I’ve talked myself into making the right decision here. Best Songs: Cloudbusting, Running Up That Hill, Hounds of Love Worst Song: None Score out of 10: 10

Album #53 Buzzcocks: Another Music In A Different Kitchen Potentially their best studio album, or at least their most important. The godfathers of pop-punk were really the first band to go mainstream, blending punk attitude and vocal delivery with pop structure and instrumentals. So, because of that, their debut will always be the go-to album for a list like this, since it was the most innovative. However, their first three albums are all very similar in quality, which is why my preferred Buzzcocks listening comes from their behemoth compilation album Singles Going Steady, which combines all the best tracks from their first three albums; notably including their magnum opus: Ever Fallen in Love? (With Someone You Shouldn’t Have). But a lot of the best tracks are also on Another Music in a Different Kitchen, the album is very consistent and energetic, the only song I don’t really enjoy, though a classic, is Orgasm Addict, simply due to the moaning. Best Songs: Fiction Romance, Fast Cars, What Do I Get? Worst Song: Orgasm Addict Score out of 10: 7

Album #54 The Beta Band: Hot Shots II Honestly don’t really know what to say about this one, just run-of-the-mill, bog-standard music. The type of music which inspires no one and offends no one just sort of happens. I will give them this, though; they certainly live up to their name, as this is probably the personification of beta-male cuck chair music. Not even notable enough to give a one-star since it didn’t even really try anything that would make me annoyed enough to give it that low of a score, they simply play it incredibly safe, to the point where it is mildly enjoyable. I’m mostly mad because this belongs nowhere near a must-hear album list and took up a spot which thousands of other albums would be more deserving of. Best Songs: Alleged, Squares, Eclipse Worst Song: Life Score out of 10: 5

Album #55 Bruce Springsteen: Darkness on the Edge of Town My first album from the boss on this list, but I doubt it will be the last. I think that every white kid who grew up poor will relate to Bruce’s music in some sort of way. He doesn’t write as traditionally eloquent as someone like Dylan, but he certainly has a way of converting the grime and minutiae of working-class life into words. Every Springsteen song feels as though it is its own coming-of-age movie, specifically on his earlier albums, just pure slice of life growing pains made to sound as dramatic and glamorous as they feel. I know that Bruce’s voice can be controversial, but to me, there is absolutely no better vessel for his lyrics, as he truthfully sounds authentic in what he is preaching. The issue with Heartland Rock sometimes can be that the singer almost sounds like a poser, someone who, for whatever reason, likes the aesthetic of the salt of the earth working class greaser, but never actually lived it, and in the words of Jarvis Cocker, “Nobody likes a tourist”. But Bruce never had that issue; it is painfully aware from the way he writes and the passion with which he sings that he lived that life, and he knows all the people who come from that life. Born to Run ranks very highly amongst my favourite albums of all time, as it is the perfect blend of Bruce’s lyrics and the E-Street Band at their best musically. After that, I am quite partial to Nebraska and his debut as they both have such unique and cinematic sounds that set them apart from the rest of his discography. But after that, in my ranking would be Darkness on the Edge of Town, an album which very successfully attempts to follow up Born to Run. Though it doesn’t have the most unique sound, it is probably the quintessential example of Bruce’s sound. Working class ballads backed by extravagant guitars, keys, and sax solos. Badlands is one of the boss's finest, starting the album on such a raucous note, but that proves to be deceptive as the rest of the album is more delicate and thoughtful. I do hope I can see Springsteen live one day, as there is truly no one like him. As Canadians, we have been blessed as a nation with our singer-songwriters: Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, and Leonard Cohen, to name a few, but I have always said if I could change any American into a Canadian, it would be the Boss. Though I suppose Greetings From Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, doesn’t quite have the same ring as Asbury Park, New Jersey. Best Songs: Badlands, The Promised Land, Prove It All Night Worst Song: Factory Score out of 10: 9

Album #56 Oasis: Definitely Maybe This album is probably the closest to getting a 5-star, that isn’t quite a five-star. I am a pretty unashamed massive Oasis fan, even before they reunited, and it became cool to like them again. I love pretty much all Britpop to be honest, but if you were to ask me, Oasis or Blur, Oasis would win without hesitation (though Pulp sweep both). I have always just gravitated more towards Oasis since they just seem like working-class lads who wanted to make rock and roll anthems like their heroes. Their influences are all over Definitely Maybe, perhaps the most famous example being the riff from Cigarettes and Alcohol being borrowed directly from T.Rex. Oasis represented the revival of 60s and 70s rock and roll, which had sort of been lost in the 80s in the UK, replaced with movements that I am also quite fond of, like New Wave, Synthpop, Post-Punk, Jangle Pop, Dreampop, etc. Oasis is hardly the hardest rocking band of all time; they are much more similar to The Beatles than to Led Zeppelin, their songs are often more pop-structured and discuss themes of love, glamour, and even food. For the longest time, Definitely Maybe has been my go-to Oasis album, mostly due to the fact that one of my favourite songs of all time, Live Forever, is the centrepiece. Though in recent times I have come to the realization that What’s The Story might just be fractionally more consistent. But both albums to me exist directly on the periphery of what constitutes a perfect album to me. I could nitpick certain flaws, but at the end of the day, my only criterion is how an album makes me feel, and man, does Oasis make me feel. I think the reason I have opted for a 9.5 here isn’t due to me not liking any track in particular (I’m like the only guy who loves Digsy’s Dinner), but more so because I rate my 10s comparatively. Hounds of Love is an album which I gave a ten, but I probably have more connection to Defintely Maybe, but Hounds of Love is an incredibly unique album which can’t be compared to any other, whereas with Definitely maybe, I prefer another Oasis album and at least two Pulp albums within the Britpop genre, so it’s hard to say it’s a 10. Either way, though, Oasis are magical, and overrated by people desperate to seem like they have intelligent taste, who force themselves to ignore their primal urge to get up and scream “I JUST WANT TO FLY” with the rest of us. Best Songs: Live Forever, Slide Away, Supersonic Worst Song: Bring it on Down Score out of 10: 9.5

Album #57 Taylor Swift:1989 I don’t know if I would consider myself a Taylor Swift hater, but I certainly do find her whole cult of personality and fandom to be extremely cringe and off-putting. I’ve never really been inclined to listen to her music, mostly because I don’t really listen to that much contemporary music, and also because I sort of just assume everything that gets played on the radio ad nauseam can’t have come from a decent album. Being a kid in the 2010s, I am well aware of more Taylor Swift songs than I’d care to admit, and due to the pure over-exposure that they had at the time, I certainly didn’t enjoy any of them. So when I got this album, firstly, I was quite dismissive that a Taylor Swift album would make a list like this; yes, it is popular, but this list should really prioritize musical credibility. Then I looked at the track list, and I noticed quite a few songs that would torment me on car rides home; growing up in a house of all women, I quickly became sick of a lot of pop music. Well, it is now 2026, over a decade on from when I first established my opinions on her music, I am now 21 and graduating from university, and it seems as though Taylor Swift did, in fact, bang the whole time. I really didn’t think I held any nostalgia for the era of 2010s pop music, but it turns out that after being removed from it for a while, it actually feels incredibly fresh and fun. Maybe I’m just out of touch, but I feel like there isn’t this type of music being made anymore. There used to be hundreds of pop acts churning out massive, cheesy, catchy bangers to play on the radio. I saw a video about Bruno Mars, another name who I would never associate myself with usually, where they played like ten of his songs that I recognized, and were all kind of bangers; the point of the video was that they were all from the same album, and proved that we are all bigger Bruno Mars fans than we thought we were, and I just had the same realization for Taylor Swift. I don’t think Taylor Swift will have many other projects that hit for me like this one, because frankly, her writing really doesn’t appeal to me. She is a good writer when it comes to making pop music that appeals to young women, but she never really matured from that, and now that she is almost 40, it really doesn’t have the same charm as when she was young. I have always been a fan of 80s music, even the cheesiest of synthpop and new wave I am a sucker for, so her making an album that attempts to replicate the sound of the 80s new romantic era also appeals to me, particularly. It is not very flattering for me to give a Swift album this high of a score, as I like to think I have somewhat decent taste; but the fact is, I can’t lie to what my brain perceives when hearing these songs, non-stop bangers the whole way through. Realistically could rate it higher, but I feel like this is an album that hits in small doses; it is like candy: eat a few, and it is magic; eat a pound, and you are vomiting. Best Songs: Style, Wildest Dreams, Blank Space Worst Song: I Know Places Score out of 10: 8.5

Album #58 Red Snapper: Our Aim is to Satisfy If their aim was to satisfy, then they didn’t achieve their goal. I don’t know much about electronic music, but according to this list, neither does anyone else. Every electronic album on this list is completely obscure, overly indulgent, and entirely a waste of time. I do wonder if there will be any electronic albums that I’ve actually heard of, like Aphex Twin or Boards of Canada, because as it looks right now, there isn’t a single electronic album on this list I would actually return to. I did hit 12k trophies in Clash Royale while listening, though, so this album gets a bonus point. Best Songs: Alaska Street, Keeping Pigs Together, Don’t Go Nowhere Worst Song: The Rough and the Quick Score out of 10: 3

Album #59 Public Enemy: Fear Of A Black Planet I think that old-school hip-hop had less to do with making enjoyable music, and more so about packaging important messages for the black community in a digestible manner. It is much easier to radicalize the youth by giving them something catchy to remember rather than boring them to death with lectures. For whatever reason, I just don’t get gripped by much rap; it seems weird to say because the music was really high-energy and dense lyrically, but this album just bores me. The messaging is fine and well, though I can’t say I relate to much or feel too empowered by it. I find it hard to care about my own problems, let alone everyone else's. For me, music is an escape, so I’d rather drift away than be yelled at for over an hour. Why is every rap and electronic album over an hour…To be honest, I thought that the front man was charismatic and compelling, though it wasn’t enough because the lyrics at times were pretty corny. I think that for what this album is, it is probably great, I just don’t enjoy whatever it is, so disregard my opinion. Best Songs: Revolutionary Generation, Welcome to the Terrordome, Pollywanacraka Worst Song: Can’t Do Nuttin For Ya Man! Score out of 10: 4

Album #60 Metallica: ...And Justice For All Not really a metal guy, mostly due to my not really understanding what metal is. My whole life I kind of just assumed it was all really harsh and scratchy guitars and screamo vocals, which I can’t stand. But I have enjoyed quite a few 70s albums which have been considered metal, especially Black Sabbath, as they often resembled the hard rock of the time. I think Metallica is in the middle period between when metal was more like rock, then when it became more like hardcore and even rap (nu-metal). I have been known to enjoy some Metallica songs; the band is so big that a lot of them are unavoidable. I often struggle to really differentiate their music, as I just don’t have an ear for it. This album is quite enjoyable, never really annoying, but to me, it seems like the same template of song done well, over and over again. Though I did like the acoustic elements, I felt like those created a more diverse sound. A pretty good listen, I’m open to more metal, but this one wasn’t quite enough to make a fan out of me. Best Songs: One, To Live is to Die, Blackened Worst Song: The Frayed Ends of Sanity Score out of 10: 7

Album #61 Leftfield: Leftism With a name like Leftism by the Leftfield, I was expecting some sort of socialist punk; however, knowing the nature of this list, I really shouldn’t be surprised that it was another pointless, long, obscure, British electronic album from the nineties. Entirely forgettable, nothing really to say; however, this one didn’t annoy me as much as the previous five, so I guess it’s a two-star; maybe I’m just getting used to this scene, and after 100 more albums of this type, I’ll finally give in and give one a 5. Best Songs: Release the Pressure, Original, Open Up Worst Song: Afro Left Score out of 10: 4.5

Album #62 Cat Stevens: Tea For The Tillerman Cat Stevens, as an artist, is one who I feel like is more appreciated with the younger generation than he was in his time. I’ve heard quite a few people who were around for his cultural peak refer to his songs as overly sappy and corny, and I suppose his attitude about returning to a simpler time may have been not as novel then as it is now. I do have quite a bit of personal attachment to this album, as I grew up listening to some songs on it, namely the hits Wild World and Father and Son, songs which, no matter how many times I hear them, will always deeply resonate with me. The whole album is such a pleasant experience, never outstays its welcome, and each song feels comforting, like home; it just makes me want to leave it all behind, move to the countryside and live on a farm. I can’t think of another album that captures this feeling so well. Stevens vocals, though comforting, will often times surprise you with his passion. An album like this can very easily fall into the tacky category if the artist doesn’t fully commit and believe what he is saying, which Stevens definitely does. When I was compiling a list of albums to give my friends, this one was immediately on my mind; it just feels so personal and important to me. I think that this album may not be the most impressive technically, it certainly doesn’t reinvent the wheel, and it is often quite simple. Yet as far as consistently enjoyable experiences, it doesn’t get much better than this for me personally. I think having a shorter album is something that is underutilized amongst artists, often with albums that stretch on for about an hour, I will find moments that I don’t quite resonate with, which is why it is definitely more impressive for a long album to get a 10. But sometimes, an artist knows exactly what they want to convey, and they do just that without adding on any extra bloat. I didn’t think I would give this album a perfect score despite my attachment to it, but I really can’t find any flaw with this thing. So, Cat, my old friend, I hope you’ll be there for me whenever I need to turn to you and the Tillerman, like you always have been. Best Songs: Wild World, Father and Son, Where Do the Children Play Worst Song: None Score out of 10: 10

Album #63 The Doors: The Doors Wonderful 60s psychedelic rock, probably the poster album for the scene alongside Jimi Hendrix’s “Are You Experienced” and The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band”, out of the three, however, The Doors' self-titled debut may well be my favourite. At the time it came out, it was the most raunchy and offensive album to go mainstream, practically redefining what popular music would look like. The Beatles had already introduced experimentation into the mainstream with songs like Tomorrow Never Knows, but they hadn’t explored such taboo themes like looking for little girls and whiskey bars, as well as someone killing their father and fucking their mother. Jim Morrison is, of course, an enigma in and of himself; many people feel as though he is just some mindless junkie, or perhaps someone trying to maintain the appearance of an out-of-control rock star, but considering how his life ended, I think it’s fair to say that he really lived that shit. Almost all of the songs on this album have aged well, with many still being culturally relevant. The final track “The End’ is certainly the most ambitious, it reminds me of The Velvet Underground’s “Sister Ray”, in its length and subject matter, both also coming out around the same time. Psych bands today still take massive influence from The Doors, for better or for worse, because it often doesn’t hit the same when some rich kid from New York uses their parents' money to rent a studio and do their best Jim Morrison impression, but the youth of today treat it like they are reinventing the wheel… Either way, a one-of-a-kind, magnanimous album and a definite favourite of mine. Similar to Who’s Next in that it just isn’t quite a 10 due to the fact that, since some tracks are so good, it outshines the others, which, though unfair, results in a mild detraction in its score. Best Songs: Light My Fire, The End, The Crystal Ship Worst Song: Back Door Man Score out of 10: 9.5

Album #64 Underworld: Second Toughest In The Infants Obscure hour-plus British electronic album from the nineties, part 10. Starting to feel like the curator of this list may have had a type, not so much the 1001 albums you need to hear before you die, but rather the 1001 albums this random British guy had heard. This one was probably the best of the batch, bar The Prodigy. Unlike the other electronic albums, which pretty much just do the same thing, I feel like this one tried to push the genre a bit. The vocals in the first track gave me Joy Division vibes, and for some reason, the last track gave me R.E.M vibes. I think Rowla was a really annoying track, but the rest were just dull at worst. Best Tracks: Pearl’s Girl, Banstyle/ Sappy’s Curry, Confusion The Waitress Worst Track: Rowla Score out of 10: 5

Album #65 War: The World is a Ghetto Pretty solid 70s soul album, though to be honest, there are many better albums from that era I would rather return to. Though I am hardly the authority since I don’t care all that much for What’s Goin On by Marvin Gaye, so clearly my taste when it comes to soul is skewed. I found moments of this album to be enjoyable, but for the most part, it was fairly uninteresting. Best Songs: The World Is a Ghetto, Where Was You At, The Cisco Kid Worst Song: City, Country, City Score out of 10: 5.5

Album #66 Jimmy Smith: Back At The Chicken Shack Charles Mingus made me believe that he was a genius when I heard “The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady”, Jimmy Smith confirmed that Charles Mingus is a genius when I heard “Back at the Chicken Shack”. After hearing my first jazz album, the aforementioned Mingus record, I thought that I might actually grow to really enjoy the genre, but this album reinforced my previously held beliefs. There really isn’t anything wrong with it, but after the second track, I was completely bored; the main issue I have with jazz is when it establishes a sound and then gets comfortable. This album is perfectly fine in the background, but active listeners quickly become bored due to the lack of challenge. The best song on this album is the first, a rather enjoyable and groovy tune that makes you look forward to what else Mr. Smith has in store for us, but then you find out over the next 40 minutes that that was all he had in store for us; the rest of the album is just a noodling variation of the already established sound. The use of repetition can be done right, but it needs to be interspersed with new and exciting sounds. Mingus created chaos, but within that were refuges of familiar sounds; he used the repetition as a tool, not as a crutch. I know that it is unfair to compare everything under the jazz label with Mingus, but I’m starting to fear my enjoyment of jazz peaked with my first foray into it. The sad irony in my comparison between Jimmy Smith and Charles Mingus is that only one of them has bestowed upon themselves the moniker of ‘incredible’, and it isn’t the one who earned it. Best Songs: Back at the Chicken Shack, When I Grow Too Old to Dream, On The Sunny Side of the Street Worst Song: Messy Bessie Score out of 10: 4.5

Album #67 Stephen Stills: Manassas I feel like every album on this list is within a few degrees of separation from Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, out of any band ever, they surely have the biggest reach between members combined projects. From CSNY to Crosby, Stills, and Nash, to Buffalo Springfield, The Byrds, The Hollies, all of their solo efforts, hell, you can even get a direct link to Pearl Jam through Neil Young; truly one of the most talented and impactful groups of musicians. However, other than Neil Young, whose solo catalogue I am in awe of, I have never ventured into the other members' solo projects. Though to call Manassas a solo project would be a bit disrespectful, since it is actually another group spearheaded by Stills involving respected musicians such as Chris Hillman of The Byrds. This album is sort of just a massive set of songs where Stills and the gang throw everything they have and see what sticks, and more often than not, they hit. There is a lot to get out of this project, probably would take repeated listens to truly get a grasp of the contents inside of it, but from what I gathered from my listen, there is definite quality. Maybe if they were a bit more selective and cut it down to around 40 minutes or so we would be talking about a classic album, but they certainly went for something more ambitious and fans of Stills won’t be disappointed. As for me, I enjoyed it a good deal, but I won’t be clamouring to return to it. Best Songs: Colorado, Move Around, Johnny’s Garden Worst Song: The Love Gangster Score out of 10: 7

Album #68 N.E.R.D: Fly or Die Another case where I am quite perplexed as to why an album is on the list. I had never heard of this band before, but after minimal research, I quickly discovered that it was fronted by Pharrell Williams, whose involvement in the project made it seem like a somewhat more justified choice. Pharrell, of course, is a legendary producer, yet it always seems like people only really appreciate him when he is collaborating with, or featuring on, another artist's music. His solo career is quite controversial, with songs like “Happy” being considered one of the most annoying songs of all time. Although after discussing with my friends who are much more into this type of music than I am, they assured me that N.E.R.D did have some good music, especially their album “In Search Of”; confusingly, however, they had never heard of this album. So I checked RateYourMusic, which obviously isn’t a great source, but I wanted a feel for how this album was perceived, and yet again, it seems like this is an entirely forgettable album. Oh well, I will still give it a fair chance, and maybe I will understand its inclusion… No, this thing is pretty unremarkable. I didn’t mind it as much as I thought I would, but there really isn’t anything here that appealed to me too much. There is interesting genre-blending and some cool instrumentals, but the lyrics often don’t resonate with me too much, not really big on the whole nerdcore hip-hop thing. I normally don’t spoil albums on the list for myself, but I was curious if “In Search Of’ also made the cut, and I am quite surprised it didn’t. So overall, just another baffling inclusion on this list, not terrible, but nothing special. Best Songs: Breakout, Find My Way, Drill Sergeant Worst Song: Backseat Love Score out of 10:4.5

Album #69 Elvis Costello: My Aim Is True When I was younger, I would confuse Elvis Costello with Woody Allen. I don’t know why that confusion came up multiple times, but it did. They do look quite similar, sort of scrawny guys with glasses, at first appear to be nerds, but somehow they have an undeniably charisma and swagger to them that makes them appealing to women. Costello’s music is quirky and pulp in nature, similar to Allen’s comedy; so it is probably no mistake that I now think of both of them as geniuses. One last comparison I’ll make of Costello is that he has always felt to me like the British Springsteen. I hear quite a few similarities in their voice and rambling presence, as well as the working-class themes and tales of young love they present. But onto Costello himself, if New Wave were to be represented by an actual wave in the ocean, then Elvis Costello would be like JKL from SpongeBob; he rode that wave like no other. Costello is potentially the second most influential British musician of the 70s, when judging by the impact they had on the 80s, only after Eno and Roxy Music. The entire New Wave sound of the early 80s can be traced back to him. My Aim Is True is his debut and potentially most influential album, as it set the stage for what would come, and for my money, it may well be his best. There really isn’t a bad song on this album. It’s less than 40 minutes, the songs are short, non-stop banger: essentially my ideal template of an album. I can certainly understand that this wouldn’t appeal to everyone, but if you get it, then there aren’t many people who can do it better than Costello. A fairly appropriate album for my number 69, though I have to say that This Year’s Model may have been slightly more fitting. Best Songs: Less Than Zero, Watching The Detectives, Alison Worst Song: Mystery Dance Score out of 10: 9

Blur to me has always felt like the bridesmaids of Britpop, sure, they were undoubtedly the second biggest band of the movement (Oasis were bigger, I won’t hear otherwise), but they never seemed to settle into the Britpop label as other bands did. Of the big four, Suede practically invented the sound, Pulp were able to reinvent themselves because of the movement, and Oasis is a band which can only exist inside the confines of a national musical wave. Blur did produce Britpop music and did experience success because of it, yet to me, they have always sort of felt like outsiders, joining in because that is what was popular at the time. Blur never really did have that classic album, I suppose Parklife was their closest, but even that didn’t quite achieve the level of acclaim that their contemporaries had; Oasis had What’s The Story, Pulp had Different Class, even The Manic Street Preachers had The Holy Bible. Blur, or more accurately, Damon Albarn, never really felt like they belonged, or like their hearts were in it. If you ask a Blur fan their favourite album, you would most likely hear the answer 13, which has far more to do with the American indie/alternative scene at the time than with Britpop. Blur’s self-titled is the band's first array into that sound, the famous example being Song 2, which is said to be a parody of Nirvana and the Grunge scene, but Blur is full of experimentation. I do consider myself to be a massive Britpop fan, Pulp are a top two band all-time for me, yet I never really connected too much with Blur. I feel like each Blur album has a handful of amazing songs, but then the rest is just simply average to good. I feel as though most of their albums are bloated. Damon’s vocals are also hit or miss for me. Sometimes he sings with great passion, and other times he sounds uninterested. I do quite like them on this album, however, as it seems at times like he is doing a David Bowie impression, which is a positive in my eyes. I think it really isn’t any surprise that Damon went on to do Gorilliaz, whereas Pulp, Oasis, Suede, etc., fit the Britpop movement, and therefore produced the music that they felt represented them. Noel Gallagher or Jarvis Cocker didn’t go on to reinvent themselves because they accomplished what they wanted to in the 90s. You can tell that Damon always dreamed of more. Say what you want about Gorillaz, you can tell that it is the music he always wanted to make. As for Blur, I actually did just re-listen to this album the other day, so the timing was quite nice as it was still fresh in my mind. I think this may be the best Blur album; there isn’t really a bad song here. I definitely enjoyed it more than I did in the past. Even though Blur have never been my go-to Britpop band, I would still take a second-tier Britpop band over 90% of all other bands. Best Songs: Beetlebum, On Your Own, You’re So Great Worst Song: I’m Just a Killer For Your Love Score out of 10: 8.5

Album #71 A-Ha: Hunting High and Low I can already sense some snideness towards this album, not only is it the personification of cheesy 80s European synthesizer pop, but it is also an album from a band which most people consider to be a one-hit wonder. However, this album and this band have a lot more to them than that. They may not have quite the catalogue that their Swedish peers ABBA have, but A-Ha do Norway proud when it comes to releasing worldwide pop hits. Take on Me speaks for itself; it doesn’t matter if the song and music video have been played to death, it is still one of those magic songs that transcends culture and speaks to the soul. In my opinion, this album has no real misses. Every song sounds mystical; much like their music videos, these songs create such a sense of wonder. I love how their Europeanness comes out through their lyrics. The title “Little Boys Adventure Tale” seems kind of awkward for a native English speaker, yet it’s quirks like that that, for me, add to the uniqueness of this album. I’m really happy with this inclusion on the list, I’m not going to try and argue that it is a perfect album, or the best of the 80s; but an album with multiple iconic songs, from a nation which is under-represented in the anglosphere, which creates such a unique and youthful feel, in my opinion is worthy of a spot on this list. Best Songs: Take on Me, The Sun Always Shines On T.V, Hunting High and Low Worst Song: I Dream Myself Alive Score out of 10: 8