A big, rightfully angry start to the year. I've never liked Rage (Morello's voice, not the music), so a somewhat challenging start too. At ~53 minutes, easy enough to give it a full listen.
T2 (Killing In The Name): It's a classic, but I still think let down by the vocals. That said, what structure, what dynamic range, what a fucking anthem.
Later - some real jazzy moments (still not my thing, but can appreciate the complexity here). The bass!
T7: Goddamn, this is a lot. I like it, objectively, but I'm tired. Stop shouting at me.
T8: That siren noise is making me want this to be over sooner.
T10: It's good, it's smart, but all of that doesn't make me want this to be over any less.
Beautiful, varied and interesting throughout. Visionary at the time, and hasn't aged a day. A compelling, textured album that's dense with emotion.
Very much of its time. And quite relentless. Less of an album and more of procession of potential hits. And lots of covers.
Missed the boat on the Stone Roses, and this has made me wish I'd remedied that sooner. Such a great album - a distinct feel throughout, and although it's very much of its time, it wouldn't be out of place if it was released today. Totally deserving of all of its acclaim.
Standout tracks: Made of Stone, Shoot You Down, Fools Gold
Expected this to be significantly more cheesy - this is great. That intro riff to Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love is awesome. The album is technically great, and fun to listen to. Really good throughout, without taking itself too seriously - what's that shoo-wop bit in I'm The One all about. Does what it says on the tin, and then some. And at 35 minutes, it doesn't overstay its welcome either.
In its favour, this is quite diverse in terms of tempo and energy, opening with an upbeat number, but with some reflective moments, like Reasons, and a flute-filled interlude on Africano, before it enters funk territory. On the whole though, perhaps not my thing.
Worth switching to the remastered version. Some good tracks here, but hearing most of these for the first time, aside from the big hits, I'm not finding many standouts. Definitely has its moments - Old Man is great, as is The Needle and the Damage Done.
So varied, just in the first four tracks. A joyous album, effortless switching between genres, yet cohesive throughout. There's attitude, but with quiet, soulful moments too.
Very cool, with a vintage feel. A really solid album that swaggers - could equally have been released in the 70s or today. Ten Cent Pistol is a highlight.
Wonderful - evocative, emotional and compelling. Worth many repeat listens.
One of the best albums of all time. Sonically and emotionally dense, and without a misstep from the first moment to the last. Really builds on everything the band had done leading up to this. Reckoner remains my favourite on the album, but so many other top picks throughout.
Maybe it was revolutionary at the time, but this is really well-trodden territory. Very earnest. And an entirely unnecessary cover of War Pigs.
Didn't need to listen again to give this 5 stars - this album has been a companion for decades. Insane to think that it was her debut. Lyrically, musically, vocally - all amazing. It has everything, from beautiful quieter bits to rock moments, and it all works. Glorious.
