Putting it into perspective of the time it was created, I understand why this album is revolutionary. I believe Brian Wilson was most responsible for the songwriting and creating harmonies, layering sounds. Very unique and I can see how they inspired many pop artists to come. My favorite songs were "Let's go Away For Awhile," "Sloop John B," and of course, "Wouldn't It Be Nice."
Before listening, did some research and it seems like The Stone Roses laid the foundations for bands like Blur, and Oasis. I can see some of that in their music, and overall made for an interesting listen. Not exactly up my alley, but it was a cool mix between prog rock and more pop rock. I enjoyed "Made of Stone" and "(Song for my) Sugar Spun Sister".
Phenomenal listening experience, was a genuine pleasure to listen to the 14-song album. Very few dislikes throughout. Slide guitar by Duane Allman is a great addition, The Dominos can truly jam across multiple genres - blues, rock, even a little jazzy. By the time you get to "Layla" at song #13, your ears are primed for that quintessential opening riff. "Bell Bottom Blues" is like an old love - you forget why you fell for them until you hear the syrupy guitar, and choir-like chorus. Also, great cover of "Little Wing." Eric MF Clapton Baby!
Right away, I will say it's not exactly up my alley. That being said, a whiskey man can appreciate a nice glass of gin every now and then without losing his mind, if you catch my drift. The last album Jim Morrison sang on, is a relaxing, smooth, listen that can, at times, pick up the BPM and scream at you. There's something about the way Morrison belts out the words, a sort of guttural, primal, raspy scream, that draws the audience in. You can't deny the passion. The title track, "L.A. Woman," is in my opinion, a damn good song. You just can't help beating your head along to the bass line - and who is "Mr. Mojo Rising?" Another note, "Riders on the Storm," listened to properly takes you on a ride in a '63 Mustang on a coastal drive through a rainstorm (top down of course). Sonically adventurous sounds on that track, to say the least. Overall, a fun listen, and I'd venture to guess these gentlemen were under the influence of various substances during the recording process - a suggestion that could certainly adjust the listening experience for the audience, perhaps.
Keepin' it simple with a 9-song album, let's get after it. Metallica's foutrh studio album,"And Justice for All," went 8x Platinum, largely to the confusion of many Barry Manilow fans. Starts out quite strong with "Blackened." Metallica lets it be known quickly - turn down your volume if you're not prepared, and turn it the hell up if you're ready to sonically enter a mosh pit of slam-dancing. One of my favorite aspects of Metallica is the contrast between their classic heavy metal sound, and soft, but haunting riffs, as demonstrated on the intro of "One." Overall, the constant attack of guitar is a little too aggressive for my taste. That being said, even an unwitting opera-goer could recognize the beauty of an intricate Metallica riff, one that separates them from the rest of the pack.
Out of the 1001 albums on this list, I'm sure this will be one of the few bands I've never heard of. Guess that's the point of this, to find new bands - very happy to have stumbled upon The xx. The duo of Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim, co-vocalists, combine on most of their tracks. Their eponymous album starts off with "Intro," an earworm of an instrumental track, famously mashed up with French Montana's "Unforgettable." Catchy melodies, soft guitar, and buildups that never fully crystallize into a beat drop characterize this listening experience. By the end, one completely understands this band's vision - they aren't trying to replicate any one sound or appeal to average pop music listeners. These guys are comfortable and content in their own lane. They have their own sound - don't try to put them in a box! Isn't that all you can ask for? The xx uses the negative space to build tension. If anything, we can call it "Minimalistic Pop." Highlights: "Crystalised," "Shelter," and "Intro."
