Really refreshing to listen to. Amazing to hear the concept of "less is more" be applied in such an effective manner, as the album didn't feel or sound overly engineered or written.
The entire album gives a wonderful sense of feeling and sounding organic. My immediate first thoughts were "this feels very home grown", which adds to the authenticity of The White Stripes as artists and elevates their level of creativity.
Ball and Biscuit was my favourite track of the bunch. With that said, the journey after Seven Nations Army was eye opening and continuously grabbed my attention.
I would recommend this album. Solid 4/5 8/10
Very clear why this album is in the list, as it is incredibly influential and defines the sound of its time. If you dig deeper and beyond the cover of this book, you will discover an incredible time capsule of a commentary that tackles topics of; war, socio-economics, romance, and emotional struggles. Combining that with a very distinct sound and production, its very clear why many consider Born In The USA to be one of the greatest music publications.
I can confidently say, as a European listener, that this is one of the most culturally influential albums of all time.
This is a necessary listen for music enjoyers.
A very melancholic sound throughout the album. Not to my personal taste, but I can't take away from the fact that Elliott Smith is a very talented singer.
I appreciate the album for what it aimed to achieve and express, just not the sound for me.
A refreshing sequence of tracks. Highly recommend.
What immediately stands out from this album is how the band have masterfully written their music to allow the instruments to sing just as much as the vocalist. There are moments where there is an extended period without vocals that may feel awkward at first, but you eventually get accustomed to it and are reassured by the other band members as they continue to play their parts.
The journey that this album takes you through is one that is unexpected, as it starts quite upbeat, somehow turns into a horror soundtrack, then brings you back out of the darkness. An unexpected journey, but one that I thoroughly enjoyed.
This is the first ever Pink Floyd album I've listened to, after hearing about them forever. These guys really earned all of the commendations and praise over the decades.
You are greeted by an ethereal setting, which obscures what type of genre you will be met with for those that are unfamiliar. As the album begins to show hints and signs of presenting you with 70s rock, two Sax solos appear out of nowhere within the same track.
Soon after your ears are graced with the sounds of Retro-Futuristic synth sounds, which remain present for the rest of the album.
This entire collection of songs take you on a complete adventure that doesn't let you down at any moment. Its a non-stop, continuous high of innovation and the essence of musical creativity.
This is a 10/10 5 star album that everyone should listen to.
While "Aja" is a short album with only 7 tracks, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
A really groovy series of compositions, that came across as very natural, organic and expressive. Throughout the album, you will be met with a wonderful level of instrumental profession and mastery, especially on the title track. I felt as though this would make for great lounge music, as its very chill but also upbeat throughout as well. "Aja" qualifies as the perfect summer sound too, and is best suited for a pleasant car ride, or sitting somewhere enjoying a cold drink, good weather, and good company if possible.
A pleasant 4 star experience, I recommend it.
Its definitely a Country album. As a non-American, I'm very unfamiliar with who Emmylou is or how influencial she was to country music (and music in general).
While Emmylou's vocal range and beautiful voice stands out the most throughout the entire album, the entire collection suffers from sounding like every other Country artist aims to sound like. If this is something she pioneered, then massive credit to her!
Country critics aside, most of the album carries a very emotional, melancholic tone throughout the LP, started to feel very "same-y". Each downbeat song would talk about man, or a love that she wished she had, and aims to have in her left.
After a promising and captivating intro track, the most refreshing part of the album was listening to "Coat of Many Colours", which detailed how her mother would stitch clothes for her from rags. It was endearing and a delight to hear something that wasn't about romance, only to find out that its a cover of Dolly Parton's original song.
Overall, a great album for Country fans. Aside from that and Emmylou's wonderful voice, you're not missing much.
An unapologetically Punk Rock album with a very distinct Camden sound. While Pulp may, at times, sound quite crude and brash in their delivery and what they discuss, each song carries a message that resonates with the common people (no pun intended). With topics discussing class difference, wealth, sexual desires, financial struggles and also battles with drugs and alcohol, Pulp is able to present them all in a way that demands your attention and captivates your curiosity.
My personal favourite was "F.E.E.L.I.N.G.C.A.L.L.E.D.L.O.V.E" with its very unique presentation of experiencing love for the first time can feel like.
To enjoyers of the genre, this is a 5 star album and I recommend listening to it.
For me personally, I'll have to settle with a 4 star. A very enjoyable and intriguing album.
