1001 Albums Summary

Turns out I like Paul Simon more than I thought I did. Some story songs, as well as interesting genre explorations (reggae, gypsy jazz, and salsa) from a time when folk rock was probably super white, and some surprisingly good guitar licks on Peace Like a River

I can hear the influences on future hip-hop with 30 years of perspective. Killing me Softly still isn't my favorite, but Ready or Not and Zealots are great songs.

The 90s wouldn't be the same without them, but i don't think this will ever be a favorite for me.

Amazing recording: not only her voice, but the band is talented (bass!), and the recording production is clean & vivid.

Fantastic songs, amazing band. Side B felt a bit repetitive, but Side A alone is worth the ticket

I think of this as Proto-Emo: after the disaffected cynicism of the grunge era, this intimate, delicate, and emotional album set a new tone for indie music that would follow.

Surprise to hear folks, almost Bluegrass-y licks in some of these songs.

This might reward more focused listening. Some interesting grooves here & there, but i couldn't full engage.

His voice is iconic, and i can imagine how this might have hit when it came out. But the big band-like arrangements leave me cold.

All my life, I thought this artist was a black gospel/soul singer! Once I got over that shock, the album itself was a delight. Her voice is rich and emotional, and I liked several of the tunes id never heard before.

The genre is pretentious and easy to parody, but this album remains earnest & powerful, even 40(!?!) Years later. It's polished but not as clean as Black, and the timing of the riffs and tonal shifts are perfect.