1001 Albums Summary

It's understandable as to why many people include this in their Top 100. The production is top-notch and way ahead of its time. The songs are captivating and draw you in from start to finish. The features are perfectly chosen and delivered. Instrumentals add to the already lively lyrical performances. Favorite Song: N.Y. State of Mind Score: 91/100

Funeral is a fundamental piece of modern music and paved the way for many with art and folk rock to come. What sets it apart for me is the Canadian influence with the accordion and violin usage, both staple instruments in Quebec culture. The Neighborhood suite also nods to a historic weather event in Canadian history months before my birth. Great art rock record with awesome baroque elements, a definite classic. Favorite Song: Neighborhood #2 (Laika) Score 89/100

This was a fresh listen, and I can see why it is considered one of the greats, especially in the jazz-rock fusion space. The production is extremely well put together, and Zappa's guitar playing has so much flair and technical style, and has certainly opened my eyes to jazz-rock fusion and blues rock. Favorite Song: Son of Mr. Green Genes Score: 86/100

Definitely a weaker point in my typical listening rotation, but it was an enjoyable listen despite this. Modern streaming platforms also don't see to have this album in their discography, just variations of it or similarly named ones, luckily their was a playlist on Spotify that worked. Fats is often considered to be one of the pioneers of rock and roll, and I can see why that is the case. Beautiful instrumentals, with typical lyricism and messaging for the time. Favorite Song: Blueberry Hill Score: 82/100

Another genre less explored, but boy does Isaac Hayes make it fun! Hot Buttered Soul fuses soul with funk and psychedelic sound that can appeal to the masses. While the track listing is small, the instrumentals and soul-filled lyricism work together to forge a solid soul record. Not my favorite, but certainly worth the listen, if not for simply expanding music horizons. Favorite Song: Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquedalymistic Score: 79/100