Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Fantastic solo debut. Down by the River and Cowgirl in the Sand are stunners, Cinnamon Girl is a very strong opener as well.
Heard some tracks.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Dislike
-
Maybe not outright bad but definitely not my thing. I think 21 should be on this list but I cannot for the life of me see why this has been.
Listened previously
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
Probably not my favourite Tull album but what a brilliant LP nonetheless. Hard to fault and I really debated giving this a 5. Maybe the fact that I know I prefer Thick as a Brick is playing on my mind here.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
Dylan's first masterpiece. There will be more.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
I've never been able to get into R.E.M. I like some of their songs but I tend to just find them a bit boring. This is a decent album that I can appreciate but I don't think I would ever reach for it.
Never listened.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Good
-
Dusty is a very nostalgic artist for me, one of mum's favourites. I like this a lot but there are better soul records out there.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Not For Me
-
I expected to really dislike this. I think Sheryl Crow was a name that I had heard without really knowing much about her. Much better than expected with a couple songs I would absolutely listen to.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
I struggle to split Di'Anno and Dickinson and I think this album is really fantastic. Prowler, Phantom of the Opera and Charlotte the Harlot are my highlights.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Really, really good western music. The thing holding this back for me is the fact that I know what a song like El Paso can become in the hands of the Grateful Dead.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Alright
-
It's definitely good, and there are some bangers but it doesn't quite hit the same way as some other albums from the era.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
The bassline straight from the start: wow! Massive Attack craft such great sounding albums and are probably my favourite electronic act ever.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Alright
-
This is something I would never have come across myself. I really like some of the tracks. There is definitely a psychedelic feel which I will always be a sucker for.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Good
-
Maybe I just wasn't in the right mood when I listened but I found it didn't hit. I know it's their most popular album but for me The White Stripes made much better albums. the softer moments here I do quite enjoy though and The Hardest Button to Button slaps. On a good day it's probably a 3 so I'll give it the benefit of the doubt.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
The best discovery so far by miles! I could easily see this creeping up to a 4 over time. I only knew of Marianne as Mick Jagger's girlfriend so this was a brilliant surprise.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
This might be my favourite Kanye album. The sound is so out there and abrasive but formed into something accessible and I love it. Bonus points for one of the greatest samples ever on the New Slaves outro.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Just shows a mastery of their craft. I think this album has one or two weaker tracks that hold it back from masterpiece status but this is a wonderful record.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Alright
-
In the words of Tears For Fears: "Kick out the style, bring back The Jam!". This is a good album but I much prefer Weller writing sharp rockers (and his later groovy rollers) to jazzy pop.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Queen showing why they are one of the best heavy metal bands of all time despite people mostly thinking of them as a pop group.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
So much fun on this one. The Dust Brothers production is awesome and pretty much every song is great with some particularly fantastic tunes sxcattered throughout.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
I mean, it's Led Zep 2. Did hard rock peak here? Quite possibly.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Alright
-
I like atmospheric DnB more than the big festival banger style but this drags on a bit more me to rate it as anything more than good.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Not for me
-
This just felt very bland. I don't dislike it per say, but there just isn't anything here for me.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
A masterclass in songwriting. I love everything about this album.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
I like some of the tracks and instrumentally it is interesting but didn't do a whole lot for me. Just good.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
One of the highlights here is the minute long intro. It's just some power chords but it brought my expectations up a bit. After listening to the rest of the album it's what I expected. Good, energetic punk album but there are far better out there.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
It's been a while since I heard this. The big hits are clearly the best tracks here but they are really good and elevate the album enough the make me think I might have to revisit some more 80s rock that I haven't been into since I was a kid.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
I'm assuming Bowie will have a few albums on the list and this is a great one to start on. Heavy, riffy glam rock but with some jazz and avant-garde elements thrown in. Irresistible album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
Maybe the greatest garage album ever. Everything about this is dirty, ugly and fun. 30 minutes of pure energy and I love it.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
The title track is one of the best things I have ever heard. Music from another galaxy but still somehow perfectly intelligible and relatable. Utterly unique. The rest is also extremely good, especially Lazarus and I Can't Give Everything Away. My second Bowie album and yeah it's just amazing. What a send off from the great man.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
This album is so replayable. Great riffs and the groove from start to finish just puts me in a good mood. I want a beer now.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
Feel like I've heard of these guys but might be confused with Fine Young Cannibals. Opening couple tracks are great then it calms down a bit. Definitely fun loving! Really good album.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Good
-
Didn't expect it to be my thing but this is pretty fun. Gets a bit samey but each track is definitely enjoyable in its own right.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
Utterly joyous album. Boogies for days, huge riffs, glittering, spaced out lyrics. I love it and it's one that surely everyone can enjoy at least a bit.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
The energy is off the charts on some parts of this. Even without being there to see the performance you can feel it through the music. Iconic voice. Not as mind blowing as I remember but very, very good nonetheless.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
Ok, so I have heard of these guys and now realise it's Blixa from The Bad Seeds. This is an interesting one as it's noisy but not the kind of noise I'm usually into. Walls of feedback and distortion are replaced by harsh percussion and punky rants. The title track wouldn't be out of place on a Swans album, great stuff.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
This is basically classic rock distilled into one album. Riffs, horny lyrics, solos, it has it all. A very nostalgic album for me. The title track is an absolute masterpiece.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
I love this album. Cisco Kid and the title track are especially funky but the whole thing grooves like hell. Really, really good.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
Starts slowly but quickly gets into a groove. Hamady Boira is very funky and Daniibe is also very cool. The album gets a bit lost for me and almost becomes too comfortable. Overall I really enjoyed this and will definitely check out some more in this vein.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
A couple tracks in and I'm enjoying this far more than I remembered. The grooves on Telephasic Workshop, Sixtyten and Roygbiv are huge. The back end of the record is still good but doesn't hold my interest in quite the same way. Very enjoyable listen nonetheless.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
I really like his voice. The simplicity and directness of the songs combines with a sort of cinematic feel that is really interesting. All Thoughts Are Prey To Some Beast is a highlight. Really cool record that I had never come across before.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
Just legendary. Deserves every bit of the massive reputation it has. This album is effortlessly cool, raucous, sombre and hilarious all in 45 minutes. Brilliant.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Alright
-
This is a fun listen but for me it lacks a bit of substance. My favourite parts are the singalong choruses and maybe the flow on some verses. The beats are fine but no more than that. People Everyday is a clear highlight, banger track. Definitely a pretty good album but it's not doing a lot for me.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
Although I probably prefer In Rock overall, this is a great album. Highway Star, Smoke On The Water and Space Truckin' are absolute classics. The highs are incredibly high and at their peak, Purple were some of the best to ever do it. A few less interesting moments hold this back from absolute perfection but I was pretty torn between 4 and 5 here.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Dislike
-
Obviously I know Girls Just Wanna Have Fun but otherwise I know basically nothing about Cyndi Lauper. The opener is more new wave and rock sounding than I expected. Not bad. Girls is not good, maybe I've just heard it too much. A Prince cover caught me off guard, not sure on it. This album started off OK at best and is going downhill for me. He's So Unusual is clearly a bit of a throwaway track but is probably the most interesting thing in a while. Yeah Yeah is an ok ending.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
They might be the most criminally overlooked band ever. I fucking love The Stooges man. Nothing but great tunes here, I even love the 10 minutes of meditative chanting on We Will Fall. I hope Funhouse is also on the list as I think it's even better. This is fantastic though.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Good
-
Okayyy, straight out of the gate this reminds me of Prince which is about the highest praise I can give. A few tracks in, it's clearly not that level but this is really good. After a while I think things fall into a slightly more dull pattern and despite some more good tracks, it does fall short of my initial excited expectations.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Stevie's golden run is pretty incredible. This has some absolutely wonderful songs on it. Heaven Is 10 Zillion Lightyears Away is brilliant, Boogie On Reggae Woman is excellent, and there are other great moments scattered throughout. Not the best of that run but a monumental album in its own right.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
Perfect throughout.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Not for me
-
Familiar from featuring on some Kendrick but I'm expecting pretty generic pop. First few tracks are ok but I just find it a bit bland. The rest of the album doesn't have any standout moments either. I don't dislike this, it's absolutely fine but nothing more than that.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
I love the opener, it's energetic and grabs you. Then we get some beautiful songs. Four Women and particularly Lilac Wine are stunning. Things lose me in the middle just a tiny bit, I'm not keen on Why Keep On Breaking My Heart, but Wild Is The Wind gets things back on track. Either Way I Lose is a good closer.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
I like the set up of the band on this album. Some really good tracks, Arabian Knights and Night Shift are great. I really like Sin In My Heart as well. Overall a really good album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Strong opener. The opening trio is very good actually. I don't think the rest of the album holds up quite as well as that but I still enjoy all of it. Some fun guitar work and just enough variation to remain interesting. Good album.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Dislike
-
I know some of the big hits and I'm not keen but lets see. White Dress is pretty good. The title track isn't for me. I just find the sound boring I think. These songs all sound the same. Dark But Just A Game is at least slightly different. Dance Til We Die perks up a bit towards the end but these are rare points of difference in an otherwise dull landscape.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Dislike
-
This isn't exactly blowing me away but I guess it's vaguely nice. A few tracks in and I'm a bit bored. So It Shall Be is OK I suppose. Outside Myself is decent but goes on slightly too long.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
This album is a bit strange in the sense that I really like it and there are moments that stick in my head, but not many of the tracks are super memorable in their own right. It’s almost that I like the album but not the individual songs. Still this is on the higher end of 3 as I do really enjoy the overall feel of the album.
Never listened.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Yep, I was hoping to like it and I do. Took a few tracks to get going though. She Is Suffering and Mausoleum are highlights.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Good
-
There are moments of absolute brilliance on this. Dre's beats are ridiculously good and the hooks seem to almost write themselves. I do think the themes and subject matter can get a bit tired after a few tracks and a few are just bad. I usually like weird and silly bits on an album but this doesn't quite do it for me.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Brilliant album from start to finish. I couldn't pick a favourite Steely Dan album but this would definitely be up there.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Another great album. Beautiful songs all over this. The 59th Street Bridge Song is one of the chillest tunes ever, fantastic.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Not For Me
-
I'm not a fan a few tracks in. Not hugely keen on the vocal for the most part. Some grooves are ok, with What Is Love? probably being my favourite.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Alright
-
Jenny is a great opener. Then Mr. Brightside might be alright but it's impossible to say because I have heard it so much. Annoying now. The rest is pretty good indie rock with some very good synth touches. My main complaint is that it can be a bit repetitive.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Good
-
Like the previous Dr. Dre produced album, this grooves pretty hard in places. I quite like Snoop's rapping but sometimes it's not the best and can make me cringe slightly.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Not For Me
-
I've never understood the love for Slipknot. Gematria opens with a pretty strong riff but quickly begins to feel somewhat generic. Dead Memories is downright bad for me but Vendetta is a better track. I don't mind This Cold Black either. Overall it's alright but no more than that.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
OK a few tracks in and I really like it. Some cool beats and vocals. Jay-Z's appearance is a highlight as expected. It peters out a little towards the end but this is a really good album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
I like this album a lot. Swings like hell, the only track I'm not keen on is the closer but overall a fantastic album.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Not for me
-
It starts off OK but not particularly interesting. I Can't Stand The Rain is alright and then it's just pretty bland until the end. Even the Beatles cover can't save it.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Alright
-
Not overwhelmed immediately. It's A Curse might have converted me though, I'm enjoying this part of the album more. Service and The League Of Bald-Headed Men are good too.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
This is pretty chill, I like the atmosphere mostly. The Zappa cover is cool. There isn't really anything I dislike about this but none of it jumps out as a definite standout either. Some of the instrumentation is interesting but there are other dub albums I would reach for first.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
This falls right on the cusp of all time great status for me. I adore The Pogues and I think they made better albums than this but the songs are just so good and the energy so infectious.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Great
-
Brilliant album. The reggae beats, the horns, the vocals, I really like all of it. This is pushing towards great I think. Some of the more modern production choices almost remind me of Gorillaz.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Good
-
Into My Arms is a wonderful song. The way it drops into the chorus is just magical. A lot of the other songs are very good but don't quite hold up to the opener. This is is still good because it's Nick Cave but he has made much better albums.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Alright
-
There are some great songs but an awful lot of forgettable filler. Welcome To The Jungle might be overplayed but it is very good in fairness. I also like Nightrain and have since I was about 8. SCOM is iconic but I would be very happy if I never heard it again and Paradise City is fine I guess. I understand this album being on the list but not brilliant for me. Anything Goes is alright.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
I don't think The Smiths are as good as some people say, but they are still an excellent band. This is probably my favourite of their albums, I love The Headmaster Ritual. Rusholme Ruffians is also good. The Joke Isn't Funny Anymore is quite cool and then Barbarism Begins At Home is another favourite.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
This album doesn’t blow me away but I do find it very likeable. I think I enjoy how unsubtle it is. It isn’t trying to be too clever and just has fun the entire runtime.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
I like this album. I don't think it's mindblowing and there is other stuff in a similar vein that I enjoy more, but every track here is just quite good.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Not for me
-
I put this off for a while because I wasn't looking forward to it. It's just bland. The earlier Coldplay is supposed to be the the better stuff and I do prefer it to later hits I've heard but there is still a weird corniness to it for me. Every song sounds a little bit like it's from a bad TV programme.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
Ok this has some energy. Adult Books feels very Talking Heads inspired, with some Patti Smith in there as well, it's all very CBGB. A few more tracks in and I definitely hear a more aggressive take on some similar twitchy, punky rock. I like this take on twin lead vocalists. This songs overall are good not great I would say. Some are definite highlights though, When Our Love Passed Out On The Couch is great, as is In This House That I Call Come.
Never listened.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Good
-
I love his work with The Byrds and Flying Burrito Brothers but have somehow never given this a proper listen. The songcraft is very confident right from the start and his voice is beautiful. Delicate and understated and melancholic. I think maybe the performance is more impressive than the material itself. This is still a really good listen and deserves a spot on the list but there is just a little spark missing.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
This is pretty punchy right from the start. I can see why Walk This Way was the big hit, it has a lot more heft to it than most other tracks here. The title track is absolutely fantastic, I think they seem to be at their best when the beat has a rock/guitar element. Overall this was a brilliant listen, a great snapshot of hip-hop in the mid-80s.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Where the previous album was hard-edged and direct, this is bouncy and light. A very fun album. Generally I don't mind skits but this is a little heavy on them. Eye Know is a great track. Everything on here is quite good but it never reaches a mind-blowing level that it is sometimes credited with. Clearly it's a very good album but it doesn't quite reach all-time great level.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
An album I am intimately familiar with and possibly the absolute peak of punk rock in my opinion. The Clash go in so many different directions all while sounding very much like the same band. The title track is a classic but from there it just continues at the same incredibly high standard. The songwriting is mind blowing. The horns, the razor guitars, the snotty vocals, it's all just brilliant. Incredibly consistent throughout. What an album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Another classic. N.Y. State Of Mind is a masterpiece, fantastic beat, even better flow. If you discount the intro track I think this might be the greatest opening trio of tracks in all of rap music. I do think the rest of the tracks are at a slightly lower level but that is an extremely high bar. Memory Lane for example is fantastic it just isn't quite Life's A Bitch. Brilliant album overall.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
I haven't listened to this all the way through in quite a while and it is really quite good. A few songs are a bit lacking compared to others I think, Just The Way You Are is definitely not as strong as the preceding tracks. Scenes From An Italian Restaurant is better but I'm not sure it's quite the masterpiece some make out. Vienna is gorgeous, as is She's Always A Woman. Overall a very good album, bordering on all time great status.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
I could easily push this up to Near Perfect but it just loses some steam in the middle. What an album though. Simz is the greatest rapper Britain has ever produced in my opinion and this is her near her best. Truly a boss in a fucking dress, just brilliant.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
*** I initially listened to the wrong album. Who has two self -titled records!? ***
Well this is definitely more energetic and immediate than the later eponymous album that I listened to by mistake. I like the sudden shifts in tempo. Vicky's Box is good, as is Rabbits Dying. Overall this is a good album, but it's nothing too crazy.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
The Genius shows why he deserves that name. Incredible voice and the arrangements here are sublime. The contrast between the energetic numbers and the slower, prettier tunes is really nice. I definitely enjoy the faster songs more though, the joyous energy is so infectious. You Win Again is fantastic. Tasteful piano touches just add to a lovely album. I don't think this is particularly mind blowing it's simply a master at work, effortlessly moulding songs into his vision.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Apparently this is the biggest selling jazz album by a solo artist of all time, and the biggest piano album ever. Not sure how I've never even heard of it. This is very pretty at the start. It sounds extremely modern without shouting about it. I'm 6 minutes in and wow, this is absolutely stunning. I think the opening 10 or 15 minutes of Part 1 is the highlight but this is really impressive throughout.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
This is in the conversation for my favourite album of all time. Led Zep at their heavy, folky, rich, bluesy best. Absolute perfection from start to finish.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
This opening is quite funky. Definitely good vibes here, a very summery sound. I wish there was a bit more variation. The title track, Fade Away and Pressure are probably my highlights. A nice listen.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
Instantly this album draws you into a comfy, pretty world of soft colour and sound. This is easily the most upbeat and fun album of his, I love the jazzy touches. The whole thing is great but the real highlights are Hazey Jane II, At The Chime Of A City Clock and Northern Sky. Beautiful album.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Alright
-
I don't know what I was expecting but not the roaring guitar straight from the start. Looking it up, it's a band led by Bob Mould so maybe I should have expected exactly that. Like other albums I have heard with him involved this is decent but not particularly memorable.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Another R.E.M. album! I know this is usually considered one of their best but I have never gotten around to listening to it. After a couple tracks it seems like it's pretty standard stuff for them, but I like this better than some of the later albums. I would say this is clearly better than Green actually. Enjoyed it quite a bit.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
An all time classic of pop music to begin. What a brilliant chorus. The next couple of tracks can't quite match that rush but I do like Lonely In Your Nightmare. Obviously Hungry Like The Wolf is another slice of pop perfection. New Religion and Last Chance On The Stairway are also good. Overall a really fun listen.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
A difficult one to find on streaming services. Classic psych rock. Hey Grandma, Mr. Blues and 8:05 are fantastic. Omaha is also good. I think the middle section loses a tiny bit of steam but this is high quality throughout. Changes rocks. Indifference is a great closer.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Donovan gets a bit of stick from some circles but this is a fantastic album. The title track is really fun, Legend Of A Girl Child Linda is beautiful. Bert's Blues is a great track. Season Of The Witch is incredible and The Trip is also really good. I forgot just how good this album is actually.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
I've heard lots of good things about PJ Harvey over the years but have never listened to anything. I really like this opener, it reminds me of a grittier, less sleek version of The Cure. A few tracks in and this is absolutely great. Victory is really good, as is Happy And Bleeding. Plants And Rags is awesome. I think this is probably the best new discovery of the project so far, absolutely phenomenal album. I'll have to listen again but I expect this to grow on me as well.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
There is such a delicate, careful feel to this album that I find very unique. There is something mechanical about the songs but also a very human touch of nuance. John Wayne Gacy, Jr. is great but Jacksonville is an absolute stunner. Relatively simple songwriting crafted into something incredibly catchy and beautiful. Chicago is also wonderful and Casimir Pulaski Day is achingly melancholy. The Man Of Metropolis Steals Our Hearts is awesome. Night Zombies (I'm not typing the whole name) is also a really cool change of pace. Gorgeous album, really sounds like nothing else.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
The opener has a very epic feel and I do really like it. Even though it could easily be seen as being too long and steady it manages it's runtime with grace and sweeps up to a great final part. I think I was expecting something poppier, more in the vein of the Sheryl Crow album that came up earlier on the list but this is really great bluesy, twangy songwriting. I Dream A Highway is a monster to end the album. Really enjoyed this. Yet another female artist that I had never come across in any meaningful way.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
I love this album. One of the most obvious high points of trip hop. The sister album, Protection, that Tricky used many of the same lyrics on is my favourite Massive Attack record and he was clearly just operating at a ridiculous level around this era. This album just sounds incredible. The grooves are so deep and rich, the vocals are smoky and seductive, and overall this is almost flawless.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
Probably the greatest album ever made. Perfect in every way.
Never listened.
Expectations: Low
-
Verdict: Not For Me
-
This opening track is definitely catchy although I'm not sure I would ever reach to put it on. The intro of Take Your Mama really reminds me of Movin' On Up. I quite enjoy the falsetto vocals. The Floyd cover makes me feel uncomfortable, it's nowhere near as good as their own material and while it is a creative take on a classic, it's just awful. Mary is decent while Lovers In The Backseat is quite poor. After a really quite a strong start this has gone downhill pretty quickly.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Seagull is a strong opener, it sets the tone for the album very well. There is more structure or rigidity to this album than most shoegaze records which I like. It's almost more like The Stone Roses than MBV. Really good album all round.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Not For Me
-
Despite hearing the name, I know nothing about Ryan Adams. The opening track doesn't do anything for me, it's just a bit bland. I few tracks in and it hasn't got any better. Boring. The Rescue Blues is the best track so far. Nobody Girl isn't too bad either, it seems that stretching out a longer jam suits him. It has picked up a bit. Enemy Fire is alright.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
This album might have been the album that completed the transition from rock'n'roll to just rock. It also is up there with the greatest achievements in the history of poetry. I can't put into words just how much I adore the lyricism of this album. A stunning artistic statement.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
Utterly unique. I like The Man Who Sold the World but this is where Bowie really came into his own. Pop songwriting from somewhere completely alien. The first two tracks are perfect. Eight Line Poem is gorgeous. It just goes on and on with one brilliant song after another.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
What a run! This isn't my favourite album of all time but it is a staggering achievement. It's just overflowing with joy and compassion and beauty. One of, if not the most life-affirming album ever made.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
Solo Jack White uses more colours on his palette than The White Stripes and it makes for a fun sound. His songwriting is solid as ever and the riffs and general guitar work is fantastic. Like TWS, the softer stuff here is good, I like the title track. I'm Shakin' is simple but good. Solid album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
People criticise Kanye's rapping but I really don't mind. Of course the production is the real highlight though. There are absolute bangers here. I think the second half loses a little steam but still an incredible album.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Alright
-
We've Only Just Begun is a lovely song. The rest seems a bit tepid. Reason To Believe can't get anywhere close to the Rod Stewart version and the Beatles cover is interesting but not for me. Close To You is nice. I quite like this version of Baby It's You. The singles are clearly the highlights here but I think as an album it just doesn't hold up.
Never listened.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Good
-
I've always heard good things about this album. Jackie is a great, punchy opener. I also like The Amorous Humphrey Plugg and Plastic Palace People. I enjoy pretty much all the songs here but it isn't particularly mindblowing. It is the kind of album I could maybe see growing on me after a few listens.
Never listened.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
I have loved the title track since it came out but never listened to the full album. The lyrics are as stunning as you would expect from Cohen. The smoky feel of this album with the impossibly deep and weary voice is just amazing. Something about it reminds me of Dylan's Time Out Of Mind. Overall a beautiful epitaph for one of the great artists. Surpassed my already high expectations.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
I listened to this once about ten years ago so this is effectively a new listen. I love Nico's voice, it's so unique. The Fairest Of The Seasons is a nice song and I can see why These Days is the biggest song here, it's really good. I also like Winter Song. I usually like weird psychedelic explorations but It Was A Pleasure Then doesn't do anything for me. Chelsea Girls is better. The rest is good as well. Solid album but nothing crazy.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Two Velvets adjacent albums in a row! This is a classic. The Endless Plain Of Fortune is awesome, as are the preceding tracks. Macbeth is such a contrast, it comes out of nowhere. The orchestra on the title track is gorgeous, the staccato strings remind me of Eleanor Rigby. Every song here really is fantastic, this album is much better than I remember and I remember liking it quite a lot! A stunning, mesmerising and richly textured album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
I said in my Machine Head entry that this was my favourite Purple album. I stand by that. Speed King has one of my favourite riffs ever during the chorus. The riffs just keep coming. Every song has such a driving, propulsive momentum that defines so much of what I love about heavy rock music. Phenomenal.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Alright
-
I enjoy Madness' big hits but have never listened to an album. I don't know if it's just the London accents but I can't help but be reminded of The Jam when listening to this. Obviously it's quite different musically. Bouncy and jaunty with a slightly uneasy, seasick undertone. I really enjoy the chorus of Blue Skinned Beast. Sunday Morning is good as well. Our House is the clear standout, a fantastic tune. Decent album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
The Boss at his rocking, snarling best. Badlands is energetic, Adam Raised A Cain is roaring and the emotional depth first comes to the fore on Something In The Night. I find Candy's Room only good until the guitar solo which blows it wide open and elevates the song significantly. Racing In The Street is the emotional core of the album and just an incredible song. The Promised Land looks forward to his next album in my opinion. Streets Of Fire might be my favourite track and has one of the best refrains ever. The title track is amazing.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
This opening track is immediately much darker and more gothic that previous Pulp I have heard. It matches the cover quite well. The title track is the next one that jumps out as a highlight after a few decent but not particularly special tracks. Sylvia is a great song. There is certainly a heavier art-rock/Bowie influence than Different Class and the long outro of the closing track sums up that spirit pretty well. An enjoyable listen.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
Violet is an angry opener, but I like Miss World more. The first few tracks are good but there isn't much variation. They all sound a bit too similar for me. I like Jennifer's Body and Doll Parts is very good, I love the vocals as they get angrier. Rock Star is a good closer. I could maybe see this becoming more enjoyable with more listens but I'd say it's a good album.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Great
-
The intro track is cool and the Jigsaw Feeling is very good. I like the version of Helter Skelter. Mirage is also really good, I'm thoroughly enjoying this album. Switch is a massive closer. I can't believe I have never listened to this before. I definitely like it more than Juju. Fantastic album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
An album with a great sound that envelops the listener. In The Flowers is weirdly creepy, while My Girls explodes into pure bliss. The next few songs continue to wash over you like warm water. I actually don't think many songs here are particularly amazing but as an album experience it works so well. As a individual track My Girls is the clear standout. Great album.
Never listened.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
I like but don't love NIN's first album but have higher expectations for this one based on the countless rave reviews I have heard over the years. Mr. Self Destruct is alright but I prefer the plodding groove of Piggy. I like Heresy a lot as well, this is a very strong start. Closer is very danceable but I find March Of The Pigs and Ruiner slightly boring. The second half of the album doesn't have the standout songs like the first half but is still a great listen. A Warm Place and Hurt are exceptions, both are phenomenal tracks.
Never listened.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Good
-
Immediately this seems a lot more conventional sounding than other Tim Buckley albums I have heard. I still like it but it is quite a shift from the avant-garde leanings of Starsailor. Sweet Surrender gets a bit weirder while maintaining some of the groove from the first couple tracks. The second half definitely feels more like his earlier output, especially Hong Kong Bar. This is a good album but I was expecting a bit more based on his other work.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
This album sounds very much of its time. I don't think that is always a bad thing and although I was at first slightly underwhelmed, the album grew on me during the listen. By the end I found that I had enjoyed it quite a bit. I can see this being an easy album to throw on when I'm unsure what I want to listen to. Good stuff.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
I don't think I can really say anything about this album that hasn't already been said 100 times. What an incredible piece of art. Rock'n'roll at its finest.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
I Feel The Earth Move is brilliant. A wonderful song. It's Too Late is also incredible. All the songs here a very good as an absolute minimum. Way Over Yonder is lovely. You've Got A Friend is a masterpiece. A Natural Woman is beautiful. An album just stacked full of wonderful songwriting. Brilliant.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Alright
-
(Well) Dusted has an interesting atmosphere, it's a nice song. Punishing Sun and X-Tra Wide are also pretty good. 1972 comes out of nowhere with some volume and then Temptation Of Egg is quite different as well, I like it. Wolfy is really good and Shiver is pretty decent. All the songs here are quite good without being anything super special to me. No Reply is good and Satellite rocks. Shrine is a pretty ending. Good album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Nothin' To Hide is an awesome opener, really cool track. Nature's Way is alright and Animal Zoo is fairly standard late 60s psych rock. The transition from Love Will Find A Way into Why Can't I Be Free is great. Mr. Skin is very good, I love the horns. Street Worm is cool. Overall this is a really good album, it has so many of the best elements of 60s rock.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
An album that changed music forever. I can't imagine what it must have been like to hear this in 1967. Jimi will be remembered forever. I think of all the great musicians that we lost too soon, he was the one who had the most left to give. Luckily we have the music he did make. Genius.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
The introduction is a great call to arms and Ramblin' Rose is a high energy track that is good. Then the title track kicks down the door and punches you in the face. Ridiculously heavy and punky, incredibly influential and just downright nasty. Come Together continues the heavy, noisy theme. I love the wild nature of this record but I think a little more focus would benefit it greatly. Borderline is good and I Want You Right Now rocks like hell. The little vocal breakdown is awesome.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
Let Me Drown sets out what this album is in the first track. Huge riffs, soaring, tortured vocals and a delicate touch that most grunge bands could never get near. My Wave shows the pop sensibilities that would give them a huge hit later in the album. Fell On Black Days is incredible and Mailman is impossibly heavy. The title track races along and the next two show a poppier, Beatles influenced side of the band. Limo Wreck is huge, as is The Day I Tried To Live. Both show Cornell in fine form. 4th Of July is lumbering and brutal, I love it. Wonderful album, probably the peak of the grunge era for me.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Good
-
There are some great grooves here. Something Wicked This Way Comes is great. The Vibes almost reminds me of a sleeker, more modern version of Tom Waits. The album gets more and more filmic, with Dirty Barry being incredibly atmospheric. After losing some focus, The Big Bamboozle explodes into life and grabs your attention back. Nick Cave is of course fantastic on The Sweetest Embrace.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
A wild departure from their recent work while maintaining the wide open feel that made The Joshua Tree so good. I think people nowadays tend to forget how good U2 were before it went downhill. Zoo Station is a great opener that lays out the new direction clearly. Even Better Than The Real Thing is very good and One is a tremendous song. I love the chorus of Who's Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses. The Fly is gnarly. Every song is really, really strong.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
The realisation of a mythic version of country music that ticks every box. It's sparse, twangy, heartfelt and catchy in every moment. Wonderful album from start to finish.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Finest Worksong comes flying out of the gate with a great riff. The basslines are really good on the first few songs. Strange is very direct for R.E.M. and reminds me of something I can't quite put my finger on but I like it. The End Of The World As We Know It is a change of pace and then The One I Love takes us back to the moodier vibe. Lightnin' Hopkins is another odd track that just seems to work. I would have to give Murmur another go but I think this is my favourite R.E.M. record so far.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
I really like Jeff Tweedy's songwriting and his voice. The opener here introduces the album perfectly. Kamera is bouncy and Radio Cure is calm while building to a great cathartic climax. Jesus, Etc. is a great song, Ashes Of American Flags steps up some of the weirder sounds. Heavy Metal Drummer is a lovely pop tune and I'm The Man Who Loves You is a great groove. Pot Kettle Black is good and Reservations is beautiful. Really excellent album.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
I like the trip hop vibe of the first couple tracks. Paper Bag with the hesitant plucked strings is particularly moody. Human is also good. I think the album falls off a little as it goes on after a very strong start. Oompah Radar is different but the album doesn't quite live up to it's potential.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Near Perfect
-
Singing Winds, Crying Beasts pulls you into the mystical world of this wonderful album. The guitar cuts through like a knife and focuses the music. Black Magic Woman then gives us a more conventional song. I'm not sure if I think it surpasses the original but it's certainly very good. Oye Como Va is a masterpiece. Incident At Neshabur is great, as is Mother's Daughter. Samba Pa Ti is another masterpiece of guitar work, it's just sensational. Hope You're Feeling Better rocks.
Never listened.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Good
-
Honey is a cool spacey opener, while Come Down Softly To My Soul is more grounded. I like the slow build of How Does it Feel. Revolution is far more direct than anything else so far. Let Me Down Gently is a great hum of sound. Suicide is a great jam. Pretty good album.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Great
-
Red Rain is a massive sounding opener. From the first lines you can tell the kind of album this will be. Sledgehammer is an absolute masterpiece. A perfect pop song. Don't Give Up is far calmer and provides a real contrast to what had come before. That Voice Again is a good track but maybe can't quite match the opening trio. I feel similarly about In Your Eyes. It is one of the huge hits from the album but to me doesn't stand out particularly. Mercy Street is fine. Big Time comes back with a very punchy groove and really gets the album back on track (not that it was ever less than good). I really like We Do What We're Told as a closer.
Never listened.
Expectations: None
-
Verdict: Dislike
-
Motion Sickness is ok. How Do You Do? has a good opening groove but I really don't like it once it gets going. I'm only a few tracks in and I really don't think this album is doing anything for me. Each song starts with an element that I don't mind and then manages to twist it into something I don't like. An album with some potential but not enjoyable for me.
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Alright
-
Rolling In The Deep is a great song. The big hits on this album were hits for a reason. I said on the previous Adele album on the list that this one should be on here instead and I stand by that. This is far superior to what she would go on to put out later. Most of the album is fine but the best songs hit real highs.
Listened previously.
Expectations: High
-
Verdict: Masterpiece
-
This album never fails to lively up myself. Wonderful song after wonderful song. Side one is one of the best sides of an album Marley ever made, which makes it one of the best sides of music ever. The great songs continue throughout the second half. I hope there are plenty more of his albums on the list. Long live Bob!
Listened previously.
Expectations: Mid
-
Verdict: Very Good
-
Perhaps my expectation of 'Mid' is too low as this is obviously a good album. For me though it is the weakest Nirvana record. Maybe some of that comes from having heard these songs too many times. I could happily go the rest of my life without hearing Smells Like Teen Spirit again. Trying to put that aside, it is a brilliantly written record. The songs are punchy, catchy and direct with a glossy sheen that makes them instantly accessible. In Bloom and Breed are highlights from the first side. As the record goes on the songs become less memorable but in some ways just as enjoyable. Stay Away and On A Plain are really good.
