1001 Albums Summary

Expectation: -> Neil Young 1970? No way, not my jam. After listening: -> Shocked at how much I enjoy this. Played the album ~10 times. Track ranking: Southern Dance Only love Believe Cripple Tell me Birds Gold Morning Lonesome Bring you down

Expectation: -> At least I'd heard of Neil Young. Not so here. After listening: -> Never heard this album but its influence has made it ubiquitous. If I owned a blues bar, it would be on repeat. Track ranking: Mannish Cat Bus Jealous #2 Baby Walkin Satisfied FL Girl

Expectation: -> Hopeful. Al has inspired some of my preferred modern music. That's Al, not AI. After listening: -> Ooooh so cool, so smooth. Love me some Al Green. Track ranking: Together Never Found La-La Mend Leaving Feeling Judy Old Ain't

Expectation: -> No one better when in that reggae mood. After listening: -> Some of the most popular and familiar reggae ever made is on this album. Track ranking: Birds Jammin Lights down Mystic (not cultist) Exodus One love Heathen Guilt So Much

Expectation: -> Not sure if PJ Harvey is a band or person. After listening: -> Going to take me a while to warm up to this album. No standout songs after a couple playthroughs. Track ranking: Fortune Whores A Place Said Something Float This Is Love Mess Exit One Line Kamikaze Horses Beautiful

Expectation: -> Never heard of this band, album, or probably any of their songs. After listening: -> Fantastic from start to finish. How did I miss this?!? Track ranking: Music? Concept December Alcohol Sidewinder Metal What you do Star Sign Satan Guiding Pet Don't Know

Expectation: -> Certainly heard of them but memories are fuzzy. After listening: -> Never got into VF and that's not going to change. But Blister In The Sun will always be great. Overall, 3/5 (barely). Track ranking: Blister Promise Daddy Good Feeling Kill Ugly Confessions Prove Add Kiss Please Car

Expectation: -> No expectations. After listening: -> Took a couple playthroughs to warm up to this one. Voice/vocals took some getting used to. If you're in the right setting and get into the right mind space, this is quite good. 3 pushing 4. Track ranking: What more Lilac Ask Break down Wild Love Four Why keep Either way If I Black

Expectation: -> The album cover is promising. After listening: -> The rock equivalent of B-list actors…but quite fun. Enjoyed this one. A bit Tom Petty-esque. Track ranking: Whizz Hymn Violence Cadillac Sister Boogie Memphis Ballad Mother Rose

Expectation: -> 1987 and a recognizable name has me optimistic. After listening: -> This isn't my jam. No track stood out for me so I didn't make a track ranking. Looking forward to tomorrow.

Expectation: -> More Bob. After listening: -> So so good. Polished, refined, solid production. Lacks the big timeless songs of Exodus and a bit repetitive sounding (similar intros). I need to be cooking with Marley in the background. Solid-4 Track ranking: Stir Concrete Train Baby Trouble Slave 400 Kinky Midnight

Expectation: -> A percussion album. Keeping an open mind. After listening: -> This could have unlocked a new genre for me but did not. Appreciate the music, the talent. Track ranking: Pitche Immigres Badou Taaw

Expectation: -> One of my most played albums in the early-mid 90s. 5/5 After listening: -> How does it still sound so good in 2026? My appreciation for it has only grown. Probably a top-20 all-time for me. Track ranking: Bloom Come Spirit Plain Lithium Drain Lounge Breed Polly Something Stay Pissings Endless

Expectation: -> Really looking forward to giving Radiohead a listen in 2026. After listening: -> This is not for me. Pretty sure this album was well received. Sometimes creativity and an attempt to do something different gets in the way of making good appelaing music. Track ranking: Idioteque Treefingers Optimistic Disappear Anthem Limbo Soundtrack Kid A Bell Everything Untitled

Expectation: -> This will be first full Joni Mitchell album listen for me. Long overdue. After listening: -> Much respect for her talent, songwriting, and style. I see why she is so beloved by many. For me, I prefer different styles than this, strong vocals, more energy, and songs that really stand out. This music is beautiful but often darkens the mood like a cloudy, brisk day. As she says herself in the title track, "There's comfort in melancholy." Track ranking: (skipped)

Expectation: -> I never got into Rage. Can't really explain it, as I like similar music. After listening: -> I’ve never liked Rage but like many bands in similar genre. Not once can I recall searching for one of their songs on Spotify or ever. But I recognize a lot of this album and it’s incredible. Late to the game but better late than never. 5/5 Track ranking: Killing Bombtrack Power Settle Bullet Enemy Steel Wake Freedom Township

Expectation: -> An American icon, though not someone I seek out. After listening: -> This is timeless and definitely worthy of a listen in 2026. Some all-time ear worms. Recall as a kid spontaneously humming some of these chorus sections. Track ranking: (skipped d/t time constraint)

Expectation: -> This has 4-5 potential. Guessing I will know/recognize 2-4 songs. I know the Automatic album better. After listening: -> I find Michael Stipe's voice to be comfortably nostalgic. Instantly recognizable and reminiscent of a better time. Two bangers on this album (Stand and Orange Crush). The others are very good and make for an easy full album listen. Thank you, R.E.M. Track ranking: Stand Orange Crush (The rest)

Expectation: -> Can't be worse than Kid A, right? After listening: -> Indeed, clearly a step up from Kid A. Listenable. Not all that enjoyable. No tracks really stood out or that I plan to return to. There are some great Radiohead songs out there. Just not here. Track ranking: (skipped)

Expectation: -> Unfamiliar. The only Stooges I know were a non-musical threesome. After listening: -> Some Rolling Stone vibes here. Not my cup of tea but didn't mind it. I found We Will Fall interesting. Post-listen I was shocked to see that I Wanna Be Your Dog has 125M Spotify listens with their next most listened song at < 30M. Listened again and I'm guessing there's a story that explains this. Track ranking: (skipped)

Expectation: -> I still remember getting this CD and listening to it often. Still remember the feel of that paper CD case. This album elicits memories for sure. After listening: -> An album unlike any other both then and now. Seems fair to call it groundbreaking. Some difficult/uncomfortable moments listening to some of these songs/sounds. That is surely by intent. The best parts of this album are truly extraordinary. Beautiful yet ugly. Haunting. Was wavering 4-5 here but a full listen pushed this to 5…acknowledging that it is an imperfect album. Track ranking: Closer Reptile Piggy Ruiner Hurt Becoming Do not want March Heresy Mr Eraser Gun Warm Spiral

Expectation: -> I don't know this band. After listening: -> Some Beatles/Monkees vibes. Not my genre for sure. First listen I was on a 2 but I gave it 3-4 more full spins through and there are definitely some songs worth coming back to. What this album lacked most of all was cohesiveness. It felt like each song was recorded on a different day, in a different studio, with different instruments, and different vocalists. The final product…a collage. Track ranking: Waterloo Sisters Tea Situation Nice Love Me Soldier Harry Polly Funny Autumn Watts Clown Susannah Wonderboy Season Sun Lincoln No life No return

Expectation: -> The band name is familiar but I do not know why. After listening: -> Love My Way…that's it (though not on this album). Whenever I'm having an 80s night, Love My Way is a must play. I do not recognize any of this album but playing it still transports me to a different time and place. Like the vibe, that 80s pop/rock feel, that familiar voice. I am not muiscally inclined/talented but it seems the lead singer has a limited range, too much monotony. Nothing problematic or offensive here, nor special. None of these songs are a home run for me, keeping this album at a 3. Track ranking: Run Down Pink All Tears Jones Goes On Mine Train Dumb Sleep

Expectation: -> Ah Willie. An American icon, treasure. I am truly thankful for his influence on modern country artists, though do not believe I will prefer much of his own music. After listening: -> Much respect to the man and his staying power. There is comfort and familiarity with his singing voice/style. Would love to hear this overhead while dining at my favorite country/Western restaurant. It is quite slow and plodding and minimalist, though peaceful. Took a few spins through AND the right mood and mindset to appreciate, but I got there. Track ranking: Sleep Hands Blue Eyes Remember Bandera Preacher / Theme Medley / Red Couldn't Denver Yonder Just O'er

Expectation: -> Definitely know the band name but cannot spontaneously name a song. After listening: -> Wow. Early prediction for summer '26…Smores over the firepit with a cocktail listening to Deja Vu. Track ranking: Hair Children House Carry Helpless Woodstock Love Deja Country 4

Expectation: -> Who? After listening: -> Unfamiliar band that sounds like it should have been more famous. Some of this could have easily blended in with radio hits of the 90s. Some Goo Goo Dolls vibes and the lead vocals with a hint of Rod Stewart. Impressive guitar riffs. Track ranking: Design Interiors Enola Australia Surface Everything Elvis Flowers Further Girl Kevin Removables

Expectation: -> I think we're really in the weeds now. After listening: -> Listened to the 2006 remastered version of this 1967 album. Cannot fully evaluate the album not knowing the language, but this is quite delightful to my ears. If this were my kind of music, would likely rate a 4 or higher. It is very well put together and there is unquestionable musical talent. Track ranking: (skipped)

Expectation: -> I've always preferred Metallica, and enjoy Megadeth and others, so I expect this will go well. After listening: -> Sounds as good, no better, than I would expect for an Iron Maiden album in the early 80s. Some of the best guitar solos I've ever heard. They sound a bit like if Van Halen did metal. Impressive. A couple slow bangers at the top of my rank list…and no weak points anywhere on the album. Track ranking: Children Hallowed Prisoner 6 6 6 22 Hills Invaders Gangland

Expectation: -> Thriller album? Instant 5. Then I looked at the track list. Is there a >5 rating? After listening: -> How were all these songs on one album? Ridiculous. I vaguely remember the absolute madness that Michael and this record created (age six when this was released). Track ranking: PYT Thriller Human Billie Beat it Wanna Lady The Girl Baby

Expectation: -> Never heard of this band. After listening: -> This may not be popular but I do enjoy this some. Not something I'll return to but if this were an english speaking band I would consider. Some incessant abrasive screaming nudged this down to a two. Could this get some play time at Halloween? Track ranking: (skipped)

Expectation: -> I'm trying to guess the genre of this 1967 album based on group name, album title, and cover art. Folk rock? After listening: -> Groovy, man. Some sweet guitar. Decent vocals. A delightful record. Fully support this album being on this list. Probably not excited enough about it, however, to intentionally return to it. Track ranking: Love Martha Death Marauder Flying Bass Bird Sad Porpoise 43 Grace

Expectation: -> Dolly's another national treaure. I've listened to a lot of country music but no Dolly album until today. After listening: -> No suprises for a 1/1/71-released 27-minute country album. I'm not hearing any big hits here. Some fun songs, some sweet songs. Glad I listened but won't come back. Track ranking: Traveling Here Way Coat Breeze She Never Better Lose Tears Mystery

Expectation: -> Familiar band name but details are fuzzy. After listening: -> This is solid and was suprised to hear a song I knew so well (Drive). Oddly picked Battlestar as my favorite track. I'm ready for an entire album of similar songs. Overall, no bad tunes and a 3.5 to 4. Track ranking: Battlestar Drive Warmth Miss Pardon Clean Nowhere Privilege Out Stellar Consequence Make Comes

Expectation: -> Expecting a Lenny Kravitz album to be 3-ish for me. I do like his biggest hits. After listening: -> Enjoyed the blend of sounds/styles on this album. Like the interspersed saxophone and orchestral moments. This was Kravitz's first album and for me lacks a big hitter. Too many songs fell flat and were a minute longer than needed. Track ranking: Let Love Garden Precious Empty Flower Cab Blues Care Rosemary Be Fear World Train

Expectation: -> 1965 Bob Dylan. Can't imagine a more likely 1 rating but let's see. After listening: -> The first song surprised me and had me hopeful. Then the rest sounded like Bob Dylan. So many of these songs had the same formula with similar riffs, poetic lyrics, little vocal range, and little bursts of harmonica. Just not for me. Track ranking: Subterranean Zero Tambourine Road She Maggie's Baby Blue Eden Dream Blues Ma

Expectation: -> The Beatles are understandably one of the greatest bands ever. However, I've never chosen to listen to them so this will be a first. After listening: -> This is a very very good album. I listened to the 2009 remastered version. I have not researched where this 1964 album fits along their career path but there are certainly some familiar classics. I like every song and have a new appreciation for the band for sure. This is pushing a 5. Track ranking: Hard day Buy love Fell Love her Tell Better Any time Happy Home Said Cry Back Can't

Expectation: -> A live concert album from the year 1975? I'm in. After listening: -> This is so pleasant to my ears. I'll happily listen to this all day today and maybe again in the future. Impressive skill and stamina. I do feel that the vocalizations detracted some from the listening experience/enjoyment. Still, a solid 4 from me. Wish I'd been there.

Expectation: -> My American history books did not tell me that Paul Revere made music. After listening: -> This is fun, whimsical at times, mostly energetic/up-tempo, and at times almost goofy. I like most of this album and the rest I didn't mind. I could forget this album a year from now but when listening I'm happy. Was leaning 3 but a couple more listens pushed this to 4. Track ranking: Stone There she goes Kicks Louis Get All I Take a look Shake Tomorrow SS Melody Ballad (isn't a ballad!) Girl Corvair

Expectation: -> Well known title track (and presumably album) but what's with that album cover photo? After listening: -> Did not expect to like this. Almost do not want to like this. But I do. It is just plain good. Comforting melodies and vocals, with some fun upbeat tunes. Interesting use of instruments/sounds. Somewhat reluctantly and unexpectedly, this is a 4. Track ranking: Boxer Condor Bridge Cecilia Boy Bye Satisfied Write Baby FLW Asking

Expectation: -> Never heard of band or album. After listening: -> Never heard of any of this. A bit psychadelic, some jukebox syle songs, too much talking, animal sounds(?), simulated sex. All in one place! Eh. This was teetering on my 2-3 line…with my four least favorite songs (if you want to call them that) pushing it down to 2. Track ranking: Cry Wowie Trouble Motherly Wind Fool Heart Call Satisfied Daddy Police Wondering Rock Happen Return

Expectation: -> I think I know two UB40 songs and they are not here. After listening: -> More reggae and less pop than the top 40 hits I remember. The songs on this album gel well into a cohesive project/listen. One long hour-plus listen with each song sounding a lot like the last. Making a track ranking was thus difficult. They are good at what they do and on this album they just kept doing it. Track ranking: 25% Reefer Tyler Little King Medusa Rain Shame Food Signing 12 Adella Fruit

Expectation: -> My #1 album of all time. First CD I ever owned. I bought a boom box and my friend's Black CD was in there. He said I could have it. The rest is history. After listening: -> All twelve of these songs are in my top-10. All jokes aside, this listen created more separation as my #1. This is a metal, no, a musical masterpiece Track ranking: Nothing Unforgiven Never Sandman Roam Struggle Holier Sad Tread Misery Wolf God

Expectation: -> Familiar band name. I think I might like this. After listening: -> Well this was fun. The song Connected is clearly recognized and excellent. Lot to like here but no other song really stood out. A lot of good songs and an easy listen. Took me a full day and 3-4 listens to push this from 3 to 4. I feel that the limited vocal range and talk-singing detracted some from my overall opinion. Some fast/energetic songs came off flat/dull. Enjoyed a lot of these rhythms/beats and the background singers are a highlight. Track ranking: Connected Fire Don't let up Sketch Everything Creation Fade Ground Step Pressure Night End Chicken

Expectation: -> I see this album's potential, for me, to be similar to the high floor, low ceiling analogy. Cannot imagine that 1970 Santana will wow me. Yet, he is known as one of the most talented guitarists, has a great reputation. After listening: -> Was expecting mostly solo guitar. This is all good, some of it really really good. Especially enjoyed some rock moments and the guitar solos. The talent is obvious. If this is critically acclaimed, and I am guessing that it is, I can see why. Track ranking: Mother Magic Samba Hope Incident Oye Winds Cabo Nicoya

Expectation: -> I assumed this was a 90s band by name. Which means this '69 album will be completely new to me. After listening: -> This is perfectly average. Transports me back to the 60s-70s. Nothing awe inspiring and nothing cringy. Five of 13 songs are instrumentals and of those only 11 seconds long. Why bother? There are a lot of older bands/albums I would reach for before this. Track ranking: Quicksand Darkness Beautiful Smug Sunlight Sham Rain Wind Drake Trillium Double Black Turn

Expectation: -> I know next to nothing about The Who. After listening: -> This might be their best or most recognizable album or maybe not. I do not recognize any of it. While it did not initially click for me, more time and more plays made me realize how very good it is. A fun album, quite refined, and lacking any uncomfortable/awkward moments. Track ranking: Kids Don't Mind La Much Man Generation Please Legal True- Street Good Ox

Expectation: -> No clue. Only a pre-internet band would name themselves Love. After listening: -> Listened to the 2015 remaster on Spotify. I am definitely a fan of baroque rock/pop. Some of this was very good. Perhaps this band/album influenced more modern artists who put out more memorable tunes. Why is andmoreagain one word? Why on The Red Telephone do they find the name Phil problematic? Questions that will probably remain unanswered. This is very close to a 4 for me. Track ranking: Alone Red Old House Amdmoreagain Live Humor Maybe Scene Bummer Planet

Expectation: -> I must know some music by The Clash, right? After listening: -> Listened to the remastered version on Spotify. I certainly know Should I Stay or Should I Go and Rock the Casbah (neither is on this). Who doesn't? None of this, however, is recognizable to me (except mayyybe Train In Vain). 19 songs that never reached my ears…I'd like to call them a two-hit wonder but I know that is not true. I like all of this. Quite an interesting mix of musical styles/genres. Just press play and enjoy it all. My favorite song here was a hidden track?? Track ranking: Train Lost Guns Death London Cadillac Clampdown Down Right Rudie Hateful Revolution Lover's Kola Spanish Four Wrong Jazz

Expectation: -> This should be entirely new to me. After listening: -> Indeed the album is new to me. However, I recognized his voice (semi-fondly) and with some research figured it must be the Good Will Hunting soundtrack. I can listen to this but my mind floats away from it pretty quick. This is good music yet his style is too mellow/flat for my liking. Track ranking: Sam Happiness Junk Mama LA Somebody Sound Stupidity Mary Quiet Everything means Colorbars Lost Easy Everything reminds Bye

Expectation: -> Never heard of this. After listening: -> Oh wow. What a singing voice. I really enjoy Loreena Mckennitt who has even more Celtic influence than this band. This is a style of music that I listen to a few times per year and have been doing so for several years. I am putting this album into my rotation AND will be seeking out their other albums. Track ranking: Patrick Reynardine Michael Matty Farewell Come Medley Tam Quiet Deserter

Expectation: -> Earth, Wind & Fire circa 1975? I'm guessing I put this at 4 minimum. After listening: -> No surprise to me that this will be an album and band I plan to return to on the regular. This was even better than I expected. My lowest ranked song is just a fraction below my highest. Track ranking: Love World Star Reasons Happy Yearnin Light Africano

Expectation: -> I don't know this band. After listening: "-> There are definite moments when I think this is good. These moments are not frequent and are scattered among a lot of songs that do not appeal to me. Enjoyed ""If There Is Something"" much more than the rest. Enjoyed the saxophone and other odd instruments/sounds scattered throughout. I applaud the creativity. " Track ranking: Something Bob Bitters Re-Make Ladytron VA Believe 2HB Chance Sea

Expectation: -> Famous Miles Davis. After listening: -> Really good jazz is probably a 3-4 for me. Little hope of reaching a 5. Considering this is the famous Miles Davis from 1957(!), this gets a 4. I will likely use this as a benchmark for evauating any future jazz albums during this project. Track ranking: Jeru Move Godchild Budo Boplicity Venus Rocker Israel Deception Rouge Moon

Expectation: -> ??? After listening: -> Interesting group name, for starters. I feel that I can break this album into thirds. A third was really good, a third was decent, and a third was questionable. I would definitely consider coming back to a portion of this album. Shy of a 4 rating but a pleasant surprise. Track ranking: Zig Zag Glad Autumn Call Yellow Woman Abba Nuff Ugly Plastic Electricity Boogie

Expectation: -> Expectations are not high based on the description. After listening: -> My mistake. I quite like this. Yes, it can sound repetitive and grate a little at times. Their duet harmonies and that mandolin playing probably set a standard for future artists. I find most of these lyrics to be entertaining, others with strong religious tones, and some are disturbing. How many people died in the making of this album?!? The more ridiculous and macabre the better (mostly). This style isn't for everybody but it's at a 3.6-ish for me and I'm rounding up. Track ranking: Let Her Go Satan Kentucky Tiny Without Love Katie Pines Brother AL Smiles Mother Knoxville Mary Thankful Lord Pray

Expectation: -> Hoping for David Bowie's mainstream hits. Or will this be odd. Looking forward to it either way. Will listen to the 2017 remaster. After listening: -> Not initially as impressive as I'd hoped and no songs were recognized. Thought that this is probably just an average Bowie album when compared with his other works. I was a bit turned off by the instrumentals, tbh. Gave it three full listens and began to appreciate it. Such musical talent and this is quite a solid project. Track ranking: Wife Glass Career Crashing Sound Speed Subterraneans Wall World Warszawa Art

Expectation: -> This is unknown territory. After listening: -> Another surprise win. Not sure that I was ever exposed to this band/album once old enough to appreciate music. No recall of it ever playing on our radio stations or MTV. Too bad, because this perfectly aligns with what I like. I'm hearing influence from The Cure and similar bands but I like this more. Probably would have worn this cassette raw back in the day. Having trouble moving on to today's album. Thought this was an easy 4 after first listen, now I'm going 5. Track ranking: Look 1&4 Date Heart Mantrap V-Day Show Poison Tears Returns 4

Expectation: -> Pretty sure that I know what to expect here and hopes are high. 3 minimum with 5-level potential. After listening: -> Love the tempo variability and flow throughout. Especially enjoy the extended lively periods, typically my jazz preference. As a long ago sax player, I really appreciate his skill. The artistry his interplay with the other instrumentation, wow.

Expectation: -> No idea what to expect here. After listening: -> This is fine and I'm sure many really like it. Not really my jam. Don't love it, don't hate it. Some Nirvana and STP influence is clear but this isn't those bands. Track ranking: 1969 Jungle Homesick Autumn Ain't Country Evolved Sun Factory Free Mary Out

Expectation: -> Please tell me Hey Ya! is on this album. After listening: Disappointed. Disappointed in myself for not once seeking out a full Outkast album despite liking five of his songs prior to today. I've done no research on this mammoth of a rap/hip-hop album but it should be under consideration as top-5 ever made in the category. A colossal effort featuring 40 songs/intros/interludes spanning 2 hours and 15 minutes, showcasing his and other talents, with a striking variability in song styles and sounds. I won't do my usual track ranking due to its length and a time limitation. I was convinced this was a 5 before song 10, maybe a full hour before hearing the album's biggest hit. This will surely get more play on my speakers well beyond today.

Expectation: -> Based on band name, I thought this might be a 60s rock album. Nope. After listening: -> My wife asked me to describe this. I'm admittedly not good at categorizing music into genres and subgenres. I just listen. I said somthing like it having a new wave sound. It is part pop and radio friendly, part rock/guitar. Such an album from 1987 should be right up my alley. Well, I could listen to this all day. Yet, not once would I (or did I) stop to look at my phone to identify a song I was really enjoying. This album needs a proper spark, some fire. The most likely prognosis here is that this will fade into obscurity for me. Track ranking: Darklands April Happy Fall Down Cherry Deep Wall About Nine

After listening: "-> 2004. One of the busiest years of my life and part of a near decade where I essentially lost music and movies. In the first song I hear a familiar 80s vocal sound. Took a look and sure enough, the Smiths lead singer, the song ""How Soon Is Now?"" " This is solid. I like this album's sound, especially the vocals. Excellent song writing, some beautiful songs. On the fringes of 5. Track ranking: America Couldn't Last Like you Sorry Irish Kiss Boxes Jesus Camden Dykes Gang How

Expectation: -> Iconic. A lock for 5? Tbd. After listening: -> This is first full listen through in 10+ years and only 2nd or 3rd time ever. Yet first four songs on my ranking are pretty well burned to brain like a CD. Went into this with an open mind as I'm not mad about Prince. Not sure how this isn't a 5 for everybody. Track ranking: Purple Doves Crazy Die Nikki Beautiful Star Take Computer

Expectation: -> An 80s band I know with a few radio hits. Looking forward to exploring this. After listening: "-> 80s synth pop. Yes, please. I enjoyed about 2/3 of this. The jury is out on the final three on my ranking. My take home point is that this band is more than just ""Don't You (Forget About Me),"" even if I've heard that song 1000 times and perhaps none of this album until today. I was impressed." Track ranking: Miracle Prize Hunter Someone Somebody Sleep Dream King Colours

Expectation: -> I might have owned this back in the day. Pretty sure there are a couple big hits here. After listening: -> This is a rather easy 5 for me and could be a top-10 80s album for me. I'll have to remember to fact check (opinion check?) that statement when this project ends. The top 3 songs are biggg hits and Save A Prayer has a special meaning for me, even though my reason is unrelated to the true songwriter's meaning. Also, quite enjoy The Chauffeur. Track ranking: Prayer Wolf Rio Chauffeur Stairway Nightmare Own Way Rain Religion

Expectation: -> I know them for their one big radio hit, which I really like, but odds of loving this don't seem high pre-listen. After listening: -> The disparity between Jane Says and everything else here is well…a canyon wide? Love that tune. Takes me back to mid-90s college every time. Nothing else here is salvageable. Track ranking: Jane TY Beach Summertime Idiots Ocean Mountain Pigs Shower Ted Dad

After listening: -> What a talented musician and iconic voice. Some of that guitar is so so good. I have my favorites songs but this is solid from top to bottom. Won't likely reach for this album but I'd never complain if somebody had this playing. Bumped this up from 3 to 4 by midday and secured that with one final Friday night run through. Did not expect to enjoy this so much. Track ranking: Bold Wish Wait Sand Spanish Little 6-9 Floatin Telling Fine Wing Skies Exp

Expectation: -> Van Morrison. Definitely a name I should know something about but mind is blank. After listening: -> A solid live album. This is good rock/blues which I enjoyed at times but mostly just didn't mind. Definitely like the orchestral and horn elements. Listened to this beyond a day and just couldn't convince myself this is a 4 for me, though it's close. Track ranking: Here Comes Domino Caravan These Dreams I Believe Working Saint Bring It Lion Gloria Mystic Ain't Children Pocket Make Love Warm Love Help Cypress

Expectation: -> Vaguely familiar band name. After listening: -> Usually when I'm in the mood for something like this, I reach for Foreigner, Journey, or Whitesnake. Time to add Bad Company to the list. This is similar, very polished, and with an excellent vocalist. Just a touch behind the aforementioned bands. Track ranking: Bad Company Ready Enough Rock Movin' Down Choose Seagull

Expectation: -> Interesting that this album was released on the day I was born. A couple months ago gave Talking Book a 4. This is an hour and 44 minutes long and it seems he's got a huge career catalog. Time to settle in and get to it. After listening: -> How am I just learning that Coolio sampled from Pastime Paradise? I'll never be the same. I was surprised with how much I liked Talking Book. I am surprised at how much I like this. It is safe to say that I will probably both like and be surprised that I like any other SW albums I encounter in the future. I should probably consider myself a fan at this point. This album is full of energy with a mix of varied instruments and styles amongst the tracks. Most of this is quite pleasant to the ears, melodic and joyful. 4 stars. Track ranking: Lovely Paradise Duke Love Love Magic Feet Wish Saturn Summer Ghetto Sucker Singing Ebony As Star Ordinary Joy God Black Contusion Easy

Expectation: -> A classic album. Looking forward to this. After listening: -> I don't have a list of my favorite 1967 songs, but if I did I'm pretty sure that Light My Fire and Break on Through would be top-5. Those two timeless gems carry this album to a 4. Not in awe of the rest of it, but it's listenable. Track ranking: Fire Break Whisky Soul Crystal Fox Take It Looked Back Door The End End of the Night

Expectation: -> By name alone I'm expecting 3-4. After listening: -> For me, this is an easy listen on repeat. What a voice. I've just never taken the time to listen to her music. Glad this forced me to finally do so. Track ranking: Caught Drinkin Can't Keep Away Shoe Devil Everything Saint Tomorrow Really Don't Got and Go Plans Two Worlds

Expectation: -> No idea. Not going to research. Just going to tap play. After listening: -> Insert big eyes emoji here. I'm truly going to wait to see how the rest of this project community feels about this album. Are there people who like this? That prefer this over say… anything else? How did it make this list? This is our 73rd album and I've yet to give a 1 rating, though in retrospect could have given that to a couple. With some I refused to do so out of respect to a well known band with better songs elsewhere. That would not apply here. This was a tough listen and though my brain is slowly getting used to the sounds, most of this is some combination of abrasive and bizarre. Looking forward to taking a peak at ratings from friends and this community.

One listen (limited). Very talented musicians. Love the energy. Though not something I'll return to, this was enjoyable.

Expectation: -> A familiar name but that's all. After listening: -> Musically, this is a five-star album. It has songs that are ingrained in the minds of generation X and beyond, even if not these precise versions. Love this band's sound/style. "The thing I struggle with is that two songs have a ""Pts 1 & 2,"" there are three single versions, there are two SQ-Squad Mix versions, and four interviews. I would love to hear the album as it was released in 1973." Track ranking: Breeze Lady Music Lonely Highways Walk Comes Down To Sunshine If You

Expectation: -> This is probably an obscure band/album. After listening: -> Umm… am I crazy or is this really good? I could listen to this all day. Took me a little bit to warm up to it but now I just want to find a drive-in restaurant and groove to this in my imaginary convertible. I don't like some of this, I like it all. Track ranking: Onie Sold Lovin' Dream Quarter World Size Tomorrow Bangles Toonerville King Luvin'

Expectation: -> Seemingly, another obscure band/album. Hoping this is as good as yesterday's surprise. After listening: -> Like the title track, though not all 10:36 of it. Overall, I feel that the vocals hold this band back. Some of the guitar and drumming is quite good. The longer I listen the more I enjoy this. Not a bad song to be found here. Almost giving this a 4 (might I regret not?). Track ranking: Venus Moon Prove Elevation Evil Light Friction Curtain

Expectation: -> Who knew there was a live Sam Cooke recording? Optimistic about this. After listening: -> Wish I was there for this. Chain Gang live in '63 by the original writer/singer…wow. Followed by Cupid…oh my. Twistin' The Night Away?!? And on and on. A little difficult to judge this against a studio album. Still, impressed! Track ranking: Cupid Chain Twistin Medley Feel It Mercy Nothing Bring It Party (Intro)

Expectation: -> Have not heard of this band or this 2011 album. After listening: -> Several decent songs, none that I had to skip, though little that excites me or that I'll likely remember beyond this week/month except maybe Street Joy. That song is clearly me favorite track. Track ranking: Street Farm Burnished River Drug Is Him! Bess Keys Anvil

Expectation: -> Know the band not the album. I had their CD featuring Sex on Fire back in the day (2008's Only By the Night). After listening: -> I know that there is some value in and appreciation of this album/music/band. They are a popular band with plenty of fans. I will admit that I like this album more the longer I listen. But stepping back and looking at this collection of songs, my overall experience has not been one of enjoyment. For me, they released a full-on all-time banger with Sex on Fire (Use Somebody also excellent) but just haven't otherwise been able to muster up anything as good. Nearly gave this a 3, despite initially leaning toward 1. Track ranking: Talihina Novocaine Dusty Happy Red Molly Wasted Genius Joe Spiral CA Trani

Expectation: -> A quick sneak peak at the first couple songs and I see Money For Nothing. Call me stoked for this. After listening: -> Found myself down a rabbit hole seeking answers for multiple uses of a slur. I will never be comfortable with it regardless of a reasonable explanation and subsequent response. Those 15 seconds aside, this album is incredible. These musicians have quite an unexpected range. Did not expect smooth atmospheric slow rock tracks intermixed with their iconic radio hits. 5 Track ranking: Money Walk So Far Trick Brothers River World Worry Strong

Expectation: -> I guess it's a love song Saturday. After listening: -> Took about a full 24 hours to realize Eric Clapton is on this, despite the classic gem Layla. There were some solid songs here for sure. Love some of the guitar. I found this an easy album to listen to, but a difficult one to track rank. Took over a day to start to recognize some of the individual songs by name. A solid effort but not one of the best rock & roll albums of all-time. Track ranking: Layla Have You Ever Growing Bell Bottom Looked Anyday Highway Late Truth So Sad Nobody Garden Wing Yours

Expectation: -> Steely Dan should be a 3 pushing 4 for me. After listening: -> This is rather middling for me. Did not mind any of it. Did not love any of it. Perfectly adequate. Track ranking: Barrytown Toodle-Oo Dude Parker Rikki Night Charlie Monkey Pretzel Gun Buzz

Expectation: -> Talking Heads could impress here. After listening: -> Enjoyed this some. I love Burning Down the House (which isn't here). This album is solid but lacked that song's powerhouse energy. Spotify tells me that Psycho Killer has 727M streams, which befuddles me. A good song but not sure I get the obsession. This is probably as close to a 4 as an album can get (for me) without getting there. Track ranking: Uh-Oh Decisions Book Psycho Government Who Is It Compassion Feeling Happy Pulled Week

Expectation: -> No clue what to expect here. After listening: -> Brimful of Asha! I know the song but certainly not by name, album, or artist (until today). Fun and catchy. Love that chorus. -> What an unusual album. Each song to the next I had no idea what to expect. They take the listener on quite the winding musical journey. Really like some of this and some of it less so. I applaud the creativity. Track ranking: Brumful Butter Tobacco Candyman Road Troopers Sh** Chocolat Sleep Funky Light Coming Happening Corner Wood

Expectation: -> Looking forward to advancing my Prince enlightenment era. After listening: -> So strange how much I appreciate Prince and enjoy his music without previously considering myself a fan. Wouldn't rate this as highly as the epic Purple Rain album but this is fantastic, still a 5, and that's not a fair comparison! Track ranking: LRC 1999 Water DMSR Delirious Cab International Married Automatic Free Critics

Expectation: -> No clue what today's album will entail. After listening: -> After an impatient start to my listen, had this at a 1. Then realized this isn't a 1, planned a 2. Then gave it more time and I'm starting to dig this. 3 it is. Maybe in another week it will be a 5? Not likely but glad I didn't commit too early. Found this fun, odd, and kinda memorable. Extra points for the band name. Track ranking: Juxtapozed End of the World Sensitive Sympathy Rings Serfer Receptacle Doris Presidential Run Vulcan Fragile Miniature

Expectation: -> I think this could finally be the Radiohead album I like. After listening: -> Karma Police gets an A rating from me. Such an incredible song. See, I can appreciate a Radiohead song. I cannot honestly say that I like another song on this album. I'm sure these songs are favorites for millions of folks and I do believe that I can understand and respect that. This band's just not for me. Track ranking: Karma Airbag Let Down No Surprises Android Alien Lucky Exit Tourist Climbing Electioneering Fitter

Expectation: -> Something I like to eat, but listen to? After listening: -> I enjoyed this, despite it lacking much depth and complexity. A pretty straight forward upbeat rock set can still satisfy. Guessing they were a very energetic live show. Track ranking: Hoover If I Can Changes Moon Idea Slim Helpless Fortune Act Slick

Expectation: -> High. After listening: -> A classic. With one of the most memorable album covers of all time. Enjoyed this. The top two songs here are engrained for life. Hate this Maxwell character! Track ranking: Sun Together Something Darling Octopus Maxwell Money Want you Because Bathroom Mustard Weight Pam Golden Majesty End Sun

Expectation: -> I feel that I should know this band and maybe do but don't realize it? After listening: -> Wow this band is popular. I'm quite familiar with and enjoy the top two songs listed below. Somehow, though, I've never hit the like button on Spotify. Those two have about 1.5 billion streams in sum. Very impressive. This is a cohesive project and is very well done. Though I would not say this is my favorite rock style, I can see why they are beloved. Track ranking: Last Nite Someday Modern Hard To Is This It Started Legal Alone Take It Luck Soma

Expectation: -> This is our second Kinks album. I'm good with that. After listening: -> The Kinks make some fun music that I certainly enjoy. There isn't a song here that I dislike, yet also none that blew me away. Happy to have experienced some more 60s tunes from this popular band. Track ranking: Son Yes Sir Nothing Churchill Victoria Shangri-La Brainwashed Hat Drivin' Australia Arthur Young

Expectation: -> No clue what to expect. After listening: -> One of my more unusual listening experiences. Three days behind with this project as I continue to just put this on. Part because I like it. Part because I'm trying to understand it. I'm still not sure where I stand. The sounds are mostly pleasant but I cannot well describe the album nor the individual songs. I want to keep listening but it's time to move on. Track ranking: Girls Guys Bluish Frightened Daily Taste Brother Runnin Clothes Flowers

Expectation: -> Another band unknown to me. After listening: -> Decent folk music from the late (60s. All I really want to hear is the female vocalist. Perhaps I'm not giving this enough time and effort. My guess is that this album will not be one I remember for long. Track ranking: Cuckoo Light Lyke Sweetheart Carpenter Mountain Hunting Sally Angel Train Springtime

Expectation: -> Bowie '76 is promising. After listening: -> Had a similar experience with my listening and review of Bowie's Low album a month ago. Did not think I was all that impressed at first. With a little time I came to quite like it, bumped it from 3 to 4. He was so creative and unpredictable. Such originality. Track ranking: Word Stay Wild Golden Station TVC15

Expectation: -> Despite liking some of his stuff, I'm not enthused when I see his name come up. After listening: -> Neil Young has surprised me over the past three months of this project. I really enjoyed this album. Heart of Gold is just incredible. The rest is solid. Had this on repeat for a couple hours and could have done a couple more. Loved some of that harmonica and slide guitar. Track ranking: Heart Old Man Alabama Words World Weekend A Man Ready Harvest Needle

Expectation: -> The Roots from the Jimmy Fallon show? After listening: -> Ooooo what a find. I guess I was never inspired by their late night TV gig and so never sought out their music. -> If a few of these tracks were deleted in favor of a few bangers, this would be a five in my book. Hoping this band shows up again on this list. Track ranking: Seed Complexity Sacrifice Quills Rhymes Break Heat Rock Galore Water Thought Something Thirsty Thought (0:59) !! Phrentrow

Expectation: -> This should be 2-4 range, most likely a 4. 1h 16-min could make this a challenging review. Not a Kanye fan. Never previously sought a Kanye album. But I'm a fan of most popular hip-hop and rap plus I've liked three Kanye songs on Spotify prior to today. After listening: -> Not sure if this album is prime Kanye but it surrre sounds like it. Impressive skill, creativity, lyricism, variety. Excellent collaborations. I have not looked, but I'm guessing that this album received accolades back in the day. Track ranking: (not including Intro, skits, etc.) Never Slow We Spaceship Falls Breathe Wire Family Two New Workout Jesus High Spirit Call Graduation Fly

Expectation: -> Looking forward to this. Peripherally aware of Kate Bush (Running Up That Hill). After listening: -> KATE BUSH! Now I'm a fan. Didn't take long to be honest and I'm not all that surprised. This is a musical style I've enjoyed for years. Can't really explain my lack of interest to date except that time is limited. Going to be difficult to move on to tomorrow's artist. Track ranking: Woman's Reaching Love Deeper Never Rocket Sensual Man Heads Fog

Expectation: -> Guessing this is obscure. After listening: -> Took two full days to listen and evaluate. Despite this, opinion didn't change much from my first impression. Light, fun. Spring/summery with birds chirping at the start. Enjoyed this but I wouldn't say it really hit for me or that I truly connected with it. 3 pushing 4. Track ranking: Ballet Grass Summer Season Super Earn Meeting The Man God Satellite Big Day Bonfire Mermaid Dying 1000

Expectation: -> No idea what to expect here…genre, decade, nothing. After listening: -> Not really my thing. Some ineresting sounds for sure. Some sounds I do not care for. An overall mish-mash that I won't go looking for. After a more intented second listen and at the 11th hour, I nudged this up to two. Track ranking: Regiment Solo Mountain Come America Moonlight Pitch 8 Help Two Defiant Hungry Secret Jezebel Mea Carrier New Vocal

Expectation: -> Bjork. Know the name and, I think, the general style. After listening: -> Interesting, different, not unpleasant. Some of this quite lovely. Some of it a bit too repetitive. At times it seemed that her vocals were poorly matched with the instrumental sounds/rhythms. Not going to call myself a fan. Track ranking: Venus Come One Happy Crying Anchor Human Aeroplane Sensuality Love Life

Expectation: -> More 60s. After listening: -> Perhaps a strange comment, but I enjoyed the percussive elements. Liked the more high energy moments (thank you). I enjoy trumpets/horns amidst lively rock songs (e.g. Artificial Energy). Some of this made me cringe and there was an odd talking/silence track at the end. Track ranking: Artificial Follow Old John Goin' Triad Change Draft Get Dolphin Tribal Bound Harmony Space Moog Universal

Expectation: -> Know the name and have a vague familiarity with their style. After listening: -> Enjoy this group's style. Enjoy how they use a wide variety of instruments. Loved the interplay of piano, electric guitar, and saxophone on Crime of the Century. Vocals probably hold this band back a little. Despite listening to a remastered version, some volume variations were a little off-putting. Track ranking: Crime School Dreamer Shell Listening Bloody Asylum Rudy

Expectation: -> Led Zeppelin is one of those bands that everbody loves but I don't really have an opinion either way. Maybe I form one today. After listening: -> Still mostly ambivalent and don't feel connected. Really liked some moments but most of this was just playing in the background while I did something else. I'm realizing that I never recognize when a Zeppelin song is playing on the radio or streaming. Immigrant Song is a standout on this album. Track ranking: Immigrant Tiles Tangerine That's the Way Loving Gallows Celebration Stomp Friends Hats

Expectation: -> First album in this project that I could not find on Spotify. Could that be ominous? Found the album set of 16 songs on YouTube, each song with less than 4K listens. After listening: -> Fun. Got the hips moving more than once. A few songs started with beats that stopped me in my tracks. I quite enjoyed some of this. Too bad it isn't on Spotify as an album. A solid 3. Track ranking: Doin' Beeds U Make Beyond Dayz Tribe What U Sunshine Dina Black Woman J. Beez Feelin' Good Newz Done Ackknowledge Kool

Expectation: -> More obscure 60s. After listening: -> Pretty bland in my opinion. Some good moments for sure but nothing special here. Happy Trails is off-key. Screaming at the end of Where You Love ruins an otherwise decent song. Track ranking: Mona Who 1 Maiden When Who 2 How Which Calvary Where Happy

Expectation: -> By album title alone, this should be country. After listening: -> Indeed, country. Not an artist I am familiar with. Yet, a sound similar in 1978 to many country artists I listened to in the 90s. I liked most of this and disliked none. Some of it was average but I could listen to it with regularity, albeit in short bursts and when in such a mood. Track ranking: Cornbread Wind Masquerade Jericho Honky Fool Downtown Fingernails Boxcars Waltz

Expectation: -> Reelin' In The Years and Do It Again are nostalgic Steely Dan songs that I quite enjoy. After listening: -> I think it's the nostalgia that I like most. This album doesn't have that for me. Some decent songs, nice sax play. This is pretty easy listening. Track ranking: Home Aja Peg Josie Deacon News Cow

Expectation: -> I've known about this band for years as it's been alongside others that I enjoy. Expectation is that I won't have a revelation today. After listening: -> This was heading toward a 2 rating and then it hit me that I don't really like any of this. Re-listening did not help like it often does for me. Track ranking: Joni Sprawl Rocket Riot Eric Kiss Breese Trash Wonder Candle Hyper Elim Rain Providence

Expectation: -> An album I had on repeat in the 90s. For those who weren't there, half of these songs were about everywhere. I'll predict a 4 rating minimum pre-listen. After listening: -> What a walk down memory lane. Really enjoyed this. This was/is a generation-defining album. Wouldn't say that I plan to start listening to Alanis or this '95 album again here in 2026. But forever affected by it. There are some 5-star banger songs here that I will forever enjoy, no matter how much time passes. Album as a whole gets a 4. Track ranking: Head Learn Ironic Mary Jane Pocket Perfect Wake Right Through Oughta Forgiven All I Doctor Your House

Expectation: -> One of the most famous bands of all-time. I like a few of their songs but wouldn't call myself a fan. Nothing but respect for the Stones. After listening: -> Listened to and rated the non-UK version, which had Paint It, Black. I felt that song was head and shoulders above the rest. This is good, not great. The UK version just doesn't impress me much, sorry Stones fans. Track ranking: Jane Thumb Waiting Easy Mother Bother Think Take It 505 Home Time What High Girl

Expectation: -> I shall not judge a book by its cover. After listening: -> Not my cup of tea. Did an internet search asking if I was hearing a wobble board. Nope. That annoyingly pervasive sound heard throughout this album is an electric jug. It should be retired. Without it, this album would be a 2-3 for me.

Going forward, will submit brief reviews. Was leaning 2 for a while but the more I listened the more I found myself liking this. Might even return to it soon. A surprise find.

An album I know well. Knew this was a 4 before re-listening. Big fan of The Boss. Saw him in concert 2008, six years after this was released and he played a few of these that night. After my re-listen, this is bordering on a 5 star rating.

Knew I would rate this a 4 after about 10-15 minutes. I've long been a fan of Daft Punk and I am gussing (zero research) that this band was a predecessor. I will return to this.

No, I did not harm my speaker in the rating of this album.

Love the opener. 117M streams on Spotify for a '66 tune says I'm not alone.

I could never have named La Grange (or the band) but this song has been everywhere in my nearly 50 years.