Best Ever Albums

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sun, 3 Sep 2017 15:19:48 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 09/03/2017 19:19

I know it's been forever since I posted in here. If anyone's interested, I started a new music diary over at RYM (in part so it can easily accommodate singles too). You can check it out here.

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Fri, 17 Feb 2017 14:25:15 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 02/17/2017 19:25

This list is my music diary for 2017. Until I have time to write anything more substantial (if I ever do).

Re: Human Canon Ball

Skinny — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 22:09:51 GMT

Author: Skinny

Posted: 08/14/2016 02:09

Maybe try taking an album that intrigues you, listen to it three or four times, and then try to explain what it is about that album you enjoyed, and perhaps what didn't quite do it for you. It would make for a much more interesting read.

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 21:49:59 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 08/14/2016 01:49

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Holland by The Beach Boys

Good. The last good BB album. Walks a tightrope between stunning beauty and unacceptable cheesiness that everything else post-Surf's Up falls off.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Love Man by Otis Redding

Good.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Lemonade by Beyoncé

Good. Not as good as it seemed visually, although it gained a good K.dot verse.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Tell The Truth by Otis Redding

Pretty good. But his worst as it's the final batch of leftovers.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Soft Bulletin by The Flaming Lips

Good. Some tracks are out of this world but I don't think the whole thing is a masterpiece. Yet.

Swordfishtrombones by Tom Waits

Pretty good. I was rather uninspired tbh.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Spring Fever! by The Pussywillows

Really good. Even more listens to this.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Out To Lunch! by Eric Dolphy

Pretty good. A little too spacious for my taste. Love the bells in this.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

After Laughter Comes Tears: Complete Stax & Volt Singles + Rarities 1964-1965 by Wendy Rene

Pretty good. Full of emotional potency, but some of it blurs together. Recommend splitting this up, as opposed to one sitting.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Moth by Chairlift

Good re-listen.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Telefone by Noname

Really good re-listen.

Currently listening to and liking so far:

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Late Nights With Jeremih by Jeremih

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sun, 7 Aug 2016 19:30:49 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 08/07/2016 23:30

Lots of one-liners and one longer note below:

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Soul Album by Otis Redding

Pretty good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Fela's London Scene by Fela Kuti & Africa 70

Pretty good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Roforofo Fight by Fela Kuti & Africa 70

Really good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Afrodisiac by Fela Kuti & Africa 70

Good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Telefone by Noname

Really good. New #3 of the year. Added to database.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Shangri-Las - 65! by The Shangri-Las

Really good - their best. High up in my next decade update.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Spring Fever! by The Pussywillows

Really good

This one I'll say more about. I just added it to the database. I found it on RYM. It's a super rare album. Only pressed once on vinyl, not a large batch either, and goes for a bunch of money. Never released on cassette or CD. Not available on streaming sites or for sale digitally. There's also no torrent/zip/etc. online. Six of the seven songs are on YouTube in a playlist. The fifth track, "Everyone Will Know," is not on YouTube but is available as a free mp3 download on various sites.

It's an upbeat, bubblegummy girl group revival record. The seven songs are all covers, but none were big originally, meaning that they arguably record the definitive versions here. The songs also all fit into a fairly cohesive emotional concept, something basically unheard of in the original wave of girl group albums. This is short and very very sweet.

I think SuedeSwede, CryingGameDahlin, and Jimmy Dread might like this, and probably others as well.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

iiiDrops by Joey Purp

Pretty good, below expectations

Complete And Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary Of Soul by Otis Redding

Re-listen, not as good as I remembered (pretty good)

Entertainment! by Gang Of Four

Really good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Sprinter by Torres

Pretty good, below expectations

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Dock Of The Bay by Otis Redding

Re-listen, better than I remembered (really good)

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Sensual World by Kate Bush

Good. Liked better than Hounds Of Love.

The Immortal Otis Redding by Otis Redding

Good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Open & Close by Fela Kuti & Africa 70

Pretty good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Why Black Men Dey Suffer by Fela Kuti & Africa 70 With Ginger Baker

Good. Added to database.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Gentleman by Fela Kuti & Africa 70

Good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Beach Boys Today! by The Beach Boys

Re-listen, better than I remembered (really good)

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

LP1 by FKA Twigs

Re-listen, same as I remembered (really good)

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Philadelphia Freeway by Freeway

Re-listen, better than I remembered (good)

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Born Under A Bad Sign by Albert King

Good

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 12:25:28 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 07/29/2016 16:25

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Greatest Hits by The Lovin' Spoonful

A lot better than I remember. Very uneven but some real standout tracks like "You Didn't Have To Be So Nice", "Daydream", "Summer In The City", "Rain On The Roof", and "Darling Be Home Soon."

Well Respected Kinks by The Kinks

All their essential early material in one album. Great.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Shakara by Fela Kuti & Africa 70

A+
I also found this article interesting: http://www.msafropolitan.com/2013/08/african-feminist-analysis-fela-lady.html

Otis Blue / Otis Redding Sings Soul by Otis Redding

A+ Great re-listen. On this album he really does justice to the covers, the band is cooking, and the imperfections somehow improve the record.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Stone Roses by The Stone Roses

A+ This one might end up high on my charts

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sat, 23 Jul 2016 23:12:54 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 07/24/2016 03:12

I don't have the time to properly update this with writeups, and I won't for the foreseeable future. So I'll just maintain this as a straight-up listening log, with substantial comments few and far between. Apologies.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Five Leaves Left by Nick Drake

A+, wow at first listen

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Chordslayer by Maxo

Good bubblegum bass

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Instant 0 In The Universe by Stereolab

80/100

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Pain In My Heart by Otis Redding

His debut and the worst thing I've ever heard by Redding. Vastly overrated on this site at #2, properly rated on RYM.

Margerine Eclipse by Stereolab

75/100

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Beggars Banquet by The Rolling Stones

Meh. Bumping it off the decade chart.

Clouds by Joni Mitchell

Nice.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J. by Bruce Springsteen

Really good! Was underrating this

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

#1 Record by Big Star

Simply amazing, A+

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Homogenic by Björk

Quite good

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Great Otis Redding Sings Soul Ballads by Otis Redding

Quite good [2]

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Fab Four Suture by Stereolab

70/100

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Lemonade by Beyoncé

Visual album experience. Amazing!

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Night Falls Over Kortedala by Jens Lekman

Magical first listen! A

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Emily's D+Evolution by Esperanza Spalding

Groovy. I like both the fusion and the tracks with a Joni influence.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Stax 50th Anniversary Celebration by Various Artists

Quite good [3]

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Fri, 15 Jul 2016 17:38:43 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 07/15/2016 21:38

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Aluminum Tunes: Switched On, Vol. 3 by Stereolab

Released: 1998 (material originally released 1994-1997)
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop, Indie Pop
First Listen

The third installment of Switched On is also the worst. It's the longest, has the weakest material, and has the least variety (almost all mellow). Still, these are great leftovers for any band and display some great melodies.

Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik by OutKast

Released: 1994
RYM Primary Genres: Southern Hip Hop
Re-Listen

Wow, I forgot how amazing this was! Chock full of jams and almost as good as Aquemini. A+

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Cobra And Phases Group Play Voltage In The Milky Night by Stereolab

Released: 1999
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop, Experimental Rock
First Listen

Stereolab is still in peak form on this release, the third straight LP that I've loved. Excellent and often very inventive compositions that fit together very cohesively. The material is somewhat weaker toward the end, though.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Execution Of All Things by Rilo Kiley

Released: 2002
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop, Indie Rock
First Listen
~played for me by NTDM~

This is great - I love the songwriting and the influences of alt-country.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Singles by Future Islands

Released: 2014
RYM Primary Genres: Synthpop
Re-Listen

On the umpteenth listen, I still enjoyed it but found it somewhat cheesier than I had in the past. Demoted from the #1 annual spot.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Art Angels by Grimes

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Electropop, Synthpop
Re-Listen

This album is fantastic pop music and everyone should hear it. Unfortunately, this time I wasn't particularly in the right mood to fully appreciate it.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Loveless by My Bloody Valentine

Released: 1991
RYM Primary Genres: Shoegaze, Noise Pop
Re-Listen

Dreamy guitars, obviously. The first time I heard this it felt revelatory. This time, less so. I think hearing it from headphones with full focus could have made a big difference the first time. I was going to put this high up in my next overall update, but I'll need a third listen to properly assess how I feel about it.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Nozinja Lodge by Nozinja

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Shangaan Electro, Kwaito
Re-Listen

This album is fire!! So danceable and inventive and fun front to back. Bumped it up a few spots on the annual chart after this listen.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

99¢ by Santigold

Released: 2016
RYM Primary Genres: Electropop, Alternative Dance
First Listen

This is definitely her third best album out of three. My ranking, contrary to most, would be Master Of My Make-Believe > Santogold >> 99¢. The standout tracks on here, which are the two with featured artists, are good, but aren't on the same level as the standouts on her past albums. As usual, it's a fun sonic grab-bag with great production value. There's some smoother pop and even some trap that shows up.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Sound-Dust by Stereolab

Released: 2001
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop, Indie Pop
First Listen

This is a really good indie pop album that I would recommend, but it didn't make a lasting impression on me this first time. The hooks weren't quite sticky enough.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Reasonable Doubt by Jay-Z

Released: 1996
RYM Primary Genres: East Coast Hip Hop, Boom Bap
Re-Listen

I underrated this a lot on first listen. It really is a classic and just a hair behind The Blueprint as his best. My one criticism is I feel there is some less than inspired biting here. There are a couple really clumsy samples of other rap songs, and the "Can I Kick It" interlude is pretty bad.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Trick by Alex G

Released: 2012
RYM Primary Genres: Lo-Fi Indie
First Listen
~played for me by NTDM~

After not liking what I heard of Beach Music, I pretty much wrote off Alex G. Good thing I had someone to introduce me to this, which has a great atmosphere and is one of the better lo-fi records I've heard.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Music To Climb The Apple Tree By by Beat Happening

Released: 2003 (material recorded 1984-2002)
RYM Primary Genres: Twee Pop, Lo-Fi Indie
First Listen
~played for me by NTDM~

I like this collection of B-sides and rarities more than their debut, but Beat Happening might not quite be my thing. Too many jarring moments for my taste. I'm going to try another album later.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Oscillons From The Anti-Sun by Stereolab

Released: 2005 (material originally released 1993-2001)
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop, Indie Pop
First Listen

This is the best Stereolab compilation I've listened to. The material is strong and fills three discs without much trouble. It gives a full picture of their career up to this point and has interesting alternate versions of many of their songs. For instance, "Jenny Ondioline" works much better as a single. Full of earworms and (semi-)hidden gems.

~~~~~

Updated Stereolab Rankings:

1. Emperor Tomato Ketchup 85
2. Dots And Loops 85
3. Cobra And Phases... 85
4. Oscillons From The Anti-Sun 80
5. Sound-Dust 75
6. Mars Audiac Quintet 75
7. Refried Ectoplasm 75
8. Transient Random-Noise... 75
9. Switched On 75
10. The Groop Played... 70
11. Aluminum Tunes 70
12. Chemical Chords 65
13. Peng! 65
14. Low Fi 55

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sat, 2 Jul 2016 21:31:09 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 07/03/2016 01:31

I have seriously neglected this diary. Here's what I've heard since the last post:

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Transient Random-Noise Bursts with Announcements by Stereolab

Released: 1993
RYM Primary Genres: Experimental Rock, Noise Pop, Art Pop
First Listen

Another step forward for Stereolab, much of the noise is now more interesting, and this is the first release I'd heard that made me anticipate a second listen. More to discover here, although there are still some irritating segments dragging it down.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Cilvia Demo by Isaiah Rashad

Released: 2014
RYM Primary Genres: Southern Hip Hop
First Listen

Skilled TDE rapper and probably my third favorite after Kendrick Lamar and Jay Rock. He has the charisma to carry a full-length and the beats here are laid-back, top notch, and an excellent fit for his flow. Like the title indicates, it's still unfinished-sounding and an appetizer for something better.

Mars Audiac Quintet by Stereolab

Released: 1994
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop, Indie Pop, Experimental Rock
First Listen

Finally, some great hooks to add to the groop's (sic) repertoire. "Wow And Flutter" and "Ping Pong" are standouts. Another step up, although it still is missing something with some aimless sections.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Psychic by Darkside

Released: 2013
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop
First Listen

I love the textures on here. Just a captivating and atmospheric listen.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Refried Ectoplasm (Switched On Volume 2) by Stereolab

Released: 1995 (material originally released 1992-1995)
RYM Primary Genres: Noise Pop, Experimental Rock
First Listen

As one might expect from a non-LP leftovers compilation, it's scattered, but strikes gold several times. Definitely worth a try and better than the first installment of Switched On.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

It's Love by The Softies

Released: 1995
RYM Primary Genres: Twee Pop
First Listen
~played for me by NTDM~

This is a really great twee pop album. The vocals are fantastic and it just pushes all the right buttons.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Holiday In Rhode Island by The Softies

Released: 2000
RYM Primary Genres: Twee Pop
First Listen
~played for me by NTDM~

Another very good twee album. Maybe it was because I was hearing a bit too much all at once, but I didn't like it quite as much as It's Love.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Something About April by Adrian Younge / Venice Dawn

Released: 2011
RYM Primary Genres: Psychedelic Soul
Re-Listen

A magical imaginary soundtrack to a love affair. I would think this was heavily influenced by Mayfield. It evokes a sense of wonder throughout, and the standout tracks are the ones with vocals.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Sweet Exorcist by Curtis Mayfield

Released: 1974
RYM Primary Genres: Soul, Chicago Soul
Re-Listen

Brilliant, sultry, impeccably orchestrated / arranged. This was an even better demonstration of what makes Curtis great than I remembered.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Ones And Sixes by Low

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Slowcore, Indie Rock
First Listen

This is a very finely-crafted album in all aspects, including lyrics. I didn't enjoy it as much as it deserved because I'm not a huge fan of slowcore yet.

Emperor Tomato Ketchup by Stereolab

Released: 1996
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop, Experimental Rock
First Listen

Finally, I've reached a Stereolab album that I enjoy almost unreservedly! The lyrics and vocals are better than ever, and they're pushed more to the front of the mix. The sonic variety is great -- I hear funk and reggae influences seeping in on the basslines of a few tracks, and I like the lead guitars more than in prior albums.

Mingus Ah Um by Charles Mingus

Released: 1959
RYM Primary Genres: Post-Bop
First Listen

Pretty sensational effort that should end up high on my decade chart.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Dots And Loops by Stereolab

Released: 1997
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop, Electronic
First Listen

This is a close contender with its predecessor. I love what they've done with the sound, making it even poppier and incorporating elements from a range of genres including MPB. At the end, the drums get satisfyingly harder and the instrumentals would even fit well in left-field hip-hop. The lyrics might be a slight step back, and it gets just a little too lounge-y in the middle.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac

Released: 1977
RYM Primary Genres: Pop Rock, Soft Rock
Re-Listen

The hooks are there and I can see why this album is revered, but I still don't really connect with any of it. Seems a bit contrived and hackneyed. Prefer the previous one.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Wayward Bus/Distant Plastic Trees by The Magnetic Fields

Released: 1995 (Distant Plastic Trees 1991, The Wayward Bus 1992)
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop
First Listen
~played for me by NTDM~

I was kind of bummed when I heard this. I thought, why does such a revelatory, fantastic, magical album peter out into such mediocre atmospheric indie? Then I learned it was two albums smushed together. The Wayward Bus, which is the first half, is great. I look forward to listening again!

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

End Of Daze by Dum Dum Girls

Released: 2012
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop
Re-Listen

This EP is probably my favorite release of theirs. It wasn't quite as good as I remembered, but it was still really good. The original "Trees And Flowers" is better, but I have Dum Dum Girls to thank for turning me on to Strawberry Switchblade!

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Odessey And Oracle by The Zombies

Released: 1968
RYM Primary Genres: Psychedelic Pop, Baroque Pop
Re-Listen

It's always fun to revisit such an enduring favorite. I used to have a poster of this cover on my wall freshman year of college. These are simply some of the best melodies and harmonies. It's maybe not quite as great as I recalled, though.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Muscle Shoals Sound by Various Artists

Released: 1993 (material originally released 1961-1972)
RYM Primary Genres: Soul, Southern Soul
Re-Listen

This is the incoming #3 on the next, more honest update of my overall, and it sounded great as always! Here's what I have to say in my sandbox chart:

baystateoftheart wrote:

This choice in particular requires some explanation. Yes, it's not a proper LP. But the Muscle Shoals Sound Rhythm Section created the greatest backdrops in soul music history (sorry Memphis), Rhino makes the best compilations, and this one in particular is very well-curated. Many of the songs on here are either not well-known or not on great albums themselves, which makes trying it even more worth your while. Furthermore, all the tracks are 100/100 with only two exceptions, which are both still good ("Sweet Soul Music" and "Making Love (At The Dark End Of The Street").

This album opened so many doors in my personal exploration of soul, which is now one of my favorite genres. If I had to pick one album to introduce someone to soul, this would be it. Finally, the replay value and versatility of this compilation are fantastic. I have commuted more to this album than to any other. I have also made out more to this album than to any other.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes Featuring Veronica by The Ronettes

Released: 1964
RYM Primary Genres: Girl Group, Brill Building
Re-Listen

The Wall of Sound is one of my favorite sounds, and despite the sappy melodrama of the lyrics, I still love it. I always think of Brian Wilson pulling over on the side of the road in tears of ecstasy as he heard "Be My Baby" for the first time. And it makes me smile every time Ronnie's New York accent breaks through. The fake live audience in "What'd I Say" is also amusing.

[The House Of Tomorrow EP by The Magnetic Fields] (too short for BEA)

Released: 1992
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop, Dream Pop
First Listen
~played for me by NTDM~

Eh, it was alright. Pretty interesting, but nothing memorable that I want to hear again.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Alvvays by Alvvays

Released: 2014
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop, Twee Pop
Re-Listen

I had to introduce the twee-est person I know to one of my favorite twee records. This time "Party Police" really stood out to me, although it's gorgeous front-to-back.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Mecca And The Soul Brother by Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth

Released: 1992
RYM Primary Genres: East Coast Hip Hop, Conscious Hip Hop, Boom Bap, Jazz Rap
Re-Listen

Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth > DJ Premier & Guru

In overall body of work, Gang Starr obviously has an edge, but the consistency of these two working together was unparalleled imo. This album has their most iconic tracks and has perfect jazzy beats (and even some Sister Nancy on "The Basement"). At 78 minutes, its only weakness is being overlong, which is why I might prefer their preceding EP.

~~~

And here's the update on my Stereolab listening project first-instinct ranking:

1. Emperor Tomato Ketchup
2. Dots And Loops
3. Mars Audiac Quintet
4. Refried Ectoplasm
5. Transient Random-Noise Bursts And Announcements
6. Switched On
7. The Groop Played "Space Age Batchelor Pad Music"
8. Chemical Chords
9. Peng!
10. Low Fi

Next up to hear:

1. Aluminum Tunes
2. Cobra And Phases Group Play Voltage In The Milky Night
3. Sound-Dust
4. Oscillons From The Anti-Sun
5. Instant 0 In The Universe
6. Margerine Eclipse
7. Fab Four Suture

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 23:21:50 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 06/22/2016 03:21

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Elaenia by Floating Points

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Progressive Electronic
First Listen

I love the textures and song structures here. I liked this more than I anticipated, and it's the first album I've ever tried with that genre tag.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Fun House by The Stooges

Released: 1970
RYM Primary Genres: Proto-Punk, Garage Rock, Hard Rock
First Listen

This is a quite good and fun hard rock record. Didn't connect much to it, but it was worth a try.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Groop Played "Space Age Batchelor Pad Music" by Stereolab

Released: 1993
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop, Art Pop
First Listen

This mini-LP finds Stereolab pushing their sound forward again, closer to the futuristic lounge pop influences that they would become known for. Entertaining, but they have yet to come into their own in a fully satisfying way.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Perpetual Motion People by Ezra Furman

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Rock
First Listen

Wow! This is the most bowled over I've been by a first listen in quite a while! Like the title suggests, this is a punchy, never-boring album that is a crazy-quilt of different genres. For instance, I hear indie pop, power pop, punk, country, spirituals, doo-wop, jazz, indietronica, and indie rock all making appearances in 43 quick minutes. The songwriting is very good, frequently witty and almost always packed with raw emotion. Furman discusses autobiographical themes such as his queer and gender-fluid identities and his struggles with depression and alcoholism in songs that are both poignant and very catchy. He's heavily influenced by Lou Reed and, surprisingly, an Orthodox Jew by choice and not upbringing. In any case, it's already high on my 2015 chart and I encourage more people to try it out!

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Biggest Bluest Hi-Fi by Camera Obscura

Released: 2001
RYM Primary Genres: Twee Pop, Indie Pop
Re-Listen

I keep coming back to this album for some reason. It has the most magical beginning and warm textures, but then peters out a bit later on.

Boxer by The National

Released: 2007
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Rock, Post-Punk Revival
Re-Listen

So far this album never gets old for me. I think I may have converted someone else to liking their music this time.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Observator by The Raveonettes

Released: 2012
RYM Primary Genres: Dream Pop
Re-Listen

This was already on my overall, and somehow it sounded even greater this time. Amazing end to end, my favorite of theirs by a good bit.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Brill Bruisers by The New Pornographers

Released: 2014
RYM Primary Genres: Power Pop, Indie Pop
Re-Listen

A minor letdown. This band's shtick isn't really doing it for me anymore. They were one of my favorites but their albums aren't holding up too well to repeated listening. Pleasant, but I wish the hooks were less oblique and the songwriting was more personal than it is affected and peppered with non sequiturs.

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sat, 18 Jun 2016 17:37:24 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 06/18/2016 21:37

It's been a hectic time for me, so I can't write too much or update this diary too often. Here's what I've listened to lately. Also, I saw The National in concert on June 11 (my birthday present to my sister), which was pretty sensational. They rock so much harder live than they do on their albums. I never thought I'd describe them as heavy, face-melting, or awash in feedback, but that's what they were for much of the night. The energy was amazing and I'm lucky to have had the experience. It was only the second concert I've ever been to (The Temptations).

~~~~~

Oh, Inverted World by The Shins

Released: 2001
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop
Re-Listen

Excellent album that I had forgotten about. "New Slang" is one of the best songs ever. Grade A.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Invite The Light by DāM-FunK

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Synth Funk
First Listen

Relaxed, infectious album. Captures the spirit of funk by being sufficiently weird and sexual in a way many revivalists aren't. Sadly, a lot of uninspiring material toward the back end.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Double EP: A Sea Of Split Peas by Courtney Barnett

Released: 2013
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop, Indie Folk, Singer/Songwriter
First Listen

Fantastic, even better than her 2015 album. "Avant Gardener" is a great song. Grade A.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

If You're Feeling Sinister by Belle And Sebastian

Released: 1996
RYM Primary Genres: Chamber Pop, Indie Pop, Twee Pop
First Listen

Really great lyrics and songcraft. Will demand repeat listens to sink in, but I can tell it's overall chart material. Grade A+.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Switched On by Stereolab

Released: 1992 (material originally released in 1991)
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop
First Listen

A compilation of their first EPs. This has some gorgeous moments and a great vibe, but there's still room for improvement from these early efforts.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Blueprint by Jay-Z

Released: 2001
RYM Primary Genres: East Coast Hip Hop
Re-Listen

His best work. The beats are often transcendent, and he brings one of the best flows in rap history to the table with consistency. Grade A.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Rain Dogs by Tom Waits

Released: 1985
RYM Primary Genres: Singer/Songwriter, Experimental Rock
First Listen

My first experience with Waits, a very good album front to back. However, I definitely appreciate it more than I like it.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Trouble Will Find Me by The National

Released: 2013
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Rock
Re-Listen

Heard this again just before the concert. It's been growing on me each time. It's now basically tied with Alligator for my second favorite of theirs, after Boxer. A stunning depiction of malaise and emotional paralysis.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Peng! by Stereolab

Released: 1992
RYM Primary Genres: Noise Pop, Dream Pop
First Listen

Their debut LP finds them regressing a bit from their 1991 output. Still a lot of good moments, and I like noise pop, but a lot of this noise is uninspired, uninteresting, and overly droning.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Manners by Passion Pit

Released: 2009
RYM Primary Genres: Indietronica, Indie Pop
Re-Listen

There will always be a special place in my heart for Passion Pit. This record is even better than I remember. There are a few weak tracks, but the pop highs are undeniable.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

King & Queen by Otis Redding And Carla Thomas

Released: 1967
RYM Primary Genres: Southern Soul, Soul
First Listen

This is a strong album, but it's unfortunately not greater than the sum of its parts. Some weak material and a missed opportunity to make a classic. "Tramp" is the obvious standout.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Evermore: The Art Of Duality by The Underachievers

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Cloud Rap, East Coast Hip Hop, Trap Rap
First Listen

Dope skills, but at this point if you've heard one, you've heard them all. The downfall of this album and their rap careers is an utter lack of variety and innovation.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Low Fi by Stereolab

Released: 1992
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Rock, Noise Pop, Experimental Rock
First Listen

This 25-minute effort is the only Stereolab EP not to get a later compilation release. I've just added it to BEA. Like Peng!, it finds the group in a frustrating holding pattern. The ingredients for brilliance are there, but the compositional ideas are half-baked. In particular, the second half of "(Varoom!)" is very irritating. I don't regret listening, but so far I like it less than anything else from them.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys

Released: 1966
RYM Primary Genres: Baroque Pop
Re-Listen

Every time I revisit this album, its perfection bowls me over yet again. My #1 overall.

~~~~~

Stereolab listening project ranking so far, with first impression ratings:

1. Switched On - 75
2. Chemical Chords - 65
3. Peng! - 65
4. Low Fi - 55

Re: Human Canon Ball

RoundTheBend — Sat, 18 Jun 2016 16:45:10 GMT

Author: RoundTheBend

Posted: 06/18/2016 20:45

baystateoftheart wrote:

Sorry, it's just too sloppy and incomprehensible to share.

Your rap chart has definitely improved. But yeah, Amy Winehouse and The Black Eyed Peas definitely don't belong. Imo hip-hop and r&b don't really belong together as genre tags, and they're often lumped together just because they're both black music.

If you think Jay's beats aren't up to par with his flows, you might like The Grey Album by Danger Mouse. He replaces the beats from The Black Album with instrumentals from The Beatles' The White Album, which turn out really well. It's probably the most famous mashup album ever, and the 10th anniversary remaster is available as a free online file last I checked. The Blueprint, which I recently re-listened to, has the best beat selection of any of his proper albums, so I would check that out too. Doing beats for that album is how Kanye made it big. If you don't like either of these two then Jay's music is probably just not for you. And I would say that in general, don't force yourself to like things. Keep an open mind, but you like what you like, and it doesn't always need an airtight justification. I have no listening tips, just album recs, because liking this music more or less came naturally for me. Kendrick's best album for me is Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City by a mile. I love how it forms a cohesive and autobiographical narrative as a "short film," while exploring social issues and also having some tremendous bangers. The replay value is just off the charts compared to To Pimp A Butterfly (which I also like).

Thanks! Your feedback on Jay-Z and Kendrick was super helpful... and I totally forgot about the Grey Album. I remember hearing about it and thinking that'd be interesting, but then never checked it out.

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sat, 18 Jun 2016 16:37:06 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 06/18/2016 20:37

sethmadsen wrote:

baystateoftheart wrote:

sethmadsen wrote:

Cool stuff.

How do you choose... totally random/stuff that peaks interest, or...?

Thanks. Most of the first listens (those not from friends) are from me working through multiple very long to-listen spreadsheets, sometimes out of order. The re-listens don't have much rhyme or reason - whatever piques my interest.

Now that you're pleased with how the double album rule applied to your 90s chart, are you going to go back and apply it to the others? Also curious to see how your hip-hop chart is coming along :wink:

🤣 🤣 🤣

Totally hear you on the massive spreadsheets.

Here's mine: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/...sp=sharing

If you don't mind sharing a view only list with me, I'd love to see it (honestly, I only have like 100 albums that aren't on this site... but helpful for me nonetheless) and then I have different tabs for the decades.

As for double album rule... good question... I haven't played with it yet. The 90s made more sense somehow. I didn't apply that rule to 2000s either. What I did was create a top 10 with that rule and a top 10 without it and then made a decision based on how it "felt". The rule allows for most of those albums to hit my top 10. So I have to decide is it top 10 material or not... and of course a month from now I might disagree with myself. Sorry that was a long explanation for... idk.

As for my rap charts, going through the decades has really helped me to understand what kind of rap I like. I am pretty excited to get to that. I'm almost there! I only have the 2010s left to re-survey/analyze and attempt to throw my prejudices out the window/learn something new.

I have had a hard time getting into Jay-Z and the acclaimed Kendrick Lamar. It's not that I don't see the quality. Jay-Z for example has an A Capella version of some of his albums and I heard some of it and was like, damn... that dude can rap. His rapping is more impressive than his music, and my brain has to meld the rapping and music together, whereas I think those that appreciate rap can do both (focus on rapping OR the music). Anyway... I want that list to be at least 50 albums, so I think I still have a long way to go.

I posted that educate me on rap skits cause those really kill the album for me... the singles are super awesome, but sometimes the whole album loses something with lame skits sometimes. Kill buzz. So enjoying rap at an album level is going to take some time maybe... dunno. At the same time 2001 and Carnival are super solid albums imo.

Sorry... I totally took over your journal. Just got excited talking about it.

Oh - any tips on "understanding" Kendrick Lamar or Jay-Z? Or maybe better way to ask that is what do you like about them?

Re: Human Canon Ball

RoundTheBend — Thu, 9 Jun 2016 23:19:46 GMT

Author: RoundTheBend

Posted: 06/10/2016 03:19

baystateoftheart wrote:

sethmadsen wrote:

Cool stuff.

How do you choose... totally random/stuff that peaks interest, or...?

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Thu, 9 Jun 2016 12:58:39 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 06/09/2016 16:58

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

My Favorite Things by John Coltrane

Released: 1961
RYM Primary Genres: Modal Jazz, Post-Bop
First Listen

This started out well and I liked the reinterpretation of the title track. However, the album as a whole felt aimlessly ambling and I didn't connect. But maybe I'll like it more the second time. In any case, my least favorite that I've heard by Coltrane so far.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Cosmo's Factory by Creedence Clearwater Revival

Released: 1970
RYM Primary Genres: Swamp Rock
First Listen

Excellent rock record and clearly their best. So many great songs on here, both previously known and previously unknown.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Conscious Hip Hop, West Coast Hip Hop, Jazz Rap
Re-Listen

An album high on my 2015 chart that I revisited and loved just as much as the prior time. Could do without the fake interview though.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Apocalypse, Girl by Jenny Hval

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop
Re-Listen

An album high on my 2015 chart that I revisited and loved just as much as the prior time. [2]

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Curtis by Curtis Mayfield

Released: 1970
RYM Primary Genres: Chicago Soul, Soul
Re-Listen

Great socially conscious soul album that wasn't quite as good as I hoped this time around, and is roughly his third best.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

What's Going On by Marvin Gaye

Released: 1971
RYM Primary Genres: Soul
Re-Listen

Great socially conscious soul album that wasn't quite as good as I hoped this time around, and is roughly his third best. [2]

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Hamilton: Original Broadway Cast Recording by Various Artists

Released: 2015
RYM Primary Genres: Show Tunes, Hip Hop
First Listen

Listened to this because a friend put it on during a long drive. I don't really like show tunes, but these might be the best I've heard. Fun for one listen, but not compelling enough to add to my library and chart. Long as hell.

~~~~~~

Next in this diary I'll do something similar to Listmeister's ELO exploration for Stereolab, a group I'm listening to for the first time and one that I think might become a favorite. I've already listened to 2008's Chemical Chords, so now I'm going to go through the other albums and compilations in chronological order. The only major releases I plan to skip are 2000's The First Of The Microbe Hunters and 2010's Not Music, which are considered by many to be unessential, mediocre releases.

I'll keep mixing in random stuff and albums from the RYM canon challenge as I go. This will be the listening order for Stereolab releases:

1. Switched On
2. Peng!
3. Low Fi (EP)
4. The Groop Played "Space Age Batchelor Pad Music"
5. Transient Random-Noise Bursts And Announcements
6. Mars Audiac Quintet
7. Refried Ectoplasm: Switched On, Vol. 2
8. Emperor Tomato Ketchup
9. Dots And Loops
10. Aluminum Tunes: Switched On, Vol. 3
11. Cobra And Phases Group Play Voltage In The Milky Night
12. Sound-Dust
13. Oscillons From The Anti-Sun
14. Instant 0 In The Universe (EP)
15. Margerine Eclipse
16. Fab Four Suture

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Thu, 9 Jun 2016 12:27:29 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 06/09/2016 16:27

sethmadsen wrote:

Cool stuff.

How do you choose... totally random/stuff that peaks interest, or...?

Re: Human Canon Ball

RoundTheBend — Mon, 6 Jun 2016 00:19:26 GMT

Author: RoundTheBend

Posted: 06/06/2016 04:19

Cool stuff.

How do you choose... totally random/stuff that peaks interest, or...?

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sun, 5 Jun 2016 23:50:02 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 06/06/2016 03:50

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

American Gangster by Jay-Z

Released: 2007
RYM Primary Genres: East Coast Hip Hop
Re-Listen

Jay's flow on this album is very laid back... too laid back. However, the beats are so soulful and do such a good job melding with the vocals to create the title's ambience, so that it is an enjoyable even if not particularly lyrical listen. Probably his fourth best solo album, and the best after his three obvious classics.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Hounds Of Love by Kate Bush

Released: 1985
RYM Primary Genres: Art Pop, Progressive Pop
First Listen

"Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)" is an amazing opener, and the rest of the album unfortunately never comes close. There are a number of other good pop songs, but where the 'progressive' elements intrude, they can be irksome or corny.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

London Calling by The Clash

Released: 1979
RYM Primary Genres: Punk Rock, New Wave
Re-Listen

The only prior time I listened to this, a long time ago, I don't think I gave it a fair shake. This is largely phenomenal and deserves most of its acclaim! An epic with almost no filler.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Reckoning by R.E.M.

Released: 1984
RYM Primary Genres: Jangle Pop, Alternative Rock
Re-Listen

Very strong, immersive jangly album, not far off from their best work.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Smiths by The Smiths

Released: 1984
RYM Primary Genres: Jangle Pop, Indie Pop
Re-Listen

This gets better with every listen! It's really clicking and it might be on the way to displacing The Queen Is Dead as my favorite. The lyrics and delivery are incredible, and there are so many catchy sing-along moments too!

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Bury Me At Makeout Creek by Mitski

Released: 2014
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Rock
First Listen

Introduced to me by my friend. Fairly pleasant, but didn't make a major impression.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Rich Gang: Tha Tour, Part 1 by Young Thug, Rich Homie Quan & Birdman

Released: 2014
RYM Primary Genres: Southern Hip Hop, Trap Rap, Pop Rap
Re-Listen

Bangers on bangers. This gets off to a tremendous start, but really gets long in the tooth after "Milk Marie." A mediocre overall effort that's frustratingly close to excellent. But because it's a mixtape I can't be too mad about filler/sequencing issues.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Gossamer by Passion Pit

Released: 2012
RYM Primary Genres: Synthpop, Indietronica
Re-Listen

Listening reminded me how great this album really is. One of my all-time favorites.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy by Kanye West

Released: 2010
RYM Primary Genres: Hip Hop, Pop Rap
Re-Listen

I appreciated this album a lot more as a unified work this time. Indulgence is its strength and weakness. "Blame Game" doesn't deserve to be on here.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Mezzanine by Massive Attack

Released: 1998
RYM Primary Genres: Trip Hop, Downtempo
First Listen

Only the second trip hop album I've heard, after Dummy (on my overall). More sonic variety than Dummy, and more rock influences. Sensational, superior highlights as well. But I rather prefer the atmospheres of the former, and that tips the balance.

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Wed, 1 Jun 2016 11:46:36 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 06/01/2016 15:46

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Chemical Chords by Stereolab

Released: 2008
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop, Psychedelic Pop
First Listen

Breezy, joyful, forgettable indie pop music. Some of the uses of organ and strings are really good.

Something Else By The Kinks by The Kinks

Released: 1967
RYM Primary Genres: Pop Rock, Baroque Pop
Re-Listen

There's a bunch of filler here, particularly in the middle, but when this album gets good it gets really good. Not as captivating as the first time, but it goes without saying that "Waterloo Sunset" is a gem.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Souvlaki by Slowdive

Released: 1993
RYM Primary Genres: Dream Pop, Shoegaze
First Listen

Phenomenal, will hear again. A+

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

First Band On The Moon by The Cardigans

Released: 1996
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Pop, Pop Rock
Re-Listen

This has held up very well to repeat listens and is by far my favorite album of theirs. Something of a concept album about a decaying, unhealthy relationship, but musically portrayed in the most cloying way. I like that sort of dissonance between sound and lyrical themes.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Beat Happening by Beat Happening

Released: 1985
RYM Primary Genres: Twee Pop, Lo-Fi Indie
First Listen

The second album this girl introduced me to. Fun to know someone new with similar tastes to swap recs with irl. Anyway it's a bit of a mixed bag. When it's good, it's beautiful and poignant. When it's bad, it's grating and overly sloppy. Worth a try though.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

II by Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Released: 2013
RYM Primary Genres: Psychedelic Pop
First Listen

Very good grooves and some good hooks as well. Not quite as strong as Multi-Love, but still fun. Surprised they don't get more recognition.

Re: Human Canon Ball

baystateoftheart — Sat, 28 May 2016 13:07:04 GMT

Author: baystateoftheart

Posted: 05/28/2016 17:07

Wow, it's been too long since I updated this. Here's what I've heard in the meantime. I'm probably going to stop including date listened and site ranks in these entries for the sake of convenience, but I'll still do the rest.

Boxer by The National

Released: 2007
RYM Primary Genres: Indie Rock, Post-Punk Revival
Re-Listen

High on my overall chart, and as usual a fantastic listen.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Imperial by Denzel Curry

Released: 2016
RYM Primary Genres: Trap Rap, Southern Hip Hop
First Listen

Good, potent trap album with some commentary mixed in. Very hungry record. The first half is better.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Pink Moon by Nick Drake

Released: 1972
RYM Primary Genres: Contemporary Folk, Singer/Songwriter
First Listen

I liked it a lot, but it didn't have much staying power on the first listen. Will try again.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

A Good Night In The Ghetto by Kamaiyah

Released: 2016
RYM Primary Genres: West Coast Hip Hop
First Listen

I love the soundscape of this record. G-funk without excessive misogyny is a dream come true. A lot of good songs and a little filler.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

In A Silent Way by Miles Davis

Released: 1969
RYM Primary Genres: Jazz Fusion
First Listen

A++ This might become my favorite Miles Davis album.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Malibu by Anderson .Paak

Released: 2016
RYM Primary Genres: Neo-Soul, Alternative R&B
First Listen

Very good album, although it becomes a bit repetitive toward the end. As others have mentioned, great for summer listening.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Daydream Nation by Sonic Youth

Released: 1988
RYM Primary Genres: Noise Rock, Alternative Rock
First Listen

The first Sonic Youth album I've heard. I liked it, although I didn't love it. A few phenomenal songs. Kim's vocals are way better than Thurston's, and it would be nice if they were more frequent.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Apocalypse by Thundercat

Released: 2013
RYM Primary Genres: Neo-Soul, Funktronica, Nu Jazz
First Listen

I liked it a lot, but it didn't have much staying power on the first listen. Will try again. [2]

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Slime Season 3 by Young Thug

Released: 2016
RYM Primary Genres: Trap Rap, Southern Hip Hop
Re-Listen

A fairly hype mixtape that gets better toward the end. I've realized that I much prefer back-loaded albums to front-loaded albums.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Southeastern by Jason Isbell

Released: 2013
RYM Primary Genres: Americana, Singer/Songwriter, Contemporary Folk
First Listen

Excellent songwriting and instrumentation, liked the album even better than Something More Than Free.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Midnight Marauders by A Tribe Called Quest

Released: 1993
RYM Primary Genres: East Coast Hip Hop, Jazz Rap, Boom Bap
Re-Listen

High on my overall chart, and as usual a fantastic listen. [2] Played this for someone who doesn't usually listen to hip-hop and wanted to try an album, and I think she liked it.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

The Milk-Eyed Mender by Joanna Newsom

Released: 2004
RYM Primary Genres: Contemporary Folk, Singer/Songwriter
First Listen

She then showed me this album, which is quite good! The Roots borrowed the chorus to "Right On" from here.

Darklands by The Jesus And Mary Chain

Released: 1987
RYM Primary Genres: Alternative Rock
Re-Listen

This has been high on my overall, but on this listen it lost a little of its luster. Still good though.

Thumbnail. Click to enlarge.

Call Me by Al Green

Released: 1973
RYM Primary Genres: Southern Soul, Soul
First Listen

Very warm, satisfying listen. Contender for his best record.