[LedZep]

Cobra And Phases Group Play Voltage In The Milky Night by Stereolab
Since the last time I had to listen to Stereolab in this game (or the other "album below you" game, I can't remember which), I've become a much bigger fan. Dots and Loops has especially grown on me - that album's a total banger. I even caught them live at a festival a month ago, though I only managed to see 20 minutes of their set. This album is another impressive Stereolab blend of retro-futuristic styles. While it doesn't necessarily break new ground for them (it mostly recombines the pop sounds they've explored before), the real standout here is the production. The way everything glides together is so satisfying. The songwriting isn't peak Stereolab, but it's certainly no weak point either. It contains some of their best pop moments, though perhaps lacks the experimental edge of their best work. That said, the back half of the album dives deeper into their signature hypnotic jams, especially tracks Blue Milk and Caleidoscopic Gaze. Another fine addition into the "very good but not necessarily great" Stereolab collection. I do think it has a chance to become my second fave record by them, as it's a really easy listen with several strong highlights. Will give it another go later this summer.


Listen to the new Billy Woods. Almost every time he drops an album I have a feeling it's his best one yet, he's just that good. But this time it may actually be true, the only two that rival Golliwog imo are Aethiopes and Brass. Excited to hear your opinion as a hip hop fan.

Golliwog by Billy Woods
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Overall chart
Fake overall chart

2020s

[Repo]

[baystateoftheart]

Golliwog by Billy Woods

Billy Woods is a top-tier rapper and doesn't miss. As usual, on Golliwog he brings his excellent flow, lyrically dense and well-written bars, and impeccable ear for beats. I was worried at first to see a horrorcore influence tag on this, but luckily for my taste it was creepy and atmospheric horrorcore, not gruesome and gory horrorcore. The horror elements definitely add character and flavor to the album, as do the variety of guest appearances (including 3 tracks that are effectively Armand Hammer). I also love the production throughout the record. Whenever I listen to Billy Woods' work, I always really enjoy it, but it's never a personal favorite, at least not yet. That's where I'm landing with this one as well on first listen, but I definitely see potential for it to grow on me. Starting at 4/5, or 75/100 on BEA.

Let's go with another release that features Despot. This fun mixtape was their best project:


Sit Down, Man by Das Racist
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[Ilovesuicide]

Pound Syndrome (2015) by Hopsin

Hello, new to the thread. Quick peruse of your ratings and saw a lot of Hip Hop. Thought of maybe picking an all-time horrible album like Total Xanarchy, but I picked something probably slightly less worse.

Sorry in advance 😨

[baystateoftheart]

[baystateoftheart]

A Storm In Heaven (1993) by The Verve

Okay, I cheated a bit to maintain the spirit of the game and listened to your highest-rated album that I hadn't heard. If noted Hopsin fan DommeDamian had nominated an album he loves, that would be one thing, but I don't want to hear something intended to be a hate-listen.

I can see why this album is a 95/100 to you. It's been on my wishlist for a while, so I'm glad to finally check it out. My first impression: way better than Urban Hymns. I'm a sucker for some good shoegaze, and I love how noisy and dreamy A Storm In Heaven is, perfectly matching its title and cover. Unfortunately, it's a bit frontloaded, but despite fewer highlights in the second half, it's definitely a great record overall. Starting at a light 4/5 or 75/100 on BEA, and I can see this being a grower with future listens.

It's interesting that you've rated 8 Cocteau Twins albums, but no albums yet from their most popular copyists (ish) Beach House. I love both bands, so try this:


Bloom (2012) by Beach House
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[baystateoftheart]

It's been a couple months, so bumping this thread in case anyone wants to jump in!
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[Tha1ChiefRocka]

Took a peek at your 2025 list, but did not see this.

Tell me what you think.


The Passionate Ones (2025) by Nourished By Time