Consensus Top 350 Albums of All-Time: 185. Odelay – Beck (132 Viewers)

[Dwayne_Castro]

275 (tie). MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs (101 points)

@higgins #20
@BrutalPenguin #21

MTV Unplugged is a 1993 live album and video by American alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, recorded for the MTV Unplugged series. The album was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and spawned the hit single.

This worries me a touch. I have another “unplugged” album listed but without the MTV. I hope I didn’t cause any confusion because of that.

 

[shuke]

275 (tie). MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs (101 points)

@higgins #20
@BrutalPenguin #21

MTV Unplugged is a 1993 live album and video by American alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, recorded for the MTV Unplugged series. The album was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and spawned the hit single.

This worries me a touch. I have another “unplugged” album listed but without the MTV. I hope I didn’t cause any confusion because of that.

Same

 

[KarmaPolice]

279 (tie). Powerslave – Iron Maiden (98 points)

@jwb #11
@Rand al Thor #33

Powerslave is the fifth studio album by the English heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on 3 September 1984 through EMI Records in Europe and its sister label Capitol Records in North America. It was re-released by Sanctuary and Columbia Records in the United States in 2002.

The songs "2 Minutes to Midnight" and "Aces High" were released as singles. Its cover artwork is notable for its Ancient Egypt theme. That theme, taken from the title track, was carried over to the album's supporting tour, the World Slavery Tour. This began in Warsaw, Poland, on 9 August 1984; it is widely regarded as being the band's longest and most arduous tour to date, and led to the live album Live After Death.

I really need to go back and listen to more post-1983 Maiden. Was a big fan of their first four albums and know many of their more popular tunes later on, but had moved on to other artists in the mid-1980s.

I am a big fan of most of their career (not the 90s output), but I think their superpower is also their downfall a little. It's a bit like AC/DC in that you know exactly what you are going to get when you put in an album. Their post 2000 stuff has been very consistent and some of those albums I'd rank as high as a few of the 80s one.

All that said, Powerslave is my least favorite of the 80s albums. Not a fan of the instrumentals and we have one of those on here, and there are a couple other tunes I think are OK but not great. It also suffers a little from me knowing these songs and earlier ones more from the live album and I listened to that one way more.

 

[KarmaPolice]

279 (tie). Powerslave – Iron Maiden (98 points)

@jwb #11
@Rand al Thor #33

Powerslave is the fifth studio album by the English heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on 3 September 1984 through EMI Records in Europe and its sister label Capitol Records in North America. It was re-released by Sanctuary and Columbia Records in the United States in 2002.

The songs "2 Minutes to Midnight" and "Aces High" were released as singles. Its cover artwork is notable for its Ancient Egypt theme. That theme, taken from the title track, was carried over to the album's supporting tour, the World Slavery Tour. This began in Warsaw, Poland, on 9 August 1984; it is widely regarded as being the band's longest and most arduous tour to date, and led to the live album Live After Death.

I clearly really like Maiden, as I have two of their albums in my top 15. I hate that Metallica (who I like also) is going to finish so much higher because to me, there's no contest between them - Maiden is the better band in every way. But that's probably for another thread.

Looks like I was able to add to the playlist this time. Rime of the Ancient Mariner it is.

Agree 100% here. I had trouble narrowing down Maiden albums ( I think I ranked 2), but I only had 1 Metallica album in consideration.

ETA; I think they were better in the 80s, but I wouldn't argue too much about that era of the bands. Late stage career is where Maiden really blows them away. I think Megadeth is better than Metallica too, but I am not sure any of those will be showing up.

 

[Mister CIA]

275 (tie). Blue – Joni Mitchell (101 points)

@timschochet #17
@Barry2 #24

Blue is the fourth studio album by the Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released on June 22, 1971, by Reprise Records. Written and produced entirely by Mitchell, it was recorded in 1971 at A&M Studios in Hollywood, California. Created just after her breakup with Graham Nash and during an intense relationship with James Taylor, Blue explores various facets of relationships from love on "A Case of You" to insecurity on "This Flight Tonight". The songs feature simple accompaniments on piano, guitar and Appalachian dulcimer. The album peaked at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart, number 9 on the Canadian RPM Albums Chart and number 15 on the Billboard 200.

I'm more the unfettered type of Joni Mitchell fan.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

275 (tie). Blue – Joni Mitchell (101 points)

@timschochet #17
@Barry2 #24

Blue is the fourth studio album by the Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released on June 22, 1971, by Reprise Records. Written and produced entirely by Mitchell, it was recorded in 1971 at A&M Studios in Hollywood, California. Created just after her breakup with Graham Nash and during an intense relationship with James Taylor, Blue explores various facets of relationships from love on "A Case of You" to insecurity on "This Flight Tonight". The songs feature simple accompaniments on piano, guitar and Appalachian dulcimer. The album peaked at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart, number 9 on the Canadian RPM Albums Chart and number 15 on the Billboard 200.

This just missed for me and is on my 71-100 list. It’s top-notch, harrowing stuff.

 

[KarmaPolice]

275 (tie). MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs (101 points)

@higgins #20
@BrutalPenguin #21

MTV Unplugged is a 1993 live album and video by American alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, recorded for the MTV Unplugged series. The album was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and spawned the hit single.

This might have been a whiff for me. IMO this is the best of the Unplugged albums but will probably be slotted about 250 spots below the main one people think of.

 

[KarmaPolice]

I am in complete shock that 2 Scorpions albums made the countdown.

There are at least 2 more, with even a wider audience appeal, that could make the list IMO.

I can see one more - would be shocked if more.

Is one the live album? I could see that and another main album getting enough votes.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

275 (tie). MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs (101 points)

@higgins #20
@BrutalPenguin #21

MTV Unplugged is a 1993 live album and video by American alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, recorded for the MTV Unplugged series. The album was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and spawned the hit single.

This one (or one of their studio albums) almost made my list - love their sound and Merchant's voice.

Also the MTV Unpluggeds were a pain in the *** to sort out by bands/artists.

I always found their sound and her voice a little constricted, but I prefer this album to the studio stuff I’ve heard because it feels more loose, open and warm. I have several friends who played this record constantly at one point or another in their lives.

 

[zamboni]

275 (tie). Blue – Joni Mitchell (101 points)

@timschochet #17
@Barry2 #24

Blue is the fourth studio album by the Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released on June 22, 1971, by Reprise Records. Written and produced entirely by Mitchell, it was recorded in 1971 at A&M Studios in Hollywood, California. Created just after her breakup with Graham Nash and during an intense relationship with James Taylor, Blue explores various facets of relationships from love on "A Case of You" to insecurity on "This Flight Tonight". The songs feature simple accompaniments on piano, guitar and Appalachian dulcimer. The album peaked at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart, number 9 on the Canadian RPM Albums Chart and number 15 on the Billboard 200.

This just missed for me and is on my 71-100 list. It’s top-notch, harrowing stuff.

I have another Joni on my top 70 - seems to be a recurring theme.

 

[KarmaPolice]

275 (tie). Blue – Joni Mitchell (101 points)

@timschochet #17
@Barry2 #24

Blue is the fourth studio album by the Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released on June 22, 1971, by Reprise Records. Written and produced entirely by Mitchell, it was recorded in 1971 at A&M Studios in Hollywood, California. Created just after her breakup with Graham Nash and during an intense relationship with James Taylor, Blue explores various facets of relationships from love on "A Case of You" to insecurity on "This Flight Tonight". The songs feature simple accompaniments on piano, guitar and Appalachian dulcimer. The album peaked at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart, number 9 on the Canadian RPM Albums Chart and number 15 on the Billboard 200.

Oddly enough while I generally do not like Christmas music, the only song I really like on this album in the Christmas one. Her voice annoys me for some reason.

This was going to be a deep dive soon. When I was researching for Opeth I ran across an interview where Mikeal was asked what artists he would most want to work with and make music with and his answer was Joni Mitchell and Scott Walker.

 

[zamboni]

I am in complete shock that 2 Scorpions albums made the countdown.

There are at least 2 more, with even a wider audience appeal, that could make the list IMO.

I can see one more - would be shocked if more.

Is one the live album? I could see that and another main album getting enough votes.

No I was thinking of the big studio album before Sting.

 

[BroncoFreak_2K3]

I am in complete shock that 2 Scorpions albums made the countdown.

There are at least 2 more, with even a wider audience appeal, that could make the list IMO.

I can see one more - would be shocked if more.

Is one the live album? I could see that and another main album getting enough votes.

No I was thinking of the big studio album before Sting.

Both of the ones I'm thinking of are studio albums, both before Sting.

 

[higgins]

275 (tie). MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs (101 points)

@higgins #20
@BrutalPenguin #21

MTV Unplugged is a 1993 live album and video by American alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, recorded for the MTV Unplugged series. The album was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and spawned the hit single.

FYI: I picked MTV Unplugged by a different artist, not 10,000 Maniacs, but carry on.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

275 (tie). Blue – Joni Mitchell (101 points)

@timschochet #17
@Barry2 #24

Blue is the fourth studio album by the Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released on June 22, 1971, by Reprise Records. Written and produced entirely by Mitchell, it was recorded in 1971 at A&M Studios in Hollywood, California. Created just after her breakup with Graham Nash and during an intense relationship with James Taylor, Blue explores various facets of relationships from love on "A Case of You" to insecurity on "This Flight Tonight". The songs feature simple accompaniments on piano, guitar and Appalachian dulcimer. The album peaked at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart, number 9 on the Canadian RPM Albums Chart and number 15 on the Billboard 200.

Oddly enough while I generally do not like Christmas music, the only song I really like on this album in the Christmas one. Her voice annoys me for some reason.

This was going to be a deep dive soon. When I was researching for Opeth I ran across an interview where Mikeal was asked what artists he would most want to work with and make music with and his answer was Joni Mitchell and Scott Walker.

Joni Mitchell was also a huge influence on Prince.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

275 (tie). In a Silent Way – Miles Davis (101 points)

@Chaos34 #9
@Pip's Invitation #32

Another one of my security blankets ranked in the top 10. It's Miles sort of inventing one of my favorite forms of music, fusion. There's a bunch of it on my list, some ranked higher, but this... this... it's transcendent. I'm sharing one with Pip. I'll shut my pie-hole and await him doing his thing.

This is the only jazz album in my top 70 and is a security blanket for me in a way as well. It's the birth of jazz-rock fusion but, in contrast to some of Miles' subsequent fusion efforts, this is still very much a jazz record. Which to me makes it the best of both worlds -- it has that peacefulness that I feel from the best '50s and '60s jazz, but executed with rock instrumentation and touching on some of the dynamics that the more experimental rock acts were exploring at the time.

My favorite segment is "It's About That Time," which takes up the middle of side 2 and features two extremely memorable melodies. On Spotify, the album only has two tracks, one for each side. However, The Complete In a Silent Way Sessions has a track with "It's About That Time" by itself. @Chaos34 if it's OK with you, maybe we could put that on the playlist, since it would take up 11 minutes instead of 18 or 19?

 

[Idiot Boxer]

I had 1 jazz/blues album and I rated it #70. Unlikely we see it on this list.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

279 (tie). O – Damien Rice (98 points)

@Juxtatarot #14
@krista4 #30

O is the debut studio album by Irish musician Damien Rice, originally released on 1 February 2002, in Ireland and in the United Kingdom. The album is dedicated to Rice's friend Mic Christopher, a musician who died of a head injury shortly before the album's release at the end of 2001.

Damien Rice was previously a member of the band Juniper, and upon its disbandment due to changes in creative direction, he took a sabbatical in rural Italy before returning to Ireland. He would meet with his second cousin, composer David Arnold who was impressed upon hearing Rice's songs and sent Rice's demo to music publishers to no success. Frustrated, Arnold worked with Rice to set up recording equipment for a home studio to make the album independently. He describes receiving a $500 loan from his father that would be forgiven on completion of the album. The recording process included opera singers, Gregorian chants, and a heavy influence from Lisa Hannigan, at the time Rice's personal and professional partner

Listened to this one. I liked it a lot. It reminded me of Glenn Hansard who I like a lot (but didn't list any of his albums).

Onto Powerslave...

 

[Dr. Octopus]

275 (tie). MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs (101 points)

@higgins #20
@BrutalPenguin #21

MTV Unplugged is a 1993 live album and video by American alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, recorded for the MTV Unplugged series. The album was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and spawned the hit single.

This worries me a touch. I have another “unplugged” album listed but without the MTV. I hope I didn’t cause any confusion because of that.

I think I sorted them out. There's three more unpluggeds on deck.

 

[zamboni]

I had 1 jazz/blues album and I rated it #70. Unlikely we see it on this list.

I almost took this jazz album just for the inside sleeve.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

275 (tie). MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs (101 points)

@higgins #20
@BrutalPenguin #21

MTV Unplugged is a 1993 live album and video by American alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, recorded for the MTV Unplugged series. The album was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and spawned the hit single.

FYI: I picked MTV Unplugged by a different artist, not 10,000 Maniacs, but carry on.

Yes - same named albums not compiling correctly is an issue. Thought I caught them all but I see you took an artist no one else had and it grouped her with 10.000 Maniacs.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

271 (tie). Cypress Hill – Cypress Hill (102 points)

@SayChowda #13
@Long Ball Larry #27

Cypress Hill is the debut studio album by the American hip hop group Cypress Hill. It was released on August 13, 1991, by Ruffhouse Records and Columbia Records. The recording sessions were held at Image Recording Studios in Los Angeles from August 1990 to May 1991. The album was produced by DJ Muggs. The album was critically and commercially successful and received major airplay on urban and college radio. The album went double platinum in the U.S. with over 2 million units sold. The album is broken down track-by-track by Cypress Hill in Brian Coleman's book Check the Technique, published in 2007.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

275 (tie). MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs (101 points)

@higgins #20
@BrutalPenguin #21

MTV Unplugged is a 1993 live album and video by American alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, recorded for the MTV Unplugged series. The album was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and spawned the hit single.

FYI: I picked MTV Unplugged by a different artist, not 10,000 Maniacs, but carry on.

Yes - same named albums not compiling correctly is an issue. Thought I caught them all but I see you took an artist no one else had and it grouped her with 10.000 Maniacs.

I'm going to leave 10,000 Maniacs in here - they really drop out of the Top 350 but that would only mean that we have 351 albums instead of 352 in the Countdown, so nothing really changed otherwise.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

The auditions to join the Stones to replace Mick Taylor also included friend of MAD Steve Mariotte, Wayne Perkins, Harvey Mandell and Ronnie Wood (who would of course get the gig).

 

[krista4]

279 (tie). O – Damien Rice (98 points)

@Juxtatarot #14
@krista4 #30

O is the debut studio album by Irish musician Damien Rice, originally released on 1 February 2002, in Ireland and in the United Kingdom. The album is dedicated to Rice's friend Mic Christopher, a musician who died of a head injury shortly before the album's release at the end of 2001.

Damien Rice was previously a member of the band Juniper, and upon its disbandment due to changes in creative direction, he took a sabbatical in rural Italy before returning to Ireland. He would meet with his second cousin, composer David Arnold who was impressed upon hearing Rice's songs and sent Rice's demo to music publishers to no success. Frustrated, Arnold worked with Rice to set up recording equipment for a home studio to make the album independently. He describes receiving a $500 loan from his father that would be forgiven on completion of the album. The recording process included opera singers, Gregorian chants, and a heavy influence from Lisa Hannigan, at the time Rice's personal and professional partner

Listened to this one. I liked it a lot. It reminded me of Glenn Hansard who I like a lot (but didn't list any of his albums).

Onto Powerslave...

For a period of years, Glen Hansard and Damien Rice would busk together in Dublin every Christmas Eve. It was always a goal of mine to see that. I don't think they do it anymore.

As you know, I had two Glen Hansard albums on my list and don't expect either to make the countdown. I am going to see him in one of the iterations next Friday - yay! I saw Damien Rice open for him once as well.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

279 (tie). O – Damien Rice (98 points)

@Juxtatarot #14
@krista4 #30

O is the debut studio album by Irish musician Damien Rice, originally released on 1 February 2002, in Ireland and in the United Kingdom. The album is dedicated to Rice's friend Mic Christopher, a musician who died of a head injury shortly before the album's release at the end of 2001.

Damien Rice was previously a member of the band Juniper, and upon its disbandment due to changes in creative direction, he took a sabbatical in rural Italy before returning to Ireland. He would meet with his second cousin, composer David Arnold who was impressed upon hearing Rice's songs and sent Rice's demo to music publishers to no success. Frustrated, Arnold worked with Rice to set up recording equipment for a home studio to make the album independently. He describes receiving a $500 loan from his father that would be forgiven on completion of the album. The recording process included opera singers, Gregorian chants, and a heavy influence from Lisa Hannigan, at the time Rice's personal and professional partner

Listened to this one. I liked it a lot. It reminded me of Glenn Hansard who I like a lot (but didn't list any of his albums).

Onto Powerslave...

For a period of years, Glen Hansard and Damien Rice would busk together in Dublin every Christmas Eve. It was always a goal of mine to see that. I don't think they do it anymore.

As you know, I had two Glen Hansard albums on my list and don't expect either to make the countdown. I am going to see him in one of the iterations next Friday - yay! I saw Damien Rice open for him once as well.

I wasn't that big of a Hansard fan until I saw him live at the Stone Pony - that show was so much better than I anticipated. It was so much fun.

After that I started listening to him a lot and while I loved the overall product I couldn't come up with one dominant album to rank.

That's funny they busk together - I do find them quite similar, including their duets with women.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

271 (tie). folklore – Taylor Swift (102 points)

@timschochet #18
@BrutalPenguin #22

Folklore (stylized in all lowercase) is the eighth studio album by the American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. It was surprise-released on July 24, 2020, by Republic Records. Conceived during quarantine in early 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the album explores themes of escapism, nostalgia, and romanticism. Swift recorded her vocals in her Los Angeles home studio and worked virtually with the producers Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff, who operated from their studios in the Hudson Valley and New York City.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

271 (tie). folklore – Taylor Swift (102 points)

@timschochet #18
@BrutalPenguin #22

Folklore (stylized in all lowercase) is the eighth studio album by the American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. It was surprise-released on July 24, 2020, by Republic Records. Conceived during quarantine in early 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the album explores themes of escapism, nostalgia, and romanticism. Swift recorded her vocals in her Los Angeles home studio and worked virtually with the producers Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff, who operated from their studios in the Hudson Valley and New York City.

tim's one post 1984 album.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

I'm really digging Powerslave - although it could be the three glasses of wine I had with lunch and the bong hit (half day summer Fridays are great)

Unlike @KarmaPolice I like the instrumentals.

 

[Ilov80s]

271 (tie). Cypress Hill – Cypress Hill (102 points)

@SayChowda #13
@Long Ball Larry #27

Cypress Hill is the debut studio album by the American hip hop group Cypress Hill. It was released on August 13, 1991, by Ruffhouse Records and Columbia Records. The recording sessions were held at Image Recording Studios in Los Angeles from August 1990 to May 1991. The album was produced by DJ Muggs. The album was critically and commercially successful and received major airplay on urban and college radio. The album went double platinum in the U.S. with over 2 million units sold. The album is broken down track-by-track by Cypress Hill in Brian Coleman's book Check the Technique, published in 2007.

This is the biggest surprise for me so far.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

I never got around to listening to this until Beck's death, but it's fire.

 

[Ghost Rider]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

I couldn't work any Jeff Beck into my list, but Blow by Blow is an incredible record. I have listened to this more times than I can count. It's younger sister, Wired, is almost as good.

271 (tie). folklore – Taylor Swift (102 points)

@timschochet #18
@BrutalPenguin #22

Folklore (stylized in all lowercase) is the eighth studio album by the American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. It was surprise-released on July 24, 2020, by Republic Records. Conceived during quarantine in early 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the album explores themes of escapism, nostalgia, and romanticism. Swift recorded her vocals in her Los Angeles home studio and worked virtually with the producers Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff, who operated from their studios in the Hudson Valley and New York City.

I couldn't find room for Folklore on my list, but it was integral into me becoming a Swift fan. Great record, and her most daring. She had no idea what the public would think of her doing this left turn and making a whole album of songs like this, but weeks into isolation thanks to covid, she needed to do it. It's a big reason why her popularity went to crazy heights the last few years.

 

[krista4]

279 (tie). O – Damien Rice (98 points)

@Juxtatarot #14
@krista4 #30

O is the debut studio album by Irish musician Damien Rice, originally released on 1 February 2002, in Ireland and in the United Kingdom. The album is dedicated to Rice's friend Mic Christopher, a musician who died of a head injury shortly before the album's release at the end of 2001.

Damien Rice was previously a member of the band Juniper, and upon its disbandment due to changes in creative direction, he took a sabbatical in rural Italy before returning to Ireland. He would meet with his second cousin, composer David Arnold who was impressed upon hearing Rice's songs and sent Rice's demo to music publishers to no success. Frustrated, Arnold worked with Rice to set up recording equipment for a home studio to make the album independently. He describes receiving a $500 loan from his father that would be forgiven on completion of the album. The recording process included opera singers, Gregorian chants, and a heavy influence from Lisa Hannigan, at the time Rice's personal and professional partner

Listened to this one. I liked it a lot. It reminded me of Glenn Hansard who I like a lot (but didn't list any of his albums).

Onto Powerslave...

For a period of years, Glen Hansard and Damien Rice would busk together in Dublin every Christmas Eve. It was always a goal of mine to see that. I don't think they do it anymore.

As you know, I had two Glen Hansard albums on my list and don't expect either to make the countdown. I am going to see him in one of the iterations next Friday - yay! I saw Damien Rice open for him once as well.

I wasn't that big of a Hansard fan until I saw him live at the Stone Pony - that show was so much better than I anticipated. It was so much fun.

After that I started listening to him a lot and while I loved the overall product I couldn't come up with one dominant album to rank.

That's funny they busk together - I do find them quite similar, including their duets with women.

He's brilliant live. And I'm sure I'm not spotlighting by saying that I was going to put The Frames' album Set List in my top 20, until I got confused over the live album rules and wasn't sure if I could. So I went with a different Frames album but much more highly recommend this one to anyone even a little Hansard-curious.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

271 (tie). folklore – Taylor Swift (102 points)

@timschochet #18
@BrutalPenguin #22

Folklore (stylized in all lowercase) is the eighth studio album by the American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. It was surprise-released on July 24, 2020, by Republic Records. Conceived during quarantine in early 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the album explores themes of escapism, nostalgia, and romanticism. Swift recorded her vocals in her Los Angeles home studio and worked virtually with the producers Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff, who operated from their studios in the Hudson Valley and New York City.

tim's one post 1984 album.

My wife is a Swiftie and has been since her debut album. So I've heard a lot of her stuff, and this album is probably her best.

If Northern Voice had participated, this would probably have been on his list.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

The auditions to join the Stones to replace Mick Taylor also included friend of MAD Steve Mariotte, Wayne Perkins, Harvey Mandell and Ronnie Wood (who would of course get the gig).

Can you imagine Beck and Jagger's egos having to coexist? I can't, and I guess neither could they.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

271 (tie). folklore – Taylor Swift (102 points)

@timschochet #18
@BrutalPenguin #22

Folklore (stylized in all lowercase) is the eighth studio album by the American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. It was surprise-released on July 24, 2020, by Republic Records. Conceived during quarantine in early 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the album explores themes of escapism, nostalgia, and romanticism. Swift recorded her vocals in her Los Angeles home studio and worked virtually with the producers Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff, who operated from their studios in the Hudson Valley and New York City.

tim's one post 1984 album.

My wife is a Swiftie and has been since her debut album. So I've heard a lot of her stuff, and this album is probably her best.

If Northern Voice had participated, this would probably have been on his list.

It's one of two albums by her that I'll occasionally listen to. folklore really is a great record - not Top 70 great for me, but most in here would like it if they gave it a chance.

My biggest exposure to her music though is when I listen to Ryan Adams cover of her 1989 album.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

The auditions to join the Stones to replace Mick Taylor also included friend of MAD Steve Mariotte, Wayne Perkins, Harvey Mandell and Ronnie Wood (who would of course get the gig).

Can you imagine Beck and Jagger's egos having to coexist? I can't, and I guess neither could they.

Him and Mariotte weren't serious contenders because they were both already too big in their ownright at that time. Ronnie got the gig because Keith needed a pal in the band after Jagger had the other Mick for the post Jones years.

 

[Dan Lambskin]

275 (tie). Blue – Joni Mitchell (101 points)

@timschochet #17
@Barry2 #24

Blue is the fourth studio album by the Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released on June 22, 1971, by Reprise Records. Written and produced entirely by Mitchell, it was recorded in 1971 at A&M Studios in Hollywood, California. Created just after her breakup with Graham Nash and during an intense relationship with James Taylor, Blue explores various facets of relationships from love on "A Case of You" to insecurity on "This Flight Tonight". The songs feature simple accompaniments on piano, guitar and Appalachian dulcimer. The album peaked at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart, number 9 on the Canadian RPM Albums Chart and number 15 on the Billboard 200.

Oddly enough while I generally do not like Christmas music, the only song I really like on this album in the Christmas one. Her voice annoys me for some reason.

This was going to be a deep dive soon. When I was researching for Opeth I ran across an interview where Mikeal was asked what artists he would most want to work with and make music with and his answer was Joni Mitchell and Scott Walker.

Joni Mitchell was also a huge influence on Prince.

Maynard too

 

[Pip's Invitation]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

The auditions to join the Stones to replace Mick Taylor also included friend of MAD Steve Mariotte, Wayne Perkins, Harvey Mandell and Ronnie Wood (who would of course get the gig).

Can you imagine Beck and Jagger's egos having to coexist? I can't, and I guess neither could they.

Him and Mariotte weren't serious contenders because they were both already too big in their ownright at that time. Ronnie got the gig because Keith needed a pal in the band after Mick had Taylor for the post Jones years.

Also, I just can't picture a Rolling Stone named "Harvey" or "Wayne." Seems wrong.

 

[SayChowda]

271 (tie). Cypress Hill – Cypress Hill (102 points)

@SayChowda #13
@Long Ball Larry #27

Cypress Hill is the debut studio album by the American hip hop group Cypress Hill. It was released on August 13, 1991, by Ruffhouse Records and Columbia Records. The recording sessions were held at Image Recording Studios in Los Angeles from August 1990 to May 1991. The album was produced by DJ Muggs. The album was critically and commercially successful and received major airplay on urban and college radio. The album went double platinum in the U.S. with over 2 million units sold. The album is broken down track-by-track by Cypress Hill in Brian Coleman's book Check the Technique, published in 2007.

This is the biggest surprise for me so far.

Too high? Too low? Not on enough lists?

 

[zamboni]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

The auditions to join the Stones to replace Mick Taylor also included friend of MAD Steve Mariotte, Wayne Perkins, Harvey Mandell and Ronnie Wood (who would of course get the gig).

Can you imagine Beck and Jagger's egos having to coexist? I can't, and I guess neither could they.

Him and Mariotte weren't serious contenders because they were both already too big in their ownright at that time. Ronnie got the gig because Keith needed a pal in the band after Jagger had the other Mick for the post Jones years.

My understanding is that Marriott didn’t get the Stones’ gig because Jagger was concerned about being upstaged by Steve. But I’m sure there are a lot of different accounts, so who knows what the real deal was.

 

[Ilov80s]

271 (tie). Cypress Hill – Cypress Hill (102 points)

@SayChowda #13
@Long Ball Larry #27

Cypress Hill is the debut studio album by the American hip hop group Cypress Hill. It was released on August 13, 1991, by Ruffhouse Records and Columbia Records. The recording sessions were held at Image Recording Studios in Los Angeles from August 1990 to May 1991. The album was produced by DJ Muggs. The album was critically and commercially successful and received major airplay on urban and college radio. The album went double platinum in the U.S. with over 2 million units sold. The album is broken down track-by-track by Cypress Hill in Brian Coleman's book Check the Technique, published in 2007.

This is the biggest surprise for me so far.

Too high? Too low? Not on enough lists?

It just caught me off guard being on the list. It's a good album, I haven't heard it in 30 years. I like that it made the list, it's unique but I didn't think it would be people's radar.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

271 (tie). Blow By Blow – Jeff Beck (102 points)

@Mookie Gizzy #5
@Eephus #35

Blow by Blow is Jeff Beck's first album credited to him as a solo artist. It was recorded in October 1974 and released via Epic Records in 1975. An instrumental album, it peaked at No. 4 on the American Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

After the dissolution of the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice (BBA) in spring 1974, Beck took time for session work with other groups. In December, a half-hearted "audition" for The Rolling Stones took place, Beck jamming blues with the band for one day, before realising their musical styles were not compatible.

During this period, Beck decided to record an all-instrumental album, bringing back keyboardist Max Middleton from the second Jeff Beck Group. He hired George Martin to produce after hearing his work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra's 1974 album Apocalypse.

The auditions to join the Stones to replace Mick Taylor also included friend of MAD Steve Mariotte, Wayne Perkins, Harvey Mandell and Ronnie Wood (who would of course get the gig).

Can you imagine Beck and Jagger's egos having to coexist? I can't, and I guess neither could they.

Him and Mariotte weren't serious contenders because they were both already too big in their ownright at that time. Ronnie got the gig because Keith needed a pal in the band after Jagger had the other Mick for the post Jones years.

My understanding is that Marriott didn’t get the Stones’ gig because Jagger was concerned about being upstaged by Steve. But I’m sure there are a lot of different accounts, so who knows what the real deal was.

Yeah that’s partially what I meant by him and Beck being too big to fit in.

 

[KarmaPolice]

271 (tie). Cypress Hill – Cypress Hill (102 points)

@SayChowda #13
@Long Ball Larry #27

Cypress Hill is the debut studio album by the American hip hop group Cypress Hill. It was released on August 13, 1991, by Ruffhouse Records and Columbia Records. The recording sessions were held at Image Recording Studios in Los Angeles from August 1990 to May 1991. The album was produced by DJ Muggs. The album was critically and commercially successful and received major airplay on urban and college radio. The album went double platinum in the U.S. with over 2 million units sold. The album is broken down track-by-track by Cypress Hill in Brian Coleman's book Check the Technique, published in 2007.

This is a fun surprise. Glad to see it get love.

I didn't listen to a ton of hip hop in HS, but this album probably was played in the friend group the most. It was in consideration, but more of a nostalgia pick so it got dropped from the list before submission.

 

[John Maddens Lunchbox]

279 (tie). Vampire Weekend – Vampire Weekend (98 points)

@Barry2 #13
@kupcho1 #34
@Nick Vermeil #68

Vampire Weekend is the debut studio album by American rock band Vampire Weekend, released on January 29, 2008, by XL Recordings. The album was produced by band member Rostam Batmanglij, with mixing assistance from Jeff Curtin and Shane Stoneback. Released after a year of building internet interest, the album showcased the band's unique hybrid of indie pop, chamber music, and Afropop influences

I had this at #47 on my unsubmitted list.
I think the subsequent albums have many great moments, but lack the energy, passion and mistakes of the first one.
Such a fun listen.

 

[The Dreaded Marco]

283 (tie). The Midnight Organ Fight – Frightened Rabbit (97 points)

@Juxtatarot #31
@Dreaded Marco #40
@Eephus #45

Frightened Rabbit is one of my favorite bands of the past 20 years and this is their best album.
Led by Scott Hutchison's song-writing, heart-on-his-sleeve lyrics and emotive vocal, he addressed the things he knew----lost relationships, depression, alcoholism. Not a lot of sunshine. And unfortunately that came to fruition with his suicide in 2018. That really hit me hard. Floating in the Forth from this album is essentially his suicide note but he took it to the final step.

I was fortunate enough to see the band several times in concert, once in a tiny SLC venue with 100 other people, at most. He was so charming, interactive, funny and gracious. Makes me sad to know how much he was suffering---I never would have believed that based on his public persona.


My personal favorite song from the album is The Modern Leper with Poke a close 2nd, but any one of them is very representative. @Juxtatarot can make his call.

 

[krista4]

283 (tie). The Midnight Organ Fight – Frightened Rabbit (97 points)

@Juxtatarot #31
@Dreaded Marco #40
@Eephus #45

Frightened Rabbit is one of my favorite bands of the past 20 years and this is their best album.
Led by Scott Hutchison's song-writing, heart-on-his-sleeve lyrics and emotive vocal, he addressed the things he knew----lost relationships, depression, alcoholism. Not a lot of sunshine. And unfortunately that came to fruition with his suicide in 2018. That really hit me hard. Floating in the Forth from this album is essentially his suicide note but he took it to the final step.

I was fortunate enough to see the band several times in concert, once in a tiny SLC venue with 100 other people, at most. He was so charming, interactive, funny and gracious. Makes me sad to know how much he was suffering---I never would have believed that based on his public persona.


My personal favorite song from the album is The Modern Leper with Poke a close 2nd, but any one of them is very representative. @Juxtatarot can make his call.

I don't know what the hell I was looking at, but if I'd realized The Modern Leper and Poke were both on this album, I would have put it on my list in the top 30ish. I messed up.

 

[KarmaPolice]

I'm really digging Powerslave - although it could be the three glasses of wine I had with lunch and the bong hit (half day summer Fridays are great)

Unlike @KarmaPolice I like the instrumentals.

How familiar are you with Maiden's albums?

Instrumentals don't get the ire that covers do, more of shrug. I don't know where all these dumb hangups developed, but I do get how weird it is to say that I don't really listen to lyrics, but I guess I still need the vocals in the tracks to fully enjoy the music. I was listening to Powerslave today since I had my Maiden shirt on, and still dig the album. Losfer Words is a good instrumental and it is fairly short too. Opeth has instrumentals as well. It's not a deal breaker, more if I can listen to an album I will grab one without instrumentals first most times than not. Metallica albums get this treatment as well. I often skip those tracks.

eta: OOPS

 

[KarmaPolice]

Also listening to Maiden today I was thinking that they are to blame/thank for my core leans in metal and rock. Concept albums, great album art, dual guitars, that 5-8min sweet spot I love in songs to allow for multiple solos and a little meandering, and musical talent everywhere. Harris is a monster. I'm glad to see them getting love in this format. My main early heavier bands I loved were Maiden and Scorps. We couldn't afford many, so I would listen to these and Dokken a lot.