Henry The Kid
01-20-04, 10:16 PM
Let's post our album collection.
Warning-This is quite long.
Additionally, I decided to stop listing my classical albums because I don't feel qualified to comment on them.
I've left off quite a few albums for numerous reasons.
Air-Moon Safari
I just got this for christmas. Wow, what an experience. Really has solidified my opinion of the band. I can't think of a single song that really stood out among the others as of yet. I'll have to listen more.
Alice in Chains-Dirt
I used to be a big Alice in Chains fan, now I find Dirt almost unlistenable, their Self-Titles edeavor absolutely horrendous, and Jar of Flies barely listenable. Dirt is not a bad album, but I definitely overplayed it. It walks a fine line between poetic depth and shallow whining. Eh. If you think you might enjoy Alice in Chains, probably the album to start with.
Alice in Chains-Jar of Flies
Catchy little album. I think Nutshell is an all right song, but it's almost the beginning of the end for Layne. The lyrics have taken the dive overboard on this album and occasionally are nothing more than whining. Don't Follow is very strong, probably edges out I Stay Away as the best song on the album.
Alice in Chains-Alice in Chains
Utter ****.
The Beatles
I started writing thoughts about each individual album, only to realize there was no way in hell I could come up with anything about them that hasn’t already been said about a million times. Abbey Road is my favorite. Big surprise, eh?
The Beatles-Rubber Soul
The Beatles-Revolver
The Beatles-Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
The Beatles-Magical Mystery Tour
The Beatles-The White Album
The Beatles-Abbey Road
The Beatles-Let it be
Beck-Odelay
Man, I've been listening to this album frequently since about seventh grade. I sometimes astound myself when I can't help but sing along to more than half the songs. Excellent, excellent album. Still Beck's best.
Beck-Sea Change
It’s initial effect has worn off of me. There are some genuinely magnificent songs on there, along with a few filler tracks. Not the album to me now that it was about a year ago. Still a nice little album, either way.
Beethoven- Triple Concerto(Richter, Oistrakh, Rostropovich/Karajan)
I am the least qualified person in the world to talk about classical music. So I’ll chicken out and, well, not talk about it. I win.
Bjork-Debut
Great CD. Not her best, but it was where I started with her, and holds sentimental value. Stand out track-Human Behavior.
Bjork-Post
Probably my favorite. Homogenic runs close, but I just simply never get sick of Post as a whole. I've effectively overdosed on Hyper-Ballad and It's Oh So Quiet. Stand out Tracks are Hyper-Ballad and Possibly Maybe.
Bjork-Homogenic
Very strong and emotional album, and definitely addicting. I listened to it pretty obsessively for a while. Probably her most mature work yet, but I still prefer Post. Stand out track ALlis Full of Love
Bjork-Vespertine
Solid album. Of the 4 I own, definitely the weakest. I still pop it in every once in a while when I feel like something different from her. Stand out track-Unison.
Blind Melon-Classic Masters
Uninventive pop fake-grunge fluff. But I sure as hell enjoy it. I can't make myself dislike Blind Melon, no matter how uncreative and almost bland they sound. Classic Masters was my entry level CD to them, I must have gotten it about 5 years ago. Good started CD, though none of their work is even remotely difficult
Blind Melon-Nico
Pretty "meh" album overall, though songs like Glitch and All That I Need lead me to believe Shannon had something left up his sleeve before he died. I wouldn't particularly recommend this album, unless you really enjoy Blind Melon.
David Byrne and Brian Eno-My life in the Bush of Ghosts
I still find this to be a rather difficult album, no matter how many times I listen to it. Extremely eccentric, it'll probably hit me eventually. Right now, I don't listen to it, really.
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds-Best Of
Unbelievably cool album. Wow. I really, really am desperate to find more Nick Cave, and all I have seen is Nocturama, which I hear is so-so. God this album is cool though. Where the Wild Roses Grow with Kylie Minogue is magnificent, along with The Mercy Seat and From Her to Eternity. Great, great, great album.
The Clash-London Calling
The Clash’s definitive album. I don’t pretend to know what The Clash is about, to know what the political situation was when they hit the scene, or to really know a damn about punk, but I definitely enjoy this album. Jimmy Jazz should be the first song heard off of it.
Elvis Costello-When I Was Cruel
Quite a nice return to form for Costello. It ranks pretty high on my all time favorites from him, it’s a shame he went out and re-sullied his image seemingly immediately after it’s release with North. Oh well. Elvis Costello really is brilliant, but he needs to release fewer albums.
Bob Dylan-Bob Dylan
Not his best, definitely worthy of ownership though. Since it’s his earliest, it’s quite obviously his folkiest. A collection of enjoyable, if somewhat unambitious acoustic folk songs from Dylan.
Bob Dylan-The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan
More often than not, my absolute favorite album from Dylan. Very simplistic, very rootsy, but just hearing the original version of Blowin’ in the Wind is such an experience. The true pinnacle of the album is Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright.
Bob Dylan-The Times They Are A-Changing
Another nice and folky album from Dylan. All of his first 4 albums are very consistent, but they rarely have songs of true perfection. A fun little album, no doubt.
Bob Dylan-Another Side of Bob Dylan
Ditto, more or less. This is close to his end of his really simplistic acoustic songs though.
Bob Dylan-Bringing it All Back Home
Lyrical perfection. Bob Dylan was never stronger lyrically than he is on this album. There are so many songs that have lyrics that stand out, it’s unbelievable. Subterranean Homesick Blues, Mr. Tambourine Man, It’s Alright Ma(I’m Only Bleeding), It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue. Must own album.
Bob Dylan-Highway 61 Revisited
Not as strong lyrically as Bringing it all Back Home, but an absolutely wonderful album nonetheless. The music here is probably the best he ever did. Stand out track is Desolation Row
Bob Dylan-Blonde on Blonde
The epitome of a post-folk Dylan album. Inconsistent, but when it strikes, it strikes hard. Visions of Johanna and Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again and Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands all are absolute perfection. However, there’s some definite mediocre filler on there.
Bob Dylan-John Wesley Harding
Much different than the previous three albums, this one has a pretty distinctive country tinge to it. Not a bad album, definitely worth a listen.
Bob Dylan-Blood on the Tracks
Great, great, great, great album. Preceded by a few mediocre albums, and followed by a slew of mediocre albums, Blood on the Tracks really stands out. His “heartbreak” album, as it’s commonly referred to as. Standout song-Lily, Rosemary, and the Jack of Hearts.
Bob Dylan-Time out of Mind
A definite return to form for Dylan. Here, there’s almost a complete lack of the optimism that once infused his songs. We see Dylan as bitter and resentful of the world, and we love every second of it. Musically, it’s his best since Highway 61 Revisited. Lyrically, it can get a little melodramatic, but still pretty well done overall. One of my favorite albums of the nineties.
Bootleg series:
They are all pretty equal to me. Royal Albert Hall would most likely edge out the others, but they all successfully captured Dylan in his prime.
Bob Dylan-Bootleg Series Vol. 4:Royal Albert Hall Concert 1966
Bob Dylan-Bootleg series Vols. 1-3
Bob Dylan-Bootleg Series Vol. 5:Rolling Thunder Revue
The Flaming Lips-The Soft Bulletin
Take a trip down memory lane. This is my personal summer album. I can’t even count how many times I’ve listened to it. Stand out tracks-Waitin for a Superman, Feelin Yourself Disintegrate.
The Flaming Lips-Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots
Not one the level of The Soft Bulletin, but would be untouchable by just about any other band. What is it about Wayne Coyne that makes him able to say the most sappy and lame things without me so much as even thinking twice? Stand out track-Ego-Tripping at the Gates of Hell
Guns N’ Roses- Appetite for Destruction
I went through a long and arduous GnR phase. I wouldn’t say I’m ashamed of it now, but I definitely don’t feel the same about them anymore. God, they were so cool back in those days though. Slash and Axl… could you find cooler names? Stand out track-Mr. Bownstone
Guns N’ Roses-Use Your Illusion I and II
They tried WAY ****ing too hard with this album to top Appetite, and they failed. They really dipped into some retarded sentimentality here, though some tracks still held the supreme coolness that I so desperately loved. Stand out track-You could be Mine.
Guns N’ Roses- G N’ R Lies
A fun album, although their most offensive. Has a certain comedic value to it. Stand out track-One in a Million.
Interpol-Turn on the Bright Lights
Whoa. I just adore this album. The common comparison to Joy Division is pretty far off. The singers have similar voices, that’s about it. I’ve listened to this album a fairly large amount, and hold it as the best thing to come out of 2002. Stand out track-NYC
Joy Division-Substance
Quite a good entry level album. Overall, it’s unsatisfying, especially compared to Closer. It’s nowhere near as dark as Closer, either. Stand out track-Love Will Tear Us Apart
Joy Division-Closer
A harrowingly dark and beautiful album, I was almost taken aback the first time I heard it. It took me countless recommendations from Ryan before I finally bought it, but it certainly is worthy of the praise heaped upon it. Absolute classic, by all definitions of the word.
Led Zeppelin- I
Zep’s second best. Probably one of the strongest debut albums you’ll find. I remember first hearing this album, way way back in sixth grade. Some of my favorites still reside hear. There are so many standout tracks on this album, it almost seems pointless to list them. But I will anyway… Babe I’m Gonna Leave You, Good Times Bad Times, Communication Breakdown, I can’t Quit You Baby, and on and on and on.
Led Zeppelin –II
It’s hard to write anything about Zep’s first 4 records, they were all so perfect. I think if I had to choose one band to take with me to a desert isle, it would be Zep. II is yet another flawless album with nonstop solid tracks. Whole Lotta Love, What is and What Should Never Be, The Lemon Song, again, I could go on and on. Flawless.
Led Zeppelin – III
Here is my personal favorite. I remember I saw Vic saying he heard hints of the pretension that would come after IV on this album. I don’t know if I completely agree with that, but I can see where he is coming from. Stand out tracks-Immigrant Song, Since I’ve Been Loving You, Bron-Y-Aur Stomp and on and on.
Led Zeppelin – IV
Not much to say about this one. Everyone knows it. Stand out tracks-the obvious ones, though Going To California can’t get enough praise.
Led Zeppelin Latter Day purchases:
I liked all their latter day stuff, but they never really seemed to quite capture the appeal of the first four albums. There were some brilliant track scattered among the next albums, I’ll list a few. I don’t see any reason to do little synopsis on these albums:
Over The Hills and Far Away
No Quarter
Trampled Underfoot
Kashmir
Etc etc, you’ve certainly seen and heard all these before
Albums:
Houses of the Holy
Physical Graffiti
Presence
In Through the Out Door
Coda
Led Zeppelin-How the West Was Won
Whoa. If there was anything in the world that could possibly make me love Zeppelin more than I did, it was a live triple album. Every song on here stands out. It is just simply un****ing believable on the whole. This is what a live album should be like.
Lost in Translation-OST
The return of Kevin Shields. Somehow, I was left a little underwhelmed, although the CD is fantastic either way. City Girl is rather simple, but I find it addicting. I listen to it quite frequently, and find myself humming along 90% of the time. The only song I dislike on the CD is Phoenix’s Too Young. God damn does that suck annoy the hell out of me.
The Mars Volta-Tremulant EP
Great EP. Overpriced, but a really great EP. Really gave me a lot of hope for what Mars Volta was capable of.
The Mars Volta-De-Loused in the Comatorium
Removed all hope that Tremulant gave me. Wow, was this disappointing. I guess it's not the worst attempt they could have come up with, but it's pretty damn close. Horrible solos, a complete lack of melody, and basically falls into every pitfall of progrock imaginable. Bad, bad album.
Mogwai-Young Team
There’s no doubting it’s inconsistency, but the strong tracks on here make it all worth it. There’s definite filler material, but anyone who doesn’t ****ing love Mogwai Fear Satan is not to be trusted. Ever.
My Bloody Valentine-Isn’t Anything?
A solid album, though doesn’t even compare to Loveless. Still, you can see some where MBV was coming from before they arrived and delivered one of the definitive albums of all time. Stand out Track-Lose my Breath.
My Bloody Valentine-Loveless
A ****ing classic, through and through. One beautiful album, from start to finish. It’s confusing and difficult at first, definitely, but it’s so damn gorgeous. I still remember everything about my first listen of it about 5 months ago. A good sound system helps, but is not necessary. To Here Knows When and Loomer are my favorites.
Nas-Illmatic
As I’ve stated before, by far my favorite rap album. I know it’s overhyped, and overpraised, etc etc. I just love it. Stand out track- The World is Yours.
Nirvana-Nevermind
Eh. It’s the universally accepted definitive nineties album, it seems. A big giant “meh” to that. It’s in no way a bad album, in fact it’s quite outstanding, but I wouldn’t even call it Nirvana’s best, and it wouldn’t even approach my top ten of the nineties. Stand out track-Lounge Act
Nirvana-In Utero
My personal preference for Nirvana albums. I’ll freely admit that I don’t like Nirvana much, but this is just a great angsty grunge album. Pearl Jam in all their years never could quite get the whole angst thing down like Kurt did. Stand out track-Rape Me.
Outkast-Aquemini
Wonderfully catchy and poppy rap album. Very easy to enjoy yourself, and easy to play for others since it tends to be so agreeable. A definite great place to start with Outkast.
Jimmy Page/Robert Plant-Walking in Clarksdale
This one didn’t seem to be particularly well received album, but I loved it nonetheless. Obviously, it doesn’t even begin to approach Led Zeppelin, but it’s a pretty good standalone album. Standout track-Walking into Clarskdale.
Pavement-Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain
Really, really poppy stuff. It maintains an edge though, even with it's somewhat radio-friendly nature. The stand out track is Elevate me Later.
The Pixies-Surfer Rosa
Ah, if there’s one band I physically can’t imagine disliking, it’s the Pixies. Everything about them is so much fun and so easy to get in to. Nirvana’s sound pretty blatantly came from them, though I’m not going to get into one of those whole “Nirvana were a bunch of talent less hacks” rhetoric that is quite common. Stand out track-Where is my Mind? Also one of the greatest songs ever.
The Pixies-Doolittle
Again, I can’t praise the Pixies enough. The thought of them reuniting gives me mixed emotions. One the one hand, I’d be able to see one of my favorite bands of all time live. On the other, they would never touch what they accomplished on Doolittle. There are so many standouts on this CD. My personal favorite? Hey
The Pixies-Trompe Le Monde
It’s no Surfer Rosa and definitely no Doolittle, but still a very good album. Stand out track-Planet of Sound.
Pink Floyd-The Piper at the Gates of Dawn
The only album I own with Syd Barret still on it. Has some great gems on there, and has an interesting sound overall. It would have been interesting to see if Floyd would have gone the same direction had Barret stayed around. Standout Track-The Scarecrow.
Pink Floyd-Meddle
Great album. A tad bit overrated, but it’s hard not to over praise Pink Floyd. Stand out track- Echoes
Pink Floyd-Dark Side of the Moon
My God, do I remember my first listen of this album. I was high. It was a few years ago. It was beautiful. It still is. One big piece of cohesive perfection. From the opening beats of Speak to Me/Breathe till it ends with Eclipse, I promise you will be captivated. There are no stand out tracks. It is all one piece of beauty.
Pink Floyd-Wish You Were Here
Another classic album from a band I adore. Everyone should hear the song Wish You Were Here at least once in their life, it should be a law. All the other tracks are strong, and Shine on You Crazy Diamond holds a couple amazingly cool guitar riffs.
Pink Floyd-Animals
Very dark. Very amazing. This album is just perfection for me. I can’t even count how many times I’ve heard it. I’m sorry, but is there a Floyd song cooler than Pigs(Three Different Ones)? Not that any of the other songs aren’t flawless, but Pigs just transcends the CD.
Pink Floyd-The Wall
Meh. I just don’t enjoy this album. I can see why some would enjoy it, but I find it almost unlistenable. Just not my CD I suppose.
Queen-Classic Queen
I believe this is a greatest hits album. *Shrug*. I’ve had it as long as I can remember. Not much to say about a band like this. Everyone knows them, and knows most all of their songs. Stand out track-Uhh, Bohemian Rhapsody?
Radiohead-Pablo Honey
Meh. Too grungy and unambitious for my tastes. Anyone Can Play Guitar is the only song I can think of that stands out.
Radiohead-The Bends
More on the way of what I love about Radiohead, but still not quite there. Lot’s of stand out tracks here. It definitely is a far cry from a masterpiece though. Standout tracks-Street Spirit, Bullet Proof…I Wish I was, Fake Plastic Trees.
Radiohead-OK Computer
…
No words I could utter about this album could EVER do it justice. Go out, buy it now, and listen to it. This album can not be talked about, only listened to. It has no weak links. It is absolutely one of my alltime favorite CDs. What Radiohead did here was make THE 90’s album. It is a must own.
Radiohead-Kid A
A good album, I can’t imagine how hard it is to follow something like OK Computer. Plenty of standout tracks inhabit this one, but is no masterpiece, similar to The Bends. Motion Picture Soundtrack, Idioteque, National Anthem, How to Disappear Completely are all must hears.
Radiohead-Amnesiac
A collection of songs recorded during the Kid A sessions, this album seems a little uneven at points. And, as I’ve said before, I tend not to be a fan of Radiohead’s political songs, and this one houses quite a few. Pyramid Song and Knives Out are the standout tracks.
Radiohead-Hail to the Thief
It’s certainly a great album, and definitely one of the best of 2003. Really insured that Thom knew what he was doing, although he fell into his annoying political pitfalls occasionally. There, There, Scatterbrain, and 2+2=5 give me hope that Thom & co are as brilliant as I give them credit for.
Paul Simon-Graceland
My parents always had me listen to this album as a kid. I sort of forgot about it, and then rediscovered it around when I was 15. Any album that can hold the same appeal to young child as it can to a grown adult, is unquestionably a masterpiece. Stand out track-Diamonds on the Souls of Her Shoes.
Simon and Garfunkel-The Sounds of Silence
An Inconsistent album, though it strikes some powerful chords when it hits. Everyone has probably heard the Sound of Silence, but it’s too great of a song not to be heard more.
The Smashing Pumpkins-Siamese Dream
I just don’t like Billy Corgan, I suppose. His “poetic” lyrics do nothing for me. His guitar works is quite terrific at points, but on the whole, I find him pretentious. Siamese Dream, however, does everything right. He keeps his high school poetry to a minimum, and cranks out some great tunes.
The Smashing Pumpkins-Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
Yuck. Very yuck. This epitomizes everything I dislike about Billy Corgan. Really, really bad album. Really bad.
Elliot Smith-Either/Or
Smith's most advanced and most accomplished album. Choosing to play all the instruments himself, Smith puts together a surprisingly strong blend of poppish artsiness. Definitely a must own for anyone who at least half liked Miss Misery from Good Will Hunting. Stand out track - 2:45 A.M.
Elliot Smith-XO
I believe this was his major label debut, I'd need to check up on that. A warm collection of indie acoustic songs that are hard to dislike. A pretty good display of talent from Smith, though not quite on the level of Either/Or, at least in my opinion.
The Smiths-The Queen is Dead
Great and wonderful poppy album. Just music that is incredibly easy to listen to, which some wonderful lyrical additions by Morrisey. I don’t find the album as depressing as it is supposed to be, but it definitely has a melancholy feel. Standout track-Cemetary Gates.
The Smiths-Strangeways, Here We Come
Once again, there’s not much to say about The Smiths. You like them or ya don’t. Stand out track-I started Something I Couldn’t Finish.
The Smiths-Meat is Murder
Eh. A tad weaker than the other albums I own from them. Stand out track-How Soon is Now?
The Smiths-The World Won’t Listen
A nice little imported collection of B sides from The Smiths. It’s not groundbreaking, but nice once in a while. Stand out track-Panic.
Sonic Youth-Daydream Nation
Is it possible to dislike Teenage Riot? I would hope not. A classic, not much to say about it. Check out just about any song off it, they are equally strong.
Sonic Youth-Goo
A poppy and fun effort following Daydream Nation. Easy to listen to, but obviously nothing compared to Daydream. Stand out track-Mote.
The Stone Roses-Second Coming
I have yet to hear this one.
Talking Heads- Talking Heads 77’
A wonderful debut album. I’ve always felt it had their most distinct punk sound in it. Not their best, but a great album, and a great entry level album. Standout track-Psycho Killer.
Talking Heads-More Songs About Buildings and Food
What an album. Just absolutely incredible. It really never lets up with the strong tracks. This is the first album Brian Eno coproduced on. You can definitely hear it. The album sounds more conventional in a way than 77’, but I wouldn’t hesitate to call it better. Stand out track- Thank You for Sending Me an Angel.
Talking Heads-Fear of Music
My absolute favorite. A definite departure from their sound once again, but still manages to sound like the Talking Heads we know and love. Byrne seems to change on this album, I’m not quite sure why. He just seems different than he was previously. Stand out tracks-Life During Wartime and Heaven.
Talking Heads-Stop Making Sense
This was my entry into Talking Heads. Great, great live album, featuring a really good upbeat version of Psycho Killer. The real stand out track here is Naïve Melody, however.
The Velvet Underground-The Velvet Underground and Nico
What hasn’t been said about this album? It’s pinnacle VU. Produced by Andy Warhol, this album is absolutely amazing. Stand out tracks-All Tomorrow’s Parties, Heroin, Sunday Morning.
The Velvet Underground-White Light/White Heat
This album hasn’t “hit” me yet. It’s good, but I’ve been told by many a people that it is the beautiful piece of cohesive art, and I just don’t hear it. Stand out track-Sister Ray.
The Velvet Underground-The Velvet Underground
Really simple and elegant album. Quite different from their previous 2, but very pretty nonetheless. Perhaps it was the departure of John Cale that spurred this change, or the joining of Doug Yule. I don’t know. It was a nice change though/ Stand out track-Candy Says.
Tom Waits-Closing Time
Pretty piano ballads, a longing Tom Waits, and a halfway normal voice. Sounds pretty boring. But it isn't. It doesn't even come close to his more theatrical approach to music as time went on, but it's a lovely little album to hear. How one person went from this to something like Bone Machine is unbelievable. Not that I am complaining. Stand out track-Martha
Tom Waits-Small Change
Waits songs start to gain a little more atmosphere. Occasionally backed by string sections and assorted other jazzy instruments, Tom Waits continues on his piano here. Really interesting album. Stand out track-The Piano Has been Drinking(Not Me).
Tom Waits-Heart Attack and Vine
A mediocre album, but forgivable since it's distincly transistional between his older day music and his Island years music. A good album for hardened Waits fans, I would imagine. Stand out track-Heart Attack and Vine.
Tom Waits-Rain Dogs
Over****ingrated. Spotty and directionless, I don't see why people go all crazy over this one. It's obviously a terrific album, but compared to something like Bone Machine? Please.
Tom Waits-Bone Machine
Absolute perfection for Waits. This is undoubtedly his best. Brilliantly atmospheric, excellent lyrics, and basically the album that made me love Tom Waits. An absolute must own. Stand out track-The Ocean Doesn't Want Me
Tom Waits-Mule Variations
Another great album. I just picked it up recently, haven't had much time to listen to it. Stand out thusfar-Cold Water
Tom Waits-Blood Money
Cool album, though not as good as the rest of his latter day endeavors. Ranks right alongside Alice, I'd say. Stand out-Misery is the River of the World.
Tom Waits-Alice
Once again, a pretty good album. Stand out-Everything You Can Think.
Wilco-Summer Teeth
A fun album, poppy and all. Easy to get into, and very light entertainment. Before Jeff Tweedy went a little nuts. Stand out song- Can't Stand it.
Wilco-Being There
Undoubtedly Wilco's best. Really pushes their limits as musicians, and is very succesful because of it. Plenty of stand out songs on here, most notably I Got You(At the End of the Century).
Wilco-Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Blech. I've made my opinions known before. I just avidly dislike this album. THey really just lost me here. I'm not one to shy away from experimentalism, but I find numerous songs on here virtually unlistenable. Stand out song Poor Places.
Yes-Close to the Edge
Prog-rock perfection. I have found that I don't go crazy over prog rock a lot, because of the needless pretentiousness(Yes is about as pretentious as they come, at least lyrically), but I just adore Yes. Housing only 3 songs, this album goes by faster than it should, though the songs last plenty long. For not having a single song under 8 minutes, it does an amazing job of holding your attention. Stand out track - Close to the Edge.
Yes-Tales from Topographic Oceans
Pretentious. Overindulged. Overhyped. Wonderful. This album is so in love with itself it hurts sometimes. However, it still maintains a lot of the inventiveness that Yes had on all their other great albums. Worth a listen, if you ejoy their epic songs. Stand out track - Ritual:Nous Somme Du Soleil.
Yes-Fragile
The perfect antithesis to epic Yes. Most of the songs on here are rather short, at least compared to the likes of Close to the Edge and Tales. The songs are a great deal easier to enjoy than on any other Yes album, so it's a good place to start. Stand out track - Roundabout.
I have about 3 other Yes albums scattered around my room. Do to their inconsitent quality, I dont listen to them, so I don't consider them part of my collection.
Warning-This is quite long.
Additionally, I decided to stop listing my classical albums because I don't feel qualified to comment on them.
I've left off quite a few albums for numerous reasons.
Air-Moon Safari
I just got this for christmas. Wow, what an experience. Really has solidified my opinion of the band. I can't think of a single song that really stood out among the others as of yet. I'll have to listen more.
Alice in Chains-Dirt
I used to be a big Alice in Chains fan, now I find Dirt almost unlistenable, their Self-Titles edeavor absolutely horrendous, and Jar of Flies barely listenable. Dirt is not a bad album, but I definitely overplayed it. It walks a fine line between poetic depth and shallow whining. Eh. If you think you might enjoy Alice in Chains, probably the album to start with.
Alice in Chains-Jar of Flies
Catchy little album. I think Nutshell is an all right song, but it's almost the beginning of the end for Layne. The lyrics have taken the dive overboard on this album and occasionally are nothing more than whining. Don't Follow is very strong, probably edges out I Stay Away as the best song on the album.
Alice in Chains-Alice in Chains
Utter ****.
The Beatles
I started writing thoughts about each individual album, only to realize there was no way in hell I could come up with anything about them that hasn’t already been said about a million times. Abbey Road is my favorite. Big surprise, eh?
The Beatles-Rubber Soul
The Beatles-Revolver
The Beatles-Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
The Beatles-Magical Mystery Tour
The Beatles-The White Album
The Beatles-Abbey Road
The Beatles-Let it be
Beck-Odelay
Man, I've been listening to this album frequently since about seventh grade. I sometimes astound myself when I can't help but sing along to more than half the songs. Excellent, excellent album. Still Beck's best.
Beck-Sea Change
It’s initial effect has worn off of me. There are some genuinely magnificent songs on there, along with a few filler tracks. Not the album to me now that it was about a year ago. Still a nice little album, either way.
Beethoven- Triple Concerto(Richter, Oistrakh, Rostropovich/Karajan)
I am the least qualified person in the world to talk about classical music. So I’ll chicken out and, well, not talk about it. I win.
Bjork-Debut
Great CD. Not her best, but it was where I started with her, and holds sentimental value. Stand out track-Human Behavior.
Bjork-Post
Probably my favorite. Homogenic runs close, but I just simply never get sick of Post as a whole. I've effectively overdosed on Hyper-Ballad and It's Oh So Quiet. Stand out Tracks are Hyper-Ballad and Possibly Maybe.
Bjork-Homogenic
Very strong and emotional album, and definitely addicting. I listened to it pretty obsessively for a while. Probably her most mature work yet, but I still prefer Post. Stand out track ALlis Full of Love
Bjork-Vespertine
Solid album. Of the 4 I own, definitely the weakest. I still pop it in every once in a while when I feel like something different from her. Stand out track-Unison.
Blind Melon-Classic Masters
Uninventive pop fake-grunge fluff. But I sure as hell enjoy it. I can't make myself dislike Blind Melon, no matter how uncreative and almost bland they sound. Classic Masters was my entry level CD to them, I must have gotten it about 5 years ago. Good started CD, though none of their work is even remotely difficult
Blind Melon-Nico
Pretty "meh" album overall, though songs like Glitch and All That I Need lead me to believe Shannon had something left up his sleeve before he died. I wouldn't particularly recommend this album, unless you really enjoy Blind Melon.
David Byrne and Brian Eno-My life in the Bush of Ghosts
I still find this to be a rather difficult album, no matter how many times I listen to it. Extremely eccentric, it'll probably hit me eventually. Right now, I don't listen to it, really.
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds-Best Of
Unbelievably cool album. Wow. I really, really am desperate to find more Nick Cave, and all I have seen is Nocturama, which I hear is so-so. God this album is cool though. Where the Wild Roses Grow with Kylie Minogue is magnificent, along with The Mercy Seat and From Her to Eternity. Great, great, great album.
The Clash-London Calling
The Clash’s definitive album. I don’t pretend to know what The Clash is about, to know what the political situation was when they hit the scene, or to really know a damn about punk, but I definitely enjoy this album. Jimmy Jazz should be the first song heard off of it.
Elvis Costello-When I Was Cruel
Quite a nice return to form for Costello. It ranks pretty high on my all time favorites from him, it’s a shame he went out and re-sullied his image seemingly immediately after it’s release with North. Oh well. Elvis Costello really is brilliant, but he needs to release fewer albums.
Bob Dylan-Bob Dylan
Not his best, definitely worthy of ownership though. Since it’s his earliest, it’s quite obviously his folkiest. A collection of enjoyable, if somewhat unambitious acoustic folk songs from Dylan.
Bob Dylan-The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan
More often than not, my absolute favorite album from Dylan. Very simplistic, very rootsy, but just hearing the original version of Blowin’ in the Wind is such an experience. The true pinnacle of the album is Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright.
Bob Dylan-The Times They Are A-Changing
Another nice and folky album from Dylan. All of his first 4 albums are very consistent, but they rarely have songs of true perfection. A fun little album, no doubt.
Bob Dylan-Another Side of Bob Dylan
Ditto, more or less. This is close to his end of his really simplistic acoustic songs though.
Bob Dylan-Bringing it All Back Home
Lyrical perfection. Bob Dylan was never stronger lyrically than he is on this album. There are so many songs that have lyrics that stand out, it’s unbelievable. Subterranean Homesick Blues, Mr. Tambourine Man, It’s Alright Ma(I’m Only Bleeding), It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue. Must own album.
Bob Dylan-Highway 61 Revisited
Not as strong lyrically as Bringing it all Back Home, but an absolutely wonderful album nonetheless. The music here is probably the best he ever did. Stand out track is Desolation Row
Bob Dylan-Blonde on Blonde
The epitome of a post-folk Dylan album. Inconsistent, but when it strikes, it strikes hard. Visions of Johanna and Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again and Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands all are absolute perfection. However, there’s some definite mediocre filler on there.
Bob Dylan-John Wesley Harding
Much different than the previous three albums, this one has a pretty distinctive country tinge to it. Not a bad album, definitely worth a listen.
Bob Dylan-Blood on the Tracks
Great, great, great, great album. Preceded by a few mediocre albums, and followed by a slew of mediocre albums, Blood on the Tracks really stands out. His “heartbreak” album, as it’s commonly referred to as. Standout song-Lily, Rosemary, and the Jack of Hearts.
Bob Dylan-Time out of Mind
A definite return to form for Dylan. Here, there’s almost a complete lack of the optimism that once infused his songs. We see Dylan as bitter and resentful of the world, and we love every second of it. Musically, it’s his best since Highway 61 Revisited. Lyrically, it can get a little melodramatic, but still pretty well done overall. One of my favorite albums of the nineties.
Bootleg series:
They are all pretty equal to me. Royal Albert Hall would most likely edge out the others, but they all successfully captured Dylan in his prime.
Bob Dylan-Bootleg Series Vol. 4:Royal Albert Hall Concert 1966
Bob Dylan-Bootleg series Vols. 1-3
Bob Dylan-Bootleg Series Vol. 5:Rolling Thunder Revue
The Flaming Lips-The Soft Bulletin
Take a trip down memory lane. This is my personal summer album. I can’t even count how many times I’ve listened to it. Stand out tracks-Waitin for a Superman, Feelin Yourself Disintegrate.
The Flaming Lips-Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots
Not one the level of The Soft Bulletin, but would be untouchable by just about any other band. What is it about Wayne Coyne that makes him able to say the most sappy and lame things without me so much as even thinking twice? Stand out track-Ego-Tripping at the Gates of Hell
Guns N’ Roses- Appetite for Destruction
I went through a long and arduous GnR phase. I wouldn’t say I’m ashamed of it now, but I definitely don’t feel the same about them anymore. God, they were so cool back in those days though. Slash and Axl… could you find cooler names? Stand out track-Mr. Bownstone
Guns N’ Roses-Use Your Illusion I and II
They tried WAY ****ing too hard with this album to top Appetite, and they failed. They really dipped into some retarded sentimentality here, though some tracks still held the supreme coolness that I so desperately loved. Stand out track-You could be Mine.
Guns N’ Roses- G N’ R Lies
A fun album, although their most offensive. Has a certain comedic value to it. Stand out track-One in a Million.
Interpol-Turn on the Bright Lights
Whoa. I just adore this album. The common comparison to Joy Division is pretty far off. The singers have similar voices, that’s about it. I’ve listened to this album a fairly large amount, and hold it as the best thing to come out of 2002. Stand out track-NYC
Joy Division-Substance
Quite a good entry level album. Overall, it’s unsatisfying, especially compared to Closer. It’s nowhere near as dark as Closer, either. Stand out track-Love Will Tear Us Apart
Joy Division-Closer
A harrowingly dark and beautiful album, I was almost taken aback the first time I heard it. It took me countless recommendations from Ryan before I finally bought it, but it certainly is worthy of the praise heaped upon it. Absolute classic, by all definitions of the word.
Led Zeppelin- I
Zep’s second best. Probably one of the strongest debut albums you’ll find. I remember first hearing this album, way way back in sixth grade. Some of my favorites still reside hear. There are so many standout tracks on this album, it almost seems pointless to list them. But I will anyway… Babe I’m Gonna Leave You, Good Times Bad Times, Communication Breakdown, I can’t Quit You Baby, and on and on and on.
Led Zeppelin –II
It’s hard to write anything about Zep’s first 4 records, they were all so perfect. I think if I had to choose one band to take with me to a desert isle, it would be Zep. II is yet another flawless album with nonstop solid tracks. Whole Lotta Love, What is and What Should Never Be, The Lemon Song, again, I could go on and on. Flawless.
Led Zeppelin – III
Here is my personal favorite. I remember I saw Vic saying he heard hints of the pretension that would come after IV on this album. I don’t know if I completely agree with that, but I can see where he is coming from. Stand out tracks-Immigrant Song, Since I’ve Been Loving You, Bron-Y-Aur Stomp and on and on.
Led Zeppelin – IV
Not much to say about this one. Everyone knows it. Stand out tracks-the obvious ones, though Going To California can’t get enough praise.
Led Zeppelin Latter Day purchases:
I liked all their latter day stuff, but they never really seemed to quite capture the appeal of the first four albums. There were some brilliant track scattered among the next albums, I’ll list a few. I don’t see any reason to do little synopsis on these albums:
Over The Hills and Far Away
No Quarter
Trampled Underfoot
Kashmir
Etc etc, you’ve certainly seen and heard all these before
Albums:
Houses of the Holy
Physical Graffiti
Presence
In Through the Out Door
Coda
Led Zeppelin-How the West Was Won
Whoa. If there was anything in the world that could possibly make me love Zeppelin more than I did, it was a live triple album. Every song on here stands out. It is just simply un****ing believable on the whole. This is what a live album should be like.
Lost in Translation-OST
The return of Kevin Shields. Somehow, I was left a little underwhelmed, although the CD is fantastic either way. City Girl is rather simple, but I find it addicting. I listen to it quite frequently, and find myself humming along 90% of the time. The only song I dislike on the CD is Phoenix’s Too Young. God damn does that suck annoy the hell out of me.
The Mars Volta-Tremulant EP
Great EP. Overpriced, but a really great EP. Really gave me a lot of hope for what Mars Volta was capable of.
The Mars Volta-De-Loused in the Comatorium
Removed all hope that Tremulant gave me. Wow, was this disappointing. I guess it's not the worst attempt they could have come up with, but it's pretty damn close. Horrible solos, a complete lack of melody, and basically falls into every pitfall of progrock imaginable. Bad, bad album.
Mogwai-Young Team
There’s no doubting it’s inconsistency, but the strong tracks on here make it all worth it. There’s definite filler material, but anyone who doesn’t ****ing love Mogwai Fear Satan is not to be trusted. Ever.
My Bloody Valentine-Isn’t Anything?
A solid album, though doesn’t even compare to Loveless. Still, you can see some where MBV was coming from before they arrived and delivered one of the definitive albums of all time. Stand out Track-Lose my Breath.
My Bloody Valentine-Loveless
A ****ing classic, through and through. One beautiful album, from start to finish. It’s confusing and difficult at first, definitely, but it’s so damn gorgeous. I still remember everything about my first listen of it about 5 months ago. A good sound system helps, but is not necessary. To Here Knows When and Loomer are my favorites.
Nas-Illmatic
As I’ve stated before, by far my favorite rap album. I know it’s overhyped, and overpraised, etc etc. I just love it. Stand out track- The World is Yours.
Nirvana-Nevermind
Eh. It’s the universally accepted definitive nineties album, it seems. A big giant “meh” to that. It’s in no way a bad album, in fact it’s quite outstanding, but I wouldn’t even call it Nirvana’s best, and it wouldn’t even approach my top ten of the nineties. Stand out track-Lounge Act
Nirvana-In Utero
My personal preference for Nirvana albums. I’ll freely admit that I don’t like Nirvana much, but this is just a great angsty grunge album. Pearl Jam in all their years never could quite get the whole angst thing down like Kurt did. Stand out track-Rape Me.
Outkast-Aquemini
Wonderfully catchy and poppy rap album. Very easy to enjoy yourself, and easy to play for others since it tends to be so agreeable. A definite great place to start with Outkast.
Jimmy Page/Robert Plant-Walking in Clarksdale
This one didn’t seem to be particularly well received album, but I loved it nonetheless. Obviously, it doesn’t even begin to approach Led Zeppelin, but it’s a pretty good standalone album. Standout track-Walking into Clarskdale.
Pavement-Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain
Really, really poppy stuff. It maintains an edge though, even with it's somewhat radio-friendly nature. The stand out track is Elevate me Later.
The Pixies-Surfer Rosa
Ah, if there’s one band I physically can’t imagine disliking, it’s the Pixies. Everything about them is so much fun and so easy to get in to. Nirvana’s sound pretty blatantly came from them, though I’m not going to get into one of those whole “Nirvana were a bunch of talent less hacks” rhetoric that is quite common. Stand out track-Where is my Mind? Also one of the greatest songs ever.
The Pixies-Doolittle
Again, I can’t praise the Pixies enough. The thought of them reuniting gives me mixed emotions. One the one hand, I’d be able to see one of my favorite bands of all time live. On the other, they would never touch what they accomplished on Doolittle. There are so many standouts on this CD. My personal favorite? Hey
The Pixies-Trompe Le Monde
It’s no Surfer Rosa and definitely no Doolittle, but still a very good album. Stand out track-Planet of Sound.
Pink Floyd-The Piper at the Gates of Dawn
The only album I own with Syd Barret still on it. Has some great gems on there, and has an interesting sound overall. It would have been interesting to see if Floyd would have gone the same direction had Barret stayed around. Standout Track-The Scarecrow.
Pink Floyd-Meddle
Great album. A tad bit overrated, but it’s hard not to over praise Pink Floyd. Stand out track- Echoes
Pink Floyd-Dark Side of the Moon
My God, do I remember my first listen of this album. I was high. It was a few years ago. It was beautiful. It still is. One big piece of cohesive perfection. From the opening beats of Speak to Me/Breathe till it ends with Eclipse, I promise you will be captivated. There are no stand out tracks. It is all one piece of beauty.
Pink Floyd-Wish You Were Here
Another classic album from a band I adore. Everyone should hear the song Wish You Were Here at least once in their life, it should be a law. All the other tracks are strong, and Shine on You Crazy Diamond holds a couple amazingly cool guitar riffs.
Pink Floyd-Animals
Very dark. Very amazing. This album is just perfection for me. I can’t even count how many times I’ve heard it. I’m sorry, but is there a Floyd song cooler than Pigs(Three Different Ones)? Not that any of the other songs aren’t flawless, but Pigs just transcends the CD.
Pink Floyd-The Wall
Meh. I just don’t enjoy this album. I can see why some would enjoy it, but I find it almost unlistenable. Just not my CD I suppose.
Queen-Classic Queen
I believe this is a greatest hits album. *Shrug*. I’ve had it as long as I can remember. Not much to say about a band like this. Everyone knows them, and knows most all of their songs. Stand out track-Uhh, Bohemian Rhapsody?
Radiohead-Pablo Honey
Meh. Too grungy and unambitious for my tastes. Anyone Can Play Guitar is the only song I can think of that stands out.
Radiohead-The Bends
More on the way of what I love about Radiohead, but still not quite there. Lot’s of stand out tracks here. It definitely is a far cry from a masterpiece though. Standout tracks-Street Spirit, Bullet Proof…I Wish I was, Fake Plastic Trees.
Radiohead-OK Computer
…
No words I could utter about this album could EVER do it justice. Go out, buy it now, and listen to it. This album can not be talked about, only listened to. It has no weak links. It is absolutely one of my alltime favorite CDs. What Radiohead did here was make THE 90’s album. It is a must own.
Radiohead-Kid A
A good album, I can’t imagine how hard it is to follow something like OK Computer. Plenty of standout tracks inhabit this one, but is no masterpiece, similar to The Bends. Motion Picture Soundtrack, Idioteque, National Anthem, How to Disappear Completely are all must hears.
Radiohead-Amnesiac
A collection of songs recorded during the Kid A sessions, this album seems a little uneven at points. And, as I’ve said before, I tend not to be a fan of Radiohead’s political songs, and this one houses quite a few. Pyramid Song and Knives Out are the standout tracks.
Radiohead-Hail to the Thief
It’s certainly a great album, and definitely one of the best of 2003. Really insured that Thom knew what he was doing, although he fell into his annoying political pitfalls occasionally. There, There, Scatterbrain, and 2+2=5 give me hope that Thom & co are as brilliant as I give them credit for.
Paul Simon-Graceland
My parents always had me listen to this album as a kid. I sort of forgot about it, and then rediscovered it around when I was 15. Any album that can hold the same appeal to young child as it can to a grown adult, is unquestionably a masterpiece. Stand out track-Diamonds on the Souls of Her Shoes.
Simon and Garfunkel-The Sounds of Silence
An Inconsistent album, though it strikes some powerful chords when it hits. Everyone has probably heard the Sound of Silence, but it’s too great of a song not to be heard more.
The Smashing Pumpkins-Siamese Dream
I just don’t like Billy Corgan, I suppose. His “poetic” lyrics do nothing for me. His guitar works is quite terrific at points, but on the whole, I find him pretentious. Siamese Dream, however, does everything right. He keeps his high school poetry to a minimum, and cranks out some great tunes.
The Smashing Pumpkins-Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
Yuck. Very yuck. This epitomizes everything I dislike about Billy Corgan. Really, really bad album. Really bad.
Elliot Smith-Either/Or
Smith's most advanced and most accomplished album. Choosing to play all the instruments himself, Smith puts together a surprisingly strong blend of poppish artsiness. Definitely a must own for anyone who at least half liked Miss Misery from Good Will Hunting. Stand out track - 2:45 A.M.
Elliot Smith-XO
I believe this was his major label debut, I'd need to check up on that. A warm collection of indie acoustic songs that are hard to dislike. A pretty good display of talent from Smith, though not quite on the level of Either/Or, at least in my opinion.
The Smiths-The Queen is Dead
Great and wonderful poppy album. Just music that is incredibly easy to listen to, which some wonderful lyrical additions by Morrisey. I don’t find the album as depressing as it is supposed to be, but it definitely has a melancholy feel. Standout track-Cemetary Gates.
The Smiths-Strangeways, Here We Come
Once again, there’s not much to say about The Smiths. You like them or ya don’t. Stand out track-I started Something I Couldn’t Finish.
The Smiths-Meat is Murder
Eh. A tad weaker than the other albums I own from them. Stand out track-How Soon is Now?
The Smiths-The World Won’t Listen
A nice little imported collection of B sides from The Smiths. It’s not groundbreaking, but nice once in a while. Stand out track-Panic.
Sonic Youth-Daydream Nation
Is it possible to dislike Teenage Riot? I would hope not. A classic, not much to say about it. Check out just about any song off it, they are equally strong.
Sonic Youth-Goo
A poppy and fun effort following Daydream Nation. Easy to listen to, but obviously nothing compared to Daydream. Stand out track-Mote.
The Stone Roses-Second Coming
I have yet to hear this one.
Talking Heads- Talking Heads 77’
A wonderful debut album. I’ve always felt it had their most distinct punk sound in it. Not their best, but a great album, and a great entry level album. Standout track-Psycho Killer.
Talking Heads-More Songs About Buildings and Food
What an album. Just absolutely incredible. It really never lets up with the strong tracks. This is the first album Brian Eno coproduced on. You can definitely hear it. The album sounds more conventional in a way than 77’, but I wouldn’t hesitate to call it better. Stand out track- Thank You for Sending Me an Angel.
Talking Heads-Fear of Music
My absolute favorite. A definite departure from their sound once again, but still manages to sound like the Talking Heads we know and love. Byrne seems to change on this album, I’m not quite sure why. He just seems different than he was previously. Stand out tracks-Life During Wartime and Heaven.
Talking Heads-Stop Making Sense
This was my entry into Talking Heads. Great, great live album, featuring a really good upbeat version of Psycho Killer. The real stand out track here is Naïve Melody, however.
The Velvet Underground-The Velvet Underground and Nico
What hasn’t been said about this album? It’s pinnacle VU. Produced by Andy Warhol, this album is absolutely amazing. Stand out tracks-All Tomorrow’s Parties, Heroin, Sunday Morning.
The Velvet Underground-White Light/White Heat
This album hasn’t “hit” me yet. It’s good, but I’ve been told by many a people that it is the beautiful piece of cohesive art, and I just don’t hear it. Stand out track-Sister Ray.
The Velvet Underground-The Velvet Underground
Really simple and elegant album. Quite different from their previous 2, but very pretty nonetheless. Perhaps it was the departure of John Cale that spurred this change, or the joining of Doug Yule. I don’t know. It was a nice change though/ Stand out track-Candy Says.
Tom Waits-Closing Time
Pretty piano ballads, a longing Tom Waits, and a halfway normal voice. Sounds pretty boring. But it isn't. It doesn't even come close to his more theatrical approach to music as time went on, but it's a lovely little album to hear. How one person went from this to something like Bone Machine is unbelievable. Not that I am complaining. Stand out track-Martha
Tom Waits-Small Change
Waits songs start to gain a little more atmosphere. Occasionally backed by string sections and assorted other jazzy instruments, Tom Waits continues on his piano here. Really interesting album. Stand out track-The Piano Has been Drinking(Not Me).
Tom Waits-Heart Attack and Vine
A mediocre album, but forgivable since it's distincly transistional between his older day music and his Island years music. A good album for hardened Waits fans, I would imagine. Stand out track-Heart Attack and Vine.
Tom Waits-Rain Dogs
Over****ingrated. Spotty and directionless, I don't see why people go all crazy over this one. It's obviously a terrific album, but compared to something like Bone Machine? Please.
Tom Waits-Bone Machine
Absolute perfection for Waits. This is undoubtedly his best. Brilliantly atmospheric, excellent lyrics, and basically the album that made me love Tom Waits. An absolute must own. Stand out track-The Ocean Doesn't Want Me
Tom Waits-Mule Variations
Another great album. I just picked it up recently, haven't had much time to listen to it. Stand out thusfar-Cold Water
Tom Waits-Blood Money
Cool album, though not as good as the rest of his latter day endeavors. Ranks right alongside Alice, I'd say. Stand out-Misery is the River of the World.
Tom Waits-Alice
Once again, a pretty good album. Stand out-Everything You Can Think.
Wilco-Summer Teeth
A fun album, poppy and all. Easy to get into, and very light entertainment. Before Jeff Tweedy went a little nuts. Stand out song- Can't Stand it.
Wilco-Being There
Undoubtedly Wilco's best. Really pushes their limits as musicians, and is very succesful because of it. Plenty of stand out songs on here, most notably I Got You(At the End of the Century).
Wilco-Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Blech. I've made my opinions known before. I just avidly dislike this album. THey really just lost me here. I'm not one to shy away from experimentalism, but I find numerous songs on here virtually unlistenable. Stand out song Poor Places.
Yes-Close to the Edge
Prog-rock perfection. I have found that I don't go crazy over prog rock a lot, because of the needless pretentiousness(Yes is about as pretentious as they come, at least lyrically), but I just adore Yes. Housing only 3 songs, this album goes by faster than it should, though the songs last plenty long. For not having a single song under 8 minutes, it does an amazing job of holding your attention. Stand out track - Close to the Edge.
Yes-Tales from Topographic Oceans
Pretentious. Overindulged. Overhyped. Wonderful. This album is so in love with itself it hurts sometimes. However, it still maintains a lot of the inventiveness that Yes had on all their other great albums. Worth a listen, if you ejoy their epic songs. Stand out track - Ritual:Nous Somme Du Soleil.
Yes-Fragile
The perfect antithesis to epic Yes. Most of the songs on here are rather short, at least compared to the likes of Close to the Edge and Tales. The songs are a great deal easier to enjoy than on any other Yes album, so it's a good place to start. Stand out track - Roundabout.
I have about 3 other Yes albums scattered around my room. Do to their inconsitent quality, I dont listen to them, so I don't consider them part of my collection.