Music 365

[Grover]

So I started a small project on Facebook with a photo album I've titled Music 365.

I'm going to attempt to listen to an album a day for one year. Each day I will post an album cover with a small blurb about the album, as well as a few selected/favorite tracks.

I figure I can chronicle this here as well, feel free to follow along.



Day 001: Oasis - (What's the Story) Morning Glory?

The first CD I ever purchased with my own money is the first listen through here. My favorite album of all time.

Favorite tracks:

1. Hello, 4. Don't Look Back in Anger, 5. Hey Now, 7. Some Might Say, 8. Cast No Shadow

[korme]

Nice!

[Grover]

Day 002: The Strokes - Is This It

The first effort from Julian Casablancas and crew is fantastic. The music itself is excellent, as are the thoughtful lyrics. Easily the band's best album.

Favorite tracks:

2. The Modern Age, 4. Barely Legal, 5. Someday, 7. Last Nite, 10. Trying Your Luck

[VPI97]

Nice thread. It's a very cool idea.

[terpkristin]

Nice. A definite fan.

/tk

[britrock88]

Hope I can pick up on something new here. Have fun!

[Grover]

Day 003: John Frusciante - To Record Only Water For Ten Days

We all know that the best Red Hot Chili Peppers albums are the ones that Frusciante was around to play lead guitar on. Blood Sugar Sex Magik, Californication, etc. I picked up this album as a junior in high school and fell in love with it on first listen. It was my first time hearing Frusciante sing and it's a far cry from RHCP's funky punk grooves. Frusciante shows a pained emotional depth with his lyrics coming in over his expert guitar playing (more acoustic than electric here). If you're a fan of the Chili Peppers, this album deserves your attention.

Favorite tracks:

1. Going Inside, 3. The First Season, 5. Away and Anywhere, 10. Murderers, 15. Moments Have You

[Grover]

Day 004: Iggy and The Stooges - Raw Power

Definitely the hardest or heaviest of the albums of Music 365 thus far. It's rock and roll to its core. Dirty, sleazy, you'll come away feeling like you need a shower after you listen to it. A true toss-up between this and Fun House for best album from Iggy and The Stooges.

Favorite tracks:

1. Search and Destroy, 2. Gimme Danger, 6. I Need Somebody, 8. Death Trip

[Grover]

Day 005: Queen - The Game

Ah, the first album where Queen put themselves into current music and don't sound light-years ahead of their time. It's a little bit of disco, a little bit rock-a-billy and pure pop-rock, but Brian May's searing solos are still in there, not to mention some globe conquering bass lines. And Freddie Mercury's voice. Oh, that voice.

Favorite tracks:

2. Dragon Attack, 3. Another One Bites the Dust, 5. Crazy Little Thing Called Love, 7. Don't Try Suicide

[Grover]

Day 006: The La's - The La's

Released in November 1990, this is an album that sounds like it's straight out of the British Invasion of 1964, but manages to sound like it also comes out of the hey-day of Britpop in the mid-90s. It is a perfect pop album. Fantastic melodies, catchy songs, the kind of stuff you can bob your head to. The album is short (35 minutes), but packs a punch in its acoustic driven arrangements. The La's best known song is a tune that you probably know better from cover versions and I can tell you what a shame that is. The song is "There She Goes" and is quite possibly (in my opinion) the greatest pop song of all time. This is an album that inspired the likes of Noel Gallagher, Damon Albarn, Alex Turner, Peter Doherty and on and on and on. If you've never heard anything from Lee Mavers and The La's, YouTube it as soon as you can. You won't be disappointed.

Favorite tracks:

1. Son of a Gun, 2. I Can't Sleep, 5. There She Goes, 6. Doledrum, 11. Failure

[britrock88]

Someone told me you mentioned Britpop and summoned me in here.

[CrimsonFox]

Should move this to dynasty!

[Grover]

If a mod thinks it'd be better suited to the dynasty thread that'd be fine with me.

Brit - there's more of that coming this afternoon.

CF: I've been waiting for you to pop into this thread!

[Grover]

Day 007: Graham Coxon - Happiness in Magazines

Best known as the lead guitarist for Britpop legends Blur, this was Coxon's fifth solo album, but the first that was on par with any of his work in Blur. Tightly spun songs, great guitar work from the infectious hooks and phenomenal solos, coupled with a strong sense of lyrical nous. Coxon shows here that he's much, much more than just Damon Albarn's sidekick. The first of four straight fantastic solo offerings from Coxon.

Favorite tracks:

1. Spectacular, 2. No Good Time, 4. Bittersweet Bundle of Misery, 6. Freakin' Out, 9. Are You Ready?

[Bigsmooth]

Awesome stuff Grover. Already a few I need to check out.

[Grover]

Day 008: Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not

I admittedly have a man crush on Alex Turner, so I might be a wee bit biased here. This album is phenomenal, the second fastest selling debut album in UK history (behind Leona Lewis and ahead of Oasis). It's a wonderful mash-up of The Strokes and The Libertines. Turner spits and growls out lyrics, chronicling the every man. It's music that you can relate, tightly wound songs, countless guitar riffs, clanging and clattering drumming and brilliant songwriting. My second favorite album of the 2000s.

Favorite tracks:

3. Fake Tales of San Francisco, 5. You Probably Couldn't See For The Lights, But You Were Staring Straight At Me, 9. Mardy Bum, 10. Perhaps Vampires is a Bit Strong, But..., 11. When The Sun Goes Down

[Grover]

Day 009: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - B.R.M.C.

Take the Stooges, Jesus and Mary Chain, early Verve and Stone Roses. Mash them all together and what you get is San Francisco outfit Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. The album sounds distinctly British. It's filled with loud, hazy guitars, hard rock rhythm and a little bit of the blues. It's a wonderful debut album if you like rock and roll.

Favorite tracks:

1. Love Burns, 3. Whatever Happened to my Rock 'N Roll, 5. White Palms, 9. Spread Your Love

[CrimsonFox]

*pop pop*

[Grover]

Originally Posted by Bigsmooth

Awesome stuff Grover. Already a few I need to check out.

Thanks and that's great to hear! That's why I've put it here, just to see if anyone finds something new to listen to.

[Grover]

Day 010: T. Rex - Electric Warrior

In 1971 when Electric Warrior was released, T. Rex were known as hippie folk-rockers. When Marc Bolan brought this album to the world, he had transformed and brought glam-rock to the forefront of popular rock music. Bolan's warm guitar, trashy song content and overt sexual lyrics are a fun, shake your hips affair. The God of Glam delivers here.

And you've got to admit, this is one of the most bad-ass album covers ever.

Favorite tracks:

1. Mambo Sun, 3. Jeepster, 5. Lean Woman Blues, 6. Bang A Gong (Get It On), 11. Rip Off

[Easy Mac]

Originally Posted by Grover

Day 008: Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not

I've had diminishing returns with Arctic Monkeys. Loved Whatever..., and I thoroughly enjoyed his Last Shadow Puppets side project, but it seemed to seep into the Arctic Monkeys. He stopped his quick vocal rhythm and started to croon/sing more. I understand that they grew up and aren't the smart-ass kids they were when they started, but they lost pretty much all of the edge in their music.

Still, of the British re-invasion albums of the mid 2000's, this is probably my second favorite (behind Franz Ferdinand, that album is pretty much perfect).

[Grover]

Originally Posted by Easy Mac

I've had diminishing returns with Arctic Monkeys. Loved Whatever..., and I thoroughly enjoyed his Last Shadow Puppets side project, but it seemed to seep into the Arctic Monkeys. He stopped his quick vocal rhythm and started to croon/sing more. I understand that they grew up and aren't the smart-ass kids they were when they started, but they lost pretty much all of the edge in their music.

Still, of the British re-invasion albums of the mid 2000's, this is probably my second favorite (behind Franz Ferdinand, that album is pretty much perfect).

I thought Humbug was a great album. Suck It and See is probably their weakest effort, but it's got some terrific tracks. I agree that they need to find that edge again, get back to the frenetic guitars, stuffing as many riffs and solos in as possible. Throughout the changes, Turner's lyrics have been top notch all the way.

[molson]

I'm enjoying this too. I'm a big fan of the methodical consumption of art for some reason. You know, taking in stuff whether it be by list, or a project like this. There's some psychological reason why that's so appealing.

[Grover]

Originally Posted by molson

I'm enjoying this too. I'm a big fan of the methodical consumption of art for some reason. You know, taking in stuff whether it be by list, or a project like this. There's some psychological reason why that's so appealing.

I'm the same way you are. That's why I'm doing it. It's hugely satisfying for me. It's also a good way to get into my music catalog and see what's in there.

[Grover]

Day 011: My Morning Jacket - At Dawn

Country, pop, rock and the blues all jam packed into one excellent album. This is Jim James and Co's second album and in my humble opinion, 11 years later is still their best. Acoustic strumming, James' sometimes hauntingly, but always soothing voice guide you through the record. You'll notice bits and pieces of Americana scattered throughout, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, even the Velvet Underground. This is an album that might take 4-5 listens for someone to fully appreciate, but it's worth the time.

I'm still upset that they didn't play Honest Man in Portland two years ago. By far my favorite track from the band.

Favorite tracks:

2. Lowdown, 4. Death Is The Easy Way, 7. Honest Man, 8. X-Mas Curtain, 12. Phone Went West

[CraigSca]

Can't believe I missed the entry on the La's. My favorite track was "Liberty Ship".

My son, now aged 13, used to have a hard time falling asleep for his afternoon nap. I used to pick him up and dance with him in my arms to the beginning of this album. By the time we would get to "Liberty Ship", he was out like a light .

[Grover]

Originally Posted by CraigSca

Can't believe I missed the entry on the La's. My favorite track was "Liberty Ship".

My son, now aged 13, used to have a hard time falling asleep for his afternoon nap. I used to pick him up and dance with him in my arms to the beginning of this album. By the time we would get to "Liberty Ship", he was out like a light .

That is awesome.

I used to use the album as a sleep aid myself. I once included it in a list of 15 albums I wouldn't live without.

[Grover]

Day 012: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Damn the Torpedoes

Tom Petty's magnum opus. At the time the band were in dire straits, in a major tussle with their record label and nearly bankrupt. From the wreckage came the band's third album in 1979 and it still holds up as one of the best of the late 70's and early 80's. Petty's songwriting and crafting are tight and masterful, the fusion of the Byrds and Rolling Stones and the excellent production give Damn the Torpedoes an incredibly modern, yet timeless feel.

Favorite tracks:

1. Refugee, 2. Here Comes My Girl, 3. Even the Losers, 6. Don't Do Me Like That

[Grover]

Day 013: The Libertines - Up The Bracket

My favorite album of the 2000's. Peter Doherty and Carl Barat possess a partnership that is magical. There's something about the way they arrange songs and the way their guitars intertwine between each other. Some call The Libertines the United Kingdom's answer to The Strokes, but they're so much better. Indie rock, Britpop, garage rock, all produced by The Clash legend Mick Jones. Listen to this album, I can't say enough good things about it.

Favorite tracks:

1. Vertigo, 2. Death on the Stairs, 4. Time For Heroes, 5. Boys in the Band, 11. The Good Old Days

[Grover]

Day 014: Led Zeppelin - Led Zeppelin

Yes. So many memories, so many good times. This album is rock and roll. One of the best albums of all time. Undeniable.

Favorite tracks:

2. Babe I'm Gonna Leave You, 3. You Shook Me, 4. Dazed and Confused, 8. I Can't Quit You Baby, 9. How Many More Times

[CrimsonFox]

Originally Posted by Grover

Day 012: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Damn the Torpedoes

Tom Petty's magnum opus. At the time the band were in dire straits, in a major tussle with their record label and nearly bankrupt. From the wreckage came the band's third album in 1979 and it still holds up as one of the best of the late 70's and early 80's. Petty's songwriting and crafting are tight and masterful, the fusion of the Byrds and Rolling Stones and the excellent production give Damn the Torpedoes an incredibly modern, yet timeless feel.

Favorite tracks:

1. Refugee, 2. Here Comes My Girl, 3. Even the Losers, 6. Don't Do Me Like That

then you must watch this:

[Grover]

Day 015: Matthew Good Band - Beautiful Midnight

Pretty much the definition of 'alternative' music. Good has a love it or hate it voice. He pens thought provoking lyrics and the music here is sublime, all the way through.

3. Strange Days, 4. I Miss New Wave, 5. Load Me Up, 12. The Future Is X-Rated, 13. Born to Kill

[Grover]

Day 016: Noah & the Whale - Last Night On Earth

This is a feel good album. Light and happy indie pop-rock tunes with clever songwriting from Charlie Fink. The group has a good sound and has moved in a different direction on this album in comparison to their first two which were darker and a bit more ambient.

Favorite tracks:

2. Tonight's the Kind of Night, 3. L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N, 4. Wild Thing, 7. Paradise Stars

[Grover]

Day 017: Tom Waits - Blue Valentine

Bluesy, hard-edged blues and jazz songs about the lowlifes of the world. Waits is in his element on this album, his gravelly voice putting vivid imagery into stories that span four or five minutes. It can be funny, sad, depressing, sarcastic or hopeless, Waits always takes a listener through an emotional roller coaster on his albums.

Favorite tracks:

3. Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis, 4. Romeo is Bleeding, 5. $29.00, 9. A Sweet Little Bullet from a Pretty Blue Gun, 10. Blue Valentines

[Grover]

Day 018: Amy Winehouse - Back to Black

Phenomenal record. Winehouse switches from jazz singer to soul siren and the results are astounding. Winehouse's songs with slick production from Remi and Ronson make this a breakthrough record. Unfortunately, with hindsight, it seems as if a lot of the songs were calls for help. Regardless, Winehouse's powerful and gorgeous voice guide the listener over contemporary R&B tunes, some jazzy overtures and songs about heartache, loss, drugs and more.

Favorite tracks:

1. Rehab, 2. You Know I'm No Good, 5. Back to Black,

[Grover]

Day 019: Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young - Déjà Vu

An album that explores folk, country, hard rock, blues, psychedelia and metal all in ten tracks. Though its members were rarely present and the album took a reported 800 hours to finish, it is a masterpiece. I've got a lot of good memories attached to it and couldn't imagine it being absent from my collection.

Favorite tracks:

1. Carry On, 2. Teach Your Children, 3. Almost Cut My Hair, 4. Helpless, 7. Our House

[MacroGuru]

Definitely some great albums in here...I like the idea.

[Easy Mac]

Have you listened to the new Neil Young album? Its streaming in crazy high quality on his website. Listening to it on my lone expensive audio system was pretty awesome. I may or may not have compared it to an mp3 version. Blew it out of the water.

[CrimsonFox]

And it makes me wonder....what's goin on...
oooooooooooon

[Passacaglia]

I was just listening to Back To Black about a week ago!

[Grover]

Guru: thanks!

EasyMac: I haven't, though I plan to get on that. New Neil is always good.

Passacaglia: So good, right?

[Grover]

Day 020: David Bowie - The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

Absolutely brilliant album. Perfect glam, the loose concept of a foreign alien named Ziggy and the decadent, but decaying future. It should be in your collection.

Favorite tracks:

3. Moonage Daydream, 4. Starman, 9. Ziggy Stardust, 10. Suffragette City, 11. Rock 'N' Roll Suicide

[CrimsonFox]

Originally Posted by Grover

Day 020: David Bowie - The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

Absolutely brilliant album. Perfect glam, the loose concept of a foreign alien named Ziggy and the decadent, but decaying future. It should be in your collection.

Favorite tracks:

3. Moonage Daydream, 4. Starman, 9. Ziggy Stardust, 10. Suffragette City, 11. Rock 'N' Roll Suicide

A perfect album. In my frequent top three
My favorites: Five Years, Soul Love, Moonage Daydream, Starman, Hang Onto YOurself, ROck and Roll Suicide

The transition between Soul Love and Moonage is probably my favorite transiotion of all time.

[Grover]

Day 021: Gorillaz - Demon Days

One of those albums that can be considered perfect. With Danger Mouse producing and a host of famous cameos (De La Soul, Shaun Ryder, Dennis Hopper, etc), Damon Albarn proves his genius with Demon Days. All of the material is antecedent from Albarn's previous days with Blur, but the collaborations make them seem fresh and exciting. The album is aurally fantastic and is worth numerous listens.

4. O Green World, 6. Feel Good Inc., 8. Every Planet We Reach Is Dead, 12. Dare, 15. Demon Days

[Alf]

So far, I like the albums you chose, and while I know most of them, some are a little obsucre to me (Tom Waits, Tom Petty) but all those are very pop-rock oriented. Do you listen to some other type of music ? I'm just curious.

[DanGarion]

Originally Posted by Alf

So far, I like the albums you chose, and while I know most of them, some are a little obsucre to me (Tom Waits, Tom Petty) but all those are very pop-rock oriented. Do you listen to some other type of music ? I'm just curious.

Tom Petty being considered obscure, something I never thought I would ever hear.

[Grover]

Originally Posted by Alf

So far, I like the albums you chose, and while I know most of them, some are a little obsucre to me (Tom Waits, Tom Petty) but all those are very pop-rock oriented. Do you listen to some other type of music ? I'm just curious.

There is some blues, a little hip hop, some jazz, but mostly rock. Especially British Rock.

[Alf]

Originally Posted by DanGarion

Tom Petty being considered obscure, something I never thought I would ever hear.

Different continents, different pop-rock culture.

Have you ever heard of Telephone, Noir Desir, Dyonisos ?

[Alf]

Originally Posted by Grover

There is some blues, a little hip hop, some jazz, but mostly rock. Especially British Rock.

I'll be following along as apart from hip-hop, that's the kind of music I enjoy listening to.

[Grover]

Day 022: José González - In Our Nature

Beautiful melodies and a skillfully played classical guitar. José González is awesome in a very, very understated way. This album is a bit fuller than his debut Veneer, with a little more drum, bass and keys to compliment his voice and guitar work. On multiple listens, the songs reveal themselves to be much deeper than originally thought. Not to mention an absolutely incredible cover of Massive Attack's 'Teardrop.' Terrific piece of music from start to finish.

Favorite tracks:

2. Down the Line, 3. Killing for Love, 5. Teardrop, 10. Cycling Trivialities