It's been about a month that we've started posting the articles and it felt like the proper time to thank everybody for following. We are really excited about all the support so far, so there again: thanks!

We thought it might be the time to start posting the list (as it stands as reviews come out). Although, it might just change this week. In fact, it will, but shhh… 

So thanks for your support and, well, cheers!

Radiohead - Kid A (2000)                                      96,125

The Clash - London Calling (1979)                        93,5

Gorillaz - Demon Days (2005)                               92,75  

Gandalf - Gandalf (1969)                                       92,5

Sex Pistols - Never Mind The Bollocks (1977)       92,125

Jack White - Blunderbuss (2012)                          91,625

Pixies - Doolittle (1989)                                          91

Bob Marley and The Wailers - Exodus (1977)       89,875  

John Lennon - Plastic Ono Band (1970)               89,5

Ramasutra - The East Infection (1999)                 88

Jimi Hendrix - Band of Gypsys (1970)                   87,85

Cage the Elephant - Cage the Elephant (2008)    86,375

Gorillaz - Gorillaz (2001)                                       85,75

Funkadelic - Maggot Brain (1971)                        84,875

The White Stripes - White Blood Cells (2001)       83,125

Manu Chao - Clandestino (1998)                          82,875

Funkadelic – Maggot Brain (1971)

     Funkadelic’s best album, but not because what they did before and after is not worth mentioning. Simply because Eddie Hazel’s solo on the title track of this album is, by it-self, worth saying that Maggot Brain is one of the best album that was ever created. It would be unfair to say that those first ten minutes of pure exaltation are worth more than a well accomplished Jimi album, but it is definitely worth some arguing about. It would also be unfair to say that this album is only define by those first ten minutes.

     There is also ‘’War of Armagedon’’ closing the act: a ten minutes jam that mixes airport background announcements, to inspired guitars licks and drum beats.

     That’s the envelope, but fortunately for all of us, the letter within the package is as much of a thrill. Juggling between heavy funk rhythms and gospel singing, Maggot Brain is a truly unique experience.

The article in two lines: An astonishing act, just short of 37 minutes of sheer enjoyment, that is almost only beaten by its first and last track.

Cumulative score: 84,875/100

Pat

Gorillaz - Demon Days (2005)

     It's been four years since their debut album and man, did they gain maturity sound wise. Everything we loved about the album Gorillaz, we could find it in here as well, without the downsides of its predecessor. They could have easily been forgotten as ''the dudes who made Clint Eastwood' but instead, they dug deeper and somehow made it even bigger. All the instruments are in the right place, coming in at the right moment. The funny thing about this album (or, generally about them) is that I could show it to anyone without  having the fear of being judged in regards of my musical taste. Well, my grandma might not agree, for she is deaf. I hope you're not on tumblr.

     Prepare your neck for 50 minutes of head banging!

The article in two lines: The monkeys have learned to make everything right, in an even more concise cage!

Cumulative score: 92,75/100

Adam

Cage the Elephant – Cage the Elephant (2008)

     Cage The Elephant released their first, self titled album in 2008 with an almost instant success.

     The album is mainly a mix of alternative rock, punk and garage rock, but is also influenced by classic rock, funk, blues and well… Pixies. It shows even more in their second album, but we will get back to that later.

     There is not much left to reinvent in the rock music genre nowadays, yet somehow they have managed to surprise our ears. And what a huge surprise it is!

     I remember the first time I listened to this album - just right when I started to think nothing great can be made nowadays - and I immediately fell in love with it. Tight and heavy drums, beautiful guitar melodies, powerful bass and last, but not least: Matt Schultz. The guy is a natural talent! No doubt about the music being great, but personally, I think the vocals and lyrics are what makes this band (and album) really special.

     Cage The Elephant surely is the second best thing that ever happened to Kentucky… Right, colonel?

The article in two lines: Cage the Elephant have succeeded in bringing a fresh sound to an already saturated genre. Well done!

Cumulative score: 86,375/100

Adam

The White Stripes – White Blood Cells (2001)

     The third act of The White Stripes is the result of only one week in the studio, but four years in the making. It makes it feel well thought, but raw at the same time. After getting some more attention from the medias (as depicted on the cover art), gathering an even bigger fan base, they succeeded in keeping that garage rock sound that made them famous in the first place. White Blood Cells is everything good about the American band, with a bigger, stronger, more affirmed rock and roll sound than their previous sets, but with a smaller blues influence, which is for me, just a bit of a let down.

     On the lyrical side of it, Jack brings back the good ol’ stuff: love, trust and betrayal, but this time around, he talks about being famous. Seems to be hard on him, which is refreshing from all those self-righteous rock stars that roams the big stadiums nowadays.

     Nonetheless, Jack and Meg have done it again: rock and roll!

The article in two lines: Recorded in only a week makes it feel more raw than ever and we like that. Jack White will never be that self-righteous rock star and we like that even more.

Cumulative score: 83,125/100

Pat

Pixies – Doolittle (1989)

     Doolittle is the second album of the American alternative rock band Pixies, which was an unexpected success commercially, unlike Surfer Rosa. It sounds much more well produced than the previous one, thanks to the new producer, Gil Norton. Lead member Black Francis said: ”this record is him [Norton] trying to make us, shall I say, commercial, and us trying to remain somewhat grungy.” A recipe that created a great contrast between the theme and the clean production sound.

     Speaking of which, the whole album is lyrically ingenious. Francis used  Biblical and surrealist references (such as the Un Chien Andalou, Dali’s and Bunuel’s film), while talking about death, violence, torture and love, or shall I say ”women and whores”. He even gave the provisional title ”Whore” for the upcoming album, during the recording sessions.

     Musically, it is as versatile: songs that are simple, fast and aggressive, while others reveal slower melodies. Even though the whole album is an eclectic mix of musical styles, the concept flows freely throughout the set, creating one harmonic cacophony.

     One thing is for sure: this album was - and still is - a huge influence for many grunge, indie and alternative rock bands, such as Nirvana and Cage The Elephant, just to mention a few.

The article in two lines: The Pixies’ Doolittle draws its influences from some of the best 70’s punk and ska bands, and delivers it in a whole new package. Many bands have widely profit from the ingenuity behind the Pixies, that alone, making it a must listen!

Cumulative score: 91/100

Adam

Sex Pistols – Never Mind the Bollocks (1977)

     The Sex Pistols have one of the most interesting stories in music history. From stolen instruments to destroying other’s gear in concert, from a shy front man replaced by a random pedestrian, to a bassist sacked for loving ‘’The Beatles’’ too much. The list goes on and on. And on… Here's the Sex Pistols!

     Front man Johnny Rotten's (surname given because of his poor dental hygiene) sarcastic vocal delivery became iconic and an inspiration to a whole generation of singers. Did someone say the Pixies? Even if the punk movement was in the making in other places as well, no one could give the genre its letters patent of nobility as did the Sex. Britain stole the show, once again.

     Sid Vicious, the bassist, was replaced in almost all of the songs during studio recordings, as Price and Thomas (the producers) ‘’gave up’’ trying to use Vicious’ bass tracks. Jones, the band’s guitarist, finally took over successfully. Matlock would have been the obvious choice for replacement, but that is another story.

     This album became iconic in every possible way: the music and the vocals established the punk genre, the cover art redefined graphic design and the punk fashion trend was put together. How ironic is it, to use fashion trend and punk in the same sentence?

     That being said, one band and one album: that’s all it took to make history. That’s all it took to change history.

The article in two lines: The article may seem controversial, but stands nowhere close to this album in that regard. So... cheers to a great album! One that will never be forgotten!

Cumulative score: 92,125/100

Pat

Bob Marley and The Wailers – Exodus (1977)    

     It seems like it’s my turn to be “objective” and my God, this album is amazing. [What a surprise! - Edited by Pat] Exodus is the ninth studio album of his and the one that made him known world wide. The title track “Exodus” was a response to Michael Manley’s campaign slogan “We know where we’re going”, which was used in the 1976 Jamaican elections. The same year, an assassination attempt was made on Bob’s life, which is the reason why they had to record this album in London. [Let’s not get too political, shall we? - Pat]

     It’s one of the most well produced and best reggae albums ever. Time also rated it the best album of the 20th century (well, I wouldn’t agree with that, though). Marley’s magic has always been his lyrics and the way he delivers them, but this album is much more than that. So much more. Powerful drumbeats, yet relaxing keyboards and guitars, created the perfect harmony he was hoping for the World.

     I would disagree though, with all those who say Bob Marley is the king of reggae: he is reggae himself.

The article in two lines: Exodus, from the reggae legend who doesn’t need any introduction, is what I believe to be his best work. [I agree with this message - Pat]

Cumulative score: 89,875/100

Adam

Jimi Hendrix (Gypsy Sun and Rainbows) – Band of Gypsys (1970)    

     Who said no good could come out of fulfilling contract obligations? It’s generally true to say that it usually brings out the worst of the creative types, but not this time. After the dismantling of the Jimi Hendrix Experience band, in 1969, Woodstock still had to be played and one album was overdue. That is when Cox (bassist) and Miller (drummer) came in. The two of them also got more vocal time than previous Hendrix’s minions.

     We don’t usually review live recordings, for reasons we are not even sure of [more like you are not sure of - Edited by Adam], but we felt we couldn’t leave Hendrix’s last act out of our top albums.

     Band of Gypsys was going to be the last album authorized by the rock legend and left us all on a very good note. I would elaborate more, but I prefer letting his Stratocaster do the talking.

The article in two lines: New band, same experience. Jimi left the stage with a great gig!

Cumulative score: 87,75/100

Pat

Manu Chao – Clandestino (1998)

     Clandestino is Manu Chao’s first full-length solo album, covered by Radio Bemba Sound System, which had almost the same members as his previous band, called Mano Negra. After the disband, the new group began to travel throughout South and Central America, looking for a more street-music-sound. The result was Clandestino.

     Manu used mainly Spanish, English and French languages to convey his texts. The sound of the album is so Latin-American, that for a long time, I believed he was from the Caribbean. When I found out he’s actually french, I instantly shouted “Mentira!“

     Got to love the sound of the album: it delivers that happy-melancholic feeling my soul needs every now and then. The concept is good and even though the songs are repetitive, it somehow achieves not to get boring. I’m glad I could attend one of his concerts. [I heard he had more tequilas than he can bear. - Edited by Pat] It was truly a great experience [Again, tequilas…]: never heard so many people singing along like they actually knew Spanish. [And again…]

     Anyways, I have to go, Tijuana awaits me!

The article in two lines: Manu Chao is french, Tijuana is in Mexico and so is tequila. [And finally…]

Cumulative score: 82,875/100

Adam

Jack White – Blunderbuss (2012)

     Jack White’s debut solo album: Mister White Stripes takes the whole stage for himself. Mixing his previous act’s well-known steady and heavy rock sound with a blues feel. Could it get any better than this? I personally doubt it. When it came out, I was a bit distressed about what happened with the Stripes, but was quickly re-assured after the very first go at it. This is more creative and feels more accomplished than any of his previous work, including The Raconteurs. Ingenious drum rhythms (less four on the floor beats, but the kicks will still give you a heart attack), acoustic guitars and most welcomed acoustic piano are only a few of the additions that helps the whole album to reach for higher skies.  

     White being the main artisan in every single step of this album, makes it more homogeneous. The list of mixing and mastering tricks he dares to use on this LP is impressive. How he nails it every time around is even more.

     This album is, for me, better than Elephant, Get Behind Me Satan and the lot. Knowing that he is behind it all just goes to prove that his skills extends well beyond his characteristic voice, sensitive lyrics and famous in-your-face-screaming guitar licks. I guess you can only get better when your entourage features a certain Tom Jones!

     Be noted that we listened to the Japanese release, including two bonus tracks.

The article in two lines: Treat yourself to Jack White’s debut solo album, own it on record, because it will become a classic.

Cumulative score: 91,625/100

Pat

Gandalf – Gandalf (1969)    

     A long time ago, in Middle Earth, lived a powerful wizard… but this has nothing to do with him. Gandalf was a psychedelic rock band formed in the US, which released only one album, but what an album it is! I could never possibly get bored of it.

     The reason they had only one LP is that Capitol released it with the wrong record inside the sleeve, therefore they had to recall it, ruining the band’s career. What a great loss! (Then Capitol poorly promoted it. Then recently, Sundazed did the only thing they know: buying rights to make profit over reissues. – Edited by Pat)

     The album is superbly well thought and done, both musically and lyrically creating an almost perfect harmony. Only 30 minutes long, however I wouldn’t say it’s short... it’s compact! (That is Adam’s answer about his ‘’height’’ –Edited by Pat) The first time around, I was at least 99,9% sure Quentin Tarantino used ‘Golden Earrings’ in one of his western movies: I could almost taste the spaghetti while going through it. Apparently, he didn’t.

     So, QT, if you read this (and you will, for you are following us): use it in the next one, so they can get the fame they deserve! Plus, the legal rights must be quite cheap as of now.

The article in two lines: Gandalf was ruined by it’s producers. Not the first band to be, not the last one either. Nonetheless, psychedelic rock at its best!

Cumulative score: 92,5/100

Adam

Tomorrow we get back on the horse with a psychedelic album that slipped under the radar, we will explain why, and another review from a well known rock band (we still can't agree on which one, though, might be old, might be recent, but it will surely be good, we guess). 

Csoing: You could follow artists you're actually reviewing.

Pat: Depends if we like them or not…

Csoing: ...

Pat: …

Gorillaz - Gorillaz (2001)

     Gorillaz' debut album and what a debut album it was! Loud yet precise, lyrically ingenious and masterfully mixed. It was the early 2000's and everybody was bopping their heads to the suave cool lounge yet aggressive sound (and punk?) of the unknown band. Oh, we could go on and on, about how cool was the image that they created, but it could have been silenced if it wouldn't have been for their musical prowesses. 

     A lengthy album, this one, but oh boy, are we happy it is! We never wanted it to end. Was it because we grew on it (or perhaps it did on us)? Was it for the catchy electronics rhythms, the powerful percussions, the concept behind the band or plainly because it was going to become Demon Days. Their future was coming on, was coming on, their future...

     Let them out of their cage! 

The article in two lines: We love it, possibly more than we’d care to admit, but is it because we now know the following act?Nonetheless, it’s a classic that never seems to grow old.

Our cumulative score: 85,75/100

Pat

The Clash – London Calling (1979)    

     It’s their third album but their biggest success and I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I said, one of the best punk albums ever. A great concept, that’s flowing through the whole album which is quite surprising for a somewhat experimental project. The colourful scale of genres  (punk, ska, reggae, lounge jazz, rockabilly, rock 'n' roll) is going so well together, it melts into the most unique punk sound ever.

     The cover uses a picture of Paul Simonon (bassist), destroying his instrument on stage (R.I.P. Fender) and it turns out to be the best rock 'n' roll photograph of all time (by Q magazine). The typography is influenced by the one they used for Elvis’ debut album, which echoes in the music itself as well.

     Every time I listen to it, they convince me that anarchy is fun. The whole album sounds light and happy which is completely the opposite of the lyrics, talking about unemployment, problems of adulthood and drugs, just to mention some.

     London’s calling for an hour long ride and I will always take it, wishing it would never end.

The article in two lines: one of the best, if not the best punk album of all time. Period.

Cumulative score: 93,5/100

Adam