I was surprised by how many of your picks I agreed with. 1. Bowie's last album. I haven't listened to this enough, and I have to check it out from the library. I like weird music, so maybe I'll like it if I play it more. I found side 2 of LOW to be my favorite Bowie music, except for the entire Man Who Sold the World album. I like his very early albums, but surprisingly not Ziggy. 2. If I could Only Remember My Name. I finally bought this in the 2000s and just shrugged. 3. ELO. Never impressed me except for ELO 2. I saw them once in concert and can't even remember what album they were supporting. I was there to see the warmup act, Steve Hillage. 4. Astral Weeks. My then-partner bought me that album. I shrugged. 5. Queen have never interested me much, but they have their moments. 6. Liz Phair. I don't know her at all. 7. Nebraska. I was never a fan of Bruce, and never bought any of his album EXCEPT Nebraska. I bought it because I was getting into folk music and they said it was recorded on a four track cassette deck, which I thought was cool. But it didn't impressed me at all. 8. Never Mind. Not a grunge fan, so I can't really say. 9. I quit listening to Roger Waters after Dark Side of the the Moon! But I did get a little hooked on The Wall but only because of the movie which was a multimedia (animation, film, music) stroke of genius. 10. Stevie Wonder. Never bought or heard an album by him. 11. I agree with you about George Harrison. My favorite albums by him are: 1. Wonderwall Music (love Indian classical AND psychedelic music). 2. All Things Must Pass. 3. Living in the Material World. After that, I could care less about the later albums. I like his India projects with Ravi and his Indipop experiments (and psychedelic songs) with The Beatles. Even his early pop with The Beatles is good. Culturally, however, he influenced me a lot with his interest in yoga. 12. Trout Mask Replica. Tried to listen to it online but couldn't do it, and I love some experimental music. I didn't even like his album with Zappa, Bongo Fury.
We sure seem to be on the same page. Wonderwall is you favorite Harrison. That’s funny. Lol. And I know you’re serious too. I can’t even listen to it. lol
Great video Alan. I did a similar video last year but pissed off some people by adding Physical Graffiti, Astral Weeks, and - I apologize to you as a huge Stones fan - Exile On Main Street. 😮 I took that video down though.
Oh wow - you have to put that video back up. Music is all personal taste. Really, there is no right or wrong and that's the beauty of music. How it effects us personally. Personally I might think your crazy for putting Physical Graffiti in (my favorite Zep album ever and one of my favorite albums ever and Exile...ditto...lol. But hey it's all personal taste. Plus taste's change over time. As long as people are respectful...hopefully.
I don’t agree with a lot of your choices but thank you for nominating Roger Waters. I’m baffled by all these Pink Floyd fans who have become anti-Gilmour and have taken Waters’ side in the ‘feud’. Roger Waters’ solo work is turgid.
Thank you. I think Gilmour solo work and two later day Floyd albums are terrific and a bazillion times better than Waters output, except for Amused To Death. Water's might create great concepts and lyrics, but the music, as you said is TURGID!!! - Fantastic word. And Polly Sampson holds her own as a lyricist.
There are some artists and bands that no matter how much you try and due to your personal tastes you just cant like everything and we all hear things differently and you like what you like
Perfectly said and absolutely true. The only thing that matters is what we individually like and love. Music is amongst the most personal things in the world and that's what makes it so special.
Hi Allan, Hope you don’t mind me posting unrelated comments on your latest videos, but I’ve been going through more of your old videos and wanted to give you my opinion of the best live Stones albums. I agree with you that the best live period for the Stones was when Mick Taylor was in the band, his lead guitar took the Stones to another level. I think it’s a toss-up between Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out and Brussels Affair to which one is the best. I also agree Love You Live is a good album, but I was blown away with how good El Mocambo was when it got released, a great set list with some old blues covers, Mannish Boy and Red Roster, and Bo Diddley’s Crackin Up I think you were a bit harsh on Live in Texas, I didn’t think it was a bad performance and it was great to hear a lot of live tracks from Some Girls. Finally I was so happy to get Still Life At Wembley Stadium 1982 finally relesed as I never had a boot of this one. Like you I got into the stones in 1974 (when I was 13) but for some reason I missed the 1976 tour in England, so the first time I saw them was in 1982 at Wembley Stadium. I have seen them quite a few times since then, but I still think the first time was always the best for me. The performance and the set list was superb. I get a real kick of knowing that my voice is included with thousands of other voices in that crowd recording. Maybe one day when AI gets that good I’ll be able to separate the crowd noise and hear me singing along with the Stones.😁
Thanks so much. Loved your comments. I do think alive in Texas is a great recording and thrilled yo have the filmed performance. It is a red hot show. The King biscuit performances were also burnin from that tour. And I love the Capital theatre show. Was booted as Out On bail. Fantastic. The tour itself was a mixed bag of great performances and sub par. But the official Texas was great. Thanks again
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Hi Alan sorry if I got it wrong but I thought you said you didn’t like the performance on Live In Texas. I thought you said it was a bit campy. I guess you were talking about another show? So what’s your opinion of the Wembley 82 show? Do you agree with me that the performance and set list were excellent or do you think my opinion is overrated because it was my first Stones gig?
@@bobjpgr3683 The 78 tour yo me was so inconsistent. And Jagger could be very campy on the 78 tour. Also on the 75 tour which was my first. I saw 3 shows on the 1981 tour and thought they were fantastic. Long shows. Great set lists. Last time the band was ever like that. Loose, jamming, not overly tight or overly rehearsed. At one of the shows I saw they messed up Let It Bleed so bad they actually stopped it and restarted it. And I loved it. I thought Still Life was a bit lame as a live album from that tour. The 1982 releases I enjoyed more because they were complete. Also had Chuck Leavell for the first time. Was a great show for you to see for sure.
Great video, Alan. I hope you have a soup tester. : ) It's not about agreeing, but I wholeheartedly concur with the guyville schlock (and Queen). I love George Harrison, so, even if it's true, I can't agree. : )
Thanks - I hear you - I love your honest Harrison comment - "Even if it's true, I can't agree". I hear you and I've been there with other acts. Thanks again.
Hi, Alan. Things we agree about: Queen! Contender for most overrated band ever, just as Bohemian Rhapsody might be the most overrated song ever. Exile in Guyville: I've tried to get into it but ultimately it bores me. Good lyrics, and starts out strong, but then settles into a succession of mid tempo numbers that make me lose interest. Nevermind: back in the day I listened to it a lot, but it's a bit samey, plus I always resented how they were clearly influenced by bands like Sonic Youth and the Pixies and REM, yet were hailed as these enormous groundbreakers. They were in the right place at the right time, nothing more. Trout Mask Replica: More people pretend to love this album than any other in music history. Well, I'm not worried about intellectual cred, so I can say with absolute honesty, it stinks!Things we disagree about: I love Blackstar, Nebraska, Out of the Blue, but no anger on my part, you're allowed to love what you love, and not love what you don't love. Anyway, the one that mystifies me the most is Pet Sounds by the Beach Boys. Whatever genius there supposedly is on that record, I'm not hearing it. But since you didn't mention it, I assume you're into it, which is cool. Peace.
Thanks so much Chris - seriously I love your comments -and I'm expecting a beating about Nebraska and Blackstar. I hope people know I like the albums, but I don't think they approach the "greatness" that they get critically out there. Now Pet Sounds - One of the first albums I though of for this list and listened to it last night. And the damnest thing happened - I really really enjoyed it. And I'm not a big Beach Boys fan - in fact I think Pet Sounds is my only official Beach Boys studio album (I do have some compilations). Do I think it's a mark of genius. No, but of course I was a tiny kid at the time so I can't really appreciate if it was a breakthrough - certainly Good Vibrations was. Anyway, long story short I really did enjoy it, so back on the shelves and not on this list. Go figure right? Thanks as always Chris.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Oh good, glad I'm not alone regarding Pet Sounds. Maybe I'll have an epiphany like you one day, but I don't own a copy so I can't go listen to it right now! I'll have to put on some Waterboys instead. :)
Chris . I love their hated hit space not cuz it's Freddy's disco coming out moment, because it shows what a crack precision band they were. Sheer attack is my favorite song because it showed how musically lame and wanting punk bands were. How many great players were there in the punk music sphere besides people like Robert Quine and Tom verlaine
Morning Alan…On reading the title for this video, my first thought was ‘Trout Mask Replica’. I am reassured that this album also made your overrated list. Thanks Alan
Big Queen fan and not sure about them being overrated. They do get a lot of attention from everyone so they are definitely not underrated. Great guitarist, great vocalist, masters in the studio, masters at vocal harmonies. They never went overly progressive because they still always wanted to have hit songs and memorable songs. What other band does the general public know 10 songs at least of a band. Even songs I never thought could get known like “cool cat” (which I don’t like) became popular because of amazon.
it's an amazing thing. Here in the states - Queen became much more popular after Freddie Mercury died. Same can be said to a certain extent with The Doors (back in the late 70's and 80's). Queen organization has done an incredible job of keeping those 10 or so songs in the general publics eyes plus shows, movies etc.
Boy, Alan, this sent me for a loop. I'm with you 100% on Liz Phair and Roger Waters. I own much of his stuff, but since he's revealed himself to be a virulent AntiSemite, I can't deal with him. I agree that his stuff is tedious and preachy, at best. But I wanted to tear what little is left of my hair out when I heard you go after brilliant records by David Crosby, Springsteen and Stevie Wonder. You and I could probably talk for hours about those three guys and their flaws and successes. George Harrison does have a spotty solo career, but when he is great, he is incredible. "All Things Must Pass" is easily the best Beatles solo album. Queen is a terrific band and they cut through the mid 70's blandness like a hot knife. Still, I love your show and am always interested in what's up in your world.
Thanks so much for your honest reply - that's awesome. Remember I own all those albums. And in many cases - Nebraska for instance, I really like the albums. Just that I don't think they approach the massive greatness, greatest of all times, best album they did kind of status the critics give to them - so therefor overrated. Gotta say Songs In The Key Of Life is way too long for me. Lot of padding. All Things Must Pass (the first two albums - not the jam) is perhaps the greatest Beatle solo album - well maybe Band On The Run - but a damn near perfect album. The rest is spotty as hell to me. Even the best of Harrison albums are spotty to me..lol. The Crosby album to me is an interesting soundscape - maybe on a par with Astral Weeks - interesting - a fine listen, but to me far from an indispensable classic. I'm with you with Roger Waters - I don't even like mentioning his name. Makes me ill, but I try to separate the music from the human being, if he still is one.
I’ll check out Phair’s self titled album. Sounds great. I heard Guyville, but I don’t remember it! I love Astral Weeks and Nebraska. I cover a lot of Bruce and Van and Stones on my channel. I have mixed feelings about ELO and Nirvana. I’m enjoying the vid! Greetings from Queens 👍🏻🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵
Thanks so much - gonna check out your channel - thanks for letting me know. Her self-titled album was bad reviews and she was accused of selling out - I really liked it. Hope you do too.
Excuse me mr Rosenberg, but I don't care about what you have to say. I'm in the pit by the railing awaiting the Rolling Stones. Got in the line at 12:30
It's 9:30 right now - probably hearing Start Me Up - ENjoy my friend - In the pit too - wow - have the greatest time - by the way did I see $145 for parking in Atlanta !!! - Let us know how the show was.
Agree with your assessment of Bowie’s Blackstar. I wanted to like it and buy it; his last album and the sentimentality around that… but gosh. … yeah. It’s way overrated.
Thanks - I feel better - it really is a "tough" listen - I listened to it when I was pulling these albums. It just leaves me so cold. I'm so with you, it doesn't compare to his other "classic" albums and doesn't approach it's classic status according to the critics.
Interesting. Ironically the one I would probably disagree with is Astral Weeks..which most others seem to agree with you about! Astral Weeks works as a whole piece really, so If you put it on thinking ‘Right I’m going to try & love Astral Weeks’ it probably sounds underwhelming, as there’s no real big tunes to latch onto....but it’s the sort of record where if you here it out of context (I heard it playing in a bookshop) it can catch you off guard. I think the song ‘Madame George’ is a thing of wonder.
I find it to be like a nice, almost background jazz album. It's enjoyable to me. I'm glad I have it. It's just that it's so high on all time greatest album lists that it irks me. It wouldn't be near the top of a Van Morrison album list for me. There are some viewers, you'll be happy to know, stating they love Astral Weeks and it is tops...and that's awesome - I'm glad you love it. Again I "like" it. By the way, I think it would work great in a bookstore...so well done. I'd love it there for sure.
What I find fascinating about music (where this occurs probably more than in any other art forms) is that it happens very often that I can TOTALLY and for 100% agree with a person about one artist/album/song, while just as much disagreeing with that same person about another artist/album/song. This is the case with almost everyone I know. For example I was so incredibly delighted to hear what you say about Electric Light Orchestra, as this is almost verbatim much of my comments on this band whenever someone asks me my opinion about them. I can't listen to their music. Apart from what you say, I also think it is so bland and totally lacks any kind of emotion. (I remember Ringo saying in an interview he got annoyed by Jeff Lynn's need for perfection when working together (I can't remember what it was about exactly) and wanting to use a click track, where Ringo said: "I AM your click track!") Also agree about what George Harrison's best stuff is, and how the rest is not all that interesting (although I must say that both Lennon and McCartney also made only a handful -if that- interesting solo albums and that all the others are also totally overrated in my opinion). And then out of the bue you mention Trout Mask Replica! OK, it is gradually become higher rated during the years, and from extremely underrated in the beginning it might probably be a bit overrated - but I do think it's a awesome record; daring, original, audacious and it would still be that when it would have been released now. How does that work is something I sometimes wonder? How can you think the same about something, and so totally different about something else?? (In the end you mention you own a few Zappa albums. You got me curious there about which ones they are and how you like them! After the Stones (ever since I was 9 or so) he has been my favorite musician for almost my entire life (since slightly later, when I was 11 or 12). Thanks again for a very interesting list.
Makes sense though. Since music is so personal. We may agree on like almost everything but always will be differences. Even amongst favorite albums by bands we mutually love. Music is do personal and that’s so awesome. I have currently 17 Zappa albums. Run the gamut. I don’t listen to him much. I find him “interesting”. Let’s put it at that. Lol. A work in progress.
Hi Alan, I discovered your channel not long ago. Enjoy it very much, especially the Stones and U2 related stuff. My fav Queen album is Works from 1984, I love their old stuff of course also but Works is solid from beginning to end. I’d recommend to check it out. Personally I love Roger Waters’ solo work, especially Amused and Kaos. You suck! LOL, NAH, just kidding, love you for sharing your collection, amazing stuff! ❤ thank you
Lol - Thanks so much - I didn't make it to Works. Maybe one day I'll subject myself to more Queen. I need a break from them...lol. Actually I appreciate your love of Water's solo work. I really find, except for Amused To Death, his solo work just plods - it screams out for melody and hooks to me. Best, Alan
My opinion on albums I own or have listened to on TH-cam. Liz Phair - 'Exile on Guyville'. Bought it and was not impressed at all. I also read the blurb about being an answer, song by song, to 'Exile on Main Street'. Like you, I didn't see the connection. They sounded like demo recordings which the record company put out. About the same time, a bootleg came out of the songs prior to being recorded for the official album. Some of the lyrics had to be changed because they were a little to explicit for the record company's taste. I think it was called, 'The Girly Girl Recording', or something close to it.. Her later stuff, with an actual backup band, was more accessible. Bruce Springsteen - 'Nebraska'. From what I read, these were demo recordings for a possible next album release. When the band was rehearsing these songs, he didn't feel they captured the tone of the original demos. So he decided, I guess with the record company agreement, to release the original demos. There was a song called, 'The Big Payback', which was only released as a b-side in Europe. I was able to buy an import copy and enjoy the song. Why it wasn't placed on the CD version as a bonus track, is a mystery. Van Morrison - 'Astal Weeks'. Originally heard the song, 'Ballerina', on TH-cam and really liked the song. Searched and found the complete album on TH-cam and listened to the complete album. It seemed to me there was no break between songs. The album was OK, but felt 'Ballerina' was the best of the songs on the album.
Thanks so much - you are 100% correct - I actually have the Girly bootleg collection - 2 CD's no less. uhhh - even less impressive than Guyville. I so much prefer her later day more "commercial" releases. Much more accessible and frankly much better. Exactly what happened with Nebraska. And I'm with you on Astral Weeks - it's an enjoyable album - enjoyable music - it's "OK". Best, Alan
Your a brave man Alan...lol...although I agree with you on queen, and Astril Weeks. Now, I will disagree with you on ELO 'out of the blue' + Bruce's 'Nebraska'. I wore out my cd (if wearing out a cd is possible) of Liz's 'Whip Smart'. Its low fidelity and raw/angry, but thats what I liked. Lastly, I can't separate the artist ,Roger Waters with whom he is today (A outspoken stooge of Vladimir Putin), so I won't be buying or listening to any of his solo stuff.. Always enjoy your stuff. 👍
Thanks so much. It actually took a lot for me to even talk about Roger Waters. I can't listen to him either anymore. But since this video was strictly about music, he was a perfect fit. But I certainly know where you're coming from. I'm expecting backlash on Nebraska and Out Of The Blue (I actually really like Nebraska - but I don't think it's as great as most say - certainly amongst most gutsy moves though). I like Whip Smart much more than Exile In Guyville. Thanks again.
I should have included in my previous comment that I’m with you regarding “If Only I Could Remember My Name” being overrated. As I’m sure you know, when it first came out it got no love. Later on, lots of praise was bestowed upon it. Interestingly, as I’m sure you also know, “Pet Sounds” was not particularly well received by critics when it was released. Brian Wilson has said that it took quite some time for it to be recognized as a game-changing album. By the way, I haven’t heard the ELO album you featured in years. While Jeff Lynne can be heavy handed at times, I think he is very, very talented. ELO has (IMHO) many, many excellent songs. “10,538 Overture” still - after all these years - makes me shiver with joy and respect, For a deep appreciation of ELO, the band’s concert at Hyde Park, which I saw several years ago on cable television, is a “must watch.” In a word, it’s stellar.
I'm in agreement that Jeff Lynne is a massive talent. I saw years ago a documentary on him and I was blown away by all his accomplishments. He certainly was (maybe still is) a go-to guy for great production. I enjoy some ELO - I have a single greatest hits and a double extensive collection. Plus their two most famous studio albums. There are some songs I really enjoy - the Overture you mention has that outstanding acoustic guitar work for sure. But like Queen - to a certain extent (yes I hate to make the comparison), I can only take ELO is small bites. I then get diabetic shock...lol.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Fair enough. It’s interesting how the same music can spark different reactions among various individuals. While you check your blood sugar level before deciding to listen to ELO, I’ll take migraine medicine if I’m ever forced to hear Queen songs.
Just wanna add my 2 cents worth about that David Crosby Album. I was disappointed probably more than your Review (You were Nice) especially because The Stephen Stills & Niel Young solo albums were so good. ✌️🎶🎶🎶
I haven't seen anyone ever talk about that album. I didn't know what to expect - but so glad you commented on it too. That albums been a mystery to me forever. And yea, out of those four - Crosby is an enigma. Some great songs scattered over decades....Thanks.
I knew going in this would be "controversial" though I don't think anywhere near controversial as other lists with Exile, Sgt. Peppers, The Wall etc. It is supposed to be fun, though I do feel this way. Obviously I'm a fan of all of them, except Trout Mask Replica (and much of Queen). as I own them all and have listened to them all multiple times. Thanks for watching and commenting. It's all personal taste in the end.
Every time I feel like I must be missing something when it comes to Electric Light Orchestra, I go back to give them another try, and I just never find them all that engaging. And we definitely see eye-to-eye on George Harrison. I was just thinking about his music recently, because I heard that he criticized David Bowie, and WOW...that took guts, because there's simply no comparison between Harrison's solo work and the music of David Bowie. OH! Since you like the Nirvana Unplugged album, have you looked into the Meat Puppets? They're a strange band for me. I absolutely love their second album, II, and...that's about it. I like everything else I've heard by them, well enough, but that second album just really stands out in my mind. Plus, it passes your test, because I do go back and listen to it a good bit.
Thanks. I just heard about that Harrison comment as well. I was surprised for sure. I've heard of the Meat Puppets but never actually heard them. I'll look out for a cheap copy of II in the wild - thanks again.
On the subject of Nirvana - Nevermind. I always just tell people “listen to the top 40 billboard songs from 1987 to 1991 in a row…. Then, if you haven’t jumped out a window by then, put on Nirvana-Nevermind, then you will understand why it was received so well at the time. Because what we were being forced to listen to was just AWFUL. So the fact it was breaking into the mainstream was really refreshing.” Having said that I agree with all the other ones you mentioned. And I like your explanation of “over rated”, people take too much offense to that. It’s purely based on the accolades the album gets. Doesn’t mean the album is bad.
Thanks so much - point very well taken with Nevermind - very true. And thanks for catching the point of my video. I own and listen to everyone of the albums I mention (except for Trout Mask Replica which I dumped). Many of these albums are good or fine. But certainly not amongst the greatest albums of all time, or even by the artist in my opinion. Thanks again.
@gino88 Alan will undoubtedly confirm this. I NEVER LISTEN to chart music, or the radio. I'm 76 & British and use to read Review's and "go my own way" and had a record collection very different to all my friend's. I'd also read who was playing on the album's and sometime's follow them. It was all very different in the 60's how you 'discovered' music. In the UK we only had one POP radio station ! Mind, I just noticed the date's you quoted and I'm not sure if I've got anything from that period. Also, I've never heard a song by Nirvana ! Never fancied listening to them. I was in to NEW COUNTRY about that period.... Particularly, Singer Songwriter's.
@@HTJB60 it was such a different time period. I used to read Creem, circus, Hit Parader, Rolling Stone. Studied the reviews and ads. Not a better time but do different.
I agree with you on the Morrison and Beefheart albums.but not with Queen! My favorite Queen is Quinn II…… The Bowie was different to be sure a but I still can’t consider it overrated. Spot on with Harrison too.
I agree with so many of your choices in this video, including “Astral Weeks,” “Nebraska,” “Trout Mask Replica” “A Night at the Opera” (and all of the Queen albums you’ve reviewed on previous episodes of your show). I also think “Exile in Guyville” is very overrated, and despite a couple of efforts to understand how it’s a response to “Exile on Main St., I never got the connection - just like you didn’t. The guy from Pink Floyd is like the Harry Potter character, “Voldemort,” to me. I just can’t mention his name. Usually I can separate the personal beliefs of artists from their music (e.g. Charlie Daniels among others), but I cannot do so when it comes to the guy from Pink Floyd. His vile obsession with spreading hate (especially at his concerts, which people pay good money for, at the very least, a pleasant night out) is WAY, WAY beyond the pale (IMHO). However, I share your opinion about his solo work, which I heard long before his hate- mongering became the center of his existence (IMHO). Perhaps, “Blackstar” is so overrated because of its subject matter and its release just days before Bowie’s death. While “Lazarus” is a very powerful song, augmented by a very impactful video, the rest of the songs on the album did not move me musically. There are two very good albums (which I don’t think the critics have overrated) that deal with the end of the respective artists’ lives and were released just a couple of weeks before the artists’ deaths from cancer. They are (IMHO) “You Want It Darker,” by Leonard Cohen, and “The Wind,” by Warren Zevon., In addition to the aforementioned overrated albums, my list includes: “Rough and Rowdy Ways;” Pet Sounds;” “Hotel California;” “Sheik Yerbouti” (and every other album I’ve heard by Frank Zappa); “Ten;” “OK Computer;” and every album I’ve heard by Foo Fighters. I think caveats are in order, regarding “Pet Sounds” and “Hotel California. While “Pet Sounds” is ingenious and massively influential on so many levels, I don’t think that the majority of the 13 tracks are the greatest of songs. I think that some are. As for “Hotel California,” I know it went platinum an amazing 26 times. I think the title track, while among the most overplayed songs ever, is fabulous. I think several of the other tracks are very good - but very far from being masterpieces. Obviously, I’m in the minority when it comes to both albums. But that’s how I feel.
Some great choices there. I've tried for decades to get into Frank Zappa. I actually have a sizeable collection that I've listened to many times. I enjoy some of his stuff. I've discussed him briefly in other videos as well. I think because he's a relative rarity in rock music that he can actually compose and read and write music, he can create on paper very complex music. And then challenge the best musicians to play it. I guess thats an "art" in itself. But often to me, it's musical masturbation. Like anything else, in moderation - fine, but in excess a problem...lol. I actually like OK computer and Ten, though I don't think they're as amazing as many think. I wouldn't include them in the category of overrated per my choices though. The album after OK Computer though "Kid A" would have made my list if I still owned it - I dumped it years ago - now that is OVERRATED - talk about overrated ambient nothing with nothing. Wonderful comments about The Wind and You Want It Darker - TOTALLY AGREE especially the Leonard Cohen album. Now for Rough and Rowdy Ways - wow do I TOTALLY Agree with you. Critics tripped over themselves with ridiculous accolades. And I LOVE Dylan and many of his later day albums - to me it's the weakest of his later day albums by far, and I said that at the time too. I'm gonna mention it when I review the recent Ian Hunter albums. As always, Thanks.
wow Carl - thanks for that comment. Sometimes I think I must be crazy. I like the album. It's OK. But C'mon - it's not even near the best of Van Morrison's other albums.
Couldn’t disagree with you more So happily subscribing to have constructive discussions Queen overplayed but not over rated Astral Week is a masterpiece ; and i have played it multiple times over past 8years Exile to Guyville : Mesmerizing Trout Mask : there are 2 camps and I’m in the camp that say everything Don did was genius Nebraska : are you kidding me ? Bands i consider over rates Steely Dan Foo Fighters Santana Red Hot Chili Peppers Traffic
Thanks so much for your reply and watching. Made me smile. Astral Weeks - played multiple time over 8 years - I've played it much more than that...lol. I like it...like it. Don't think it's nearly his best album, nor near greatest album of all time, which is why I say it's overrated. I like Nebraska but also not near his greatest albums. The rest I don't care for, and I really like the later Liz Phair albums. But hey, we all have our own ears. Thanks again.
You make a good point early in the video. When picking a "best" album in a discography, most people intellectualize it and we end up with the same kind of picks. I mean, Dark Side of the Moon has got to be the best Floyd album, right? But what's more interesting is which albums do you LISTEN to the most. When you do that, you can end up with some odd choices, yet I'd contest, more honest ones. Intellectually you can love Dark Side, but if you rarely - if ever - play it, is it really your favorite? I think what you play is far more telling. Can't comment too much on your list because I'm not into most of the artists you covered. I disagree on Waters, I just don't know why some people can hear melodies in his music, and some not. For example, The Final Cut is incredibly melodic. Radio Kaos has a terrible "story", but the likes of Who Needs Information is terrific. But each to their own.
We're definitely on the same page regarding what we listen to is more telling than simply intellectualizing. Regarding Waters albums, including The Final Cut - sure on occasion there will be a melody. But the whole album is samey - I call it a slog. Compared to the other "classic" Floyd albums or even Gilmour's solo albums - there is a definite lack of melodies and hooks. Some, like yourself, may love that, and I respect that - but for me its a deficit.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow The Final Cut is full of melodies. They're not in-your-face pop ditties, but they're there. Given the subject matter of the album, I'm not sure it could be done any other way (though they should never have added When Tigers Break Free to the album). The Gunners Dream, Southampton Dock, Possible Pasts, Paranoid Eyes - these are all distinct sings with distinct melodies. I would say, the Final Cut is not an album for every day. The subject matter, the lyrics, it doesn't lend itself to play on the beach in the height of Summer. But this is Waters, and that's not what he does. It's a powerful album, with a strong message, and as such you have to pick the right moments to listen to it. It's not an every day album, but I don't think that detracts from it at all. I can clearly recall the first time I heard on, on release, I was lying on my couch and it just crushed me, I've loved it ever since. It's the Floyd album I play the most.
@@MaterLacrymarum I appreciate your love of it. I remember clearly when it first was released and I bought it instantly. Rolling Stone gave it 5 stars perfect. I was like are you kidding - for me not in the same league at Dark Side, Wish, Wall and my favorite Animals. I know well it's a dark album and the music and songs are based on the theme. We all love what we love. Not Now John was my favorite song from the album, as it's the most unlike Final Cut song - wouldn't be a surprise.
'overrated' is both a subjective and ambiguous statement. Overrated by whom...critics, fans, casual listeners? Some people would instantly claim that any album by the backstreet boys is the greatest ever...fortunately, most of us know better. Passionate music fans and critics alike will always argue over which artists/albums/songs have value and merit and which deserve a dishonorable discharge. Personally, i love everything by ELO as well as most of the George H albums...to each his own, as they say. Also, i would add Clapton and U2 to my overrated list. 🎶
Absolutely correct. That’s the beauty of music. There is no right or wrong. It’s all personal opinion. Music is the most individual thing out there and that’s what makes it special. The only thing that matters is how it affects us individually. Obviously, this list is just my opinion.
Hi mate I totally agree on Roger Waters. No surprise that when offered "Pros and cons" or "The Wall" to Floyd for the next project they went with "The Wall". Please can I add the bloody awful abomination that is "Dark side of the moon redux"? Great show. I really look forward to your shows. Thanks
Thanks so much. Wow. I completely forgot about Dark Side redux. I didn’t buy it nor will I. So I don’t have all his solo after all. An insult he even did it.
great video i agree blackstar astral weeks i dont remenber my name never got into any of them played them all loads of times queen are ok love waters and harrison stuff no bob dylan or stones albums do another video
Thanks so much. Appreciate that you love Waters and Harrison's solo albums. Some great songs there for sure, but the albums to me, except for All things Must Pass and Amused To Death are average. Waters needs more melody to me. I think that's where Gilmour shines.
I gave my copy of Liz Phair s Guyville back to the store... Yuck. However I can listen to all of George Harrison CDs fully completely.. good topic..thanks AR. PS exile on main street st...is the Bible of Rock n roll.
Thanks Glen - well if Exile on Main Street is the bible of rock and roll (ok I won't argue with that too much), then Exile on Guyville isn't even a crib note, not even an outtake...lol. Regarding George Harrison, I like him, I just think with the exception of All Things Must Pass (and Bangladesh), his albums are so average and mediocre. I enjoy them too, but because of the Beatles (and his handful of incredible Beatle songs), he's godlike and based on that, I think he's overrated. Thanks for your understanding.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShowtotally agree with you on George Harrison and as a Beatle fan I think if he hadn't been a Beatle his music wouldn't have sold much!
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Alan... Not really sure you stayed on topic with this show... In all reality the only album that was highly rated that you mentioned was the Nirvana album... Yes... a very small number of people have mentioned the others.. but surely not rated highly by that many others.
@@glendepietro1521 Maybe lost track a little but my choices in this video are: Trout Mask Replica, Blackstar, If I Could Only Remember My Name, Exile In Guyville, Astral Weeks, Out Of The Blue, Songs In The Key Of Life, Nevermind, Nebraska, - so the albums are there. But then I also included George Harrison's whole career (minus Bangladesh and All Things Must Pass), Roger Waters solo career (not including Amused To Death) and Queen's album career (well covered in the past here). Hope that helps, but yea, perhaps I could have tightened it up. Thanks Glen.. Best, Alan
Thanks for watching and commenting. It's great to hear from a big fan of the album. Funny in that most responses have agreed with me - so nice to hear from the other side. Best, Alan
I actually agree with most of the choices you made Alan. But, I do like the Stevie Wonder album a lot and the few good songs from George Harrison is great. I think The Works and Its a kind of magic from Queen are underrated, probably because I grew up in the 80's. You were soft on Astral Weeks. Its unlistenable!!! I am however a huge ELO fan. Very interesting video
Thanks so much. Your Astral Weeks comment is funny - big laugh. I certainly don't think it's unlistenable - how about meandering - needs some focus. I don't know. I appreciate your love of ELO. They're huge and friends of mine loved them. They just annoy me...a lot sometimes.
Hi Alan, People ask & then dont' like the asnwer ! LOL. Most of the music I like, wouldn't even get 'rated', as you know BUT that doesen't mean I don't enjoy listening to it. W G A F what other's think is my opinion. They're not in my living room. I thought you put your opinion over well but skipped most of the George Harrison as I'm no beatles fan anyway. WELL DONE.
Thanks so much as always. You're 100% correct in WGAF when it comes to music. Really, and I've tried to express this in videos, music is amongst the most personal things in life. Young people today are missing out - as it's mostly background today to their life. But for music people, does it get any better than absorbing an album and how the music effects us and our emotions. Can make us cry or laugh, or instantly take us back to a point in our life. It's so powerful. As I say, can become part of our DNA. And that's wonderful and personal. And music has no right or wrong - only matters how it effects us personally. With that said, it can be fun to talk about, call out possible critical bullshit and help others maybe discover music they may not know that we love. Doesn't always work, but so fun to try. Have a great weekend.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Having some thought's on a couple of 'ideas' for you. Must do my 'home work', see if you've done them & what to include. Have a good weekend yourself, well, Sunday. Michael.
Okay, okay. I'm just going to go ahead and say it--I love Trout Mask Replica (I can hear you groaning, Alan!). At the same time, I'm 100% sympathetic to your take and to everyone else who despises it. I'm a huge Zappa fan, but when I first heard TMR, I hated it. I thought, pretty much as you did, that it was just a big pile of garbage, and a bad joke, and I thought that for a LONG time. But for some reason, I kept revisiting it, and each time I did, I'd find something, a section or a song or two, that I liked. One night, I put it on, and I must have been in just the right mood, but suddenly all the pieces just sort of slid into place. Believe it or not, I now listen to it on a pretty regular basis, AND when I listen to it, I prefer to listen to it in its entirety (I think I hear you groaning again, but I'm not sure). Having said all that, I want to stress once more how I completely understand your own hatred and the hatred it gets, in general. As I said, I used to participate in it myself, and pretty loudly, too. PS) I had a similar reaction to Zappa's Weasels Ripped My Flesh--another album that I could see making a list like this--but it didn't take me nearly as long to get into. It was a real shock upon first listen, though, sounding almost nothing like any of the other Zappa music I'd heard up until that time. It gets quite a bit of praise now, but I do wonder how many people actually sit down and listen to it. It can be a bit of a rough ride and certainly not for the casual fan.
I know you're a massive Zappa fan and that will definitely help appreciate and love TMR. Absolutely. Although I have a decent amount of Zappa albums, I actually can have issues with much of his music too. Listen, you're clearly not alone. TMR consistenly makes best album of all times lists. So bizarre to me. But critics also like to be "cool". But again you love the music and that's what its all about. Perhaps one day I'll give it another shot. For now, I already have too much backlog..lol.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Love Zappa, but that doesn't stop me from having issues with a lot of his music. That sounds like a contradiction, but considering the sheer volume of his catalog, it really isn't. Hope the channel keeps growing for you.
@@pkmcburroughs Thanks so much. As you well know, Zappa is so extensive, literally takes a lifetime just to get through his catalog. I've read a couple of books on Zappa too. He's a work in progress for me.
Hi Alan - well that was fun lolol. I am a massive Beatles fan, but have always thought that George was no Lennon or McCartney that's for sure. He peaked on Abbey road, All things Must Pass and as you say the rest of his solo stuff is very patchy. I have one or two, and the best of - which I like. Queen agree - their albums were patchy and yeh, people just play the same 4 or 5 songs. Nirvana I have always thought are over rated, also Roger Waters. Syd Barrett I would also include in your top 10 - I just couldnt get into his stuff. Gilmour was the Floyd sound - end of story. I do disagree on a few, Crosby, Van, ELO, Bowie - there are a lot more overrated albums than those. I think Kiss, GNR & Journey are all really over rated lol - never got into them !! There are more - but I'll call it quits at that. Cya Doug
Thanks Doug - I'm with you - there are plenty more. GnR certainly overrated - certainly as a band. How they are one of the worlds biggest bands ever is astounding (based really on Appetite). Kiss definitely hit or mass but props for such a long successful career, even if I don't care for much of it. Journey....well I pretty much Hate Journey - not even worth the mention to me...lol. Thanks Doug.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Hi Alan - 6 American bands I find totally over rated, mentioned 3 above but forgot a couple. So - GNR, Kiss, Aerosmith, Journey, Grand Funk Railroad and Bon Jovi. A couple of Aerosmith songs are OK, but generally speaking dont collect any of the above lolol. Theres just to much other great stuff out there to bother with those. Cya Doug
@@douglasweston126 Yea - Aerosmith is a funny band to me. I appreciate them, but never listen to them, and I have all their albums. Certainly the earlier albums I enjoy much more than the later day albums.
Don't agree with a good bit of this list, but I can agree on Springsteen and Nirvana. Springsteen has been on a gradual downhill slide post-BITUSA. His first few albums are easily his best, although he still puts on a great live show. Nirvana? "Never mind" is a good way to view this band - along with GNR, probably one of the most overrated bands of the past nearly 30 years. Post-1990, there really aren't many rock bands of note, though some have had middling success.
For me as well, hasn't been too many "modern" bands that grabbed me like those early classic bands. I will say that Tunnel Of Love is my "go-to" Springsteen album. I really love that album. Thanks again.
I agree with everything Alan exept for Queen lol.Always thought Crosby was just ok,Nevermind I get through maybe two songs and that's it.Out Of The Blue maybe if you listen to it on cd instead of 8 track you'd like it lol.My favorite song by Harrison is Crackerbox Palace.Waters for saying how great he was and was Pink Floyd ya didn't do jack for 50 some years
Thanks Tom - you may be right - doesn't sound the best on 8-track - I have a friend who swears by that album.. Something about ELO and me though. Not at the level of annoyance of Queen (sorry about that Tom), but close. I remember when Crackerbox Palace came out - it's a good tune...a "nice" tune...lol. Definitely a highlight of 33 1/3...but don't know if that's saying that much...lol. Best, Alan PS Have a great weekend Tom.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow You also my friend.I'm with you on ELO not a big go to band for me either.But I do love the Move who mutated into ELO.Same with Van Morrison I haven't played that album in years.But some people swear by that album.
Nothing on that list suprises me. I'm with you on Nebraska. Atlantic City is one of my top three tracks by Bruce Springsteen but the rest of the album can be a hard listen for me. Coincidentally, I just picked up Songs In The Key Of Life last week at a Goodwill for a couple of bucks. That album seems to be on a lot of top 10 records of all time lists so I had to get it. I've played it once and I don't know what the big deal is. Astral Weeks is another one, I don't get the hype.
Thanks Tarr - funny timing about Songs In The Key Of Life. I can't even get through it. It's so damn long and uneven. A great example of Critics and the Grammys going overboard. I think he won best album three years in a row back then - I'd have to research it. Glad I'm not alone with Nebraska too. Thought I'd get my head handed to me with that. But yea Atlantic City is also one of my favorites of all time. Best, Alan
I just got a copy of 'Songs in the Key of Life' on vinyl recently and listened to it for the first time in a long while. I liked it very much. Yeah, it's a long album, two LPs plus the 33-rpm single with four more songs, but it has that signature Stevie style: the pacing and variety of the music are just wonderful. I think it and 'Talking Book' are my two Stevie faves.
Highly disagree with most of your picks lol... I guess we have different ears, we all have opinions so I respect your choices. -Crosby's if I can only remember my name is an absolute masterpiece. Crosby is a brilliant songwriter, check out his last run of albums -Astral Weeks is the only Van Morrison album i can stomach (it's brilliant though) -Out of the Blue is the best ELO album, not a dud on the album -Bowies Darkstar, to me it's incredible. However i do find it a tough listen due to the circumstances. -Queen's run of 70s albums is flawless imo (your nuts on this one) -Nirvana was a game changer, it changed the course of music. It came out when I was in high school and EVERYONE loved it, the jocks, the goths, the nerds...etc Agree with you completely on Roger Waters, LIz Phair, and i'm not as informed on Springsteen (i'm still getting into his deeper catalog), same goes for Stevie W. Finally, Harrison's All Things Must Pass is brilliant and better than any Beatle solo album, but after that you are right, spotty catalog. Captian Beefheart is a fave of mine but yes he is an acquired taste, especially that album.
Thanks so much for your awesome honest opinion and critique. Wonderful. You are so right - we all have our own ears. Nice to hear from a true fan of Astral Weeks - was wondering if there really are any...lol. I do think Van Morrison has so many other albums that are far better. I think Crosby's album is an interesting soundscape but not much in the way of songs. I have heard his later albums were pretty great, but honestly I haven't given them a shot - As he is my least favorite of the four of them - perhaps I will. Nirvana was, as you so correctly said, a massive game changer - literally changed the industry - so certainly not overrated in that sense. I just feel like I'm missing something with them. But I'm older so wouldn't effect me the same way. As timing and our life stage is a huge influence on the music and what we're absorbing. So I totally get that. All Things Must Pass is absolutely incredible (well except the 3rd jam album). Probably the best Beatle solo album with Band On The Run, but beyond that - very spotty inconsistent career. Thanks again. Alan
Heck, ALL FOUR of the Beatles' solo careers were/are highly uneven. They were definitely a case where the whole was greater than the sum of the parts. Also: agree totally on Queen and ELO. Never have been able to get into them; David Bowie either for that matter. I stopped paying attention to Pink Floyd after Roger Waters left, and I've never paid any attention to Waters' solo stuff. (I did have that 'Hitchhiking' album back in the day, but mostly because it had that girl's naked ass on the cover [the original release wasn't censored] - what can I say, I was like 19 years old.) And I can certainly understand about 'Trout Mask Replica' because it's just so bizarre. But the music is extraordinary.
I think the great majority of Queens "fans" own the greatest hits album(s) and that's about it, or at least that's what they listen to. All Things Must Pass is a great album, amongst the best solo Beatle albums for sure, even if you don't like My Sweet Lord.....although maybe not...lol
I totally agree on Black Star, Astral Weeks, Nevermind and Roger Waters. I never got into Nebraska except Atlantic City and maybe Johnny 99. The most overrated Album on my list is "Pet Sounds". I tried and tried, but I cannot find anything outstanding. The hits are great, the rest is weak.
Thanks so much. Pet Sounds was like my first choice until I listened to it the night before. I really enjoyed it and it had been a long time since I played it. So off the list it went. Go figure, right. I do love Atlantic City - best song on the album in my opinion too.
Overrated is subjective. These albums are crucial in their discography and it may somehow put the artist on the map. So, overrated is a stretch when the album is actually good. If it consist of only their hit then yes, it is overrated but not if the album itself overall is great. Showing underrated albums by the same artist would be a better episode.
Interesting topic. Underrated albums. For another video though. But of course everything is subjective. That’s the beauty of music. The only thing that matters is how it effects us personally. But I do think it’s valid to talk about albums we may in fact really like but can admit they’re overrated by the critical establishment. That they’re not among the greatest albums of all time or even the artists best album.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow absolutely! But I would never call these albums overrated because they get too much exposure. There’s a reason they do. Even albums that I can’t stand such as Hotel California, So, 2112, or Nevermind. I have to take the year it came out and what was out at that time and why it made such an impact. Sgt. Pepper could never be overrated because of the artist statement it made at he time it came out. It was such a musical and cultural statement regarding pop music that it will be an icon forever even though I am tired of Lucy in the Sky, Lively Rita, and Good Morning. What was the artist trying for at the time?
@@randytaylor220 I definitely agree - which I was i wouldn never put Sgt. Peppers, The Wall, Born To Run, Hotel California - as overrated. Possibly for me "overplayed". None of my choices would fit that category in my opinion. Best, Alan
It's rare that I know what is going on on a Bowie album. lol. But I love his music just the same. But BS is pretty amazing given its circumstances and production. For some reason I got it in my head that Songs in the Key was SW's best lp and I got it on lp, cd, and blu ray. It is a long set and is probably best listened to one lp with a break. Do people ever listen to 90 mins albums ever? Nebraska for what it is is not overrated. Great playing singing and songwriting recorded with a cassette deck? C'mon. But an interesting list for sure. Personally, I think most solo Beatles had mediocre solo lps. The frisson was in the group. Night at the Opera for me is a classic and still holds up.
Thanks so much for your honest opinion and critique. I agree that Nebraska is amazing for what it is and what a courageous move to do that at that time - really something. I enjoy it. Just don't think it approaches his greatest albums - which is where most critics put it. Atlantic City though is an all time top song for me. Songs In The Key Of Life is so long - perhaps it needs two sittings, but then that kind of proves my point - there are tons of double albums and 2 disc albums I don't need to do that with. Blackstar was such a courageous way to go out. Such an artistic move - he went out the way he wanted - amazing. But as an album it's not near a favorite Bowie album of mine and I don't rate it near his classics, which is where many critics place it - thus overrated for me. Thanks so much again.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I really enjoyed the remaster of Nebraska. It sounded pretty good I thought. Not sure if the early versions sounded so great. Blackstar for me was off the hook, but not among the greatest. Visconti was one of Bowie's secret weapons, maybe a lot on that album. Yeah, the double lp Songs has an extra mini 33 rpm with 4 songs. Crazy. I've never seen that done before.
@@mondoenterprises6710 yea that was a ton of music from Wonder. Nebraska was so lofi that interesting that remaster would sound so much better. But possibly. I have the original cd.
I agree with you on Queen and Nirvana. I think Freddie Mercury is a talented singer, but I don't like opera with my rock which he incorporates into Queen's music, a lot. If he liked opera, he should've made an opera album. How do I say this, I like raw masculinity in my rock and roll, not camp, sorry. I think Nirvana is a decent garage band. I think the same about R.E.M. but I think neither are great. I have my list as well: 1. A Night at the Opera - I think it's a bit of a mess. WAY too much opera!!! 2. Nevermind - I think it's a decent album, not a great album. Ten is WAY better! 3. Appetite for Destruction - I like Welcome to the Jungle, that's it. Axl's voice gets on my last damn nerve!!! I also think Slash is somewhat overrated as a guitarist. He's good but not nearly as good as Jimmy Page, Jimi Hendrix or Eddie Van Halen. 4. Van Halen II: I'm not a DLR fan. I think he's overrated but, the only VH albums I like with DLR are the first and last. I could care less about the rest. 5. No Jacket Required - It won a ton of Grammy's, and I expected greatness. I just like the hits and the bonus track Don't Look Back. The rest, total filler!! 6. London Calling - I like the title track and Train in Vain, the rest, not so much! 7. High-N-Dry - Is it bad? No. Is it better than Pyromania or Hysteria?! I don't think so. 8. Slippery When Wet - I think almost everything from Bon Jovi is bland. 9. Let's Dance - I love David Bowie the rock star more than David Bowie the musician. I expected a lot from Let's Dance and I thought it was a bit of a letdown. 10. Led Zeppelin III: I love IV, II, Houses, Physical Graffiti (NOT OVERRATED AT ALL) and ITTOD, which gets crapped on a lot. This one does nothing for me, and I've tried a few times. I don't hate it, but I find it a bit boring after Immigrant Song.
Thanks for watching and your comments. I certainly agree with most of them. I did Bon Jovi in the video big bands I "hate". Same kind of thiing - so overrated. I agree with Guns 'n Roses - they're the real deal, sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. But the overall discography is so overrated. I'm a big Bowie fan but always thought Let's Dance, the album, is overrated. Led Zep III - I'm with you. amongst my least favorite Zep albums. And as you know Queen at the top of my list. So "campy" as you said. Thanks again.
So first time watching one your videos which was a TH-cam suggestion and almost turned it off when you said you didn’t like ELO and Queen and DO like Springsteen. Our tastes aren’t going to mesh. With that said, I DO see your point with Out of the Blue. A New World Record is my favorite and while I like OOTB, it has almost too much sheen and there are tracks I skip. And while I don’t like Springsteen and hard for me make a claim, I don’t get the love for Nebraska. Boring as all get out. 😂 As for Queen? You’re dead wrong on fans listening to only the hits. Far from it. I love the deep cuts on all the 70’s albums and listen to the full albums, especially A Night at the Opera and The Game. But I will concede they are a bit “inconsistent” because of 4 writers and their 80’s output beyond The Game is not so good. People talk about “Hot Space”, but “The Miracle” is awful. Embarrassing tracks. But overall good analysis.
@@TheRamblingsofBry that’s awesome. I could see it being a major Bowie album more for a newer fan. Even though it’s so uncommercial. So nice to see it appeals to you so much. Wonderful.
I think Low is an over rated Bowie album. I wish David Crosby would have put more songs like Cowboy Movie on his first solo album. I think Cowboy Movie is great but the rest of the album, with the exception of Laughing, is just okay. Not an ELO fan. Queen are too theatrical for me. I purged all my Bruce Springsteen except Born To Run and Darkness On The Edge Of Town. I like Pink Floyd but have never listened to any of their solo albums. Songs In The Key Of Life is a perfect example of a double album that would have been better as a single album. All the Beatles had pretty weak solo careers when compared to the Beatles. They all started out good but they all drove off a cliff rather quickly. I have all the Captain Beefheart albums. Trout Mask Replica is a turd. I’ve been meaning to do a Captain Beefheart ranking video but I can’t get through the records. I need to do that video and then purge about half the albums. I did enjoy this. It is a great idea for a video.
Thanks so much Vinyl Richie. As I hated Trout Mask Replica, I've never tried any other Beefheart albums. So its interesting to hear you have all of them and that TMR is a turd. Always figured it was his "best" considering TMR's reputation - though also very honest to say you can't get through his albums and would purge like half. And yea Springsteen is kind of unique with me - when I love his albums, I LOVE them and many do nothing for me. Best, Alan
Don't get discouraged by the comments, it's your opinion. It is the music industry that creates an album to be overrated, by their marketing and radio playing songs over and over, so we rush out and buy them - critics telling us great they are, when not.
Thanks - never want to offend anyone. I just think my opinions are really valid but on 50 years of serious listening. But in the end, just my opinion, and music is supposed to effect us all individually. That's what's most important. Thanks again.
Well, it is the Alan Rosenberg Show…not the Tom, Dick and Rasul Show, so don’t worry about offending different points of view. This is your point of view based on a lifetime of critical listening. Sure any of these lists are going to rub some people the wrong way, but they can either publish their own list, or write a rebuttal.
i really love Queen and Freddie is maybe among top three leading vocalists with Mick and Mr Mojo Risin. Queen has some of the best songs ever made, but I agree with you that they are not in the running for any perfect albums. Most of their albums are half good half boring to me. I think The Game is their strongest album.
Thanks - you totally nailed my opinion on Queen. Many massive classic hits that get perpetually played but their albums are average at best. Their reputation has massively grown because of those hits.
Oh man, Alan…I just love dumping over apple carts-and actually, your choices are pretty fair and measured. I would take much more glee in slaughtering numerous sacred cows. For me, any time an “Overrated” list comes out, there’s one title that leaps to mind before any other-and by a long measure-Sgt Pepper. I started feeling that way when I first heard the record as a young teen…and I’ve listened to it countless times, various versions-stereo, mono, first pressings, remasters, and I always come away feeling the same feeling. I don’t understand why, to this end, every all time greatest list that comes out has THAT at the top…????? I’ll just say I respectfully disagree, without getting into the minutia of the music. I mean I don’t think it’s “bad”-I certainly recognize its uniqueness, originality, maybe even its genius-but to me, it’s overrated, especially since most of the songs always struck me as overly cloying. And I’ve got to find room on my list for Pet Sounds…I kinda feel about that album the way you feel about Astral Weeks. And yes, Astral Weeks is an interesting album, but I never understood what place it had in any “all time” Top 10. Funny you mention Blackstar-I found it nearly unlistenable. Remember my bloodletting-sell off when I was desperately broke and selling anything I could to get a few dollars in my pocket? Including The Bill Evans rusting metal box set? Well, guess what ELSE was in the pile that day😱🤮😂😲 Finally, I think another album that deserves reconsideration is Born to Run. I mean, I will acknowledge that the songs on the album are great-but the sound, the production….it just seems to clash with the music and the lyrics. Here are 8 evocative, powerful, city-scape tone poems, that are turned into mushy, dense, echo-drenched Phil Spector mud. I mean, from the light romance of Thunder Road, to the R n B Stax stomp of Tenth Avenue, to the operatic Jungleland-it was just too thick, too pretty, too Wall of Mush…again, the songs were so striking, I think a leaner (and more modern) sound would have been been better for those songs. Too much of it was too Broadway for me.
Initially I thought of Pet Sounds, but the night before I listened to it. It's the only Beach Boys "studio album" I own. And I really enjoyed it...so off the list. Sgt. Peppers is an easy target. I don't ever have the need to listen to it. Many of it's songs are overrated. But no doubt it was so groundbreaking (I was too young to really appreciate what it did). And of course it still sells a bazillion copies. So I wouldn't put it on there. Great to hear your story about Blackstar. As for Born To Run - I NEVER listen to it. Too overplayed. But no doubt the songs are mostly incredible so would never appear on my list. I actually like the overblown Spector like production. Thanks as always.
I absolutely not agree with you on Bowie, ELO and Van Morrison. I love these records and Astral Weeks is the only Morrison album I regularly listen to. For the rest I can agree with what you said.
Thanks so much - Nice to hear from someone who regularly listens to Astral Weeks. You all got to be out there, but you're the first I've heard from. Thanks again.
@@renetrachet Fair enough and nice to hear. That's what music is all about - so nice to hear from someone on the side that Astral Weeks is amongst the greatest albums of all time.
Queen II is considered by many Queen fans and music critics as his best work, and that's precisely the one that you don't have listening, so seems a bit neglectful on your side. In the other hand, I'm huge Bowie fan, but The Next Day is an average album that sounds like Retro Bowie with nothing new to add to his career, while in Blackstar even if not all the songs are in a similar level of quality, an album that has a couple of classics like homonymous title track and Lazarus already deserves all the glory, because Bowie didn't have that kind of greatness in new songs, since 1995's Outside album.
I've heard that many times from Queen fans. But c'mon - I bought and listened to what 7 of their other classic albums and listened to them each at least 5 times. If that doesn't give me the right to judge their classic career, because I don't have Queen II. You have a point to a small extent. If someone listened to every Stones album except for Exile and they didn't care for every album. I'd say you should check out Exile, but if you don't like every other one, you're probably not gonna care for Exile that much either. I'll get Queen II eventually just for completion purposes and give it a fair shot.
I do think Lazarus is incredible and the title track is very good - I say so in the video, but I enjoy The Next Day much more. I thought Next Day which was a surprise release at the time, was a wonderful very strong album and still do.
Clash Sandinista. Beachboys sunflower. Ramones end of the century. Bowie diamond dogs. Springsteen's sham of a first marriage called tunnel of love. Any u2 album. Radiohead ok computer
Great example of personal taste - I LOVE Sandinista - but a lot of fat on it for sure. Don't have Sunflower. End Of The Century is OK, but I don't think of it considered as a "classic album". Diamond Dogs is like my personal favorite (was my first Bowie album with David Live). Lol
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow so true about personal taste. Celebrity leaves a bad taste with me. It's always about the music not the musician for me. Hype and ballyhoo devalues the music. Ramones as people were definitely not role models for me,. Bono as well. Don't like ham. Many overrated lps followed the artist best work. Trowers for earth below a perfect example. Trower agreed. Wished he had released victims of the fury, a worthy follow up to bridge of sighs.
@@SpenceCurry Sometimes it can be hard to separate the music from the "artist". I try very hard. Hell, Roger Waters, for me, is the perfect example. I'm just talking about his music. Not easy for me to separate him from that, but I do.
Love your channel but totally disagree with most of your choices. We all connect to different music for different reasons. Crosby’s album has always been in my top 10 since I bought it back in 1971. It got terrible reviews in the day, and only just recently got reappraised. For decades it was, in my opinion, vastly underrated and nearly forgotten. I agree with Bowie’s final album Black Star. I prefer The Next Day. Same with Lennon’s Double Fantasy. Originally it received lukewarm reviews and then as soon as he was murdered the album was deemed a masterpiece. However Harrison’s final album Brainwashed is one of my all time favorites.
Thanks so much. I completely respect youre disagreement with at least some of my choices. At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is that music effects us - makes us happy, or sad, but is more than just a passing background noise. Music also effects us in timing - when we hear it - our moods etc. Also remember that I own all the albums I showed (except Trout Mask Replica which I used to own). So many of the albums I showed I "like", like the Crosby album. I just think they're overrated in that they often appear in lists of greatest albums of all time. I don't think they're that good. Thanks so much again.
Agree Harrison is overrated and his solo career was inconsistent 😮 I feel the same about John Lennon solo career had great stuff but overall was inconsistent.
Thanks Mark. Funny - I put on Songs In The Key of Life a couple of months ago. I hadn't heard it in ages. Got in a Stevie Wonder mood. And I gotta say, I had trouble - I couldn't get through the whole thing - just soooo long and inconsistent. I had to stop. Yes some great classic songs - but oh how I wish it was a single album. Anyway - he sure is a musical genius...even if he wasn't blind. Unbelievable talent.
I disagree with some of these, and agree with others. But, generally, I would say this: everything is overrated or underrated unless I'm the one who did the rating. Lol! You know what I'm saying? Everybody thinks what they like and don't like is the final word. And that's how it should be. Nobody will ever convince me that Trout Mask Replica or Daydream Nation is a masterpiece. And no one will ever convince me that The Wild, The Innocent & the E Street Shuffle isn't the best Springsteen album. My opinions carry the most weight - with me! And that's what counts. But these lists, and these arguments are fun to do.
You are so right. I agree completely. And I try to point that out in some videos. That's the greatest thing about music. There is no right or wrong. It's meant to be emotional and great us and hopefully become part of our DNA. But these videos can be fun, hopefully turn on some great music to people who are unfamiliar, and also give our opinions based on decades of listening to critical bullshit that we occasionally see. But you are so right. Best, Alan
I'm such a modest Trower fan - I think I only have four of his albums - don't listen to him much. I've seen the King Biscuit live. I own the classic Trower live album.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow that classic trower album was doctored and studio tweaked worse than peter gabriel plays live. Dewar singing crucial to towers success. Post dewars reveal just how valuable he was. With the exception of ,twentieth century blues wastes of time and money
I was waiting for this - you're not alone in your feelings. And I again, I like Nebraska, but certainly have to be in the mood for it. I think it's one of the most courageous releases by an artist of that caliber - putting the breaks on his career at that time. Brilliant move. But overall, for me, I don't think it comes close to his best album and I relatively rarely go to it. But just my opinion. And Springsteen is unique for me. He has the 2nd most top 3 albums of the year for me of any artist (only behind The Stones), yet has many albums that did nothing for me. But he's an artist with a capital A - and I appreciate his efforts and uniqueness, even if it doesn't always work for me. Thanks so much.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow the problem I have with Springsteen’s music on the whole is it doesn’t know hat it wants to be, it’s mish mash of a bunch of influences that sometimes works and many times doesn’t, that’s why I think Nebraska is his best album, it knows exactly what it is which makes it cohesive to listen to and it has a loose theme too, it sounds authentic where as his full band albums sound convoluted and contrived to me, they try to be too many things at once and it’s confusing to listen to them except maybe Darkness on The Edge Of Town.
@@sspbrazil Nebraska certainly cohesive. Springsteen recorded on his little cassette. Personally I think many of his albums are very cohesive. Tunnel Of Love is my personal favorite, The Rising. Even born in The USA. At least to me.
I love ELO, but most double albums are too long. Out Of The Blue is no exception... all the songs are great, but prefer A New World Record which is the perfect length. I can't remember if you liked Quadrophenia or not... I feel the same way about Quadrophenia, the songs are good but it's too long.
get ready.....Quadrophenia is my favorite Who album and in the top 5 of my favorite albums of all time. That album is in my DNA. But I understand where you're coming from. I think it's an incredibly powerful piece of work and I got into it when I was like 13 so really effected me too. Also I love the movie..lol Thanks so much.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Oh wow... I think if I had first heard it when I was younger, I might have been able to digest it all at once. The movie was great, I agree.
lol- well thanks for watching and commenting. Remember, I own and like these albums - they're just not amongst the "greatest albums of all time" in my opinion.
Exile overrated? unbelievable take from whoever said that. That actually makes me sad, very shallow look by that person. Now i am getting upset hahahhaha. Exile is top 50 all time at very worst. Sweet Virginia, Dice, Rocks off, and Shine A Light are freaking gems.
Absolutely. Whoever that was was looking for hits - commercial tracks - wrong album beyond Tumbling Dice. Perfect album in my opinion. Though I still think Sticky Fingers is number one. Best, Alan
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I totally agree, and yes nothing can touch Sticky Fingers. The perfect album. I'm not sure what my number two Stones album is. I just bought the vinyl for the 2015 Sticky Fingers anniversary show at the Fonda Theater. I was too much of a cheapskate to buy tickets back then and it was my first year living in California. So this was my way of atoning for that mistake and the vinyl sounds great. Great performances as well.
@@fizzlebomber674 Unique show for sure - only time they've ever done something like that - although they didn't play it in order - Jagger thought it got too mellow and fans couldn't handle it live. Unbelievable to me. They did do a really good job though. Thanks again.
I think your musical tastes are similar to mine. I have always disliked ELO. Much of their music sounds generic to me. Queen is also not my cup of tea. Their form of Pomp Rock lacks guts in my opinion. And their later career was underwhelming. Nirvana was an important band but after a few listens the songs lose their lustre. I have never listened to a Roger Waters solo album. Cheers.
Thanks so much - sounds like we have a lot in common musically. No need to dig into Waters solo career - that's for sure. I do really enjoy Gilmours solo career though.
George overrated? Seems to me that John and Paul’s solo stuff is overrated, especially Paul’s. Even though i love The Beatles band & solo, i guess you’re not a fan of Traveling Wilburys,are you?
Love the first Traveling Wilburys album. 2 nd just ok. I have the boxset too which is nice. I agree that Lennon and McCartney solo careers are also overrated and variable quality.
@@derekroberts6654 I wouldn't say Ringo's solo career is "overrated". With the exception of the "Ringo" album, just not that good. But I don't think too many people ever thought of Ringo as a great songwriter, so really not that highly rated to begin with - not like Lennon, McCartney or Harrison.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow actually i did a video awhile ago thatll be posted next week thats not this but similar. but itll be my last video for the foreseeable future. maybe ever.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow yeh 'fraid so. mutliple reasons. i'm still working on the road. won't be home until august. still planning on trying to get out your way for a Looney Tunes visit and to behold the Rosenberg Archives.
Ooh topic for another day maybe. I can't stand Michael McDonald - I have No Michael McDonald in my collection except for appearance on Doobie Brothers compilations. I love the "classic" Steely Dan period, but from Gaucho onward the albums haven't grabbed me.
Fair enough - I'm a big fan of Morrison, and Liz Phair - moderate fan of Stevie Wonder - I like those albums - just don't think they're amongst the true greatest albums of all time nor even their best albums. Thanks again.
Most overrated artists ever: 1. Limp Bizkit (absolutely hate them - and nothing good about them whatsoever) 2. Rage Against The Machine (Tom Morello is not only an overly political a-hole, but he's a very overrated guitarist) 3. Babymetal (I honestly don't get the concept of this band, given the fact that none of the singers play any instruments) 4. Nickelback (their power ballads are above average, but their sleazy rockers are pure crap) 5. Bruce Springsteen (turns me off when he gets overly political) 6. U2 (see RATM and Springsteen) 7. R.E.M. (ditto with RATM, Springsteen and U2, plus Michael Stipe's whiny voice annoys me) 8. Bob Dylan (can't stand his voice, despite him being a legend and great songwriter) 9. Bon Jovi (most overplayed artist on classic rock and all purpose Top 40 radio) 10. Lamb Of God (I do like metal, but I can't stand heavy bands that scream or growl in their lyrics) tie Slipknot (I just like Corey Taylor's other band Stone Sour better) tie Nirvana (Kurt Cobain's songwriting talent is the only good talent he had) tie The Smiths (would like them much better if Morrissey's voice wasn't so whiny) tie Poison (very overplayed glam metal band, and the epitome of pop-metal) tie Soul Coughing (I don't get the concept of that band, and their music is actually lousy) tie KISS (anymore, their music is like a bumpy ride on a roller coaster)
Thanks for your comprehensive list. Some of those are not even in my collection - they wouldn't even make it in my collection...lol. I am a huge fan of U2, Bob Dylan and much of R.E.M (but not all of REM). Bon Jovi already was in my hated band video...lol. Thanks again.
Try this on for size. Most overrated band of all time: The Doors. Jim Morrison was an awful poet and had an ugly voice. I like 'Riders on the Storm' and 'The End' and that's about it. Everything else is meh. Another overrated band: Black Sabbath. I like Ozzy's early solo stuff (with Randy Rhoads) but B.S. is just that to me: BS.
Definitely personal taste of course. I did a deep dive into Black Sabbath (because I was never a huge fan) and did a video review a few years ago. I like them but I'm kind of with you. The Doors are so unique and I really like.....when I'm in the mood.....which is not that often. I've never been into poetry and I'm with you. Morrison's poetry...hell Patti Smith's poetry (and I'm a big fan of hers) leave me cold and relatively uninterested. Oftentimes a bunch of jibberish to me that leaves me cold and says nothing to me. Thanks so much.
Was waiting for The Stones to appear. I respect your opinion. You're not alone. But as you know, I certainly don't agree. Greatest band of all time for me and I love even a lot of the newer stuff - I think many of their later day albums are seriously underrated.... Best, Alan
Sorry you didn't enjoy. Simple concept. From having and reading countless books and articles on the "greatest albums of all time", I just felt like pointing out 10 albums and two artists that always appear on the lists that I think are overrated, although I may still like some of them to a point. Anyway, thanks for watching and commenting.
Hi there, With all due respect, I think we understand where you're coming from. Maybe the prblem is that you're just too rich and have waaaay too much money to actually appreciate anything that is not instantly fabulous in your view. In your videos you certainly have a huge amount of music to listen to and as I said, perhaps it's just far, far too much for you to appreciate it. Money is clearly no object as you list soooooomany box sets, records etc.....I just thnk you can't appreciate it because there;s too much for you, quantity wise.
Just so you know. I am far from rich. I actually live in a pretty small house. And I show all my purchases in the haul videos. In fact I tell where I bought them and how much I paid. Virtually every album I buy is used and years old. I find them at used record stores (there are many where I live on Long Island), flea markets, estate sales and garage sales. And most CD's I buy (and they're great finds - are only a dollar or two. My quote is this is the golden age of buying CDs. And actually I listen to every new cd at least four or five times to decide if they make it into my database or not. I delete probably 20% of what I buy. My backlog is huge because I spend so much time on every purchase. I don't think too many people appreciate music more than me. And money is at a premium for me. You couldn't have me more wrong.
My Queen purchasing stopped at The Game so I didn't get that one. Another One Bites The Dust and Crazy Little Thing Called Love are on the compilations I have and I never really need to listen to those two tracks again - so played out - but yea - great songs.
out of my 15-20,000 cds of most 70’s 80’s rock i have no queen no van morrison no bruce springsteen, only have 2-3 bowie, nirvana?? haha that’s garbage,. your delusional about crosby and waters,. geezus you didn’t see the pros cons tour? no stevie, no beatles for me,. no captain for me,.. funny how there’s no stones albums haha
That's actually incredible - your collection is like 3 to 4 times the size of mine and no Queen (I've no issue with that..lol), Van Morrison, Beatles or Springsteen, 2-3 Bowie. I have the Pros and Cons tour program..lol. I have a live bootleg. The songs on Pros and Cons are a meh at best. One mood that doesn't waiver through 40 boring minutes. Where's the melody, where's the hooks. There's one section that grabs me that's it. Not in the league of The Wall - must've been an easy decision for Floyd to choose which one to do. Great album cover though.
Would you be interested in parting with that David Crosby ? I have a single disc version I could trade. I'm interested in the surround disc.
Thanks for the offer. But I have a surround sound system so I would want to keep it. Sorry.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Just got the new Robin Trower Bridge of Sighs box set, highly recommend.
@@blockssonicwafers looks like a beautiful boxset.
I was surprised by how many of your picks I agreed with.
1. Bowie's last album. I haven't listened to this enough, and I have to check it out from the library. I like weird music, so maybe I'll like it if I play it more. I found side 2 of LOW to be my favorite Bowie music, except for the entire Man Who Sold the World album. I like his very early albums, but surprisingly not Ziggy.
2. If I could Only Remember My Name. I finally bought this in the 2000s and just shrugged.
3. ELO. Never impressed me except for ELO 2. I saw them once in concert and can't even remember what album they were supporting. I was there to see the warmup act, Steve Hillage.
4. Astral Weeks. My then-partner bought me that album. I shrugged.
5. Queen have never interested me much, but they have their moments.
6. Liz Phair. I don't know her at all.
7. Nebraska. I was never a fan of Bruce, and never bought any of his album EXCEPT Nebraska. I bought it because I was getting into folk music and they said it was recorded on a four track cassette deck, which I thought was cool. But it didn't impressed me at all.
8. Never Mind. Not a grunge fan, so I can't really say.
9. I quit listening to Roger Waters after Dark Side of the the Moon! But I did get a little hooked on The Wall but only because of the movie which was a multimedia (animation, film, music) stroke of genius.
10. Stevie Wonder. Never bought or heard an album by him.
11. I agree with you about George Harrison. My favorite albums by him are: 1. Wonderwall Music (love Indian classical AND psychedelic music). 2. All Things Must Pass. 3. Living in the Material World. After that, I could care less about the later albums. I like his India projects with Ravi and his Indipop experiments (and psychedelic songs) with The Beatles. Even his early pop with The Beatles is good. Culturally, however, he influenced me a lot with his interest in yoga.
12. Trout Mask Replica. Tried to listen to it online but couldn't do it, and I love some experimental music. I didn't even like his album with Zappa, Bongo Fury.
We sure seem to be on the same page. Wonderwall is you favorite Harrison. That’s funny. Lol. And I know you’re serious too. I can’t even listen to it. lol
Great video Alan. I did a similar video last year but pissed off some people by adding Physical Graffiti, Astral Weeks, and - I apologize to you as a huge Stones fan - Exile On Main Street. 😮 I took that video down though.
Oh wow - you have to put that video back up. Music is all personal taste. Really, there is no right or wrong and that's the beauty of music. How it effects us personally. Personally I might think your crazy for putting Physical Graffiti in (my favorite Zep album ever and one of my favorite albums ever and Exile...ditto...lol. But hey it's all personal taste. Plus taste's change over time. As long as people are respectful...hopefully.
Physical Graffiti should have been a single album of the 1974 material. If it was the case, best Zeppelin album ever.
@@terrencereardon6374 I agree
@@terrencereardon6374 all personal taste but not to me. My favorite Zeppelin album by far.
I don’t agree with a lot of your choices but thank you for nominating Roger Waters. I’m baffled by all these Pink Floyd fans who have become anti-Gilmour and have taken Waters’ side in the ‘feud’. Roger Waters’ solo work is turgid.
The Syd Barrett fans are even worse.
Thank you. I think Gilmour solo work and two later day Floyd albums are terrific and a bazillion times better than Waters output, except for Amused To Death. Water's might create great concepts and lyrics, but the music, as you said is TURGID!!! - Fantastic word. And Polly Sampson holds her own as a lyricist.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow The Endless River is the last Pink Floyd album and all instrumental and I LOVE IT!
@@terrencereardon6374 I have the deluxe edition. I find it enjoyable. Mostly like background music. Surround sound is nice.
Thumbs up for using the word turgid to describe Roger Waters.
There are some artists and bands that no matter how much you try and due to your personal tastes you just cant like everything and we all hear things differently and you like what you like
Perfectly said and absolutely true. The only thing that matters is what we individually like and love. Music is amongst the most personal things in the world and that's what makes it so special.
Most of these don't belong on the "overrated" list. They belong on the "things that suck" list.
lol.... Well they are all pretty much considered amongst the greatest albums of all time to the "critics" and their "lists". But I'm with you.
You actually stated what many of us are thinking. 👍
@@Peekay9 Thanks so much. Really appreciate it.
Hi Allan,
Hope you don’t mind me posting unrelated comments on your latest videos, but I’ve been going through more of your old videos and wanted to give you my opinion of the best live Stones albums. I agree with you that the best live period for the Stones was when Mick Taylor was in the band, his lead guitar took the Stones to another level. I think it’s a toss-up between Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out and Brussels Affair to which one is the best.
I also agree Love You Live is a good album, but I was blown away with how good El Mocambo was when it got released, a great set list with some old blues covers, Mannish Boy and Red Roster, and Bo Diddley’s Crackin Up
I think you were a bit harsh on Live in Texas, I didn’t think it was a bad performance and it was great to hear a lot of live tracks from Some Girls.
Finally I was so happy to get Still Life At Wembley Stadium 1982 finally relesed as I never had a boot of this one. Like you I got into the stones in 1974 (when I was 13) but for some reason I missed the 1976 tour in England, so the first time I saw them was in 1982 at Wembley Stadium. I have seen them quite a few times since then, but I still think the first time was always the best for me. The performance and the set list was superb. I get a real kick of knowing that my voice is included with thousands of other voices in that crowd recording. Maybe one day when AI gets that good I’ll be able to separate the crowd noise and hear me singing along with the Stones.😁
Thanks so much. Loved your comments. I do think alive in Texas is a great recording and thrilled yo have the filmed performance. It is a red hot show. The King biscuit performances were also burnin from that tour. And I love the Capital theatre show. Was booted as Out On bail. Fantastic. The tour itself was a mixed bag of great performances and sub par. But the official Texas was great. Thanks again
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Hi Alan sorry if I got it wrong but I thought you said you didn’t like the performance on Live In Texas. I thought you said it was a bit campy. I guess you were talking about another show? So what’s your opinion of the Wembley 82 show? Do you agree with me that the performance and set list were excellent or do you think my opinion is overrated because it was my first Stones gig?
@@bobjpgr3683 The 78 tour yo me was so inconsistent. And Jagger could be very campy on the 78 tour. Also on the 75 tour which was my first. I saw 3 shows on the 1981 tour and thought they were fantastic. Long shows. Great set lists. Last time the band was ever like that. Loose, jamming, not overly tight or overly rehearsed. At one of the shows I saw they messed up Let It Bleed so bad they actually stopped it and restarted it. And I loved it. I thought Still Life was a bit lame as a live album from that tour. The 1982 releases I enjoyed more because they were complete. Also had Chuck Leavell for the first time. Was a great show for you to see for sure.
Thanks Alan been doing some binge watching on your videos. Sorry for getting your reviews of the shows mixed up. 😂
@@bobjpgr3683 No problem. I'm glad your watching me and catching up. I really appreciate it.
Great video, Alan. I hope you have a soup tester. : ) It's not about agreeing, but I wholeheartedly concur with the guyville schlock (and Queen). I love George Harrison, so, even if it's true, I can't agree. : )
Thanks - I hear you - I love your honest Harrison comment - "Even if it's true, I can't agree". I hear you and I've been there with other acts. Thanks again.
Hi, Alan. Things we agree about: Queen! Contender for most overrated band ever, just as Bohemian Rhapsody might be the most overrated song ever. Exile in Guyville: I've tried to get into it but ultimately it bores me. Good lyrics, and starts out strong, but then settles into a succession of mid tempo numbers that make me lose interest. Nevermind: back in the day I listened to it a lot, but it's a bit samey, plus I always resented how they were clearly influenced by bands like Sonic Youth and the Pixies and REM, yet were hailed as these enormous groundbreakers. They were in the right place at the right time, nothing more. Trout Mask Replica: More people pretend to love this album than any other in music history. Well, I'm not worried about intellectual cred, so I can say with absolute honesty, it stinks!Things we disagree about: I love Blackstar, Nebraska, Out of the Blue, but no anger on my part, you're allowed to love what you love, and not love what you don't love. Anyway, the one that mystifies me the most is Pet Sounds by the Beach Boys. Whatever genius there supposedly is on that record, I'm not hearing it. But since you didn't mention it, I assume you're into it, which is cool. Peace.
Thanks so much Chris - seriously I love your comments -and I'm expecting a beating about Nebraska and Blackstar. I hope people know I like the albums, but I don't think they approach the "greatness" that they get critically out there. Now Pet Sounds - One of the first albums I though of for this list and listened to it last night. And the damnest thing happened - I really really enjoyed it. And I'm not a big Beach Boys fan - in fact I think Pet Sounds is my only official Beach Boys studio album (I do have some compilations). Do I think it's a mark of genius. No, but of course I was a tiny kid at the time so I can't really appreciate if it was a breakthrough - certainly Good Vibrations was. Anyway, long story short I really did enjoy it, so back on the shelves and not on this list. Go figure right? Thanks as always Chris.
Right on Chris…however, regarding Queen-I think they’ve got the hat trick going: Most Overrated Band; Most Overrated song; AND most Overrated Movie!
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Oh good, glad I'm not alone regarding Pet Sounds. Maybe I'll have an epiphany like you one day, but I don't own a copy so I can't go listen to it right now! I'll have to put on some Waterboys instead. :)
@@anthonyaswe4174 You have more patience than I do, sitting through a movie about a band you don't even like! So I'll take your word for it. :)
Chris . I love their hated hit space not cuz it's Freddy's disco coming out moment, because it shows what a crack precision band they were. Sheer attack is my favorite song because it showed how musically lame and wanting punk bands were. How many great players were there in the punk music sphere besides people like Robert Quine and Tom verlaine
Morning Alan…On reading the title for this video, my first thought was ‘Trout Mask Replica’. I am reassured that this album also made your overrated list. Thanks Alan
Thanks - the only album on my list I no longer own, because I couldn't take it. How that mess gets on best album lists I'll never understand. Thanks.
Big Queen fan and not sure about them being overrated. They do get a lot of attention from everyone so they are definitely not underrated. Great guitarist, great vocalist, masters in the studio, masters at vocal harmonies. They never went overly progressive because they still always wanted to have hit songs and memorable songs. What other band does the general public know 10 songs at least of a band. Even songs I never thought could get known like “cool cat” (which I don’t like) became popular because of amazon.
it's an amazing thing. Here in the states - Queen became much more popular after Freddie Mercury died. Same can be said to a certain extent with The Doors (back in the late 70's and 80's). Queen organization has done an incredible job of keeping those 10 or so songs in the general publics eyes plus shows, movies etc.
Boy, Alan, this sent me for a loop. I'm with you 100% on Liz Phair and Roger Waters. I own much of his stuff, but since he's revealed himself to be a virulent AntiSemite, I can't deal with him. I agree that his stuff is tedious and preachy, at best. But I wanted to tear what little is left of my hair out when I heard you go after brilliant records by David Crosby, Springsteen and Stevie Wonder. You and I could probably talk for hours about those three guys and their flaws and successes. George Harrison does have a spotty solo career, but when he is great, he is incredible. "All Things Must Pass" is easily the best Beatles solo album. Queen is a terrific band and they cut through the mid 70's blandness like a hot knife. Still, I love your show and am always interested in what's up in your world.
Thanks so much for your honest reply - that's awesome. Remember I own all those albums. And in many cases - Nebraska for instance, I really like the albums. Just that I don't think they approach the massive greatness, greatest of all times, best album they did kind of status the critics give to them - so therefor overrated. Gotta say Songs In The Key Of Life is way too long for me. Lot of padding. All Things Must Pass (the first two albums - not the jam) is perhaps the greatest Beatle solo album - well maybe Band On The Run - but a damn near perfect album. The rest is spotty as hell to me. Even the best of Harrison albums are spotty to me..lol. The Crosby album to me is an interesting soundscape - maybe on a par with Astral Weeks - interesting - a fine listen, but to me far from an indispensable classic. I'm with you with Roger Waters - I don't even like mentioning his name. Makes me ill, but I try to separate the music from the human being, if he still is one.
I’ll check out Phair’s self titled album. Sounds great. I heard Guyville, but I don’t remember it! I love Astral Weeks and Nebraska. I cover a lot of Bruce and Van and Stones on my channel. I have mixed feelings about ELO and Nirvana. I’m enjoying the vid! Greetings from Queens 👍🏻🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵
Thanks so much - gonna check out your channel - thanks for letting me know. Her self-titled album was bad reviews and she was accused of selling out - I really liked it. Hope you do too.
Excuse me mr Rosenberg, but I don't care about what you have to say. I'm in the pit by the railing awaiting the Rolling Stones. Got in the line at 12:30
It's 9:30 right now - probably hearing Start Me Up - ENjoy my friend - In the pit too - wow - have the greatest time - by the way did I see $145 for parking in Atlanta !!! - Let us know how the show was.
Agree with your assessment of Bowie’s Blackstar. I wanted to like it and buy it; his last album and the sentimentality around that… but gosh. … yeah. It’s way overrated.
Thanks - I feel better - it really is a "tough" listen - I listened to it when I was pulling these albums. It just leaves me so cold. I'm so with you, it doesn't compare to his other "classic" albums and doesn't approach it's classic status according to the critics.
Interesting. Ironically the one I would probably disagree with is Astral Weeks..which most others seem to agree with you about! Astral Weeks works as a whole piece really, so If you put it on thinking ‘Right I’m going to try & love Astral Weeks’ it probably sounds underwhelming, as there’s no real big tunes to latch onto....but it’s the sort of record where if you here it out of context (I heard it playing in a bookshop) it can catch you off guard. I think the song ‘Madame George’ is a thing of wonder.
I find it to be like a nice, almost background jazz album. It's enjoyable to me. I'm glad I have it. It's just that it's so high on all time greatest album lists that it irks me. It wouldn't be near the top of a Van Morrison album list for me. There are some viewers, you'll be happy to know, stating they love Astral Weeks and it is tops...and that's awesome - I'm glad you love it. Again I "like" it. By the way, I think it would work great in a bookstore...so well done. I'd love it there for sure.
What I find fascinating about music (where this occurs probably more than in any other art forms) is that it happens very often that I can TOTALLY and for 100% agree with a person about one artist/album/song, while just as much disagreeing with that same person about another artist/album/song. This is the case with almost everyone I know.
For example I was so incredibly delighted to hear what you say about Electric Light Orchestra, as this is almost verbatim much of my comments on this band whenever someone asks me my opinion about them. I can't listen to their music. Apart from what you say, I also think it is so bland and totally lacks any kind of emotion.
(I remember Ringo saying in an interview he got annoyed by Jeff Lynn's need for perfection when working together (I can't remember what it was about exactly) and wanting to use a click track, where Ringo said: "I AM your click track!")
Also agree about what George Harrison's best stuff is, and how the rest is not all that interesting (although I must say that both Lennon and McCartney also made only a handful -if that- interesting solo albums and that all the others are also totally overrated in my opinion).
And then out of the bue you mention Trout Mask Replica! OK, it is gradually become higher rated during the years, and from extremely underrated in the beginning it might probably be a bit overrated - but I do think it's a awesome record; daring, original, audacious and it would still be that when it would have been released now.
How does that work is something I sometimes wonder? How can you think the same about something, and so totally different about something else??
(In the end you mention you own a few Zappa albums. You got me curious there about which ones they are and how you like them! After the Stones (ever since I was 9 or so) he has been my favorite musician for almost my entire life (since slightly later, when I was 11 or 12).
Thanks again for a very interesting list.
Makes sense though. Since music is so personal. We may agree on like almost everything but always will be differences. Even amongst favorite albums by bands we mutually love. Music is do personal and that’s so awesome. I have currently 17 Zappa albums. Run the gamut. I don’t listen to him much. I find him “interesting”. Let’s put it at that. Lol. A work in progress.
Hi Alan, I discovered your channel not long ago. Enjoy it very much, especially the Stones and U2 related stuff. My fav Queen album is Works from 1984, I love their old stuff of course also but Works is solid from beginning to end. I’d recommend to check it out. Personally I love Roger Waters’ solo work, especially Amused and Kaos. You suck! LOL, NAH, just kidding, love you for sharing your collection, amazing stuff! ❤ thank you
Lol - Thanks so much - I didn't make it to Works. Maybe one day I'll subject myself to more Queen. I need a break from them...lol. Actually I appreciate your love of Water's solo work. I really find, except for Amused To Death, his solo work just plods - it screams out for melody and hooks to me. Best, Alan
My opinion on albums I own or have listened to on TH-cam.
Liz Phair - 'Exile on Guyville'. Bought it and was not impressed at all. I also read the blurb about being an answer, song by song, to 'Exile on Main Street'. Like you, I didn't see the connection. They sounded like demo recordings which the record company put out. About the same time, a bootleg came out of the songs prior to being recorded for the official album. Some of the lyrics had to be changed because they were a little to explicit for the record company's taste. I think it was called, 'The Girly Girl Recording', or something close to it.. Her later stuff, with an actual backup band, was more accessible.
Bruce Springsteen - 'Nebraska'. From what I read, these were demo recordings for a possible next album release. When the band was rehearsing these songs, he didn't feel they captured the tone of the original demos. So he decided, I guess with the record company agreement, to release the original demos. There was a song called, 'The Big Payback', which was only released as a b-side in Europe. I was able to buy an import copy and enjoy the song. Why it wasn't placed on the CD version as a bonus track, is a mystery.
Van Morrison - 'Astal Weeks'. Originally heard the song, 'Ballerina', on TH-cam and really liked the song. Searched and found the complete album on TH-cam and listened to the complete album. It seemed to me there was no break between songs. The album was OK, but felt 'Ballerina' was the best of the songs on the album.
Thanks so much - you are 100% correct - I actually have the Girly bootleg collection - 2 CD's no less. uhhh - even less impressive than Guyville. I so much prefer her later day more "commercial" releases. Much more accessible and frankly much better. Exactly what happened with Nebraska. And I'm with you on Astral Weeks - it's an enjoyable album - enjoyable music - it's "OK". Best, Alan
Your a brave man Alan...lol...although I agree with you on queen, and Astril Weeks. Now, I will disagree with you on ELO 'out of the blue' + Bruce's 'Nebraska'. I wore out my cd (if wearing out a cd is possible) of Liz's 'Whip Smart'. Its low fidelity and raw/angry, but thats what I liked. Lastly, I can't separate the artist ,Roger Waters with whom he is today (A outspoken stooge of Vladimir Putin), so I won't be buying or listening to any of his solo stuff.. Always enjoy your stuff. 👍
Thanks so much. It actually took a lot for me to even talk about Roger Waters. I can't listen to him either anymore. But since this video was strictly about music, he was a perfect fit. But I certainly know where you're coming from. I'm expecting backlash on Nebraska and Out Of The Blue (I actually really like Nebraska - but I don't think it's as great as most say - certainly amongst most gutsy moves though). I like Whip Smart much more than Exile In Guyville. Thanks again.
I should have included in my previous comment that I’m with you regarding “If Only I Could Remember My Name” being overrated. As I’m sure you know, when it first came out it got no love. Later on, lots of praise was bestowed upon it. Interestingly, as I’m sure you also know, “Pet Sounds” was not particularly well received by critics when it was released. Brian Wilson has said that it took quite some time for it to be recognized as a game-changing album. By the way, I haven’t heard the ELO album you featured in years. While Jeff Lynne can be heavy handed at times, I think he is very, very talented. ELO has (IMHO) many, many excellent songs. “10,538 Overture” still - after all these years - makes me shiver with joy and respect, For a deep appreciation of ELO, the band’s concert at Hyde Park, which I saw several years ago on cable television, is a “must watch.” In a word, it’s stellar.
I'm in agreement that Jeff Lynne is a massive talent. I saw years ago a documentary on him and I was blown away by all his accomplishments. He certainly was (maybe still is) a go-to guy for great production. I enjoy some ELO - I have a single greatest hits and a double extensive collection. Plus their two most famous studio albums. There are some songs I really enjoy - the Overture you mention has that outstanding acoustic guitar work for sure. But like Queen - to a certain extent (yes I hate to make the comparison), I can only take ELO is small bites. I then get diabetic shock...lol.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Fair enough. It’s interesting how the same music can spark different reactions among various individuals. While you check your blood sugar level before deciding to listen to ELO, I’ll take migraine medicine if I’m ever forced to hear Queen songs.
@@ronalaurence4105 One day, we will listen to music, pop pills and definitely NOT put on ELO or Queen on my stereo...lol
Funny stuff, Alan! 😂
Just wanna add my 2 cents worth about that David Crosby Album. I was disappointed probably more than your Review (You were Nice) especially because The Stephen Stills & Niel Young solo albums were so good. ✌️🎶🎶🎶
I haven't seen anyone ever talk about that album. I didn't know what to expect - but so glad you commented on it too. That albums been a mystery to me forever. And yea, out of those four - Crosby is an enigma. Some great songs scattered over decades....Thanks.
crazy list… only two i agree with somewhat are exile in guyville and astral weeks. aside from that, no way.
I knew going in this would be "controversial" though I don't think anywhere near controversial as other lists with Exile, Sgt. Peppers, The Wall etc. It is supposed to be fun, though I do feel this way. Obviously I'm a fan of all of them, except Trout Mask Replica (and much of Queen). as I own them all and have listened to them all multiple times. Thanks for watching and commenting. It's all personal taste in the end.
Every time I feel like I must be missing something when it comes to Electric Light Orchestra, I go back to give them another try, and I just never find them all that engaging.
And we definitely see eye-to-eye on George Harrison. I was just thinking about his music recently, because I heard that he criticized David Bowie, and WOW...that took guts, because there's simply no comparison between Harrison's solo work and the music of David Bowie.
OH! Since you like the Nirvana Unplugged album, have you looked into the Meat Puppets? They're a strange band for me. I absolutely love their second album, II, and...that's about it. I like everything else I've heard by them, well enough, but that second album just really stands out in my mind. Plus, it passes your test, because I do go back and listen to it a good bit.
Thanks. I just heard about that Harrison comment as well. I was surprised for sure. I've heard of the Meat Puppets but never actually heard them. I'll look out for a cheap copy of II in the wild - thanks again.
On the subject of Nirvana - Nevermind. I always just tell people “listen to the top 40 billboard songs from 1987 to 1991 in a row…. Then, if you haven’t jumped out a window by then, put on Nirvana-Nevermind, then you will understand why it was received so well at the time. Because what we were being forced to listen to was just AWFUL. So the fact it was breaking into the mainstream was really refreshing.”
Having said that I agree with all the other ones you mentioned. And I like your explanation of “over rated”, people take too much offense to that. It’s purely based on the accolades the album gets. Doesn’t mean the album is bad.
Thanks so much - point very well taken with Nevermind - very true. And thanks for catching the point of my video. I own and listen to everyone of the albums I mention (except for Trout Mask Replica which I dumped). Many of these albums are good or fine. But certainly not amongst the greatest albums of all time, or even by the artist in my opinion. Thanks again.
@gino88 Alan will undoubtedly confirm this. I NEVER LISTEN to chart music, or the radio. I'm 76 & British and use to read Review's and "go my own way" and had a record collection very different to all my friend's. I'd also read who was playing on the album's and sometime's follow them. It was all very different in the 60's how you 'discovered' music. In the UK we only had one POP radio station ! Mind, I just noticed the date's you quoted and I'm not sure if I've got anything from that period. Also, I've never heard a song by Nirvana ! Never fancied listening to them. I was in to NEW COUNTRY about that period.... Particularly, Singer Songwriter's.
@@HTJB60 it was such a different time period. I used to read Creem, circus, Hit Parader, Rolling Stone. Studied the reviews and ads. Not a better time but do different.
At least you’re honest. Love the channel.
Thanks so much - I really appreciate it.
I agree with you on the Morrison and Beefheart albums.but not with Queen! My favorite Queen is Quinn II……
The Bowie was different to be sure a but I still can’t consider it overrated. Spot on with Harrison too.
Thanks Larry - I know you love Queen - everybody tells me to get Queen II, the one I'm missing in the series - I'll give it a shot at some point.
I agree with so many of your choices in this video, including “Astral Weeks,” “Nebraska,” “Trout Mask Replica” “A Night at the Opera” (and all of the Queen albums you’ve reviewed on previous episodes of your show). I also think “Exile in Guyville” is very overrated, and despite a couple of efforts to understand how it’s a response to “Exile on Main St., I never got the connection - just like you didn’t. The guy from Pink Floyd is like the Harry Potter character, “Voldemort,” to me. I just can’t mention his name. Usually I can separate the personal beliefs of artists from their music (e.g. Charlie Daniels among others), but I cannot do so when it comes to the guy from Pink Floyd. His vile obsession with spreading hate (especially at his concerts, which people pay good money for, at the very least, a pleasant night out) is WAY, WAY beyond the pale (IMHO). However, I share your opinion about his solo work, which I heard long before his hate- mongering became the center of his existence (IMHO). Perhaps, “Blackstar” is so overrated because of its subject matter and its release just days before Bowie’s death. While “Lazarus” is a very powerful song, augmented by a very impactful video, the rest of the songs on the album did not move me musically. There are two very good albums (which I don’t think the critics have overrated) that deal with the end of the respective artists’ lives and were released just a couple of weeks before the artists’ deaths from cancer. They are (IMHO) “You Want It Darker,” by Leonard Cohen, and “The Wind,” by Warren Zevon., In addition to the aforementioned overrated albums, my list includes: “Rough and Rowdy Ways;” Pet Sounds;” “Hotel California;” “Sheik Yerbouti” (and every other album I’ve heard by Frank Zappa); “Ten;” “OK Computer;” and every album I’ve heard by Foo Fighters. I think
caveats are in order, regarding “Pet Sounds” and “Hotel California. While “Pet Sounds” is ingenious and massively influential on so many levels, I don’t think that the majority of the 13 tracks are the greatest of songs. I think that some are. As for “Hotel California,” I know it went platinum an amazing 26 times. I think the title track, while among the most overplayed songs ever, is fabulous. I think several of the other tracks are very good - but very far from being masterpieces. Obviously, I’m in the minority when it comes to both albums. But that’s how I feel.
Some great choices there. I've tried for decades to get into Frank Zappa. I actually have a sizeable collection that I've listened to many times. I enjoy some of his stuff. I've discussed him briefly in other videos as well. I think because he's a relative rarity in rock music that he can actually compose and read and write music, he can create on paper very complex music. And then challenge the best musicians to play it. I guess thats an "art" in itself. But often to me, it's musical masturbation. Like anything else, in moderation - fine, but in excess a problem...lol. I actually like OK computer and Ten, though I don't think they're as amazing as many think. I wouldn't include them in the category of overrated per my choices though. The album after OK Computer though "Kid A" would have made my list if I still owned it - I dumped it years ago - now that is OVERRATED - talk about overrated ambient nothing with nothing. Wonderful comments about The Wind and You Want It Darker - TOTALLY AGREE especially the Leonard Cohen album. Now for Rough and Rowdy Ways - wow do I TOTALLY Agree with you. Critics tripped over themselves with ridiculous accolades. And I LOVE Dylan and many of his later day albums - to me it's the weakest of his later day albums by far, and I said that at the time too. I'm gonna mention it when I review the recent Ian Hunter albums. As always, Thanks.
Hi Alan. I agree with you on Van Morrisons album Astral Weeks. I threw my copy in the rubbish bin. It's so boring. From Carl.
wow Carl - thanks for that comment. Sometimes I think I must be crazy. I like the album. It's OK. But C'mon - it's not even near the best of Van Morrison's other albums.
@TheAlanRosenbergShow I'm not a great fan of Van. I like his song Moondance and that's it for me.
My copy of Astral weeks also went to the rubbish bin!
@@waldoschnetler7484 lol. Apparently you're not alone...lol Thanks again.
@@waldoschnetler7484 Ha ! That makes two of us.
Couldn’t disagree with you more
So happily subscribing to have constructive discussions
Queen overplayed but not over rated
Astral Week is a masterpiece ; and i have played it multiple times over past 8years
Exile to Guyville : Mesmerizing
Trout Mask : there are 2 camps and I’m in the camp that say everything Don did was genius
Nebraska : are you kidding me ?
Bands i consider over rates
Steely Dan
Foo Fighters
Santana
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Traffic
Thanks so much for your reply and watching. Made me smile. Astral Weeks - played multiple time over 8 years - I've played it much more than that...lol. I like it...like it. Don't think it's nearly his best album, nor near greatest album of all time, which is why I say it's overrated. I like Nebraska but also not near his greatest albums. The rest I don't care for, and I really like the later Liz Phair albums. But hey, we all have our own ears. Thanks again.
You make a good point early in the video. When picking a "best" album in a discography, most people intellectualize it and we end up with the same kind of picks. I mean, Dark Side of the Moon has got to be the best Floyd album, right? But what's more interesting is which albums do you LISTEN to the most. When you do that, you can end up with some odd choices, yet I'd contest, more honest ones. Intellectually you can love Dark Side, but if you rarely - if ever - play it, is it really your favorite? I think what you play is far more telling.
Can't comment too much on your list because I'm not into most of the artists you covered. I disagree on Waters, I just don't know why some people can hear melodies in his music, and some not. For example, The Final Cut is incredibly melodic. Radio Kaos has a terrible "story", but the likes of Who Needs Information is terrific. But each to their own.
We're definitely on the same page regarding what we listen to is more telling than simply intellectualizing. Regarding Waters albums, including The Final Cut - sure on occasion there will be a melody. But the whole album is samey - I call it a slog. Compared to the other "classic" Floyd albums or even Gilmour's solo albums - there is a definite lack of melodies and hooks. Some, like yourself, may love that, and I respect that - but for me its a deficit.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow The Final Cut is full of melodies. They're not in-your-face pop ditties, but they're there. Given the subject matter of the album, I'm not sure it could be done any other way (though they should never have added When Tigers Break Free to the album). The Gunners Dream, Southampton Dock, Possible Pasts, Paranoid Eyes - these are all distinct sings with distinct melodies.
I would say, the Final Cut is not an album for every day. The subject matter, the lyrics, it doesn't lend itself to play on the beach in the height of Summer. But this is Waters, and that's not what he does. It's a powerful album, with a strong message, and as such you have to pick the right moments to listen to it. It's not an every day album, but I don't think that detracts from it at all. I can clearly recall the first time I heard on, on release, I was lying on my couch and it just crushed me, I've loved it ever since. It's the Floyd album I play the most.
@@MaterLacrymarum I appreciate your love of it. I remember clearly when it first was released and I bought it instantly. Rolling Stone gave it 5 stars perfect. I was like are you kidding - for me not in the same league at Dark Side, Wish, Wall and my favorite Animals. I know well it's a dark album and the music and songs are based on the theme. We all love what we love. Not Now John was my favorite song from the album, as it's the most unlike Final Cut song - wouldn't be a surprise.
'overrated' is both a subjective and ambiguous statement. Overrated by whom...critics, fans, casual listeners? Some people would instantly claim that any album by the backstreet boys is the greatest ever...fortunately, most of us know better. Passionate music fans and critics alike will always argue over which artists/albums/songs have value and merit and which deserve a dishonorable discharge. Personally, i love everything by ELO as well as most of the George H albums...to each his own, as they say. Also, i would add Clapton and U2 to my overrated list. 🎶
Absolutely correct. That’s the beauty of music. There is no right or wrong. It’s all personal opinion. Music is the most individual thing out there and that’s what makes it special. The only thing that matters is how it affects us individually. Obviously, this list is just my opinion.
Hi mate I totally agree on Roger Waters. No surprise that when offered "Pros and cons" or "The Wall" to Floyd for the next project they went with "The Wall". Please can I add the bloody awful abomination that is "Dark side of the moon redux"? Great show. I really look forward to your shows. Thanks
Thanks so much. Wow. I completely forgot about Dark Side redux. I didn’t buy it nor will I. So I don’t have all his solo after all. An insult he even did it.
great video i agree blackstar astral weeks i dont remenber my name never got into any of them played them all loads of times queen are ok love waters and harrison stuff no bob dylan or stones albums do another video
Thanks so much. Appreciate that you love Waters and Harrison's solo albums. Some great songs there for sure, but the albums to me, except for All things Must Pass and Amused To Death are average. Waters needs more melody to me. I think that's where Gilmour shines.
I gave my copy of Liz Phair s Guyville back to the store... Yuck. However I can listen to all of George Harrison CDs fully completely.. good topic..thanks AR. PS exile on main street st...is the Bible of Rock n roll.
Thanks Glen - well if Exile on Main Street is the bible of rock and roll (ok I won't argue with that too much), then Exile on Guyville isn't even a crib note, not even an outtake...lol. Regarding George Harrison, I like him, I just think with the exception of All Things Must Pass (and Bangladesh), his albums are so average and mediocre. I enjoy them too, but because of the Beatles (and his handful of incredible Beatle songs), he's godlike and based on that, I think he's overrated. Thanks for your understanding.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShowtotally agree with you on George Harrison and as a Beatle fan I think if he hadn't been a Beatle his music wouldn't have sold much!
@@alanlafromboise3156 booooooooooo 👎👎👎👎
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Alan... Not really sure you stayed on topic with this show... In all reality the only album that was highly rated that you mentioned was the Nirvana album... Yes... a very small number of people have mentioned the others.. but surely not rated highly by that many others.
@@glendepietro1521 Maybe lost track a little but my choices in this video are: Trout Mask Replica, Blackstar, If I Could Only Remember My Name, Exile In Guyville, Astral Weeks, Out Of The Blue, Songs In The Key Of Life, Nevermind, Nebraska, - so the albums are there. But then I also included George Harrison's whole career (minus Bangladesh and All Things Must Pass), Roger Waters solo career (not including Amused To Death) and Queen's album career (well covered in the past here). Hope that helps, but yea, perhaps I could have tightened it up. Thanks Glen.. Best, Alan
I love Astral Weeks is a concept album and a very good one! One of my favorites! Matter of fact I played it a couple days ago!
Thanks for watching and commenting. It's great to hear from a big fan of the album. Funny in that most responses have agreed with me - so nice to hear from the other side. Best, Alan
I actually agree with most of the choices you made Alan. But, I do like the Stevie Wonder album a lot and the few good songs from George Harrison is great. I think The Works and Its a kind of magic from Queen are underrated, probably because I grew up in the 80's.
You were soft on Astral Weeks. Its unlistenable!!!
I am however a huge ELO fan.
Very interesting video
Thanks so much. Your Astral Weeks comment is funny - big laugh. I certainly don't think it's unlistenable - how about meandering - needs some focus. I don't know. I appreciate your love of ELO. They're huge and friends of mine loved them. They just annoy me...a lot sometimes.
Hi Alan, People ask & then dont' like the asnwer ! LOL. Most of the music I like, wouldn't even get 'rated', as you know BUT that doesen't mean I don't enjoy listening to it. W G A F what other's think is my opinion. They're not in my living room. I thought you put your opinion over well but skipped most of the George Harrison as I'm no beatles fan anyway. WELL DONE.
Thanks so much as always. You're 100% correct in WGAF when it comes to music. Really, and I've tried to express this in videos, music is amongst the most personal things in life. Young people today are missing out - as it's mostly background today to their life. But for music people, does it get any better than absorbing an album and how the music effects us and our emotions. Can make us cry or laugh, or instantly take us back to a point in our life. It's so powerful. As I say, can become part of our DNA. And that's wonderful and personal. And music has no right or wrong - only matters how it effects us personally. With that said, it can be fun to talk about, call out possible critical bullshit and help others maybe discover music they may not know that we love. Doesn't always work, but so fun to try. Have a great weekend.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Having some thought's on a couple of 'ideas' for you. Must do my 'home work', see if you've done them & what to include. Have a good weekend yourself, well, Sunday. Michael.
@@HTJB60 Thanks - you too.
Okay, okay. I'm just going to go ahead and say it--I love Trout Mask Replica (I can hear you groaning, Alan!). At the same time, I'm 100% sympathetic to your take and to everyone else who despises it. I'm a huge Zappa fan, but when I first heard TMR, I hated it. I thought, pretty much as you did, that it was just a big pile of garbage, and a bad joke, and I thought that for a LONG time. But for some reason, I kept revisiting it, and each time I did, I'd find something, a section or a song or two, that I liked. One night, I put it on, and I must have been in just the right mood, but suddenly all the pieces just sort of slid into place. Believe it or not, I now listen to it on a pretty regular basis, AND when I listen to it, I prefer to listen to it in its entirety (I think I hear you groaning again, but I'm not sure). Having said all that, I want to stress once more how I completely understand your own hatred and the hatred it gets, in general. As I said, I used to participate in it myself, and pretty loudly, too.
PS) I had a similar reaction to Zappa's Weasels Ripped My Flesh--another album that I could see making a list like this--but it didn't take me nearly as long to get into. It was a real shock upon first listen, though, sounding almost nothing like any of the other Zappa music I'd heard up until that time. It gets quite a bit of praise now, but I do wonder how many people actually sit down and listen to it. It can be a bit of a rough ride and certainly not for the casual fan.
I know you're a massive Zappa fan and that will definitely help appreciate and love TMR. Absolutely. Although I have a decent amount of Zappa albums, I actually can have issues with much of his music too. Listen, you're clearly not alone. TMR consistenly makes best album of all times lists. So bizarre to me. But critics also like to be "cool". But again you love the music and that's what its all about. Perhaps one day I'll give it another shot. For now, I already have too much backlog..lol.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Love Zappa, but that doesn't stop me from having issues with a lot of his music. That sounds like a contradiction, but considering the sheer volume of his catalog, it really isn't.
Hope the channel keeps growing for you.
@@pkmcburroughs Thanks so much. As you well know, Zappa is so extensive, literally takes a lifetime just to get through his catalog. I've read a couple of books on Zappa too. He's a work in progress for me.
Hi Alan - well that was fun lolol. I am a massive Beatles fan, but have always thought that George was no Lennon or McCartney that's for sure. He peaked on Abbey road, All things Must Pass and as you say the rest of his solo stuff is very patchy. I have one or two, and the best of - which I like. Queen agree - their albums were patchy and yeh, people just play the same 4 or 5 songs. Nirvana I have always thought are over rated, also Roger Waters. Syd Barrett I would also include in your top 10 - I just couldnt get into his stuff. Gilmour was the Floyd sound - end of story. I do disagree on a few, Crosby, Van, ELO, Bowie - there are a lot more overrated albums than those. I think Kiss, GNR & Journey are all really over rated lol - never got into them !! There are more - but I'll call it quits at that. Cya Doug
Thanks Doug - I'm with you - there are plenty more. GnR certainly overrated - certainly as a band. How they are one of the worlds biggest bands ever is astounding (based really on Appetite). Kiss definitely hit or mass but props for such a long successful career, even if I don't care for much of it. Journey....well I pretty much Hate Journey - not even worth the mention to me...lol. Thanks Doug.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Hi Alan - 6 American bands I find totally over rated, mentioned 3 above but forgot a couple. So - GNR, Kiss, Aerosmith, Journey, Grand Funk Railroad and Bon Jovi. A couple of Aerosmith songs are OK, but generally speaking dont collect any of the above lolol. Theres just to much other great stuff out there to bother with those. Cya Doug
@@douglasweston126 Yea - Aerosmith is a funny band to me. I appreciate them, but never listen to them, and I have all their albums. Certainly the earlier albums I enjoy much more than the later day albums.
Don't agree with a good bit of this list, but I can agree on Springsteen and Nirvana. Springsteen has been on a gradual downhill slide post-BITUSA. His first few albums are easily his best, although he still puts on a great live show. Nirvana? "Never mind" is a good way to view this band - along with GNR, probably one of the most overrated bands of the past nearly 30 years. Post-1990, there really aren't many rock bands of note, though some have had middling success.
For me as well, hasn't been too many "modern" bands that grabbed me like those early classic bands. I will say that Tunnel Of Love is my "go-to" Springsteen album. I really love that album. Thanks again.
Good Morning Alan!
Good Morning Joe - hope you enjoyed the video.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Yes i did!
@@user-eu2jn1pf8d Thanks so much - really appreciate it.
I agree with everything Alan exept for Queen lol.Always thought Crosby was just ok,Nevermind I get through maybe two songs and that's it.Out Of The Blue maybe if you listen to it on cd instead of 8 track you'd like it lol.My favorite song by Harrison is Crackerbox Palace.Waters for saying how great he was and was Pink Floyd ya didn't do jack for 50 some years
Thanks Tom - you may be right - doesn't sound the best on 8-track - I have a friend who swears by that album.. Something about ELO and me though. Not at the level of annoyance of Queen (sorry about that Tom), but close. I remember when Crackerbox Palace came out - it's a good tune...a "nice" tune...lol. Definitely a highlight of 33 1/3...but don't know if that's saying that much...lol. Best, Alan PS Have a great weekend Tom.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow You also my friend.I'm with you on ELO not a big go to band for me either.But I do love the Move who mutated into ELO.Same with Van Morrison I haven't played that album in years.But some people swear by that album.
Nothing on that list suprises me. I'm with you on Nebraska. Atlantic City is one of my top three tracks by Bruce Springsteen but the rest of the album can be a hard listen for me. Coincidentally, I just picked up Songs In The Key Of Life last week at a Goodwill for a couple of bucks. That album seems to be on a lot of top 10 records of all time lists so I had to get it. I've played it once and I don't know what the big deal is. Astral Weeks is another one, I don't get the hype.
Thanks Tarr - funny timing about Songs In The Key Of Life. I can't even get through it. It's so damn long and uneven. A great example of Critics and the Grammys going overboard. I think he won best album three years in a row back then - I'd have to research it. Glad I'm not alone with Nebraska too. Thought I'd get my head handed to me with that. But yea Atlantic City is also one of my favorites of all time. Best, Alan
I just got a copy of 'Songs in the Key of Life' on vinyl recently and listened to it for the first time in a long while. I liked it very much. Yeah, it's a long album, two LPs plus the 33-rpm single with four more songs, but it has that signature Stevie style: the pacing and variety of the music are just wonderful. I think it and 'Talking Book' are my two Stevie faves.
@@alekhidell3644 Yea - it's certainly a classic - Grammy best album etc, but for me just too long - I lose patience with it.
Really enjoyed this!
Thanks so much! - Really appreciate it.
Highly disagree with most of your picks lol... I guess we have different ears, we all have opinions so I respect your choices.
-Crosby's if I can only remember my name is an absolute masterpiece. Crosby is a brilliant songwriter, check out his last run of albums
-Astral Weeks is the only Van Morrison album i can stomach (it's brilliant though)
-Out of the Blue is the best ELO album, not a dud on the album
-Bowies Darkstar, to me it's incredible. However i do find it a tough listen due to the circumstances.
-Queen's run of 70s albums is flawless imo (your nuts on this one)
-Nirvana was a game changer, it changed the course of music. It came out when I was in high school and EVERYONE loved it, the jocks, the goths, the nerds...etc
Agree with you completely on Roger Waters, LIz Phair, and i'm not as informed on Springsteen (i'm still getting into his deeper catalog), same goes for Stevie W.
Finally, Harrison's All Things Must Pass is brilliant and better than any Beatle solo album, but after that you are right, spotty catalog. Captian Beefheart is a fave of mine but yes he is an acquired taste, especially that album.
Thanks so much for your awesome honest opinion and critique. Wonderful. You are so right - we all have our own ears. Nice to hear from a true fan of Astral Weeks - was wondering if there really are any...lol. I do think Van Morrison has so many other albums that are far better. I think Crosby's album is an interesting soundscape but not much in the way of songs. I have heard his later albums were pretty great, but honestly I haven't given them a shot - As he is my least favorite of the four of them - perhaps I will. Nirvana was, as you so correctly said, a massive game changer - literally changed the industry - so certainly not overrated in that sense. I just feel like I'm missing something with them. But I'm older so wouldn't effect me the same way. As timing and our life stage is a huge influence on the music and what we're absorbing. So I totally get that. All Things Must Pass is absolutely incredible (well except the 3rd jam album). Probably the best Beatle solo album with Band On The Run, but beyond that - very spotty inconsistent career. Thanks again. Alan
Heck, ALL FOUR of the Beatles' solo careers were/are highly uneven. They were definitely a case where the whole was greater than the sum of the parts. Also: agree totally on Queen and ELO. Never have been able to get into them; David Bowie either for that matter. I stopped paying attention to Pink Floyd after Roger Waters left, and I've never paid any attention to Waters' solo stuff. (I did have that 'Hitchhiking' album back in the day, but mostly because it had that girl's naked ass on the cover [the original release wasn't censored] - what can I say, I was like 19 years old.) And I can certainly understand about 'Trout Mask Replica' because it's just so bizarre. But the music is extraordinary.
Just did a video tonight of sexiest album covers - Pros And Cons of Hitchhiking is the first album - you're not alone my friend.
I don't own any of those albums. I have Queen's greatest hits.
MY SWEET LORD is reason enough to not buy ALL THINGS MUST PASS.
I think the great majority of Queens "fans" own the greatest hits album(s) and that's about it, or at least that's what they listen to. All Things Must Pass is a great album, amongst the best solo Beatle albums for sure, even if you don't like My Sweet Lord.....although maybe not...lol
I totally agree on Black Star, Astral Weeks, Nevermind and Roger Waters. I never got into Nebraska except Atlantic City and maybe Johnny 99. The most overrated Album on my list is "Pet Sounds". I tried and tried, but I cannot find anything outstanding. The hits are great, the rest is weak.
Thanks so much. Pet Sounds was like my first choice until I listened to it the night before. I really enjoyed it and it had been a long time since I played it. So off the list it went. Go figure, right. I do love Atlantic City - best song on the album in my opinion too.
Overrated is subjective. These albums are crucial in their discography and it may somehow put the artist on the map. So, overrated is a stretch when the album is actually good. If it consist of only their hit then yes, it is overrated but not if the album itself overall is great.
Showing underrated albums by the same artist would be a better episode.
Interesting topic. Underrated albums. For another video though. But of course everything is subjective. That’s the beauty of music. The only thing that matters is how it effects us personally. But I do think it’s valid to talk about albums we may in fact really like but can admit they’re overrated by the critical establishment. That they’re not among the greatest albums of all time or even the artists best album.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow absolutely! But I would never call these albums overrated because they get too much exposure. There’s a reason they do. Even albums that I can’t stand such as Hotel California, So, 2112, or Nevermind. I have to take the year it came out and what was out at that time and why it made such an impact.
Sgt. Pepper could never be overrated because of the artist statement it made at he time it came out. It was such a musical and cultural statement regarding pop music that it will be an icon forever even though I am tired of Lucy in the Sky, Lively Rita, and Good Morning.
What was the artist trying for at the time?
@@randytaylor220 I definitely agree - which I was i wouldn never put Sgt. Peppers, The Wall, Born To Run, Hotel California - as overrated. Possibly for me "overplayed". None of my choices would fit that category in my opinion. Best, Alan
It's rare that I know what is going on on a Bowie album. lol. But I love his music just the same. But BS is pretty amazing given its circumstances and production. For some reason I got it in my head that Songs in the Key was SW's best lp and I got it on lp, cd, and blu ray. It is a long set and is probably best listened to one lp with a break. Do people ever listen to 90 mins albums ever? Nebraska for what it is is not overrated. Great playing singing and songwriting recorded with a cassette deck? C'mon. But an interesting list for sure. Personally, I think most solo Beatles had mediocre solo lps. The frisson was in the group. Night at the Opera for me is a classic and still holds up.
Thanks so much for your honest opinion and critique. I agree that Nebraska is amazing for what it is and what a courageous move to do that at that time - really something. I enjoy it. Just don't think it approaches his greatest albums - which is where most critics put it. Atlantic City though is an all time top song for me. Songs In The Key Of Life is so long - perhaps it needs two sittings, but then that kind of proves my point - there are tons of double albums and 2 disc albums I don't need to do that with. Blackstar was such a courageous way to go out. Such an artistic move - he went out the way he wanted - amazing. But as an album it's not near a favorite Bowie album of mine and I don't rate it near his classics, which is where many critics place it - thus overrated for me. Thanks so much again.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I really enjoyed the remaster of Nebraska. It sounded pretty good I thought. Not sure if the early versions sounded so great. Blackstar for me was off the hook, but not among the greatest. Visconti was one of Bowie's secret weapons, maybe a lot on that album. Yeah, the double lp Songs has an extra mini 33 rpm with 4 songs. Crazy. I've never seen that done before.
@@mondoenterprises6710 yea that was a ton of music from Wonder. Nebraska was so lofi that interesting that remaster would sound so much better. But possibly. I have the original cd.
I got Songs in the Key of Life for 1 penny from my record club. I only ever listened to Sir Duke.
Lol - I used to love the Columbia House Record Club. I did that one and also RCA (which wasn't as good as Columbia). I hear you with that album.
I agree with you on Queen and Nirvana. I think Freddie Mercury is a talented singer, but I don't like opera with my rock which he incorporates into Queen's music, a lot. If he liked opera, he should've made an opera album. How do I say this, I like raw masculinity in my rock and roll, not camp, sorry. I think Nirvana is a decent garage band. I think the same about R.E.M. but I think neither are great. I have my list as well:
1. A Night at the Opera - I think it's a bit of a mess. WAY too much opera!!!
2. Nevermind - I think it's a decent album, not a great album. Ten is WAY better!
3. Appetite for Destruction - I like Welcome to the Jungle, that's it. Axl's voice gets on my last damn nerve!!! I also think Slash is somewhat overrated as a guitarist. He's good but not nearly as good as Jimmy Page, Jimi Hendrix or Eddie Van Halen.
4. Van Halen II: I'm not a DLR fan. I think he's overrated but, the only VH albums I like with DLR are the first and last. I could care less about the rest.
5. No Jacket Required - It won a ton of Grammy's, and I expected greatness. I just like the hits and the bonus track Don't Look Back. The rest, total filler!!
6. London Calling - I like the title track and Train in Vain, the rest, not so much!
7. High-N-Dry - Is it bad? No. Is it better than Pyromania or Hysteria?! I don't think so.
8. Slippery When Wet - I think almost everything from Bon Jovi is bland.
9. Let's Dance - I love David Bowie the rock star more than David Bowie the musician. I expected a lot from Let's Dance and I thought it was a bit of a letdown.
10. Led Zeppelin III: I love IV, II, Houses, Physical Graffiti (NOT OVERRATED AT ALL) and ITTOD, which gets crapped on a lot. This one does nothing for me, and I've tried a few times. I don't hate it, but I find it a bit boring after Immigrant Song.
Thanks for watching and your comments. I certainly agree with most of them. I did Bon Jovi in the video big bands I "hate". Same kind of thiing - so overrated. I agree with Guns 'n Roses - they're the real deal, sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. But the overall discography is so overrated. I'm a big Bowie fan but always thought Let's Dance, the album, is overrated. Led Zep III - I'm with you. amongst my least favorite Zep albums. And as you know Queen at the top of my list. So "campy" as you said. Thanks again.
Nirvana nevermind
Yep - on my list.
So first time watching one your videos which was a TH-cam suggestion and almost turned it off when you said you didn’t like ELO and Queen and DO like Springsteen. Our tastes aren’t going to mesh. With that said, I DO see your point with Out of the Blue. A New World Record is my favorite and while I like OOTB, it has almost too much sheen and there are tracks I skip. And while I don’t like Springsteen and hard for me make a claim, I don’t get the love for Nebraska. Boring as all get out. 😂
As for Queen? You’re dead wrong on fans listening to only the hits. Far from it. I love the deep cuts on all the 70’s albums and listen to the full albums, especially A Night at the Opera and The Game. But I will concede they are a bit “inconsistent” because of 4 writers and their 80’s output beyond The Game is not so good. People talk about “Hot Space”, but “The Miracle” is awful. Embarrassing tracks.
But overall good analysis.
Black star by Bowie is my most listened to album by him, it is wonderful.
That’s awesome. Surprising. We’re you already a fan for decades or relatively new when it came out. Curious
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Yes a fan, not major [Tom], but owned a few albums and videos plus a few compilations.
@@TheRamblingsofBry that’s awesome. I could see it being a major Bowie album more for a newer fan. Even though it’s so uncommercial. So nice to see it appeals to you so much. Wonderful.
I think Low is an over rated Bowie album. I wish David Crosby would have put more songs like Cowboy Movie on his first solo album. I think Cowboy Movie is great but the rest of the album, with the exception of Laughing, is just okay. Not an ELO fan. Queen are too theatrical for me. I purged all my Bruce Springsteen except Born To Run and Darkness On The Edge Of Town. I like Pink Floyd but have never listened to any of their solo albums. Songs In The Key Of Life is a perfect example of a double album that would have been better as a single album. All the Beatles had pretty weak solo careers when compared to the Beatles. They all started out good but they all drove off a cliff rather quickly. I have all the Captain Beefheart albums. Trout Mask Replica is a turd. I’ve been meaning to do a Captain Beefheart ranking video but I can’t get through the records. I need to do that video and then purge about half the albums.
I did enjoy this. It is a great idea for a video.
Thanks so much Vinyl Richie. As I hated Trout Mask Replica, I've never tried any other Beefheart albums. So its interesting to hear you have all of them and that TMR is a turd. Always figured it was his "best" considering TMR's reputation - though also very honest to say you can't get through his albums and would purge like half. And yea Springsteen is kind of unique with me - when I love his albums, I LOVE them and many do nothing for me. Best, Alan
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I think you would like Clear Spot by Captain Beefheart.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Check out
Crazy Little Thing
Sun Zoom Spark
Nowadays A Woman’s Gotta Hit A Man
@@TheAlanRosenbergShowCheck out
Crazy Little Thing
Nowadays a Woman’s Gotta Hit A Man
Too Much Time
@@vinylrichie007 Thanks so much - will take your advise and check it out - I've seen it out in the wild on occasion.
Don't get discouraged by the comments, it's your opinion. It is the music industry that creates an album to be overrated, by their marketing and radio playing songs over and over, so we rush out and buy them - critics telling us great they are, when not.
Thanks - never want to offend anyone. I just think my opinions are really valid but on 50 years of serious listening. But in the end, just my opinion, and music is supposed to effect us all individually. That's what's most important. Thanks again.
Well, it is the Alan Rosenberg Show…not the Tom, Dick and Rasul Show, so don’t worry about offending different points of view. This is your point of view based on a lifetime of critical listening. Sure any of these lists are going to rub some people the wrong way, but they can either publish their own list, or write a rebuttal.
@@anthonyaswe4174 Thanks again - and I never mind hearing an opposing view.
i really love Queen and Freddie is maybe among top three leading vocalists with Mick and Mr Mojo Risin. Queen has some of the best songs ever made, but I agree with you that they are not in the running for any perfect albums. Most of their albums are half good half boring to me. I think The Game is their strongest album.
Thanks - you totally nailed my opinion on Queen. Many massive classic hits that get perpetually played but their albums are average at best. Their reputation has massively grown because of those hits.
Oh man, Alan…I just love dumping over apple carts-and actually, your choices are pretty fair and measured. I would take much more glee in slaughtering numerous sacred cows. For me, any time an “Overrated” list comes out, there’s one title that leaps to mind before any other-and by a long measure-Sgt Pepper. I started feeling that way when I first heard the record as a young teen…and I’ve listened to it countless times, various versions-stereo, mono, first pressings, remasters, and I always come away feeling the same feeling. I don’t understand why, to this end, every all time greatest list that comes out has THAT at the top…????? I’ll just say I respectfully disagree, without getting into the minutia of the music. I mean I don’t think it’s “bad”-I certainly recognize its uniqueness, originality, maybe even its genius-but to me, it’s overrated, especially since most of the songs always struck me as overly cloying.
And I’ve got to find room on my list for Pet Sounds…I kinda feel about that album the way you feel about Astral Weeks. And yes, Astral Weeks is an interesting album, but I never understood what place it had in any “all time” Top 10.
Funny you mention Blackstar-I found it nearly unlistenable. Remember my bloodletting-sell off when I was desperately broke and selling anything I could to get a few dollars in my pocket? Including The Bill Evans rusting metal box set? Well, guess what ELSE was in the pile that day😱🤮😂😲
Finally, I think another album that deserves reconsideration is Born to Run. I mean, I will acknowledge that the songs on the album are great-but the sound, the production….it just seems to clash with the music and the lyrics. Here are 8 evocative, powerful, city-scape tone poems, that are turned into mushy, dense, echo-drenched Phil Spector mud. I mean, from the light romance of Thunder Road, to the R n B Stax stomp of Tenth Avenue, to the operatic Jungleland-it was just too thick, too pretty, too Wall of Mush…again, the songs were so striking, I think a leaner (and more modern) sound would have been been better for those songs. Too much of it was too Broadway for me.
Initially I thought of Pet Sounds, but the night before I listened to it. It's the only Beach Boys "studio album" I own. And I really enjoyed it...so off the list. Sgt. Peppers is an easy target. I don't ever have the need to listen to it. Many of it's songs are overrated. But no doubt it was so groundbreaking (I was too young to really appreciate what it did). And of course it still sells a bazillion copies. So I wouldn't put it on there. Great to hear your story about Blackstar. As for Born To Run - I NEVER listen to it. Too overplayed. But no doubt the songs are mostly incredible so would never appear on my list. I actually like the overblown Spector like production. Thanks as always.
I absolutely not agree with you on Bowie, ELO and Van Morrison. I love these records and Astral Weeks is the only Morrison album I regularly listen to. For the rest I can agree with what you said.
Thanks so much - Nice to hear from someone who regularly listens to Astral Weeks. You all got to be out there, but you're the first I've heard from. Thanks again.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I am 74 years old. This album is a part of the soundtrack of my life
@@renetrachet Fair enough and nice to hear. That's what music is all about - so nice to hear from someone on the side that Astral Weeks is amongst the greatest albums of all time.
Queen II is considered by many Queen fans and music critics as his best work, and that's precisely the one that you don't have listening, so seems a bit neglectful on your side. In the other hand, I'm huge Bowie fan, but The Next Day is an average album that sounds like Retro Bowie with nothing new to add to his career, while in Blackstar even if not all the songs are in a similar level of quality, an album that has a couple of classics like homonymous title track and Lazarus already deserves all the glory, because Bowie didn't have that kind of greatness in new songs, since 1995's Outside album.
I've heard that many times from Queen fans. But c'mon - I bought and listened to what 7 of their other classic albums and listened to them each at least 5 times. If that doesn't give me the right to judge their classic career, because I don't have Queen II. You have a point to a small extent. If someone listened to every Stones album except for Exile and they didn't care for every album. I'd say you should check out Exile, but if you don't like every other one, you're probably not gonna care for Exile that much either. I'll get Queen II eventually just for completion purposes and give it a fair shot.
I do think Lazarus is incredible and the title track is very good - I say so in the video, but I enjoy The Next Day much more. I thought Next Day which was a surprise release at the time, was a wonderful very strong album and still do.
Clash Sandinista. Beachboys sunflower. Ramones end of the century. Bowie diamond dogs. Springsteen's sham of a first marriage called tunnel of love. Any u2 album. Radiohead ok computer
Great example of personal taste - I LOVE Sandinista - but a lot of fat on it for sure. Don't have Sunflower. End Of The Century is OK, but I don't think of it considered as a "classic album". Diamond Dogs is like my personal favorite (was my first Bowie album with David Live). Lol
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow so true about personal taste. Celebrity leaves a bad taste with me. It's always about the music not the musician for me. Hype and ballyhoo devalues the music. Ramones as people were definitely not role models for me,. Bono as well. Don't like ham. Many overrated lps followed the artist best work. Trowers for earth below a perfect example. Trower agreed. Wished he had released victims of the fury, a worthy follow up to bridge of sighs.
@@SpenceCurry Sometimes it can be hard to separate the music from the "artist". I try very hard. Hell, Roger Waters, for me, is the perfect example. I'm just talking about his music. Not easy for me to separate him from that, but I do.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow waters . Miserable self pitying mediocre bassist. Give me gilmour.
@@SpenceCurry I’m with you 1000 percent
Love your channel but totally disagree with most of your choices. We all connect to different music for different reasons. Crosby’s album has always been in my top 10 since I bought it back in 1971. It got terrible reviews in the day, and only just recently got reappraised. For decades it was, in my opinion, vastly underrated and nearly forgotten. I agree with Bowie’s final album Black Star. I prefer The Next Day. Same with Lennon’s Double Fantasy. Originally it received lukewarm reviews and then as soon as he was murdered the album was deemed a masterpiece. However Harrison’s final album Brainwashed is one of my all time favorites.
Thanks so much. I completely respect youre disagreement with at least some of my choices. At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is that music effects us - makes us happy, or sad, but is more than just a passing background noise. Music also effects us in timing - when we hear it - our moods etc. Also remember that I own all the albums I showed (except Trout Mask Replica which I used to own). So many of the albums I showed I "like", like the Crosby album. I just think they're overrated in that they often appear in lists of greatest albums of all time. I don't think they're that good. Thanks so much again.
Life sure would be boring if we all liked the same music. I always look forward to watching your TH-cam videos. Can’t wait for your next one.
@@albarton7189 so so true. Thanks so much.
All those mentioned are bloody fantastic compared with ABBA's Formulaic Dross 😂
That's probably true. I have one Abba album - Abba Gold. Not sure why I have it. It never gets played.
Agree with your Waters opinion
Thanks so much.
Agree Harrison is overrated and his solo career was inconsistent 😮 I feel the same about John Lennon solo career had great stuff but overall was inconsistent.
Absolutely true. I certainly could have picked Ringo as well - Ringo is also in the R&RHOF as a solo artist, somehow. The power of The Beatles.
I like a lot of those albums but I wouldn't rate any of them really 'great' except for Songs in the Key of Life so I give you a 9/10 :)
Thanks Mark. Funny - I put on Songs In The Key of Life a couple of months ago. I hadn't heard it in ages. Got in a Stevie Wonder mood. And I gotta say, I had trouble - I couldn't get through the whole thing - just soooo long and inconsistent. I had to stop. Yes some great classic songs - but oh how I wish it was a single album. Anyway - he sure is a musical genius...even if he wasn't blind. Unbelievable talent.
I disagree with some of these, and agree with others. But, generally, I would say this: everything is overrated or underrated unless I'm the one who did the rating. Lol! You know what I'm saying? Everybody thinks what they like and don't like is the final word. And that's how it should be. Nobody will ever convince me that Trout Mask Replica or Daydream Nation is a masterpiece. And no one will ever convince me that The Wild, The Innocent & the E Street Shuffle isn't the best Springsteen album. My opinions carry the most weight - with me! And that's what counts. But these lists, and these arguments are fun to do.
You are so right. I agree completely. And I try to point that out in some videos. That's the greatest thing about music. There is no right or wrong. It's meant to be emotional and great us and hopefully become part of our DNA. But these videos can be fun, hopefully turn on some great music to people who are unfamiliar, and also give our opinions based on decades of listening to critical bullshit that we occasionally see. But you are so right. Best, Alan
Trowers for earth below killed his momentum. The subsequent trower live more studio than live. Best his coast to coast live and king bisquit 1977.
I'm such a modest Trower fan - I think I only have four of his albums - don't listen to him much. I've seen the King Biscuit live. I own the classic Trower live album.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow that classic trower album was doctored and studio tweaked worse than peter gabriel plays live. Dewar singing crucial to towers success. Post dewars reveal just how
valuable he was. With the exception of ,twentieth century blues wastes of time and money
@@SpenceCurry I will take your word for it. I’m no Trower expert
Dude has an 8 track of OUt of the blue. Oh snap!
Lol. I do. And many others. And I play them too. Lol
"Out of the Blue" and Night at the Opera" rule
Thanks for watching. I'm glad you love them. You're definitely not alone.
Nebraska is Springsteen’s best album, it knows what it is unlike most of his albums.
I was waiting for this - you're not alone in your feelings. And I again, I like Nebraska, but certainly have to be in the mood for it. I think it's one of the most courageous releases by an artist of that caliber - putting the breaks on his career at that time. Brilliant move. But overall, for me, I don't think it comes close to his best album and I relatively rarely go to it. But just my opinion. And Springsteen is unique for me. He has the 2nd most top 3 albums of the year for me of any artist (only behind The Stones), yet has many albums that did nothing for me. But he's an artist with a capital A - and I appreciate his efforts and uniqueness, even if it doesn't always work for me. Thanks so much.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow the problem I have with Springsteen’s music on the whole is it doesn’t know hat it wants to be, it’s mish mash of a bunch of influences that sometimes works and many times doesn’t, that’s why I think Nebraska is his best album, it knows exactly what it is which makes it cohesive to listen to and it has a loose theme too, it sounds authentic where as his full band albums sound convoluted and contrived to me, they try to be too many things at once and it’s confusing to listen to them except maybe Darkness on The Edge Of Town.
@@sspbrazil Nebraska certainly cohesive. Springsteen recorded on his little cassette. Personally I think many of his albums are very cohesive. Tunnel Of Love is my personal favorite, The Rising. Even born in The USA. At least to me.
i really hate trout mask replica but do hate also shaggs's philosophy of the world, overrated.
Thanks - I don't even know that other album, but if it's anything like Trout Mask, I don't want to know...lol
I still can't believe Stevie Wonder plays drums better than Alan Rosenberg!!!
Lol.....that Stevie Wonder guy can play everything well...Thanks
I love ELO, but most double albums are too long. Out Of The Blue is no exception... all the songs are great, but prefer A New World Record which is the perfect length. I can't remember if you liked Quadrophenia or not... I feel the same way about Quadrophenia, the songs are good but it's too long.
get ready.....Quadrophenia is my favorite Who album and in the top 5 of my favorite albums of all time. That album is in my DNA. But I understand where you're coming from. I think it's an incredibly powerful piece of work and I got into it when I was like 13 so really effected me too. Also I love the movie..lol Thanks so much.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow Oh wow... I think if I had first heard it when I was younger, I might have been able to digest it all at once. The movie was great, I agree.
@@recordrabbit Yea - one of my favorite movies of all time as well.
I agree with about a quarter of them....The rest I'm like.....Seriously WTF!!!!! Maybe you should of
had dinner first!!!
lol- well thanks for watching and commenting. Remember, I own and like these albums - they're just not amongst the "greatest albums of all time" in my opinion.
Exile overrated? unbelievable take from whoever said that. That actually makes me sad, very shallow look by that person. Now i am getting upset hahahhaha. Exile is top 50 all time at very worst. Sweet Virginia, Dice, Rocks off, and Shine A Light are freaking gems.
Absolutely. Whoever that was was looking for hits - commercial tracks - wrong album beyond Tumbling Dice. Perfect album in my opinion. Though I still think Sticky Fingers is number one. Best, Alan
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow I totally agree, and yes nothing can touch Sticky Fingers. The perfect album. I'm not sure what my number two Stones album is. I just bought the vinyl for the 2015 Sticky Fingers anniversary show at the Fonda Theater. I was too much of a cheapskate to buy tickets back then and it was my first year living in California. So this was my way of atoning for that mistake and the vinyl sounds great. Great performances as well.
@@fizzlebomber674 Unique show for sure - only time they've ever done something like that - although they didn't play it in order - Jagger thought it got too mellow and fans couldn't handle it live. Unbelievable to me. They did do a really good job though. Thanks again.
I think your musical tastes are similar to mine. I have always disliked ELO. Much of their music sounds generic to me. Queen is also not my cup of tea. Their form of Pomp Rock lacks guts in my opinion. And their later career was underwhelming. Nirvana was an important band but after a few listens the songs lose their lustre. I have never listened to a Roger Waters solo album. Cheers.
Thanks so much - sounds like we have a lot in common musically. No need to dig into Waters solo career - that's for sure. I do really enjoy Gilmours solo career though.
George overrated? Seems to me that John and Paul’s solo stuff is overrated, especially Paul’s. Even though i love The Beatles band & solo, i guess you’re not a fan of Traveling Wilburys,are you?
Love the first Traveling Wilburys album. 2 nd just ok. I have the boxset too which is nice. I agree that Lennon and McCartney solo careers are also overrated and variable quality.
What about poor Ringo 🤣
@@derekroberts6654 I wouldn't say Ringo's solo career is "overrated". With the exception of the "Ringo" album, just not that good. But I don't think too many people ever thought of Ringo as a great songwriter, so really not that highly rated to begin with - not like Lennon, McCartney or Harrison.
The first 5 Elo albums are good up to face the music. After that garbage.
I got Eldorado on 8-track too - working on that one - better than Out Of The Blue so far - thanks.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow the best are Elo 2 and on the third day
i wouldnt argue about any of these.
Looking forward to your video of this.
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow actually i did a video awhile ago thatll be posted next week thats not this but similar. but itll be my last video for the foreseeable future. maybe ever.
@@STEVEHEROLD What are you talking about? Why?
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow yeh 'fraid so. mutliple reasons. i'm still working on the road. won't be home until august. still planning on trying to get out your way for a Looney Tunes visit and to behold the Rosenberg Archives.
@@STEVEHEROLDNo way Dude!
cool shirt alan
Thanks - not a real concert - Mikefest was a party we held for my son and got those shirts made up. Thanks for noticing.
Does Taylor Swift have 10 albums yet? There’s your 10 overrated alblummms.
I'm sure she has more than 10 with all her Taylor versions
I think Steely Dan is soooo overrated and as well everything with Michael McDonald- i just don’t get him.
Ooh topic for another day maybe. I can't stand Michael McDonald - I have No Michael McDonald in my collection except for appearance on Doobie Brothers compilations. I love the "classic" Steely Dan period, but from Gaucho onward the albums haven't grabbed me.
I love amused to death too
yea - gotta say that album is spectacular - up there with Dark Side, Wish You Were Here and Animals (and The Wall). Best, Alan
Queen … ugh. Never got them.
phew - me too - personally I think I nailed their success story, but there are some Queen fans on the defensive, understandably. Thanks so much. Alan
@@TheAlanRosenbergShow in about 1980 it was fun to hear Bites the Dust or Thing Cslled Love at the roller rink otherwise I had no use for them.
@@Twotontessie Yea - they sure were huge hits. I don't need to hear them again either.
His Band and Street Choir and Tupelo Honey are also great Van the Man albums.
@@jasonpp1973 yea - I especially love Tupelo Honey as well.
Crosby, Nirvana & Springsteen 100% right, Morrison, Phair & Wonder 100% wrong 😊
Fair enough - I'm a big fan of Morrison, and Liz Phair - moderate fan of Stevie Wonder - I like those albums - just don't think they're amongst the true greatest albums of all time nor even their best albums. Thanks again.
Most overrated artists ever:
1. Limp Bizkit (absolutely hate them - and nothing good about them whatsoever)
2. Rage Against The Machine (Tom Morello is not only an overly political a-hole, but he's a very overrated guitarist)
3. Babymetal (I honestly don't get the concept of this band, given the fact that none of the singers play any instruments)
4. Nickelback (their power ballads are above average, but their sleazy rockers are pure crap)
5. Bruce Springsteen (turns me off when he gets overly political)
6. U2 (see RATM and Springsteen)
7. R.E.M. (ditto with RATM, Springsteen and U2, plus Michael Stipe's whiny voice annoys me)
8. Bob Dylan (can't stand his voice, despite him being a legend and great songwriter)
9. Bon Jovi (most overplayed artist on classic rock and all purpose Top 40 radio)
10. Lamb Of God (I do like metal, but I can't stand heavy bands that scream or growl in their lyrics)
tie Slipknot (I just like Corey Taylor's other band Stone Sour better)
tie Nirvana (Kurt Cobain's songwriting talent is the only good talent he had)
tie The Smiths (would like them much better if Morrissey's voice wasn't so whiny)
tie Poison (very overplayed glam metal band, and the epitome of pop-metal)
tie Soul Coughing (I don't get the concept of that band, and their music is actually lousy)
tie KISS (anymore, their music is like a bumpy ride on a roller coaster)
Thanks for your comprehensive list. Some of those are not even in my collection - they wouldn't even make it in my collection...lol. I am a huge fan of U2, Bob Dylan and much of R.E.M (but not all of REM). Bon Jovi already was in my hated band video...lol. Thanks again.
Oh, I dunno...Astral Weeks is , like, a Top 10 album.🤷
I know, just a mystery to me. Would barely be in my top 10 Morrison albums (and I'm a fan of his - I have a lot of Van Morrison). Thanks.
Blackstar is a great record for a 68 year old man dying of cancer to make. Come on man. Nice printer, though.
I agree with you. And a really gutsy album. So uncommercial. He went out on his own terms. I just don’t think it amongst his best albums.
Try this on for size. Most overrated band of all time: The Doors. Jim Morrison was an awful poet and had an ugly voice. I like 'Riders on the Storm' and 'The End' and that's about it. Everything else is meh. Another overrated band: Black Sabbath. I like Ozzy's early solo stuff (with Randy Rhoads) but B.S. is just that to me: BS.
Definitely personal taste of course. I did a deep dive into Black Sabbath (because I was never a huge fan) and did a video review a few years ago. I like them but I'm kind of with you. The Doors are so unique and I really like.....when I'm in the mood.....which is not that often. I've never been into poetry and I'm with you. Morrison's poetry...hell Patti Smith's poetry (and I'm a big fan of hers) leave me cold and relatively uninterested. Oftentimes a bunch of jibberish to me that leaves me cold and says nothing to me. Thanks so much.
Great video! I completely agree that pretty much every Queen album is overrated. They are one of the most overrated bands of all time.
Yes, true. Without a doubt.
Thanks Zach - You know I'm with you on that.
Most overrated BAND is the Stones!!! I love their old stuff but there must be 50 bands I love more!!!
Was waiting for The Stones to appear. I respect your opinion. You're not alone. But as you know, I certainly don't agree. Greatest band of all time for me and I love even a lot of the newer stuff - I think many of their later day albums are seriously underrated.... Best, Alan
Sorry man but I cant see the meaning of this program......
Sure original hippies like David Crosby or punks like the Nirvana album....
.
Sorry you didn't enjoy. Simple concept. From having and reading countless books and articles on the "greatest albums of all time", I just felt like pointing out 10 albums and two artists that always appear on the lists that I think are overrated, although I may still like some of them to a point. Anyway, thanks for watching and commenting.
Hi there, With all due respect, I think we understand where you're coming from. Maybe the prblem is that you're just too rich and have waaaay too much money to actually appreciate anything that is not instantly fabulous in your view. In your videos you certainly have a huge amount of music to listen to and as I said, perhaps it's just far, far too much for you to appreciate it. Money is clearly no object as you list soooooomany box sets, records etc.....I just thnk you can't appreciate it because there;s too much for you, quantity wise.
Just so you know. I am far from rich. I actually live in a pretty small house. And I show all my purchases in the haul videos. In fact I tell where I bought them and how much I paid. Virtually every album I buy is used and years old. I find them at used record stores (there are many where I live on Long Island), flea markets, estate sales and garage sales. And most CD's I buy (and they're great finds - are only a dollar or two. My quote is this is the golden age of buying CDs. And actually I listen to every new cd at least four or five times to decide if they make it into my database or not. I delete probably 20% of what I buy. My backlog is huge because I spend so much time on every purchase. I don't think too many people appreciate music more than me. And money is at a premium for me. You couldn't have me more wrong.
Queen the game is a great album!!! Two #1's and others.
They also did a movie about Queen and Elton John never overated.
My Queen purchasing stopped at The Game so I didn't get that one. Another One Bites The Dust and Crazy Little Thing Called Love are on the compilations I have and I never really need to listen to those two tracks again - so played out - but yea - great songs.
The Game album spent 5 weeks at #1 in 1980. I love there music and one of the top 100 bands all time, but not top 10.
Don't try suicide and the game songs are good.
@@BryanDean-id2rq I'll check them out - thanks again.
out of my 15-20,000 cds of most 70’s 80’s rock i have no queen no van morrison no bruce springsteen, only have 2-3 bowie, nirvana?? haha that’s garbage,. your delusional about crosby and waters,. geezus you didn’t see the pros cons tour? no stevie, no beatles for me,. no captain for me,..
funny how there’s no stones albums haha
That's actually incredible - your collection is like 3 to 4 times the size of mine and no Queen (I've no issue with that..lol), Van Morrison, Beatles or Springsteen, 2-3 Bowie. I have the Pros and Cons tour program..lol. I have a live bootleg. The songs on Pros and Cons are a meh at best. One mood that doesn't waiver through 40 boring minutes. Where's the melody, where's the hooks. There's one section that grabs me that's it. Not in the league of The Wall - must've been an easy decision for Floyd to choose which one to do. Great album cover though.
Freddie Mercurys voice is overrated too. And Nebraska is very overrated. Not more than two stars.
Thanks - I'd say Nebraska is good, but not near the top of his albums, which is where many critics put it. Mercury doesn't do much for me either.
Taylor swift
Some of her stuff I actually like.