Always expect to hate these, and there are some omissions people have mentioned that I would've liked to see as always but...this isn't bad. As others have said balancing quality and cultural relevancy this comes out great. And honestly, a list like this
should balance those. Anyone's individual list would be interesting, but since music is so subjective it would have albums that had zero real impact on anyone but a small audience. This somehow managed to weigh cultural import and quality pretty well. Those calling this a shit list might have a top 21 full of future uk garage or drone or post rock and while that's respectable (and I'd be into it) your list would be worthless to culture at large. [EDIT: Post above mine is proof. Metal and prog mean shit all in the 21st century. If you still listen to them? Go for it man. I'm into some of that. But give in to the fact that you are a vast cultural minority.]
MBDTF, Is This It has aged only okay but it definitely captures a time, I still herald Channel Orange, Stankonia's a good choice as is Sound of Silver, Sea Change isn't even close to my favorite Beck album but it's undeniably iconic, a good Jay album and the correct JT record, they made the right pick for best Vampire Weekend record, got some Dilla in there. Would love to see actual lists from people saying it's terrible; I
I've never even heard that Gil Scott Heron/Jamie XX album but I'm going to check it out today
It's so awesome. Can't wait for Jamie's solo album hopefully this year.
15. Gil Scott-Heron and Jamie XX - We're New Here
And no The xx - xx? WTF?
Gil and Jamie's is better.