Rock (1980s)

ABC [1982– ]

• The Lexicon of Love [1982, Mercury], B+
• The Best of ABC (20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection) [1982–87, Mercury], B–

Afghan Whigs [1988– ]

• Gentlemen [1993, Elektra], B+

Age of Chance [1987–1990]

• Crush Collision [1987, Virgin], B+

GG Allin (1956–93)

• The Troubled Troubadour + Bonus Tracks [1982–90, Mountain], C

Dave Alvin (1955– )

• Romeo's Escape [1987, Epic], B+
• Museum of Heart [1993, Hightone], B
• King of California [1994, Hightone], A
• Interstate City [1996, Hightone], B+
• Blackjack David [1998, Hightone], A–
• Public Domain: Songs From the Wild Land [2000, Hightone], B–

Phil Alvin (1953– )

• Unsung Stories [1986, Slash], B+
• County Fair 2000 [1994, Hightone], A–

Laurie Anderson (1947– )

• Big Science [1982, Nonesuch], A–
• Mister Heartbreak [1984, Warner Brothers], A–
• The United States Live [1984, Warner Brothers, 5 LP], A
• Home of the Brave [1986, Warner Brothers], A
• Strange Angels [1989, Warner Brothers], A+
• Bright Red / Tightrope [1994, Warner Brothers], B
• The Ugly One With the Jewels [1995, Warner Brothers], B
• Talk Normal: The Laurie Anderson Anthology [1982–95, Rhino, 2 CD], A–

Thomas Anderson

• Alright It Was Frank — And He's Risen from the Dead and Gone Off with his Truck [1988, Out There], A–
• Blues for the Flying Dutchman [1993, Dutch East], B+
• Bolide [1998, Red River], A–

Angry Samoans [1980–1988]

• Back from Samoa [1982, Triple X], A–
• Gimme Samoa [1982, PVC], A
• Gimme Samoa: 31 Garbage-Pit Hits [(1987), PVC], A–
• STP Not LSD [1988, PVC], B

Antietam [1985– ]

Sweet Pea Atkinson

• Don't Walk Away [1982, Island], B+

Aztec Camera [1983– ]

• High Land, Hard Rain [1983, Sire], A
• Knife [1984, Sire], B+
• Love [1987, Sire], A–
• Stray [1990, Sire], B

Babyface (1959– )

• The Day [1996, Epic], B+
• The Essential Babyface [1989–97, Epic], B+
• A Collection of His Greatest Hits [1989–2000, Epic], B+
• Face 2 Face [2001, Arista], B+

Bad Brains [1982– ]

• I Against I [1986, SST], B–
• Banned in D.C.: Bad Brains Greatest Riffs [1979–89, Caroline], B+

Bad Religion [1982– ]

• Into the Unknown [1983, Epitaph], B–

Philip Bailey (1951– )

• Chinese Wall [1984, Columbia], A–

Anita Baker (1958– )

• My Everything [2004, Blue Note], B–

Bananarama [1983– ]

• The Greatest Hits Collection [(1988), London], B

The Bangles [1982–1988]

• All Over the Place [1984, Columbia], B+
• Greatest Hits [1984–88, Columbia], B+
• We Are the '80s [1984–88, Columbia/Legacy], B

Lester Bangs (1949–82)

• Birdland with Lester Bangs [1986, Bacchus], B

The Beakers [1980–1981]

• Four Steps Toward a Cultural Revolution [1980–81, K], B

Regina Belle (1964– )

• Love Songs [1989–95, Columbia/Legacy], B–

Sandra Bernhard

• Without You I'm Nothing [1989, Capitol], B+

Big Audio Dynamite [1985– ]

• This Is Big Audio Dynamite [1985, Columbia], A–
• No. 10, Upping St. [1986, Columbia], B
• Tighten Up Vol. '88 [1988, Columbia], B

Big Black [1983–1992]

• Racer-X [1984, Homestead], B+
• Songs About Fucking [1987, Touch & Go], A–

Birdsongs of the Mesozoic [1984– ]

• Magnetic Flip [1984, Ace of Hearts], B+
• Sonic Geology [(1988), Rykodisc], B+

Black Flag [1981–1986]

• Who's Got the 10–1/2? [1986, SST], B+
• Wasted ... Again [(1987), SST], A–

Blake Babies [1987–1991]

• Sunburn [1990, Mammoth], A–

The Blasters [1980–1985]

• American Music [1980, Hightone], B+
• The Blasters [1981, Slash], B+
• Non Fiction [1983, Slash], A
• Hard Line [1985, Slash], A
• The Blasters Collection [(1980), Slash], A
• Live: Going Home [2003, Shout Factory], B+

Michael Bolton (1954– )

• The Essential Michael Bolton [1987–99, Columbia/Legacy, 2 CD], B–
• Bolton Swings Sinatra [2006, Concord], C+

Bow Wow Wow [1981–1983]

• We Are the '80s [1980–82, RCA/Legacy], B

Boy George

• A Night In With Boy George: A Chillout Mix [2002, Moonshine], B

Billy Bragg (1957– )

• Back to Basics [1983–85, Go! Discs], B–
• w/Wilco: Mermaid Avenue [1998, Elektra], A
• w/Wilco: Mermaid Avenue, Vol. 2 [2000, Elektra/Asylum], B+

The Brains [1980–1982]

• The Brains [1980, Mercury], A–

Bobby Brown (1969– )

• Don't Be Cruel [1988, MCA], A–
• Dance! ... Ya Know It! [1989, MCA], B

Julie Brown

• Goddess in Progress [1984, Rhino], A–
• Trapped in the Body of a White Girl [1987, Sire], B

T Bone Burnett (1945– )

• Truth Decay [1980, Takoma], B+
• Proof Through the Night [1983, Warner Brothers], B+
• The Criminal Under My Own Hat [1992, Columbia], A–
• Twenty Twenty: The Essential T Bone Burnett [1976–2003, Columbia/DMZ/Legacy, 2 CD], B+(**)
• The True False Identity [2006, DMZ/Columbia], A–
• Tooth of Crime [2008, Nonesuch], B+(**)

The Butthole Surfers [1983– ]

• Live PCPPEP [1984, Alternative Tentacles], B+
• Psychic ... Powerless ... Another Man's Sac [1985, Touch & Go], B
• Rembrandt Pussyhorse [1986, Touch & Go], B–
• Independent Worm Salon [1993, Capitol], B+

David Byrne (1952– )

• Songs from the Broadway Production of "The Catherine Wheel" [1981, Warner Brothers], A–
• Music for "The Knee Plays" [1985, ECM], B+
• The Knee Plays [1985, Nonesuch], A–
• Rei Momo [1989, Luaka Bop], B–
• Uh-Oh [1992, Luaka Bop], B–
• David Byrne [1994, Luaka Bop], A–

Camper Van Beethoven [1985–1990]

• Telphone Free Landslide Victory [1985, IRS], B+
• II and III [1986, IRS], B+
• Camper Van Beethoven [1986, IRS], A
• Vampire Can Mating Oven [1987, Pitch a Tent], B+
• The Third Album Plus Vampire Can Mating Oven [1986–87, Pitch a Tent], A–
• Our Beloved Revolutionary Sweetheart [1988, Virgin], B+
• Key Lime Pie [1989, Virgin], B

Ralph Carney

• I Like You (A Lot) [1999, Akron Cracker/Birdman], B
• Carneyball Johnson [2006, Akron Cracker], A–

Peter Case (1954– )

• Sings Like Hell [1994, Vanguard], A–

Nick Cave (1957– )

• Grinderman: Grinderman [2007, Anti-], B+(*)

Exene Cervenka (1956– )

• Old Wives' Tales [1989, Rhino], B

Tracy Chapman (1964– )

• Tracy Chapman [1988, Elektra], A–
• Crossroads [1989, Elektra], B

Toni Childs (1958– )

• Union [1988, A&M], B+

The Chills [1987– ]

• Brave Worlds [1988, Homestead], B+
• Submarine Bells [1990, Slash], A
• Soft Bomb [1992, Slash], A

Chumbawamba [1986– ]

• Wysiwyg [2000, EMI], B+

The Church [1981– ]

• Starfish [1988, Arista], B+

The Clean [1981– ]

• Compilation [1981–82, Homestead], B+
• Vehicle [1990, Rough Trade], B+
• Anthology [1981–96, Merge, 2 CD], B+

George Clinton (1940– )

• Computer Games [1982, Capitol], A
• You Shouldn't-Nuf Bit Fish [1983, Capitol], A
• Some of My Best Jokes Are Friends [1985, Capitol], B+
• w/Parliament, Funkadelic: Mothership Connection (Live from the Summit, Houston, Texas) [1985, Capitol], A–
• R&B Skeletons in the Closet [1986, Capitol], B
• The Best of George Clinton [1982–86, Capitol], A–
• Greatest Funkin' Hits [(1982), Capitol], A–
• The Cinderella Theory [1989, Paisley Park], B+
• Hey Man ... Smell My Finger [1993, Paisley Park], B
• Dope Dogs [1998, Dogone], A–

Colorblind James Experience [1987– ]

• Colorblind James Experience [1987, Fundamental], B+

Shawn Colvin (1956– )

• A Few Small Repairs [1996, Columbia], A–

Cowboy Junkies [1986– ]

• The Trinity Session [1988, RCA], B–

Marshall Crenshaw (1953– )

• Marshall Crenshaw [1982, Warner Brothers], A–
• Field Day [1983, Warner Brothers], A–
• Downtown [1985, Warner Brothers], A
• Mary Jean and Nine Others [1987, Warner Brothers], B
• Good Evening [1989, Warner Brothers], A–
• Life's Too Short [1991, MCA], A–
• Live ... My Truck Is My Home [1994, Razor & Tie], B
• The 9 Volt Years: Battery Powered Home Demos and Curios [(1998), Razor & Tie], B+
• #447 [1999, Razor & Tie], B

Cristina

• Cristina [1980, ZE], A–
• Doll in the Box [1980, ZE], A–
• Sleep It Off [1984, ZE], A–

The Cucumbers [1983– ]

• Who Betrays Me ... and Other Happier Songs [1985, Fake Doom], B+
• The Cucumbers [1987, Profile], A
• Where We Sleep Tonight [1994, Zero Hour], B

Culture Club [1982–1986]

• Colour By Numbers [1983, Virgin], B

Dag Nasty [1986–1992]

• Field Day [1988, Giant], B+

Danny and Dusty [1985– ]

• The Lost Weekend [1985, A&M], B+

Terence Trent D'Arby (1962– )

• Introducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D'Arby [1987, Columbia], A–
• Neither Fish Nor Flesh [1989, Columbia], B+
• Do You Love Me Like You Say: The Very Best of Terence Trent D'Arby (The Hits) [1987–95, Columbia/Legacy], A–

David and David

• Boomtown [1986, A&M], B+

Danielle Dax

• Dark Adapted Eye [1988, Sire], B

The dB's [1981– ]

• Repercussion [1982, IRS], B+
• Like This [1984, Rhino], A–
• The Sound of Music [1987, IRS], B

Dead Can Dance [1984– ]

• Momento [1985–96, Rhino/4AD], C–

The Dead Kennedys [1980–1991]

• Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables [1980, Cleopatra], B+

The Dead Milkmen [1985– ]

• Big Lizard in My Backyard [1985, Enigma], A–
• Bucky Fellini [1987, Enigma], B
• Beelzebubba [1988, Enigma], B

DeBarge [1981–1985]

• In a Special Way [1983, Motown], B+

El DeBarge (1964– )

• Heart, Mind and Soul [1994, Warner Brothers], B

Carmaig DeForest

• I Shall Be Released [1987, Good Foot], B+

Defunkt [1980– ]

• Heroes [1990, DIW], B

The Del-Lords [1984– ]

• Frontier Days [1984, EMI America], B+
• Johnny Comes Marching Home [1986, EMI America], B
• Based on a True Story [1988, Enigma], B

Depeche Mode [1981– ]

• Music for the Masses [1987, Sire], B+

The Descendents [1981– ]

• Two Things at Once [1982–85, SST], A–
• Everything Sucks [1996, Epitaph], B

DFX2

• Emotion [1983, MCA], A–

Dinosaur Jr. [1985– ]

• Bug [1988, SST], B

Dirty Looks [1980–1981]

• Dirty Looks [1980, Stiff], B+

Divinyls [1983– ]

• Desperate [1983, Chrysalis], B+

Don Dixon

• Most of the Girls Like to Dance but Only Some of the Boys Like To [1981–85, Enigma], B+
• Romeo at Julliard [1987, Enigma], B

Thomas Dolby (1958– )

• The Golden Age of Wireless [1983, Capitol], B–

The Donner Party [1987– ]

• The Donner Party [1988, Pitch a Tent], B+

Dramarama [1985– ]

• Cinéma Verité [1985, Chameleon], A–
• Box Office Bomb [1987, Chameleon], A–
• Stuck in Wonderamaland [1989, Chameleon], B
• Hi-Fi Sci-Fi [1993, Chameleon], B+

The Dream Syndicate [1982– ]

• The Days of Wine and Roses [1982, Slash], B+

Dumptruck [1983–1987]

• D Is for Dumptruck [1983, Big Time], B

Sheila E. (1959– )

• In the Glamorous Life [1984, Warner Brothers], A–
• Sheila E. [1987, Paisley Park], B+

Echo and the Bunnymen [1980– ]

• Heaven Up Here [1981, Sire], B+

Bernard Edwards (1953–96)

• Glad to Be Here [1983, Atlantic], A–

Einstürzende Neubauten [1980– ]

• Strategies Against Architecture '80-'83 [1980–83, Mute], B–

Eleventh Dream Day [1988– ]

• Lived to Tell [1991, Atlantic], B+

The Embarrassment [1979–1990]

• Death Travels West [1983, Fresh Sounds], B+
• Retrospective [1979–83, Fresh Sounds], A–
• Heyday 1979–1983 [1979–83, Bar/None, 2 CD], A–
• God Help Us [1990, Bar/None], B+

The English Beat [1980–1983]

• Wha'ppen? [1981, IRS], A–
• Special Beat Service [1982, IRS], A
• What Is Beat? [1983, IRS], A–

Erasure [1985– ]

• Abba-esque [1992, Mute], B

Melissa Etheridge (1961– )

• Skin [2001, Island], B

E.U. [1986–1996]

• Livin' Large [1989, Virgin], B

Eurythmics [1981– ]

• Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) [1983, RCA/Legacy], B+(*)
• Be Yourself Tonight [1985, RCA/Legacy], B

Everything But the Girl [1984– ]

• Temperamental [1999, Atlantic], B

The Ex [1980– ]

• Aural Guerrilla [1988, Fist Puppet], B+
• Singles, Period: The Vinyl Years 1980–1990 [1980–90, Ex], A–
• Instant [1995, Ex, 2 CD], A–
• Turn [2004, Touch & Go, 2 CD], A–

Donald Fagen (1948– )

• The Nightfly [1982, Warner Brothers], A
• Kamakiriad [1993, Reprise], B–

Falco (1957–98)

• Einzelhaft [1982, A&M], B

The Fatima Mansions [1989– ]

• Viva Dead Ponies [1991, Radioactive], B–

Feedtime [1985–1989]

• Shovel [1986, Rough Trade], B

The Feelies [1980–1992]

• Crazy Rhythms [1980, A&M], A–
• The Good Earth [1986, Coyote], B+
• Only Life [1988, A&M], B+
• Time for a Witness [1991, A&M], A

F/i

• The Past Darkly / The Future Lightly: Rare & Unreleased 1983–1989 [1983–89, Lexicon Devil, 2CD], B+

The Fibonaccis [1981–1987]

• Civilization and Its Discotheques [1987, Restless], B–

Fine Young Cannibals [1985–1990]

• The Raw and the Cooked [1989, IRS], A

Flipper [1982– ]

• Album: Generic Flipper [1982, Def American], A–
• Gone Fishin' [1984, Subterranean], B
• Sex Bomb Baby! [1988, Subterranean], B+

A Flock of Seagulls [1982– ]

• The Best of a Flock of Seagulls [1982–85, Jive], A–
• We Are the '80s [1981–86, Jive/Legacy], B+(***)

Fra Lippo Lippi [1984–1987]

• Songs [1985–86, Rune Arkiv], B–

French Frith Kaiser Thompson

• Live, Love, Larf and Loaf [1987, Rhino], B+

Mitchell Froom

• A Thousand Days [2005, Kontextrecords], B

Fugazi [1988– ]

• Repeater [1990, Dischord], B

Galaxie 500 [1987–1991]

• Today [1988, Rough Trade], B
• On Fire [1989, Rough Trade], B

Giant Sand [1985– ]

• Ramp [1991, Restless], A–
• Center of the Universe [1993, Restless], B–

Johnny Gill (1967– )

• Johnny Gill [1990, Motown], B

Girls Against Boys [1989– ]

• House of GVSB [1996, Touch & Go], A
• Freak*on*ica [1998, DGC], B+

The Go-Go's [1981–1985]

• Beauty and the Beat [1981, IRS], B
• Talk Show [1984, IRS], B
• Go-Go's Greatest [1990, IRS], B+

The Golden Palominos [1983– ]

• The Golden Palominos [1983, Celluloid], B
• Visions of Excess [1985, Celluloid], B

Great Plains [1984–1987]

• Born in a Barn [1984, Homestead], B
• Naked at the Buy, Sell and Trade [1985, Homestead], B+
• Sum Things Up [1987, Homestead], A–
• Length of Growth 1981–1989 [1981–89, Old 3C, 2 CD], B+

Green on Red [1982–1993]

• Gravity Talks [1983, Slash], B+
• Gas Food Lodging [1985, Enigma], B
• Here Come the Snakes [1989, Restless], B

Guided by Voices [1987– ]

• Alien Lanes [1995, Matador], B

Guns N' Roses [1986–1993]

• Appetite for Destruction [1987, Geffen], B
• The Spaghetti Incident [1993, Geffen], A–

Guy [1988– ]

• Guy [1988, MCA], B

Half Japanese [1980– ]

• 1/2 Gentlemen / Not Beasts [1980, Armageddon, 3 LP], B–
• Sing No Evil [1984, Iridescence], B+
• Music to Strip By [1987, 50 Skadillion Watts], B
• Charmed Life [1988, 50 Skadillion Watts], B+
• The Band That Would Be King [1989, 50 Skadillion Watts], B–
• Greatest Hits [(1995), Safe House, 2 CD], A–

Jimmy Hall

• Build Your Own Fire [2007, Zoho], B+(*)

Jody Harris

• w/Robert Quine: Escape [1981, Lust/Unlust], B

Jerry Harrison (1949– )

• Casual Gods [1988, Sire], B

Debbie Harry (1945– )

• KooKoo [1981, Chrysalis], B
• Rockbird [1986, Geffen], B
• w/Blondie: Once More Into the Bleach [1988, Chrysalis], C
• Def Dumb and Blonde [1989, Sire], B+
• w/Blondie: The Complete Picture: The Very Best of Deborah Harry and Blondie [(1991), Chrysalis], A
• Necessary Evil [2007, Eleven Seven], B

Grant Hart

• Intolerance [1989, SST], B

Heaven 17 [1981– ]

• The Luxury Gap [1983, Virgin], B

Nona Hendryx (1944– )

• Nona [1983, RCA], B+

Joe Henry

• Civilians [2007, Anti-], B+(**)

Bruce Hornsby (1954– )

• Intersections 1985–2005 [1989–2005, RCA/Legacy, 4 CD+DVD], B
• Camp Meeting [2007, Legacy], B+(*)

The Housemartins [1986– ]

• London 0 Hull 4 [1986, Elektra], A
• The People Who Grinned Themselves to Death [1987, Elektra], A
• Now That's What I Call Quite Good! [(1988), Go! Discs], A–

Hüsker Dü [1981–1987]

• Land Speed Record [1981, SST], C+
• Metal Circus [1983, SST], A–
• Zen Arcade [1984, SST], B+
• New Day Rising [1985, SST], A–
• Flip Your Wig [1985, SST], B+
• Candy Apple Grey [1986, Warner Brothers], A–
• Warehouse: Songs and Stories [1987, Warner Brothers], B
• The Living End [(1994), Warner Brothers], C

Billy Idol (1955– )

• Charmed Life [1990, Chrysalis], B

Indeep

• Last Night a D.J. Saved My Life! [1983, Sound of New York], B+

Incorporated Thang Band [1986–1988]

• Lifestyles of the Roach and Famous [1987, Warner Brothers], B

Indigo Girls [1986– ]

• Indigo Girls [1989, Epic], B–
• Retrospective [1987–2000, Epic], C+

Chris Isaak (1956– )

• Chris Isaak [1987, Warner Brothers], B
• Best of Chris Isaak [1985–2006, Wicked Game/Reprise], B–

Isley Jasper Isley [1984–1987]

• Caravan of Love: The Best of Isley Jasper Isley [1984–87, Epic/Legacy], B

David J (1957– )

• Crocodile Tears and the Velvet Cosh [1985, Plain], B
• On Glass: The Singles [1983–85, Plain], B+(*)

Janet Jackson (1966– )

• Rhythm Nation: 1814 [1989, A&M], A–
• Janet [1993, Virgin], B+
• Design of a Decade 1986–1996 [1986–95, A&M], B+
• The Velvet Rope [1997, Virgin], A–
• All for You [2001, Virgin], B–
• 20 Y. O. [2006, Virgin], C+

Colin James (1964– )

• Colin James [1988, Virgin], B
• Colin James and the Little Big Band II [1998, Elektra], A–

Jane's Addiction [1987–1991]

• Nothing's Shocking [1988, Warner Brothers], A–
• Ritual de lo Habitual [1990, Warner Brothers], B

Jason and the Scorchers [1982– ]

• Fervor [1984, EMI], A–
• Lost and Found [1985, EMI], B
• The Essential Jason and the Scorchers [1984–85, Capitol], B+

The Jayhawks [1986– ]

• Blue Earth [1989, Twin/Tone], B+
• Hollywood Town Hall [1992, Def American], A–

Jesus and Mary Chain [1985– ]

• Psycho Candy [1985, Reprise], A–
• Darklands [1987, Warner Brothers], B+
• Barbed Wire Kisses [1988–88, Def American], B–
• Automatic [1989, Warner Brothers], A
• Stoned and Dethroned [1994, Warner Brothers], A
• 21 Singles [1984–98, Warner Brothers/Rhino], A–

Joan Jett (1960– )

• Bad Reputation [1981, Blackheart], B+
• I Love Rock 'n' Roll [1981, Blackheart], B+
• Glorious Results of a Misspent Youth [1984, Blackheart], B+
• Up Your Alley [1988, Epic], A–
• The Hit List [1990, Epic], B
• Flashback [(1993), Blackheart], A–
• Fit to Be Tied: Great Hits by Joan Jett [(1997), Mercury], A–

Daniel Johnston

• The Early Recordings Volume 1 [1980–83, Dualtone, 2 CD], C

Marti Jones

• Unsophisticated Time [1985, A&M], A–
• Used Guitars [1988, A&M], B

Katrina and the Waves [1983– ]

• Katrina and the Waves [1985, Capitol], A–
• Waves [1986, Capitol], A–
• Break of Hearts [1989, SBK], B

Kid Creole and the Coconuts [1980– ]

• Off the Coast of Me [1980, Rainman], A–
• Fresh Fruit in Foreign Places [1981, Sire/ZE], A+
• Wise Guy [1982, Sire/ZE], A
• Doppelganger [1983, Sire/ZE], A–
• Going Places: The August Darnell Years 1976–1983 [1976–83, Strut], A–
• In Praise of Older Women and Other Crimes [1985, Sire], A–
• I, Too, Have Seen the Woods [1987, Sire], B+
• Private Waters in the Great Divide [1990, Columbia], B
• Kid Creole Redux [1980–90, Sire], A
• You Shoulda Told Me You Were ... [1991, Columbia], A
• Too Cool to Conga! [2001, Rainman], B+

King Missile [1987– ]

• The Way to Salvation [1991, Atlantic], A–

KMFDM [1986–1999]

• UAIOE [1989, Wax Trax], B+
• Angst [1993, Wax Trax], A–

The Knitters [1985– ]

• Poor Little Critter on the Road [1985, Slash], C+

Cyndi Lauper (1953– )

• She's So Unusual [1983, Portrait], A
• True Colors [1986, Portrait], B
• The Essential Cyndi Lauper [1983–96, Epic/Legacy], B+
• At Last [2003, Epic/Daylight], C–

Bettye Lavette (1946– )

• A Woman Like Me [2003, Blues Express], A–
• The Scene of the Crime [2007, Anti-], B+(***)

The Leaving Trains [1984– ]

• Loser Illusion Pt. 0 [1991, SST], A–

Let's Active [1983–1988]

• Cypress [1984, IRS], B–

Liliput [1980–1983]

• LiLiPUT [1980–83, Off Course, 2 CD], A

David Lindley (1944– )

• El Rayo-X [1981, Asylum], A
• Win This Record [1982, Elektra], A–
• Very Greasy [1988, Elektra], B+

Arto Lindsay (1953– )

• Envy [1984, Editions EG], A–
• Greed [1988, Virgin], A
• Lust [1991, Elektra], B
• O Corpo Subtil / The Subtle Body [1996, Bar/None], B+
• Hyper Civilizado [1996, Rykodisc], B+
• Mundo Civilizado [1997, Bar/None], A–
• Noon Chill [1998, Bar/None], B+
• Prize [1999, Righteous Babe], B+
• Invoke [2002, Righteous Babe], B+
• Salt [2004, Righteous Babe], A–

Lio (1962– )

• Les Pop Songs [1980–91, ZE], B+(*)
• Les Ballades [1980–96, ZE], B

Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam [1985– ]

• Straight Outta Hell's Kitchen [1991, Columbia], B–

Living Colour [1988–1995]

• Time's Up [1990, Epic], B
• Stain [1993, Epic], B–
• Everything Is Possible: The Very Best of Living Colour [1988–2003, Epic/Legacy], B

Los Lobos [1983– ]

• And a Time to Dance [1983, Slash], A–
• How Will the Wolf Survive? [1984, Slash/Warner Brothers], A
• By the Light of the Moon [1987, Slash/Warner Brothers], B+
• La Pistola y El Corazon [1988, Slash/Warner Brothers], B
• Kiko [1992, Slash/Warner Brothers], B+
• Just Another Band from East L.A.: A Collection [(1993), Slash/Warner Brothers, 2 CD], A–
• Colossal Head [1996, Warner Brothers], A
• This Time [1999, Hollywood], B+
• The Ride [2004, Hollywood/Mammoth], B+(**)

Local Boys [1983– ]

• Moments of Madness [1983, Island], A–

Love and Rockets [1985–1999]

• Love and Rockets [(1989), Beggars Banquet], B

Love of Life Orchestra [1980– ]

• Geneva [1980, Infidelity], B–

Loverboy [1980–1989]

• Get Lucky [1981, Columbia/Legacy], B–
• We Are the '80s [1980–86, Columbia/Legacy], B–

Lydia Lunch (1959– )

• Queen of Siam [1980, ZE], B+

The Lyres [1981– ]

• On Fyre [1984, Matador], B

Kirsty MacColl (1959–2000)

• Galore [(1995), Capitol], B–
• Tropical Brainstorm [2001, V2], B+

Madonna (1958– )

• Madonna [1983, Sire], A–
• True Blue [1986, Sire], A–
• You Can Dance [1987, Sire], A
• Like a Prayer [1989, Sire], A–
• I'm Breathless [1990, Sire], A
• The Imaculate Collection [1983–90, Sire], A+
• Erotica [1992, Maverick], A–
• Bedtime Stories [1994, Maverick], B
• Something to Remember [1984–95, Maverick], B
• Ray of Light [1998, Maverick], B+
• Music [2000, Maverick], A–
• American Life [2003, Maverick/Warner Bros.], B+
• Confessions on a Dance Floor [2005, Warner Brothers], A–
• I'm Going to Tell You a Secret [2004, Warner Brothers], A–
• Hard Candy [2008, Warner Brothers], B+(**)

Barbara Manning

• One Perfect Green Blanket / Lately I Keep Scissors [1989–91, Heyday], B+

Martha and the Muffins [1980– ]

• Metro Music [1980, DinDisc], A–
• Trance and Dance [1980, DinDisc], B
• Danceparc [1982, RCA], B
• Far Away in Time [1980–82, Virgin], A–

Nick Mason (1945– )

• Nick Mason's Fictitious Sports [1981, Sony], A–

Material [1981– ]

• One Down [1982, Restless], B+
• Seven Souls [1989, Virgin], B+
• The Third Power [1991, Axiom], B

Sarah McLachlan (1968– )

• Mirrorball: The Complete Concert [1999, Arista/Legacy, 2 CD], C+

Meat Puppets [1981– ]

• Meat Puppets II [1984, SST], B+
• Up on the Sun [1985, SST], B
• Huevos [1987, SST], B+
• Monsters [1989, SST], B+
• No Strings Attached [(1990), SST], B+

Mecca Normal [1983– ]

• The First LP [1986, K], C+

Metallica [1983– ]

• St. Anger [2003, Elektra], C–

George Michael (1963– )

• Faith [1987, Columbia], A–

Michel'le

• Michel'le [1989, Ruthless], B

Ministry [1981– ]

• The Land of Rape and Honey [1988, Sire], B+
• In Case You Didn't Feel Like Showing Up (Live) [1990, Sire], B+
• Keianho [1992, Sire], B+

The Minutemen [1980–1986]

• What Makes a Man Start Fires? [1982, SST], B+
• Buzz or Howl Under the Influence of Heat [1983, SST], A–
• The Politics of Time [(1984), New Alliance], C+
• Double Nickels on the Dime [1984, SST], A
• Project: Mersh [1985, SST], B+
• 3-Way Tie (For Last) [1985, SST], A–
• Ballot Result [(1987), SST], A–

Miriodor [1984– ]

• Parade + Live at Nearfest 2002 [1999–5, Cuneiform, 2 CD], B–

Mission of Burma [1980–1983]

• Signals, Calls and Marches (Definitive Edition) [1979–81, Matador, CD+DVD], B+(*)
• The Horrible Truth About Burma [1983, Matador], B–

Mofungo [1982–1989]

• Frederick Douglass [1985, Coyote], B+
• Messenger of the Gods [1986, Lost], A–
• End of the World, Part 2 [1987, Lost], B+
• Bugged [1988, SST], A–
• Work [1989, SST], A–

Moondog

• Demos [1989, Anthology], B–

Junie Morrison

• Bread Alone [1980, Columbia], B+
• Evacuate Your Seats [1984, Island], B–

Morrissey (1959– )

• Your Arsenal [1992, Sire], B+
• You Are the Quarry [2004, Attack], B+

My Bloody Valentine [1985– ]

• Glider [1990, Sire], B–
• Loveless [1991, Sire], B

Negativland [1980– ]

• Escape from Noise [1987, SST], B–

New Model Army [1984– ]

• The Ghost of Cain [1986, Capitol], B+

New Order [1981– ]

• Movement [1981, Factory], B
• Power, Corruption and Lies [1983, Qwest], B+
• Low Life [1985, Qwest], B+
• Brotherhood [1986, Qwest], A
• Substance 1987 [1982–87, Qwest, 2 CD], A
• Technique [1989, Qwest], B+
• The Best of New Order [1981–93, Qwest], A–
• Get Ready [2001, Reprise], A–
• Retro [1981–2002, London, 4 CD], A–
• Waiting for the Sirens' Call [2005, Warner Brothers], A–
• Singles [1981–2005, Rhino, 2 CD], A

Nine Inch Nails (1989– )

• The Downward Spiral [1994, Interscope], B+
• Year Zero [2007, Interscope], A–

Nirvana [1989–1994]

• Bleach [1989, Sub Pop], B
• Nevermind [1991, DGC], B+
• Incesticide [(1992), DGC], A–
• In Utero [1993, DGC], B+
• From the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah [1989–94, Geffen], B
• MTV Unplugged in New York [1994, DGC], A–

Mojo Nixon (1957– )

• w/Skid Roper: Bo-Day-Shus!! [1987, Enigma], B+
• w/Skid Roper: Root Hog or Die [1989, Enigma], A–

NOFX [1988– ]

• White Trash, Two Heebs and a Bean [1992, Epitaph], B+
• Punk in Drublic [1994, Epitaph], B–
• War on Errorism [2003, Fat Wreck Chords], A–

The Nomads

• Outburst [1984, What Goes On], B+

Sinéad O'Connor (1966– )

• The Lion and the Cobra [1987, Chrysalis], B
• Sean-Nós Nua [2002, Vanguard], B+

The Offspring [1989– ]

• Americana [1998, Columbia], B+

Oh-OK

• The Complete Recordings [1982–84, Collector's Choice], A–

Alexander O'Neal (1953– )

• All Mixed Up [1988, Tabu], B+

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark [1980– ]

• Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark [1980, Virgin], A–
• Organisation [1980, Virgin], A–
• Architecture and Morality [1981, Virgin], B
• Junk Culture [1984, A&M], B+
• The Best of OMD [1979–88, A&M], A–

Perfect Disaster [1985–1990]

• Up [1989, Fire], A
• Heaven Scent [1990, Fire], B

Steve Perry (1949– )

• Street Talk [1984, Columbia/Legacy], D
• For the Love of Strange Medicine [1994, Columbia/Legacy], C–
• Greatest Hits [1977–98, Columbia/Legacy], D+

Persian Gulf [1984–1986]

• Changing the Weather [1984, Raven], A

Pet Shop Boys [1986– ]

• Please / Further Listening 1984–1986 [1984–86, Parlophone, 2 CD], A–
• Disco [1986, EMI America], B
• Actually [1987, EMI America], A
• Actually / Further Listening [1987, Parlophone, 2 CD], A–
• Introspective [1988, EMI America], A
• Introspective / Further Listening 1988–1989 [1988–89, Parlophone, 2 CD], A–
• Behavior [1990, EMI America], A+
• Behaviour / Further Listening 1990–1991 [1990–91, Parlophone, 2 CD], A–
• Discography: The Complete Singles Collection [1985–91, EMI America], A+
• Very [1993, Capitol], A+
• Very / Further Listening [1993, Parlophone, 2 CD], A–
• Disco 2 [1994, Capitol], B–
• Alternative [(1995), EMI, 2 CD], B+
• Bilingual [1996, Atlantic], A–
• Essential Pet Shop Boys: Limited Edition 1998 [(1998), EMI], B+
• Nightlife [1999, Parlophone/Sire], B+
• Release [2002, Sanctuary, 2 CD], B+
• Disco 3 [2003, Sanctuary], A–
• Fundamental [2006, Rhino], B+(**)

Peter and the Test Tube Babies [1983– ]

• The $hit Factory [1990, Triple X], B+

Bob Pfeifer

• After Words [1987, Passport], B

P-Funk All-Stars [1982–1983]

• Urban Dancefloor Guerillas [1983, Uncle Jam], B+

Sam Phillips (1962– )

• Cruel Inventions [1991, Virgin], A–
• Martinis and Bikinis [1994, Virgin], A

Phish [1988– ]

• Slip, Stitch and Pass [1997, Elektra], B

The Pixies [1987–1991]

• Doolittle [1989, 4AD/Elektra], B
• Bossanova [1990, 4AD/Elektra], B+
• Trompe le Monde [1991, 4AD/Elektra], A–
• Best of Pixies: Wave of Mutillation [1987–91, 4AD], B+

Robert Plant (1948– )

• w/Alison Krauss: Raising Sand [2007, Rounder], B+(*)

The Pogues [1984– ]

• Rum Sodomy and the Lash [1985, MCA], A
• If I Should Fall from Grace with God [1988, Island], B+

Poi Dog Pondering [1989– ]

• The Best of Poi Dog Pondering (The Austin Years) [1989–91, Columbia/Legacy], B

Poison [1983–1993]

• Best of Ballads and Blues [1986–94, Capitol], B–

The Pooh Sticks [1988– ]

• Formula One Generation [1990, Sympathy for the Record Industry], B+
• The Great White Wonder [1991, Zoo], A–
• Million Seller [1993, Zoo], B

Pop Will Eat Itself [1986–1996]

• Box Frenzy [1987–88, Sanctuary/Castle], B

Pop-O-Pies [1982–1993]

• Pop-O-Anthology 1984–1993 [1984–93, www.pop-o-pie.com], B

Pretenders [1980– ]

• Pretenders [1980, Sire], B+
• Learning to Crawl [1984, Sire], A–
• The Singles [(1987), Sire], A
• Packed! [1990, Sire], B+
• Last of the Independents [1994, Sire], B+
• ¡Viva el Amor! [1999, Warner Brothers], A–
• Loose Screw [2002, Artemis], A–

Prefab Sprout [1984–1990]

• Steve McQueen (Legacy Edition) [1985–2006, Legacy, 2 CD], B

Primal Scream [1987– ]

• Vanishing Point [1997, Reprise], B+

The Primitives [1986–1989]

• Lovely [1988, RCA], A–
• Pure [1989, RCA], B

The Psychedelic Furs [1980– ]

• The Psychedelic Furs [1980, Columbia], A–
• Talk Talk Talk [1981, Columbia], A–
• Forever Now [1982, Columbia], B+
• Mirror Moves [1984, Columbia], B+
• All of This and Nothing [(1988), Columbia], A
• Should God Forget: A Retrospective [1979–91, Columbia/Legacy, 2 CD], A–

Pulp [1983– ]

• Different Class [1995, Island], A–
• This Is Hardcore [1998, Island], B
• Hits [1992–2002, Island/Chronicles], B

The Pursuit of Happiness [1988– ]

• Love Junk [1988, Capitol], B

Pussy Galore [1986–1990]

• Right Now! [1987, Caroline], B

Robert Quine (1942– )

• w/Fred Maher: Basic [1984, EG], B+

Rank and File [1982–1987]

• Sundown [1982, Collectors' Choice], A–
• Long Gone Dead [1984, Collectors' Choice], A
• Rank and File [1987, Rhino], B–

The Rattlers [1979–1985]

• Rattled! [1985, Bacchus], B+

The Rave-Ups [1985–1990]

• The Book of Your Regrets [1988, Epic], B+

Red Hot Chili Peppers [1984– ]

• Blood Sugar Sex Magik [1991, Warner Brothers], B

Red Lorry Yellow Lorry [1982– ]

• Smashed Hits [(1987), Red Rhino], A–
• Generation: The Best of Red Lorry Yellow Lorry [(1994), Cleopatra], B+

The Reducers [1984– ]

• Let's Go [1984, Rave On], B+

R.E.M. [1982– ]

• Chronic Town [1982, IRS], B+
• Murmur [1983, IRS], B+
• Reckoning [1984, IRS], B
• Life's Rich Pageant [1986, IRS], B–
• Dead Letter Office [(1987), IRS], C+
• Document [1987, IRS], A–
• Eponymous [(1988), IRS], B+
• Green [1988, Warner Brothers], B+
• Out of Time [1991, Warner Brothers], A–
• Automatic for the People [1992, Warner Brothers], B+
• Monster [1994, Warner Brothers], A–
• Up [1998, Warner Brothers], B

The Replacements [1981–1991]

• Sorry Ma, Forgot to Take Out the Trash [1981, Twin/Tone], B
• Hootenanny [1983, Twin/Tone], B+
• Let It Be [1984, Twin/Tone], A
• Tim [1985, Sire], A
• Pleased to Meet Me [1987, Sire], A–
• Don't Tell a Soul [1989, Sire], B
• Don't You Know Who I Think I Was? The Best of the Replacements [1981–2006, Sire/Reprise/Rhino], B+(***)

Revolting Cocks [1986– ]

• Big Sexy Land [1986, Wax Trax], B+

Keith Richards (1943– )

• Talk Is Cheap [1988, Virgin], B

Stan Ridgway

• Black Diamond [1995, New West], B

Will Rigby (1956– )

• Paradoxaholic [2002, Diesel Only], A–

Robbie Robertson (1943– )

• Robbie Robertson [1987, Geffen], C+

Rockpile [1979–1980]

• Seconds of Pleasure [1980, Columbia/Legacy], A–

Nile Rodgers (1952– )

• Adventures in the Land of the Good Groove [1983, Mirage], A
• B-Movie Matinee [1985, Warner Brothers], A–

Royal Crescent Mob [1986– ]

• Spin the World [1989, Sire], A–

Joe Satriani (1956– )

• Surfing With the Alien [1987, Epic/Legacy], B+(*)
• Surfing With the Alien (Legacy Edition) [1987–88, Epic/Legacy, CD+DVD], B–

Scandal

• We Are the '80s [1982–84, Columbia/Legacy], C

Scrawl [1987– ]

• Smallmouth [1990, Rough Trade], B
• Nature Film [1998, Elektra], A–

The Screaming Blue Messiahs [1984–1992]

• Gun Shy [1986, Elektra], B
• Bikini Red [1987, Elektra], B

Screaming Trees [1986–2000]

• Ocean of Confusion [1990–96, Epic/Legacy], B

Scritti Politti [1982– ]

• Cupid and Psyche 85 [1985, Warner Brothers], A–
• White Bread Black Beer [2006, Nonesuch/Rough Trade], B

Sebadoh [1989– ]

• Sebadoh III [1991, Domino, 2 CD], B
• Bakesale [1994, Sub Pop], A–
• Harmacy [1996, Sub Pop], B+
• The Sebadoh [1999, Sub Pop], B+

Brian Setzer (1959– )

• The Dirty Boogie [1998, Interscope], C+
• Vavoom! [2000, Interscope], C

Michelle Shocked (1962– )

• The Texas Campfire Tapes [1986, Mercury], B
• Short Sharp Shocked [1988, Mercury], A–
• Captain Swing [1989, Mercury], B
• Arkansas Traveler [1992, Mercury], B+

Shonen Knife [1983– ]

• Brand New Knife [1997, Big Deal], B–

Shriekback [1983– ]

• Oil and Gold [1985, Island], B+
• Big Night Music [1986, Island], B
• Go Bang [1988, Island], B+

Shrimp Boat [1986–1993]

• Speckly [1989, AUM Fidelity], B+
• Something Grand [1986–93, Aum Fidelity, 3 CD], A–

The Silos [1985– ]

• When the Telephone Rings [2004, Dualtone], A–

Simply Red [1985– ]

• Simplified [2005, Verve Forecast], B–

The Smiths [1984–1987]

• Louder than Bombs [(1987), Sire], B

Snap [1987– ]

• World Power [1990, Arista], B+

Soft Cell [1981–1985]

• Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret [1981, Sire], B–

Sonic Youth [1982– ]

• Sonic Youth [1981–82, Geffen], B+(***)
• Evol [1986, SST], B–
• Sister [1987, SST], A–
• Ciccone Youth: The Whitey Album [1987–88, Geffen], B
• Screaming Fields of Sonic Love [1982–88, Geffen], B+
• Daydream Nation [1988, DGC], A
• Daydream Nation (Deluxe Edition) [1988–89, Geffen, 2 CD], A
• Goo [1990, DGC], A–
• Dirty [1992, DGC], A+
• Dirty (Deluxe Edition) [1992, Geffen/Chronicles, 2 CD], B+
• Experimental Jet Set, Trash and No Star [1994, DGC], A
• Washing Machine [1995, DGC], B
• A Thousand Leaves [1998, Geffen], A–
• NYC Ghosts and Flowers [2000, Interscope], A–
• Murray Street [2002, Geffen], A–
• Sonic Nurse [2004, Geffen], A–
• Rather Ripped [2005–6, Geffen], A–

Soul Asylum [1984– ]

• Let Your Dim Light Shine [1995, Columbia], B

Soul II Soul [1989– ]

• Keep On Movin' [1989, Virgin], A–
• Vol. II A New Decade [1990, Virgin], A–

Soundgarden [1987–1999]

• Superunknown [1994, A&M], A–

The Specials [1980– ]

• Best Of [(1996), Disky], B

A Split Second [1987– ]

• From the Inside [1988, Wax Trax], B+

Sting (1951– )

• Fields of Gold: The Best of Sting 1984–1994 [1984–94, A&M], B–

The Stone Roses [1987–1996]

• Second Coming [1994, Geffen], A–

Joe Strummer (1952–2002)

• Joe Strummer and the Mescaleros: Global a Go-Go [2001, Epitaph], B+

Poly Styrene

• Translucence [1980, United Artists], B+

The Subdudes [1989– ]

• Miracle Mule [2004, Back Porch], B

The Sugarcubes [1988–1992]

• Stick Around for Joy [1992, Elektra], B–

Swans [1983–1997]

• The Great Annihilator [1995, Invisible], B+

Matthew Sweet (1964– )

• Girlfriend [1991, Zoo], A–
• Son of Altered Beast [1994, Zoo], B+
• 100% Fun [1995, Zoo], B
• Living Things [2004, RCAM], C+

Swing Out Sister [1987– ]

• Where Our Love Grows [2004, Shanachie], B
• Live [2005, Shanachie], B+

Technotronic [1989– ]

• Pump Up the Jam [1989, SBK], A–
• Recall [1995, SBK], A–

10,000 Maniacs [1982– ]

• In My Tribe [1987, Elektra], B

That Petrol Emotion [1986– ]

• Manic Pop Thrill [1986, Demon], B+
• Babble [1987, Polydor], B+
• End of the Millennium Psychosis Blues [1988, Virgin], B–

Thelonious Monster [1987– ]

• Stormy Weather [1989, Relativity], B+
• Beautiful Mess [1992, Capitol], B

They Might Be Giants [1983– ]

• They Might Be Giants [1986, Restless], A
• Lincoln [1988, Restless], B+
• Flood [1990, Elektra], B
• Apollo 18 [1992, Elektra], B
• Dial-a-Song: 20 Years of They Might Be Giants [1986–2002, Rhino/Elektra, 2 CD], B
• A User Guide to They Might Be Giants [1986–2002, Rhino/Elektra], A

The Thompson Twins [1981– ]

• The Best of Thompson Twins: Greatest Mixes [1982–88, Arista], B–

The Three Johns [1983– ]

• Atom Drum Bop [1985, Abstract], A–
• The World By Storm [1986, Abstract], A
• Demonocracy: The Singles 1982–1986 [1982–86, Abstract], A–
• The Death of Everything [1988, Caroline], B+

Timbuk 3 [1986– ]

• Greetings from Timbuk 3 [1986, IRS], A
• Eden Alley [1988, IRS], A–
• Edge of Allegiance [1989, IRS], B+
• Big Shot in the Dark [1991, IRS], B

The Time [1981– ]

• What Time Is It? [1982, Warner Brothers], B+

Sally Timms (1959– )

• To the Land of Milk and Honey [1995, Feel Good All], B

Tom Tom Club [1981– ]

• Tom Tom Club [1981, Sire], B+

Tony Toni Toné [1988– ]

• House of Music [1996, Mercury], B+

Too Much Joy [1987– ]

• Son of Sam I Am [1988, Giant], A–
• Cereal Killers [1991, Giant], B+

Transvision Vamp [1988–1991]

• Velveteen [1989, UNI], B+

Traveling Wilburys [1988–1990]

• Volume One [1988, Warner Brothers], B+
• Volume 3 [1990, Warner Brothers], B+
• The Traveling Wilburys [1988–90, Rhino, 2 CD+DVD], B+(**)

Trotsky Icepick [1986–1994]

• Poison Summer [1986, SST], B

Trouble Funk [1981– ]

• Live / Early Singles [1980–82, 2.13.61, 2 CD], A–

True West [1983–1986]

• Hollywood Holiday Revisited [1983–84, Atavistic], B+(***)

Moe Tucker

• Life in Exile after Abdication [1989, 50 Skidillion Watts], B+
• Dogs Under Stress [1994, Sky], B+
• I Spent a Week There the Other Night [1994, Sky], A–

Tina Turner (1938– )

• Private Dancer [1984, Capitol], B+
• Simply the Best [1984–91, Capitol], A–
• What's Love Got to Do with It [1993, Capitol], A–

U2 [1980– ]

• Boy [1980, Island], B–
• October [1981, Island], B–
• War [1983, Island], B
• Under a Blood Red Sky [1983, Island], B+
• The Unforgettable Fire [1984, Island], B–
• The Joshua Tree [1987, Island], B
• Rattle and Hum [1988, Island], B+
• All That You Can't Leave Behind [2000, Interscope], B+
• How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb [2004, Interscope], B+(**)

Luther Vandross (1951–2005)

• The Essential Luther Vandross [1981–96, Epic/Legacy, 2 CD], B
• Love, Luther [1980–2005, Epic/J Records/Legacy, 4 CD], B

The Vaselines [1986–1990]

• The Way of the Vaselines [(1992), Sub Pop], A–

Stevie Ray Vaughan (1954–90)

• In the Beginning [1980, Epic], B
• Couldn't Stand the Weather [1984, Epic], B+
• In Step [1989, Epic], A–
• The Real Deal: Greatest Hits, Vol. 2 [1983–91, Epic/Legacy], B

Violent Femmes [1982– ]

• Add It Up [1981–93, Warner Brothers], A–

Voice of the Beehive [1987– ]

• Let It Bee [1988, London], A–
• Honey Lingers [1991, London], A
• Sex and Misery [1995, Discovery], B+

Volcano Suns [1985– ]

• The Bright Orange Years [1985, Homestead], B–
• All Night Lotus Party [1986, Homestead], C+

The Vulgar Boatmen [1989–1995]

• You and Your Sister [1989, Safe House], A–
• Please Panic [1992, Caroline], B+
• Wide Awake [1989–95, No Nostalgia], A–

The Waitresses [1981–1983]

• Wasn't Tomorrow Wonderful [1982, Polydor], A–
• Bruiseology [1983, Polydor], B+
• The Best of the Waitresses [1982–83, Polydor], A–

Was (Not Was) [1981– ]

• Was (Not Was) [1981, Island], B
• Out Come the Freaks [1981–83, ZE], B
• (The Woodwork) Squeaks [1981–83, ZE], B+
• Born to Laugh at Tornadoes [1983, Geffen], B+
• What Up, Dog? [1988, Chrysalis], B+
• Are You Okay? [1990, Chrysalis], A
• Boo! [2008, Rykodisc], B+(*)

The Waterboys [1981–1993]

• Fisherman's Blues [1988, Ensign], B+

Barrence Whitfield

• Ow! Ow! Ow! [1987, Rounder], B+

Victoria Williams (1959– )

• Happy Come Home [1987, Geffen], B+
• Swing the Statue! [1990, Rough Trade], A–
• Loose [1994, Mammoth], B+
• Musings of a Creekdipper [1998, Atlantic], B+

Brian Wilson (1942– )

• Brian Wilson [1988, Sire], B–
• Presents Smile [2004, Nonesuch], A
• That Lucky Old Sun [2008, Capitol], B+(**)

Womack and Womack [1983– ]

• Love Wars [1983, Elektra], A–
• Radio M.U.S.C. Man [1985, Elektra], B+
• Conscience [1988, Island], A–

X [1980– ]

• Los Angeles [1980, Slash], B
• Wild Gift [1981, Slash], B+
• Los Angeles / Wild Gift [1980–81, Slash], B+
• Under the Big Black Sun [1982, Elektra], B+
• More Fun in the New World [1983, Elektra], B+
• Live at the Whiskey a Go-Go on the Fabulous Sunset Strip [1988, Elektra], B–
• Live in Los Angeles [2004, Shout! Factory], B+

Yaz

• Upstairs at Eric's [1982, Sire], B+

Yo La Tengo [1986– ]

• Electr-O-Pura [1995, Matador], B+
• I Can Hear the Heart Beating as One [1997, Matador], A–
• Summer Sun [2003, Matador], A–
• I Am Not Afraid of You and I Will Beat Your Ass [2006, Matador], A–

Young Fresh Fellows [1984–1993]

• The Men Who Loved Music [1987, Frontier], B+
• This One's for the Ladies [1989, Frontier], B

Zazou Bikaye

• Mr. Manager [1986, Pow Wow], B

Various Artists

• Black Havana [1989, Capitol], A–
• Go Go Crankin': Paint the White House Black [1985, 4th & Broadway], A–
• The HighTone Anthology: Rockin' From the Roots [1976–2006, Time Life, 2 CD], B+(***)
• Let Them Eat Jellybeans! 17 Extracts from America's Darker Side [1982, Alternative Tentacles], A
• 12"/80s [1980–89, Family, 3 CD], B
• United Kingdom of Punk: The Hardcore Years [1979–84, Music Club], B+
• Wanna Buy a Bridge? [1980, Rough Trade], A–