We’re shattering the standards.

Shatter the Standards ​is a ​music blog dedicated ​to celebrating ​milestones, unearthing lesser-known ​musical gems, and promoting discussions ​around albums ​and new music ​that might ​not receive ample ​attention in ​mainstream conversations. The ​blog takes ​a stand against ​the notion ​that specific music ​genres are ​fading and, instead, ​endeavors to ​highlight these genres’ enduring ​relevance and ​evolving nature​​.

​The website is ​structured to ​engage music enthusiasts ​beyond mainstream ​offerings, showcasing ​music-related content, including ​album reviews, ​podcasts, and lists. ​It’s a platform ​where contributors ​share their insights ​and passion ​for music, aiming ​to create ​a community that ​appreciates diverse ​musical expressions​​. Each ​contributor enriches the blog with ​their musical ​preferences and ​expertise, making ​it a varied ​and engaging ​platform for exploring ​the less ​traversed musical terrains​.

Our Album Review Rating System

  • Poor (★☆☆☆☆)

    • Severely lacks originality, creativity, and overall quality.

    • Subpar production, lyricism, and/or vocals.

    • Fails to engage the listener or contribute to the genre.

  • Subpar (★★☆☆☆)

    • Lacks distinction and falls short in key areas.

    • May have some redeeming qualities but overall feels uninspired.

    • Unlikely to leave a lasting impression on the listener.

  • Slightly Below Average (★★½☆☆)

    • Falls short of expectations in most areas.

    • Lacks originality and fails to make a significant impact.

    • Subpar production, lyricism, and/or vocals.

    • Unlikely to leave a lasting impression on the listener.

  • Above Average (★★★☆☆)

    • Solid effort with some noteworthy elements.

    • Demonstrates competence in production, lyricism, and/or vocals.

    • Enjoyable listen but may not break new ground.

  • Solid (★★★½☆)

    • A commendable effort with notable strengths.

    • Demonstrates skill and creativity in certain aspects.

    • Engaging listen with room for improvement.

    • Contributes to the genre but may not break new ground.

  • Great (★★★★☆)

    • High-quality release with strong execution across the board.

    • Showcases creativity, originality, and skill.

    • Leaves a lasting impact and contributes to the genre’s growth.

  • Standout (★★★★½)

    • Exceptional release that sets itself apart from the rest.

    • Showcases top-tier production, lyricism, and/or vocals.

    • A must-listen for fans of the genre and *might be* a potential future classic.

  • Exceptional/Masterpiece (★★★★★)

    • Groundbreaking and innovative, pushing the boundaries of the genre.

    • Flawless execution in production, lyricism, and/or vocals.

    • An instant classic with the potential to influence future artists.

Our Album/Song Recommendation Rating System

Thumbs Down (👎)

  • Not recommended due to significant flaws or lack of quality.

  • Fails to engage the listener or contribute to the genre.

  • Subpar production, lyricism, and/or vocals.

  • Skip this release and explore other options.

Sideways Thumb (👍🏼)

  • A mixed bag with both strengths and weaknesses.

  • May appeal to some listeners but lacks overall consistency.

  • Demonstrates potential but falls short in certain areas.

  • Recommended only for dedicated fans of the artist or subgenre.

Thumb Up (👍)

  • A solid recommendation with notable qualities.

  • Showcases skill, creativity, and originality in key aspects.

  • Provides an enjoyable listening experience.

  • Recommended for fans of the genre or those exploring new music.

Thumb Up & Half (👍½)

  • A strong recommendation with consistent quality throughout.

  • Excels in production, lyricism, and/or vocals.

  • Leaves a lasting impression and stands out in the genre.

  • Highly recommended for fans and enthusiasts of any genre.

Two Thumbs Up (👍👍)

  • An exceptional release that exceeds expectations.

  • Demonstrates mastery in all aspects of the music.

  • Pushes boundaries, innovates, and makes a significant impact.

  • A must-listen for any fan of the genre and a potential classic.

Subscribe to Shatter the Standards

We are dedicated to celebrating milestones, unearthing lesser-known musical gems, and promoting discussions around albums and new music that might not receive ample attention in mainstream conversations.

People

A writer at heart, but music is my drug.
the internet's biggest unknown Dilla fan
People read about you and think you're on top of the world, have everything you want, and can have any woman you want when you're not.
Murffey Zavier has been writing about rap as a hobby for his now-defunct blog. He is also an aspiring writer, film composer, and artist. Even more than that, he is a massive fan of jazz, all kinds of R&B, and hip-hop with an experimental bent.
Brandon O’Sullivan, a music fan, producer, and philanthropist, wants to give back. That’s value. Now, he wants to spend every moment we have as music fans simply giving it back to you.
I love Mint Condition and Joe as much as classic Motown records!
“Damn right, I like the life I live because I went from negative to positive.” – Biggie.