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.
