Robert Christgau’s guide to grading records.

An A+ record is an organically conceived masterpiece that repays prolonged listening with new excitement and insight. It is unlikely to be marred by more than one merely ordinary cut.

An A is a great record both of whose sides offer enduring pleasure and surprise. You should own it.

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It is impossible to understand why anyone would release a D- record.

E records are frequently cited as proof that there is no God.

Read the full list of grades on his site.