An Artist's Pinnacle


We've had so many threads about favorite releases by an artist, best debut recordings etc., but I'm don't think that I have seen anyone ask this before. My question is this: Pick one or more solo artists, or bands or music from any genre. What release do you think marked the pinnacle of their artistry?
I could think of many, but the idea was sparked in my mind yesterday when I was thinking once again that for REM, it was Life's Rich Pageant. They were once a favorite band, but I eventually got really tired of Michael Stipe's nonsense. Anyway, that's not the point. Continuing with the rock genre, I will say Dirt was the peak for Alice in Chains, and Rocks was the top for Aerosmith. Only thinking of those examples because I was just listening to them yesterday.
I'm really interested in everyone else's thoughts, and I'll have a whole lot more as I think about it.
128x128roxy54
@dekay , Sarah Smile is such an amazing song and the version you referenced is really really good, would love to get your opinion of the version with Daryl Hall and Smokey Robinson, also from Daryls House. Enjoy the music
TooBlue:

I love Smokey, and it's a good listen.

However, the girl in the Fitz band nails it way, way, way beyond the original and/or any other version I'm aware of.

DeKay

The Beatles: Revolver

Brian Wilson: Smile

The Band: s/t (brown album)

Neil Young: Harvest

Randy Newman: Good Old Boys

The Flamin' Groovies: Shake Some Action

Procol Harum: A Salty Dog

AC/DC: Back In Black

The Ramones: Road To Ruin

Moby Grape: s/t debut (sad but true)

Fleetwood Mac: Kiln House (my favorite, at least)

The Kinks: Something Else By

Gram Parson: Grievous Angel

The Byrds: Sweethearts Of The Rodeo

John Hiatt: Bring The Family


Fortunately, most of my current faves are still on the ascend.

The issue with bands like Fleetwood Mac that have been so great throughout their many band member/generational changes, you kind of have to pick, which generation of this band one is referring to.
Having said that, for the latest generation of FM, it's got to be "Rumours"