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

Also Sprach Zarathustra by Fritz Reiner and the Chicago Symphony - recorded at the dawn of the stereo era by Lewis Layton - THIS is how an orchestral recording should sound!

Every Picture Tells A Story - by Rod "the Mod" Stewart. I saw him twice: Central Park, July '69 with the original Jeff Beck Group. Later, in March '75 at San Francisco's Cow Palace fronting The Small Faces. Dynamite live performer! His previous recording - Gasoline Alley - can certainly occupy the top spot. Both have crack backing musicians and great songs!

John Prime. His debut is perfect and his final, "Tree of Forgiveness" is perfect.