Here's some other thoughts...
REM - "Murmur". Technically, the Chronic Town EP came before, but since the thread title is for "albums", I figure this one qualifies.
Nine Inch Nails - "Pretty Hate Machine". Damn, this is still one fine release. It was rightly mentioned before, but I'm bringing it up again.
The Cars - "The Cars". Quintessential rollerskating pop delight. IMHO, if you can't find something to like before the needle leaves the groove, you really need to not think too much.
Rage Against the Machine - "Rage Against the Machine". This is a sonic kick to the crotch. After becoming hooked, I had to see them live just to know how Tom Morello did what he does.
Tool - "Undertow". Yes, another technicality where the Opiate EP came before. This album brought many of the same feelings that Nirvana's "Nevermind" brought, but in a more cerebral way (rather than something you felt in the gut).
Uncle Tupelo - "No Depression". Arguably, the beginning of the alt-country movement. Punk aggression with back porch sensibility. It's a must have. Seriously.
The XX - "XX". Well, this is actually their only album, but it's an instant classic. There are no "hits" on this release, and much of the material will elicit a "Why didn't I think of that?" Turn off the lights, let your eyes roll back into your head, and take it all in.
Son Volt - "Trace". After the demise of Uncle Tupelo, Jay Farrar created Son Volt and their first release was a logical extension to his musical roots, but in a new direction.
Interpol - "Turn On the Bright Lights". As a huge Joy Division fan, the first listen to this release was like finding my soul mate. Moody and restrained. More like a sophomore release with something to prove after an unexpected pop masterpiece. Interpol had their first 2 albums backwards.
Sleigh Bells - "Treats". Another "best album because it's their only album". If you're looking for a contender in the loudness war, look no farther. Sugary-sweet vocals over pure sonic mayhem. Genius or awful? You decide. I have, and it made this list.
REM - "Murmur". Technically, the Chronic Town EP came before, but since the thread title is for "albums", I figure this one qualifies.
Nine Inch Nails - "Pretty Hate Machine". Damn, this is still one fine release. It was rightly mentioned before, but I'm bringing it up again.
The Cars - "The Cars". Quintessential rollerskating pop delight. IMHO, if you can't find something to like before the needle leaves the groove, you really need to not think too much.
Rage Against the Machine - "Rage Against the Machine". This is a sonic kick to the crotch. After becoming hooked, I had to see them live just to know how Tom Morello did what he does.
Tool - "Undertow". Yes, another technicality where the Opiate EP came before. This album brought many of the same feelings that Nirvana's "Nevermind" brought, but in a more cerebral way (rather than something you felt in the gut).
Uncle Tupelo - "No Depression". Arguably, the beginning of the alt-country movement. Punk aggression with back porch sensibility. It's a must have. Seriously.
The XX - "XX". Well, this is actually their only album, but it's an instant classic. There are no "hits" on this release, and much of the material will elicit a "Why didn't I think of that?" Turn off the lights, let your eyes roll back into your head, and take it all in.
Son Volt - "Trace". After the demise of Uncle Tupelo, Jay Farrar created Son Volt and their first release was a logical extension to his musical roots, but in a new direction.
Interpol - "Turn On the Bright Lights". As a huge Joy Division fan, the first listen to this release was like finding my soul mate. Moody and restrained. More like a sophomore release with something to prove after an unexpected pop masterpiece. Interpol had their first 2 albums backwards.
Sleigh Bells - "Treats". Another "best album because it's their only album". If you're looking for a contender in the loudness war, look no farther. Sugary-sweet vocals over pure sonic mayhem. Genius or awful? You decide. I have, and it made this list.