10 self-titled albums you should be listening to
From classic albums to lesser-known works of varying genres
“Black Sabbath” (1970) by Black Sabbath
Though their debut is most certainly not the first heavy rock album, it most certainly established metal music as a separate and in-your-face genre. The one of two albums released by the band in 1970, “Black Sabbath” provides an intro to the godfathers of metal. Favorite song: “Black Sabbath.”
“She Wants Revenge” (2006) by She Wants Revenge
The golden age of goth music, for the most part, has been associated mostly with the late 1970’s, the 1980’s and the early 1990’s. She Wants Revenge, however, is one of the rare exceptions that stemmed from the late 2000’s. While emo had the general public at a chokehold, whatever is left of goth in the 2000s flourishes on their debut album. Favorite song: “Tear You Apart.”
“Vampire Weekend” (2009) by Vampire Weekend
If I could sum up this album very shortly, I would say that this album is a product of college. One of the many pinnicles of indie music, Vampire Weekend tell the story of being young and in love… all in New York City. Favorite song: “Campus.”
“The Beatles” (1968) by The Beatles
Donning one of the most iconic and simplistic album covers of all time, “The Beatles” is an album that offers much more than a minimalistic rush. Favorite song: “Rocky Raccoon.”
“Studio Killers” (2013) by Studio Killers
Studio Killers is a European virtual band that went viral after releasing a series of successful singles in 2011. After releasing their eponymous debut album in 2013, the album was met with much fanfare. Favorite Song: “Funky at Heart.”
“Beach House” (2008) by Beach House
This album is perfect for a rainy day. Somber and quiet synth-pop is the perfect way to describe Baltimore-based duo Beach House. Telling tales of love, Japan and of course, the beach, the band never fails to set a mood perfect for a night drive or simply a night to oneself. Favorite song: “Apple Orchard.”
“Crystal Castles” (2008) by Crystal Castles
After modding a synthesizer with an Atari sound chip, the Canadian duo were able to get a sound that they described as “noise punk.” The album is dark and has a sound that sets it apart from traditional electronic albums. Favorite song: “Vanished.”
“Nirvana” (2014) by Nirvana
Though technically not a studio album, the self-titled release features an overview of Nirvana’s greatest hits including songs like Smells Like Teen Spirit and Lithium. Favorite song: “Heart-Shaped Box.”
“Blank Banshee Zero” (2011) by Blank Banshee
For those who are just getting into — or may not know anything about — the vaporwave genre, “Blank Banshee Zero” is sure to get you there. Pair this along with Macintosh Plus’ debut Floral Shoppe (2011) and you are sure to trade in your MacBook for a Windows 95 desktop computer. Favorite song: “Dreamcast.”
“Rage Against the Machine” (1994) by Rage Against the Machine
Politically charged and right in your face. That is all that I can say about this iconic album that I always find myself coming back to. Favorite song: “Killing in the Name.”
