Classic Western albums: must-listen recommendations you should hear at least once
From timeless classics to hidden gems, we present a carefully curated selection of essential Western albums.
We’ve gathered masterpieces that have left their mark on music history, as well as lesser-known records that resonate deeply.
Each of these albums carries a unique charm that reflects the artist’s individuality and the spirit of its era, revealing something new with every listen.
These works highlight the depth of music and reaffirm its diversity.
They’re perfect for newcomers to Western music and offer enjoyment for everyone from beginners to seasoned listeners.
Find your favorite record, broaden your musical horizons, and savor an unforgettable listening experience.
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Classic Western albums: Recommended records you should listen to at least once (71–80)
All I WantLCD Soundsystem
The post-punk revival/new rave that emerged in the 2000s was led by LCD Soundsystem.
Influenced by ’80s club music and rock, the band is often compared to New Order.
Their landmark work is This Is Happening.
In particular, All I Want is a masterpiece that evokes a nostalgic groove—something like a modern-day New Order.
MothershipLed Zeppelin
A luxurious compilation album that distills the essence of Led Zeppelin’s career.
Released in November 2007, it includes the band’s signature songs such as “Whole Lotta Love” and “Stairway to Heaven.” With powerful rhythms and melodic guitar phrases, you’ll find yourself drawn deeper into the music.
It’s a record packed with the band’s appeal, from Jimmy Page’s innovative guitar work to Robert Plant’s distinctive vocals.
Combining accessibility with depth, it’s perfect as an introduction to Western rock.
Highly recommended not only for rock fans but also for those encountering English-language music for the first time.
Midnight CityM83
The album that topped the American music outlet Pitchfork’s reader-voted “Best Albums of the 2000s” ranking was M83’s Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming.
Is it set in outer space, or inside a dream? The album is filled with otherworldly, dreamy pop songs; while it didn’t become a mainstream hit, it gained enormous popularity among indie kids.
Of all the tracks, the most accessible is probably Midnight City.
Despite its dreamy synth sound, it also has a driving sense of momentum.
All About That BassMeghan Trainor
It’s a famous song by an unconventional female vocalist whose curvy figure drew attention and made her a nationwide sensation in the U.S.
The track has a relatively relaxed tempo, but above all, it showcases her voice—sure to captivate anyone who listens.
In The Aeroplane Over The SeaNeutral Milk Hotel
A hidden gem of the ’90s, Neutral Milk Hotel’s In the Aeroplane Over the Sea.
A band influenced by classic psychedelic rock like the Beatles and the Stones, and on this album in particular they freely weave together sounds from folk, country, punk, and more.
It wasn’t a mainstream hit, but it went on to have a profound impact on the American underground scene.
Settled DownOWEN
A mysterious song that always resonates in my heart, yet also seems to arrive gently.
Its unassuming melody and the enveloping waves of guitar sound slowly and deeply seep in—a tender sound.
He’s also the vocalist of American Football.
LjosioOlafur Arnalds
A striking piece of post-classical music accompanied by a beautiful PV created in After Effects.
It’s something you’ll want to listen to quietly on a winter morning: expansive strings and a piano whose rhythm falls gently like snow, resonating with comforting warmth.
The sound is lyrical, like a film soundtrack.