Classic Western albums: must-listen recommendations you should hear at least once

LinoleumNOFX

linoleum nofx

NoFX, the kings of the punk scene, have been active since the ’90s.

They founded their own label, Fat Wreck, built a community with Japanese melodic hardcore bands like Hi-Standard, and sparked a major boom.

Their landmark album is Punk In Drublic.

Their style—furiously fast beats paired with raw yet catchy melodies—is the epitome of melodic hardcore, and they’ve maintained their stance as a punk band by weaving political messages throughout their work.

If you want to understand modern punk, start here.

Time Flies… 1994-2009Oasis

Oasis – Whatever (Official Video)

Time Flies…

1994–2009, the iconic album by Oasis, the legendary rock band from the UK.

It’s a definitive collection of gems that encapsulates Oasis’s career, covering all their singles from 1994 to 2009.

Featuring 24 UK Top 10 hits, including Wonderwall and Don’t Look Back in Anger.

Showcasing Liam Gallagher’s distinctive vocals and Noel Gallagher’s outstanding songwriting, these classic tracks have been used in films and commercials and enjoy broad recognition.

Released in June 2010, the album debuted at No.

1 in the UK.

It’s a must-listen for anyone wanting to experience the essence of Britpop or looking for an ideal introduction to Western rock music.

Shape of My HeartSting

Sting – Shape of My Heart (Leon)

A song that was also the theme for the film “LEON,” directed by Luc Besson and starring Jean Reno.

It’s a delicate ballad that conveys the sexy allure of a man tinged with melancholy; despite its decidedly sorrowful tone, by the time it ends, you find your heart at peace.

Out Of The BlueSystem F

System F – Out Of The Blue (Official Video)

A solo project by Ferry Corsten, who spread Dutch trance across the globe.

It’s so renowned that it’s been remixed by countless artists, and it’s an indispensable classic when talking about trance.

The powerful, rocket-like drive of the sound makes your energy soar every time you listen.

Steps and NumbersThe Appleseed Cast

The Appleseed Cast – Steps and Numbers (Live in Vancouver)

A perfect song that’s like an all-in-one of post-rock, indie rock, and emo.

The vocals feel like one of the instruments that make up the song, with every part resonating beautifully without over-asserting itself.

The rhythm section—drums and bass—has incredibly stylish patterns, each beat creating an effect that goes beyond the typical role of rhythm.

Since I Left YouThe Avalanches

The Avalanches – Since I Left You

Alongside Girl Talk, The Avalanches are a flagship group of sampling-based music.

Their debut, Since I Left You, even incorporates hits by artists like Madonna.

What’s astonishing is the sheer volume of samples: they reportedly fused some 3,500 samples to create the album.

And yet, it’s not merely an avant-garde experiment—it’s a solid pop album, which is remarkable.

The pain point of this genre, however, is obtaining sample clearances.

In fact, The Avalanches faced such difficulties with permissions that it took them a full 16 years to release their next album.

City Of AngelsThirty Seconds To Mars

Thirty Seconds To Mars – City Of Angels (Lyric Video)

They’re a rock band known for many intense, cool tracks, but this song is a very simple ballad.

The melody is as wonderful as ever, evoking a sense of nostalgia and carrying a dramatic feel.

It’s a masterpiece where beautiful piano and strings meet a delicate arrangement, elevated by powerful vocals.