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)
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.
Svefn g englarSigur Rós
Sigur Rós, a band that represents modern post-rock.
This song is one of their early tracks, and its expansive, heartbeat-like rhythm along with the dense noise created by playing an electric guitar with a violin bow are irresistibly addictive.
Rather than a floating, weightless feeling, the sound is soft, like drifting slowly through the deep sea.
We Are Never Ever Getting Back TogetherTaylor Swift
In Japan, it became famous as the theme song for Terrace House, but its original country-style sound garnered popularity, making it one of Taylor Swift’s beloved classics in many countries, especially the United States.
It’s a distinctive track featuring her beautiful vocals and soaring melody.
Such Great HeightsThe Postal Service
Ben Gibbard, who’s also hugely popular as a member of Death Cab for Cutie.
The unit he formed with electronic musician Jimmy Tamborello is The Postal Service.
Their first and only album, Give Up, is known as one of the finest masterpieces of the 2000s.
Blending the intricate beats of electronica with the lyrical melodies of emo rock, the album became a wonderful work beloved by both rock fans and dance music fans.
As heard on Such Great Heights, they also incorporate female vocals, further amplifying the refreshing clarity of their sound.
Best Of Volume 1Van Halen
This is a compilation album featuring signature songs by the American hard rock band Van Halen.
Spanning tracks from 1977 to 1996, it’s a disc that lets you hear the band’s musical evolution.
From the tapping guitar of “Eruption” to the synthesizer-driven sound of “Jump,” it’s packed with Eddie Van Halen’s innovative playing.
Another highlight is how it showcases the distinct personalities of the two vocalists, David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar.
Released in October 1996, the album won “Best Hits or Compilation Album” in Metal Edge magazine’s 1996 Readers’ Choice Awards.
It’s a must for hard rock fans and also a great entry point for newcomers to Western rock music.
Unfinishedmineral
Mineral is a band so important to emo that you absolutely can’t leave them out.
Among their songs, this one is the most dramatic and heartrending.
The melody, steeped in wistfulness, is delivered with powerful vocals, while the rhythm section underpins the guitars, which are both delicate and dynamic.
Colourful Life
Cajun Dance Party is a band from London, England.
Their debut album is Colourful Life.
With melodies so fresh and sparkling they almost feel youthful, plus a sound that absorbed the era—from British rock to post-Strokes guitar music—they were loved by many.
Unfortunately, just a year after releasing this album, Cajun Dance Party broke up.
It’s truly a legendary album.