Great Classic Rock Albums from the 1980s: Dispelling the Myth
It may come as a surprise to many that the 1980s were not solely defined by synthesizer-heavy, densely produced records. In fact, a plethora of classic rock bands released groundbreaking albums during this era, often overshadowed due to their raw and authentic sound. This decade was a period of significant variety and experimentation in music, with some of the greatest classic rock bands putting out albums that are still regarded as classics today.
Anti-Synthesizer Sentiment
One of the prevailing sentiments of the era was a strong resistance against the use of synthesizers, which some critics and listeners found too repetitive and lacking in authenticity. This led to an interesting scenario where many classic rock bands, known for their gritty and organic sound, received less attention and appreciation for their work. It's disheartening that such a beautifully crafted music can be dismissed simply because it didn't conform to the contemporary production standards of the time.
Selective Gems
Black Sabbath: "Heaven Hell"
One of the most notable albums from the 1980s is Black Sabbath's "Heaven Hell," featuring classic tracks such as 'Children of the Grave' and 'Wish You Were Here.' Despite its raw production, it remains a cornerstone of heavy metal and has been influential in the development of the genre.
Slade: "Rogues Gallery"
Slade's fifth studio album, "Rogues Gallery," stands as a testament to the enduring quality of classic rock. With hits like 'Cum On Feel the Noize,' it showcased the band's raw energy and is a reminder of the power of simple, yet impactful melodies.
Billy Joel: "Innocent Man"
Billy Joel's album "Innocent Man" is a classic that has stood the test of time, featuring the double A-side single "Uptown Girl." Joel's work during this period showed a maturity and complexity to his songwriting that later generations would come to admire.
Elton John: "Ice On Fire"
Elton John's album "Ice On Fire" was a return to form for the legendary pianist. 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road' and 'Candle in the Wind' were hits from this album, and it's a fantastic example of Elton's ability to craft memorable, enduring songs.
Former Who Members: "Under A Raging Moon" and "White City"
The departure of Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend from The Who led to the creation of two essential albums. Roger Daltrey's "Under A Raging Moon" and Pete Townshend's "White City" are both excellent examples of classic rock, with pitch-perfect songs like 'Here She Comes Again' and 'When You're Entangled In Pain.'
Former Eagles: "Building The Perfect Beast"
Don Henley, previously of The Eagles, released "Building The Perfect Beast," featuring the hit 'The Boys Of Summer.' His solo work highlighted the depth and range of the classic rock genre, showcasing Henley's incredible talent as a vocalist and songwriter.
John Fogarty: "Centerfield"
John Fogarty, former of Creedence Clearwater Revival, released his solo album "Centerfield." This album was a critical and commercial success, with hits like 'Have You Ever Seen The Rain.'
Other Notable Albums
The 1980s were a period of great variety in rock music. From Black Sabbath to Queen and from Deep Purple to The Smiths, there were countless notable albums that deserve recognition. For instance, Deep Purple's "Perfect Strangers" in 1984 reached the Top Ten in both the United States and the UK, and the subsequent world tour was the second-highest grossing tour of that year, underscoring the immediate impact of their sound.
Going back to some of the early classics like Queen, Yes, The Police, and Pink Floyd, their discographies are brimming with timeless tracks. Queen's albums "The Game" and "The Works" produced hits in America, while Pink Floyd's "Momentary Lapse of Reason" remains a masterpiece of progressive rock. Albums like "Cut" by Golden Earring, "Indiscipline" by King Crimson, and "Centerfold" by JGeils Band also stood out during this era.
Conclusion
When discussing the quality of albums from the 1980s, it's important not to dismiss the work of classic rock bands out of hand. While some of these albums may not have been perfect, they certainly exhibited a consistent level of quality and innovation that is often overlooked. Albums like "Heaven Hell," "Innocent Man," and "Perfect Strangers" demonstrate that the 1980s were a vibrant era in rock music, filled with gems that are still celebrated today.