Exploring the Greatest Five-Song Runs on a Studio Album

Album sequencing can often be an underappreciated aspect of album production, but it can be argued that certain sequences are so impactful that they stand out as greatest five-song runs. From The Beatles to David Bowie, we'll explore a few standout album moments that feature a mix of critical acclaim, commercial success, and lasting influence.

The Beatles – Revolver

One of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums in the history of rock and pop music, The Beatles' Revolver is often cited as proof of the band's genius. A notable five-song run on this album includes:

Taxman Eleanor Rigby She Said She Said For No One Tomorrow Never Knows

David Bowie – Hunky Dory

David Bowie's Hunky Dory is a fantastic exploration of the artist's psyche and life. Among the standout tracks, the following five songs form a highly cohesive sequence:

Changes Oh You Pretty Things Eight Line Poem Life on Mars? Kooks

The Allman Brothers – Idlewild South

The Allman Brothers' Idlewild South is a classic piece featuring slow, haunting melodies and richly layered musicianship. A compelling five-song run from this album includes:

Revival Don't Keep Me Wonderin' Midnight Rider In Memory of Elizabeth Reed Hoochie Coochie Man

Led Zeppelin – _

Considered some of the most influential and successful rock bands, Led Zeppelin has contributed several legendary albums. Here are five songs from various albums that can make a compelling run:

From Physical Graffiti: Truckin' From IV: Once Upon a Time From Houses of the Holy: I Can't Quit You Baby From Kickathom: When the Levee Breaks From Achilles Last Stand: Gallows Pole

David Bowie – Hunky Dory: Side One

Diving deeper into Hunky Dory, side one of the record features a cohesive and impactful five-song sequence:

Changes Oh You Pretty Things Eight Line Poem Life on Mars? Kooks

Fill Your Heart: David Bowie – Hunky Dory

Hunky Dory Side Two rounds out the album with several more memorable tracks. Here are five songs from side two:

Fill Your Heart Andy Warhol Song for Bob Dylan Queen Bitch The Bewlay Brothers

The Band – The Last Waltz

Although not an official studio album, The Band's The Last Waltz features a few tracks that are particularly noteworthy. Here are five captivating songs from the concert album:

The Shape I'm In Dotter of an Old Man's Eyes Up on Cripple Creek The Weight Rockin' Chair

Nirvana – Nevermind

Nevermind by Nirvana is a defining work in the grunge genre. Among its most powerful songs is what many argue to be the greatest five-song run on the album:

Smells Like Teen Spirit In Bloom Come as You Are Breed Lithium

Henny Youngman – Get a Clue

Dive into the world of comedy albums with Henny Youngman's Get a Clue. While not a traditional studio album, the recording features a run of hilarious jokes:

Get a Clue Here's the thing Like being under a lawnmower Wouldn't it be terrible There are a million reasons why

Feeling inspired yet? We hope so! The art of album sequencing is a fascinating aspect of music production that can deepen listeners' appreciation for an album.