Career launching debuts: 6 iconic debut albums
6 incredible debut albums from some of the biggest names in rock and blues rock.
RATM
Self-titled (1992)
Rage Against The Machine’s self-titled debut truly is an iconic album. “Killing in the name”, was one of my favourite songs at 5 years old (my family can attest to this) , and is still one of my favourite songs now. I will put on this album any mood, any time.
Exploring politics, injustice and revolutionary topics, plus featuring the graphic image of a monk performing self-immobilization on the cover, this album was shocking inside and out. Considered one of the best albums of the 1990s and a forever memorable one in music history, the album could be rebranded as a Best Hits album and it would still be bought.
HOZIER
Self-titled (2014)
Hozier’s 2014 debut was such a welcoming introduction to one of Ireland’s most talented artists. Blending elements of folk, rock, blues, soul and Americana, the album is as musically rich as it is high quality. Upon hearing debut single, “Take Me To Church” I think we all understood that we were listening to something exceptional, and such an effective debut single could only lead to a wonderful debut album.
DISTURBED
“The Sickness” (2000)
Back into heavier territory: Disturbed released debut “The Sickness” on the turn of the new century. Though it was not an instant success, it still launched the band’s career. Containing some of my personal favourites: “Stupify” and “Violence Fetish”, Critic Steve Huey affirmed that “The Sickness” is the result of a band who didn’t have far to go before already achieving total control of their sound and compositional skills, hence making it a terrific album.
LED ZEPPELIN
Self-titled / “Led Zeppelin I” (1969)
Because of Zeppelin’s vast collection of releases, it can be hard to remember exactly how they kickstarted their journey. Solidifying them as one of the greats in rock and roll, their debut includes many of their most popular and well-known tracks: “Good Times, Bad Times”, “Dazed and Confused”, and “Communication Breakdown”.
It’s important to remember that the band’s iconic rock and blues sound was only a growing phenomenon in the UK, and though the album was quickly commercially successful, their sound was still not suited to much radio airplay - a very important medium of dispersion. It may be interesting to note that the band were also being somewhat overshadowed by the demise of Cream the year before, and were rivalling other acts such as The Who, Black Sabbath and Deep Purple.
LARKIN POE
“Kin” (2014)
Dipping into stronger blues territory, American duo Larkin Poe are one of the main acts keeping the contemporary blues rock industry fresh and fighting. Releasing their debut album in 2014, “Kin” was a humble introduction to the incredible talent of two sisters. Known for their harmonies and skill as multi-instrumentalists, the duo crafted a rich, sultry blues sound that has matured exquisitely in the last few years. Though the album may be better appreciated for simply blessing us with the band’s formation than being known for the songs included, the collection is a wonderful mix of blues, rock, country and folk, and is a testament to their growth.
KALEO
“A/B” (2016)
The youngest of all the debuts included in this article, “A/B” by Icelandic-American rockers Kaleo is just as mighty. This album is exceptionally diverse: Ballads, anthems and stories all driven by the genres of blues, rock and elements of folk. I consider Kaleo to be one of the most powerful contemporary bands of the last ten years, yet they do fly under the radar. Though listeners would recognise top tracks, “Way Down We Go” and “No Good”, I find that many cannot put a face to the name. Nevertheless, “A/B” is an album that will blow you away: Lead vocalist JJ Julius Son’s voice could probably knock you off your seat alone.
What are your favourite debut albums? Comment below and it may be featured in part 2
