247 Album Verdict
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Essential Albums of the 2000s

The 2000s records we keep coming back to, listed in order of release.

Alternative & Indie · 2000sPop · 2000sHip-Hop · 2000sSoul & R&B · 2000sElectronic · 2000sFolk & Singer-Songwriter · 2000sMetal · 2000sCountry & Americana · 2000s
  1. 1
    Mer de NomsA Perfect Circle

    Mer de Noms

    A Perfect Circle · 2000 · Metal

    A dark, melodic alt-metal debut of moody precision. Polished and acclaimed. A strong arrival.

  2. 2
    Oops!... I Did It AgainBritney Spears

    Oops!... I Did It Again

    Britney Spears · 2000 · Pop

    A glossy teen-pop blockbuster, home to its title smash. Bright and huge. A commercial peak.

  3. 3
    ParachutesColdplay

    Parachutes

    Coldplay · 2000 · Pop

    A gentle, atmospheric debut of melancholic Britpop-adjacent songs, home to 'Yellow'. Tender and tuneful. A quiet success.

  4. 4
    Like Water for ChocolateCommon

    Like Water for Chocolate

    Common · 2000 · Hip-Hop

    A warm, soulful peak of conscious rap with the Soulquarians. Smooth and acclaimed. A high point.

  5. 5
    VoodooD'Angelo

    Voodoo

    D'Angelo · 2000 · Soul & R&B

    A slow-cooked, deeply musical neo-soul landmark built on loose, behind-the-beat grooves and Questlove's drums. It rewards patient, repeated listening. One of the genre's defining statements.

  6. 6
    White PonyDeftones

    White Pony

    Deftones · 2000 · Metal

    Atmospheric, dynamic and heavy, the record that lifted them above nu-metal peers. Beautiful and crushing by turns. Their finest.

  7. 7
    DopethroneElectric Wizard

    Dopethrone

    Electric Wizard · 2000 · Metal

    Monolithic, fuzz-drenched doom of crushing slowness and occult menace. Heavy beyond reason. A stoner-doom classic.

  8. 8
    The Marshall Mathers LPEminem

    The Marshall Mathers LP

    Eminem · 2000 · Hip-Hop

    A technically dazzling, provocative blockbuster that made him the most discussed rapper alive. Funny, dark and razor-sharp. A defining record of its era.

  9. 9
    Mama's GunErykah Badu

    Mama's Gun

    Erykah Badu · 2000 · Soul & R&B

    Warmer and more expansive than the debut, blending soul, funk and confession. 'Bag Lady' leads it. A neo-soul high point.

  10. 10
    Supreme ClienteleGhostface Killah

    Supreme Clientele

    Ghostface Killah · 2000 · Hip-Hop

    A dazzling, abstract solo peak of vivid imagery and soul loops. Dense and acclaimed. A Wu-Tang high point.

  11. 11
    Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas to HeavenGodspeed You! Black Emperor

    Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas to Heaven

    Godspeed You! Black Emperor · 2000 · Alternative & Indie

    A monumental post-rock double album of orchestral crescendo. Immersive and acclaimed. A genre landmark.

  12. 12
    Brave New WorldIron Maiden

    Brave New World

    Iron Maiden · 2000 · Metal

    A triumphant Dickinson-return comeback of classic Maiden. Bold and beloved. A late peak.

  13. 13
    Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1Jill Scott

    Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1

    Jill Scott · 2000 · Soul & R&B

    A warm, poetic neo-soul debut. Smooth and acclaimed. A breakthrough.

  14. 14
    Hybrid TheoryLinkin Park

    Hybrid Theory

    Linkin Park · 2000 · Metal

    A blockbuster blend of nu-metal and rap-rock that defined an era. Tight and enormous. A 2000s landmark.

  15. 15
    MusicMadonna

    Music

    Madonna · 2000 · Pop

    A playful, electronic-leaning pop peak, home to its title track. Inventive and big. A strong record.

  16. 16
    The Moon & AntarcticaModest Mouse

    The Moon & Antarctica

    Modest Mouse · 2000 · Alternative & Indie

    An expansive, philosophical indie peak of jagged beauty. Ambitious and acclaimed. Their masterpiece.

  17. 17
    No Strings AttachedNSYNC

    No Strings Attached

    NSYNC · 2000 · Pop

    A record-shattering boy-band peak, home to 'Bye Bye Bye'. Polished and huge. A pop landmark.

  18. 18
    StankoniaOutKast

    Stankonia

    OutKast · 2000 · Hip-Hop

    A wildly inventive blend of funk, electro, gospel and rap that pushed Southern hip-hop into the future. 'B.O.B.' and 'Ms. Jackson' anchor it. Restless, joyful and ahead of its time.

  19. 19
    XTRMNTRPrimal Scream

    XTRMNTR

    Primal Scream · 2000 · Alternative & Indie

    A furious, electronic-punk peak of political noise. Bold and acclaimed. A creative high.

  20. 20
    Kid ARadiohead

    Kid A

    Radiohead · 2000 · Alternative & Indie

    Radiohead abandon guitars-first rock for electronics, jazz textures and abstraction, alienating some fans and inspiring countless others. Cold on the surface, it reveals deep feeling underneath. A brave swerve that defined their second act.

  21. 21
    HeartbreakerRyan Adams

    Heartbreaker

    Ryan Adams · 2000 · Country & Americana

    A raw, affecting alt-country solo debut of break-up songs and easy melody. Honest and beloved. His finest record.

  22. 22
    Hot ShotShaggy

    Hot Shot

    Shaggy · 2000 · Reggae & Dub

    A blockbuster dancehall-pop crossover, home to 'It Wasn't Me'. Bouncy and huge. A commercial landmark.

  23. 23
    Since I Left YouThe Avalanches

    Since I Left You

    The Avalanches · 2000 · Electronic

    A joyous, sample-collage masterpiece of sunny plunderphonics. Dazzling and beloved. A singular record.

  24. 24
    All That You Can't Leave BehindU2

    All That You Can't Leave Behind

    U2 · 2000 · Rock

    A back-to-basics comeback of anthems, home to 'Beautiful Day'. Tuneful and big. A commercial peak.

  25. 25
    AaliyahAaliyah

    Aaliyah

    Aaliyah · 2001 · Soul & R&B

    A polished, forward-thinking final album of cool sophistication. Smooth and acclaimed. A poignant peak.

  26. 26
    Labor DaysAesop Rock

    Labor Days

    Aesop Rock · 2001 · Hip-Hop

    A dense, verbose underground peak of intricate wordplay. Bold and beloved. A cult landmark.

  27. 27
    Songs in A MinorAlicia Keys

    Songs in A Minor

    Alicia Keys · 2001 · Soul & R&B

    A classically informed neo-soul debut that announced a major talent, anchored by 'Fallin''. Soulful and assured. A blockbuster on release.

  28. 28
    DrukqsAphex Twin

    Drukqs

    Aphex Twin · 2001 · Electronic

    A sprawling double album swinging between brutal drill-and-bass and tender prepared-piano miniatures. Eclectic and divisive. A maximal late peak.

  29. 29
    ConfieldAutechre

    Confield

    Autechre · 2001 · Electronic

    A dense, abstract IDM landmark of generative complexity. Challenging and acclaimed. A genre high point.

  30. 30
    Love and TheftBob Dylan

    Love and Theft

    Bob Dylan · 2001 · Rock

    A loose, witty roots-music peak of American song forms. Warm and acclaimed. A late high point.

  31. 31
    The Cold VeinCannibal Ox

    The Cold Vein

    Cannibal Ox · 2001 · Hip-Hop

    A dense, sci-fi underground landmark over El-P's beats. Bold and acclaimed. A cult classic.

  32. 32
    Jane DoeConverge

    Jane Doe

    Converge · 2001 · Metal

    A chaotic, cathartic metalcore masterpiece of raw emotion and ferocity. Intense and influential. A genre landmark.

  33. 33
    DiscoveryDaft Punk

    Discovery

    Daft Punk · 2001 · Electronic

    A euphoric, nostalgic blend of house, disco and filtered French touch, home to 'One More Time' and 'Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger'. Glossy, joyful and impeccably sequenced. The duo's most beloved record.

  34. 34
    SurvivorDestiny's Child

    Survivor

    Destiny's Child · 2001 · Soul & R&B

    A confident, hit-stuffed peak, home to its title anthem. Polished and huge. A commercial high.

  35. 35
    Southern Rock OperaDrive-By Truckers

    Southern Rock Opera

    Drive-By Truckers · 2001 · Country & Americana

    An ambitious double-album meditation on the American South. Bold and acclaimed. Their masterpiece.

  36. 36
    Endless SummerFennesz

    Endless Summer

    Fennesz · 2001 · Electronic

    A gorgeous blend of guitar and glitch, warm and melodic. Singular and beloved. An ambient-pop landmark.

  37. 37
    Time (The Revelator)Gillian Welch

    Time (The Revelator)

    Gillian Welch · 2001 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A spare, haunting Americana landmark of voice and guitar. Beautiful and acclaimed. Her masterpiece.

  38. 38
    GorillazGorillaz

    Gorillaz

    Gorillaz · 2001 · Electronic

    A grimy, eclectic debut blending hip-hop, rock and dub, home to 'Clint Eastwood'. Fresh and fun. A striking arrival.

  39. 39
    The BlueprintJay-Z

    The Blueprint

    Jay-Z · 2001 · Hip-Hop

    Released to instant acclaim, it paired Jay-Z's confident writing with soul-sampling production from a young Kanye West and Just Blaze. Cohesive, quotable and influential. A peak of early-2000s rap.

  40. 40
    FeverKylie Minogue

    Fever

    Kylie Minogue · 2001 · Pop

    A glittering disco-pop comeback, home to 'Can't Get You Out of My Head'. Glossy and irresistible. Her peak.

  41. 41
    Things We Lost in the FireLow

    Things We Lost in the Fire

    Low · 2001 · Alternative & Indie

    A hushed, slowcore peak of fragile beauty. Beautiful and acclaimed. A high point.

  42. 42
    No More DramaMary J. Blige

    No More Drama

    Mary J. Blige · 2001 · Soul & R&B

    A triumphant, empowered peak of hip-hop-soul. Powerful and acclaimed. A high point.

  43. 43
    Miss E... So AddictiveMissy Elliott

    Miss E... So Addictive

    Missy Elliott · 2001 · Hip-Hop

    A futuristic, Timbaland-driven peak, home to 'Get Ur Freak On'. Inventive and huge. A high point.

  44. 44
    StillmaticNas

    Stillmatic

    Nas · 2001 · Hip-Hop

    A focused, lyrical comeback, home to the famous 'Ether'. Sharp and acclaimed. A return to form.

  45. 45
    Blackwater ParkOpeth

    Blackwater Park

    Opeth · 2001 · Metal

    The album that perfected their blend of death-metal heaviness and acoustic, proggy beauty. Dynamic and acclaimed. Their masterpiece.

  46. 46
    AmnesiacRadiohead

    Amnesiac

    Radiohead · 2001 · Alternative & Indie

    A companion to Kid A of fractured electronics and jazz, more abstract still. Cold and rewarding. A grower among fans.

  47. 47
    Melody A.M.Royksopp

    Melody A.M.

    Royksopp · 2001 · Electronic

    A warm, melodic downtempo debut of Scandinavian cool. Smooth and beloved. A chill-out staple.

  48. 48
    GoldRyan Adams

    Gold

    Ryan Adams · 2001 · Country & Americana

    A sprawling, classic-rock-leaning solo peak. Tuneful and acclaimed. A high point.

  49. 49
    IowaSlipknot

    Iowa

    Slipknot · 2001 · Metal

    A brutal, claustrophobic peak of nu-metal aggression. Heavy and intense. Their darkest record.

  50. 50
    ToxicitySystem of a Down

    Toxicity

    System of a Down · 2001 · Metal

    Frenetic, political and weirdly catchy, blending thrash with Armenian melody. Inventive and huge. A defining 2000s metal record.

  51. 51
    Oh, Inverted WorldThe Shins

    Oh, Inverted World

    The Shins · 2001 · Alternative & Indie

    A jangly, lo-fi indie-pop debut of bittersweet melody. Charming and beloved. A 2000s favourite.

  52. 52
    Is This ItThe Strokes

    Is This It

    The Strokes · 2001 · Alternative & Indie

    The lean, effortless debut that sparked the 2000s garage-rock revival, all taut riffs and detached cool. Short and near-perfect, it influenced a generation of guitar bands. Still sounds fresh.

  53. 53
    White Blood CellsThe White Stripes

    White Blood Cells

    The White Stripes · 2001 · Alternative & Indie

    The breakthrough that distilled their sound to its purest, urgent and tuneful. Lean and exciting throughout. The album that made them stars.

  54. 54
    LateralusTool

    Lateralus

    Tool · 2001 · Metal

    An ambitious, mathematically intricate suite that asks to be heard whole. Hypnotic and immersive. Many fans consider it their finest.

  55. 55
    Simple ThingsZero 7

    Simple Things

    Zero 7 · 2001 · Electronic

    A lush, downtempo debut of warm, soulful chill-out. Smooth and beloved. A genre highlight.

  56. 56
    The MantleAgalloch

    The Mantle

    Agalloch · 2002 · Metal

    A folk-tinged, atmospheric black-metal peak. Beautiful and acclaimed. A cult landmark.

  57. 57
    Sea ChangeBeck

    Sea Change

    Beck · 2002 · Alternative & Indie

    A stark, gorgeous break-up album of orchestrated melancholy, far from his playful collages. Honest and moving. His most affecting record.

  58. 58
    GeogaddiBoards of Canada

    Geogaddi

    Boards of Canada · 2002 · Electronic

    A darker, denser follow-up to Music Has the Right to Children. Eerie and beloved. A high point.

  59. 59
    StrippedChristina Aguilera

    Stripped

    Christina Aguilera · 2002 · Pop

    An ambitious, defiant record of vocal power and reinvention, home to 'Beautiful'. Bold and varied. Her artistic statement.

  60. 60
    Lord Willin'Clipse

    Lord Willin'

    Clipse · 2002 · Hip-Hop

    A sharp coke-rap debut over the Neptunes' beats. Tough and beloved. A genre highlight.

  61. 61
    A Rush of Blood to the HeadColdplay

    A Rush of Blood to the Head

    Coldplay · 2002 · Pop

    The album that made Coldplay huge, anthemic and melancholic, from 'Clocks' to 'The Scientist'. Polished and emotional. Their breakthrough.

  62. 62
    ODamien Rice

    O

    Damien Rice · 2002 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A raw, intimate folk debut of heartbreak, home to 'The Blower's Daughter'. Tender and beloved. A breakthrough.

  63. 63
    The Eminem ShowEminem

    The Eminem Show

    Eminem · 2002 · Hip-Hop

    A more personal, rock-tinged blockbuster of fame and family, home to 'Without Me'. Polished and huge. A commercial peak.

  64. 64
    Turn on the Bright LightsInterpol

    Turn on the Bright Lights

    Interpol · 2002 · Alternative & Indie

    A sleek, melancholic debut reviving post-punk for the 2000s, all taut guitars and shadow. Atmospheric and assured. A defining record of its scene.

  65. 65
    OceanicIsis

    Oceanic

    Isis · 2002 · Metal

    A spacious, immersive post-metal peak. Heavy and acclaimed. A genre high point.

  66. 66
    American IV: The Man Comes AroundJohnny Cash

    American IV: The Man Comes Around

    Johnny Cash · 2002 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A devastating late peak, home to a definitive cover of 'Hurt'. Raw and beloved. A profound farewell.

  67. 67
    JustifiedJustin Timberlake

    Justified

    Justin Timberlake · 2002 · Pop

    A sleek solo debut of Neptunes and Timbaland pop-R&B that established Timberlake as a star. Smooth and fun. A turning point.

  68. 68
    Alive or Just BreathingKillswitch Engage

    Alive or Just Breathing

    Killswitch Engage · 2002 · Metal

    A landmark metalcore record of melody and aggression. Heavy and influential. A genre cornerstone.

  69. 69
    Songs About JaneMaroon 5

    Songs About Jane

    Maroon 5 · 2002 · Pop

    A tuneful, funk-pop debut, home to 'This Love'. Smooth and huge. A breakthrough.

  70. 70
    RemissionMastodon

    Remission

    Mastodon · 2002 · Metal

    A heavy, sludgy debut of riff-driven power. Brutal and acclaimed. A strong start.

  71. 71
    NothingMeshuggah

    Nothing

    Meshuggah · 2002 · Metal

    A downtuned, hypnotic djent landmark. Crushing and influential. A genre cornerstone.

  72. 72
    DeliveranceOpeth

    Deliverance

    Opeth · 2002 · Metal

    A heavier, death-leaning peak of progressive metal. Brutal and acclaimed. A high point.

  73. 73
    Dutty RockSean Paul

    Dutty Rock

    Sean Paul · 2002 · Reggae & Dub

    A blockbuster dancehall crossover, home to 'Get Busy'. Bouncy and huge. A commercial landmark.

  74. 74
    Kill the MoonlightSpoon

    Kill the Moonlight

    Spoon · 2002 · Alternative & Indie

    A spare, rhythmic indie peak of clever minimalism. Sharp and beloved. A cornerstone.

  75. 75
    HomeThe Chicks

    Home

    The Chicks · 2002 · Country & Americana

    A bluegrass-leaning, acoustic peak of harmony and craft. Beautiful and acclaimed. A creative high.

  76. 76
    Yoshimi Battles the Pink RobotsThe Flaming Lips

    Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots

    The Flaming Lips · 2002 · Alternative & Indie

    A whimsical, emotional psych-pop landmark of robots and mortality. Beloved and acclaimed. A high point.

  77. 77
    Up the BracketThe Libertines

    Up the Bracket

    The Libertines · 2002 · Alternative & Indie

    A ramshackle, romantic debut of scrappy British guitar rock. Raw and influential. A defining 2000s record.

  78. 78
    PhrenologyThe Roots

    Phrenology

    The Roots · 2002 · Hip-Hop

    An adventurous, eclectic peak of live-band hip-hop. Bold and acclaimed. A creative high.

  79. 79
    AliceTom Waits

    Alice

    Tom Waits · 2002 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A haunting, theatrical song-cycle of broken beauty. Beautiful and acclaimed. A cult favourite.

  80. 80
    Yankee Hotel FoxtrotWilco

    Yankee Hotel Foxtrot

    Wilco · 2002 · Alternative & Indie

    An adventurous blend of Americana and studio experimentation, famously rejected then revered. Beautiful and restless. Their masterpiece.

  81. 81
    The Disintegration LoopsWilliam Basinski

    The Disintegration Loops

    William Basinski · 2002 · Electronic

    A haunting ambient landmark of decaying tape loops, tied to 9/11. Elegiac and singular. A profound record.

  82. 82
    Get Rich or Die Tryin'50 Cent

    Get Rich or Die Tryin'

    50 Cent · 2003 · Hip-Hop

    A blockbuster debut of menace and hooks, powered by Dre and Eminem's production. Inescapable in its moment. A defining 2000s rap record.

  83. 83
    Thirteenth StepA Perfect Circle

    Thirteenth Step

    A Perfect Circle · 2003 · Metal

    A polished, melodic alt-metal peak. Atmospheric and acclaimed. A creative high.

  84. 84
    The Diary of Alicia KeysAlicia Keys

    The Diary of Alicia Keys

    Alicia Keys · 2003 · Soul & R&B

    A polished, soulful follow-up of confident craft. Smooth and huge. A commercial peak.

  85. 85
    Dangerously in LoveBeyoncé

    Dangerously in Love

    Beyoncé · 2003 · Pop

    A solo debut that established Beyoncé as a force, home to 'Crazy in Love'. Polished and huge. A landmark.

  86. 86
    TransatlanticismDeath Cab for Cutie

    Transatlanticism

    Death Cab for Cutie · 2003 · Alternative & Indie

    A lush, yearning indie-rock record about distance and longing, anchored by its title epic. Emotional and beloved. Their defining album.

  87. 87
    Decoration DayDrive-By Truckers

    Decoration Day

    Drive-By Truckers · 2003 · Country & Americana

    A sharp, storytelling Southern-rock peak. Raw and acclaimed. A high point.

  88. 88
    The Earth Is Not a Cold Dead PlaceExplosions in the Sky

    The Earth Is Not a Cold Dead Place

    Explosions in the Sky · 2003 · Alternative & Indie

    A soaring, emotional post-rock landmark of wordless drama. Cinematic and beloved. A genre favourite.

  89. 89
    RoundsFour Tet

    Rounds

    Four Tet · 2003 · Electronic

    A warm, organic blend of folk textures and electronic beats, intricate and humane. A folktronica landmark. Endlessly replayable.

  90. 90
    The Black AlbumJay-Z

    The Black Album

    Jay-Z · 2003 · Hip-Hop

    A sharp, reflective 'retirement' record of star production and quotable verses. Confident and cohesive. A peak.

  91. 91
    VeneerJose Gonzalez

    Veneer

    Jose Gonzalez · 2003 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A hushed, fingerpicked folk debut of gentle beauty. Intimate and beloved. A breakthrough.

  92. 92
    As the Palaces BurnLamb of God

    As the Palaces Burn

    Lamb of God · 2003 · Metal

    A ferocious modern-metal peak. Heavy and acclaimed. A breakthrough.

  93. 93
    MeteoraLinkin Park

    Meteora

    Linkin Park · 2003 · Metal

    A tight, hit-packed follow-up to Hybrid Theory. Polished and huge. A commercial peak.

  94. 94
    DamnationOpeth

    Damnation

    Opeth · 2003 · Metal

    A soft, mellotron-led prog-rock detour with no death growls. Beautiful and acclaimed. A bold pivot.

  95. 95
    Speakerboxxx/The Love BelowOutKast

    Speakerboxxx/The Love Below

    OutKast · 2003 · Hip-Hop

    A sprawling double solo set, home to the inescapable 'Hey Ya!'. Adventurous and huge. A genre-blurring blockbuster.

  96. 96
    Hail to the ThiefRadiohead

    Hail to the Thief

    Radiohead · 2003 · Alternative & Indie

    A sprawling, politically tinged blend of rock and electronics. Dense and varied. An underrated entry.

  97. 97
    DopesmokerSleep

    Dopesmoker

    Sleep · 2003 · Metal

    A single hour-long riff-pilgrimage of monumental stoner-doom. Hypnotic and uncompromising. A cult monument.

  98. 98
    The Magnolia Electric Co.Songs: Ohia

    The Magnolia Electric Co.

    Songs: Ohia · 2003 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A raw, country-rock peak of Jason Molina's haunted songwriting. Powerful and beloved. A cult masterpiece.

  99. 99
    Room on FireThe Strokes

    Room on Fire

    The Strokes · 2003 · Alternative & Indie

    A tight, confident follow-up that refined the debut's formula. Sharp and tuneful. A strong second record.

  100. 100
    ElephantThe White Stripes

    Elephant

    The White Stripes · 2003 · Alternative & Indie

    Raw, primal blues-rock recorded fast and cheap, exploding on 'Seven Nation Army'. Stripped to guitar, drums and voice, it hits hard. A garage-rock landmark.

  101. 101
    Fever to TellYeah Yeah Yeahs

    Fever to Tell

    Yeah Yeah Yeahs · 2003 · Alternative & Indie

    A raw, electric debut of garage-punk swagger and unexpected tenderness on 'Maps'. Wild and heartfelt. A 2000s landmark.

  102. 102
    Talkie WalkieAir

    Talkie Walkie

    Air · 2004 · Electronic

    A warm, melodic downtempo peak. Dreamy and beloved. A high point.

  103. 103
    FuneralArcade Fire

    Funeral

    Arcade Fire · 2004 · Alternative & Indie

    A grand, cathartic debut about grief and neighbourhood memory that helped define 2000s indie. The arrangements swell and crest with real emotion. One of the decade's most beloved records.

  104. 104
    IsaEnslaved

    Isa

    Enslaved · 2004 · Metal

    A progressive, atmospheric black-metal peak. Bold and acclaimed. A high point.

  105. 105
    Franz FerdinandFranz Ferdinand

    Franz Ferdinand

    Franz Ferdinand · 2004 · Alternative & Indie

    A sharp, danceable art-rock debut built for the floor, home to 'Take Me Out'. Angular and fun. A 2000s landmark.

  106. 106
    American IdiotGreen Day

    American Idiot

    Green Day · 2004 · Alternative & Indie

    An ambitious punk-rock opera of post-9/11 anger. Anthemic and huge. Their commercial and creative peak.

  107. 107
    AnticsInterpol

    Antics

    Interpol · 2004 · Alternative & Indie

    A sharper, hookier follow-up to the debut. Tuneful and assured. A strong second record.

  108. 108
    Our Endless Numbered DaysIron & Wine

    Our Endless Numbered Days

    Iron & Wine · 2004 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A warm, fuller-band step from the lo-fi debut. Gentle and beloved. A standout.

  109. 109
    The Milk-Eyed MenderJoanna Newsom

    The Milk-Eyed Mender

    Joanna Newsom · 2004 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A startling harp-and-voice debut of idiosyncratic folk. Singular and acclaimed. A cult landmark.

  110. 110
    The College DropoutKanye West

    The College Dropout

    Kanye West · 2004 · Hip-Hop

    The debut that broke the gangsta-rap mould with soul samples, humour and middle-class anxiety. Warm and witty, it announced a major new voice in production and persona. Still his most likeable record.

  111. 111
    The End of HeartacheKillswitch Engage

    The End of Heartache

    Killswitch Engage · 2004 · Metal

    A polished metalcore peak of melody and power. Heavy and beloved. A high point.

  112. 112
    Ashes of the WakeLamb of God

    Ashes of the Wake

    Lamb of God · 2004 · Metal

    A ferocious modern-metal peak of groove and precision. Heavy and acclaimed. Their best.

  113. 113
    Van Lear RoseLoretta Lynn

    Van Lear Rose

    Loretta Lynn · 2004 · Country & Americana

    A raw, Jack White-produced late-career triumph that introduced her to a new audience. Vital and acclaimed. A remarkable comeback.

  114. 114
    Mm..FoodMF DOOM

    Mm..Food

    MF DOOM · 2004 · Hip-Hop

    A playful, food-themed art-rap peak of dense wordplay. Quirky and beloved. A cult favourite.

  115. 115
    MadvillainyMadvillain

    Madvillainy

    Madvillain · 2004 · Hip-Hop

    MF DOOM's dense, allusive rhymes over Madlib's dusty, short-loop beats, an underground touchstone with no choruses and no rules. Cryptic and endlessly rewinding. A cult masterpiece.

  116. 116
    LeviathanMastodon

    Leviathan

    Mastodon · 2004 · Metal

    A Moby-Dick concept album of intricate, crushing progressive metal. Ambitious and ferocious. Their breakthrough.

  117. 117
    Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)Slipknot

    Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)

    Slipknot · 2004 · Metal

    A more melodic, dynamic peak that broadened their sound. Heavy and acclaimed. A creative high.

  118. 118
    Seven SwansSufjan Stevens

    Seven Swans

    Sufjan Stevens · 2004 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A hushed, banjo-led record of faith and intimacy. Gentle and beloved. A quiet favourite.

  119. 119
    Hot FussThe Killers

    Hot Fuss

    The Killers · 2004 · Alternative & Indie

    A glossy, new-wave-indebted debut full of huge hooks, from 'Mr. Brightside' on. Instantly catchy. A 2000s staple.

  120. 120
    A Grand Don't Come for FreeThe Streets

    A Grand Don't Come for Free

    The Streets · 2004 · Hip-Hop

    A witty, kitchen-sink concept album of UK garage-rap storytelling. Clever and beloved. A British classic.

  121. 121
    ConfessionsUsher

    Confessions

    Usher · 2004 · Soul & R&B

    A blockbuster R&B record of slick production and dramatic storytelling, one of the best-sellers of its era. Polished and assured. His commercial peak.

  122. 122
    A Ghost Is BornWilco

    A Ghost Is Born

    Wilco · 2004 · Alternative & Indie

    A noisier, more experimental follow-up to Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. Bold and Grammy-winning. A challenging peak.

  123. 123
    FeelsAnimal Collective

    Feels

    Animal Collective · 2005 · Alternative & Indie

    A warm, exuberant experimental-pop peak. Inventive and beloved. A high point.

  124. 124
    GueroBeck

    Guero

    Beck · 2005 · Alternative & Indie

    A return to genre-mashing collage with the Dust Brothers. Fun and varied. A strong mid-career record.

  125. 125
    Silent AlarmBloc Party

    Silent Alarm

    Bloc Party · 2005 · Alternative & Indie

    A taut, danceable post-punk debut of jittery guitars and urgency. Sharp and exciting. A mid-2000s indie cornerstone.

  126. 126
    The Campfire HeadphaseBoards of Canada

    The Campfire Headphase

    Boards of Canada · 2005 · Electronic

    A guitar-tinged, hazy electronica peak. Warm and acclaimed. A strong record.

  127. 127
    PinkBoris

    Pink

    Boris · 2005 · Metal

    A loud, eclectic blend of drone, punk and psych. Bold and beloved. A cult favourite.

  128. 128
    I'm Wide Awake, It's MorningBright Eyes

    I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning

    Bright Eyes · 2005 · Alternative & Indie

    A literate, folk-leaning peak of emotional indie songwriting. Earnest and acclaimed. Conor Oberst's breakthrough.

  129. 129
    X&YColdplay

    X&Y

    Coldplay · 2005 · Pop

    A widescreen, anthemic peak of stadium pop-rock. Polished and huge. A commercial high.

  130. 130
    BeCommon

    Be

    Common · 2005 · Hip-Hop

    A warm, soulful return powered by Kanye West's production, concise and assured. Smooth and grown-up. A conscious-rap high point.

  131. 131
    Welcome to JamrockDamian Marley

    Welcome to Jamrock

    Damian Marley · 2005 · Reggae & Dub

    A hard-hitting, modern dancehall-reggae peak, home to its title track. Bold and acclaimed. A crossover landmark.

  132. 132
    From Mars to SiriusGojira

    From Mars to Sirius

    Gojira · 2005 · Metal

    A crushing, environmentally themed progressive-death record of monumental riffs. Heavy and acclaimed. Their breakthrough.

  133. 133
    Demon DaysGorillaz

    Demon Days

    Gorillaz · 2005 · Electronic

    A dark, genre-blending peak of the virtual band, home to 'Feel Good Inc.'. Inventive and huge. Their masterpiece.

  134. 134
    Blessed Black WingsHigh on Fire

    Blessed Black Wings

    High on Fire · 2005 · Metal

    A thunderous, Albini-recorded peak of riff-driven metal. Heavy and acclaimed. A genre favourite.

  135. 135
    Late RegistrationKanye West

    Late Registration

    Kanye West · 2005 · Hip-Hop

    A lush, orchestral leap forward with Jon Brion's strings behind soul-sample beats. Ambitious and warm. A peak of his early run.

  136. 136
    Confessions on a Dance FloorMadonna

    Confessions on a Dance Floor

    Madonna · 2005 · Pop

    A seamless disco-house comeback, home to 'Hung Up'. Glossy and acclaimed. A late peak.

  137. 137
    Catch ThirtythreeMeshuggah

    Catch Thirtythree

    Meshuggah · 2005 · Metal

    A single, hypnotic continuous djent piece. Bold and acclaimed. A creative high.

  138. 138
    With TeethNine Inch Nails

    With Teeth

    Nine Inch Nails · 2005 · Metal

    A sharp, song-focused comeback, home to 'The Hand That Feeds'. Polished and acclaimed. A strong return.

  139. 139
    Ghost ReveriesOpeth

    Ghost Reveries

    Opeth · 2005 · Metal

    A lush, progressive death-metal peak of dynamic range. Ambitious and acclaimed. A high point.

  140. 140
    Takk...Sigur Rós

    Takk...

    Sigur Rós · 2005 · Alternative & Indie

    Warmer and more melodic than its predecessors, soaring and cinematic. Uplifting and grand. A post-rock high point.

  141. 141
    IllinoisSufjan Stevens

    Illinois

    Sufjan Stevens · 2005 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A maximal, orchestral song-cycle about a US state, brimming with marching-band flourishes and tender storytelling. Ambitious and joyful. His most acclaimed record.

  142. 142
    MezmerizeSystem of a Down

    Mezmerize

    System of a Down · 2005 · Metal

    A frantic, political peak, home to 'B.Y.O.B.'. Heavy and huge. A high point.

  143. 143
    HypnotizeSystem of a Down

    Hypnotize

    System of a Down · 2005 · Metal

    A sharp, political companion to Mezmerize. Heavy and acclaimed. A high point.

  144. 144
    Push the ButtonThe Chemical Brothers

    Push the Button

    The Chemical Brothers · 2005 · Electronic

    A varied, hit-laden peak, home to 'Galvanize'. Loud and beloved. A high point.

  145. 145
    PicaresqueThe Decemberists

    Picaresque

    The Decemberists · 2005 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A witty, literate indie-folk peak of narrative songcraft. Tuneful and acclaimed. A high point.

  146. 146
    The DocumentaryThe Game

    The Documentary

    The Game · 2005 · Hip-Hop

    A polished, Dre-and-50-backed West Coast debut. Tough and huge. A commercial landmark.

  147. 147
    AlligatorThe National

    Alligator

    The National · 2005 · Alternative & Indie

    A tense, literate breakthrough of slow-building indie rock. Sharp and beloved. The album that made them.

  148. 148
    AscendancyTrivium

    Ascendancy

    Trivium · 2005 · Metal

    A polished, melodic metalcore breakthrough. Sharp and beloved. A high point.

  149. 149
    Ashes Against the GrainAgalloch

    Ashes Against the Grain

    Agalloch · 2006 · Metal

    An atmospheric, post-metal-tinged peak. Beautiful and acclaimed. A high point.

  150. 150
    Back to BlackAmy Winehouse

    Back to Black

    Amy Winehouse · 2006 · Pop

    A modern soul classic that fused 1960s girl-group sound with brutally honest, contemporary lyrics, produced with Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi. Winehouse's voice carries genuine ache throughout. Brief, perfect and bittersweet in hindsight.

  151. 151
    Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm NotArctic Monkeys

    Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not

    Arctic Monkeys · 2006 · Alternative & Indie

    A whip-smart, fast-selling debut of witty Sheffield character sketches and taut guitars. Sharp and vital. A defining 2000s British record.

  152. 152
    BurialBurial

    Burial

    Burial · 2006 · Electronic

    A ghostly, rain-soaked dubstep debut of nocturnal London. Atmospheric and influential. A genre landmark.

  153. 153
    Hell Hath No FuryClipse

    Hell Hath No Fury

    Clipse · 2006 · Hip-Hop

    A stark, brilliant coke-rap peak over the Neptunes' minimal beats. Sharp and acclaimed. A cult classic.

  154. 154
    Somewhere Along the HighwayCult of Luna

    Somewhere Along the Highway

    Cult of Luna · 2006 · Metal

    A vast, atmospheric post-metal peak. Heavy and acclaimed. A genre high point.

  155. 155
    St. ElsewhereGnarls Barkley

    St. Elsewhere

    Gnarls Barkley · 2006 · Soul & R&B

    A quirky, soulful pop-soul record, home to the inescapable 'Crazy'. Inventive and fun. A 2000s landmark.

  156. 156
    The WarningHot Chip

    The Warning

    Hot Chip · 2006 · Electronic

    A witty, melodic synth-pop peak, home to 'Over and Over'. Tuneful and beloved. A breakthrough.

  157. 157
    DonutsJ Dilla

    Donuts

    J Dilla · 2006 · Hip-Hop

    An instrumental masterpiece of chopped soul loops, made as the producer was dying. Warm, witty and deeply moving. A beat-tape that became sacred text.

  158. 158
    YsJoanna Newsom

    Ys

    Joanna Newsom · 2006 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    An ambitious, orchestral harp-and-voice song-cycle of literary depth. Singular and acclaimed. A bold masterpiece.

  159. 159
    FutureSex/LoveSoundsJustin Timberlake

    FutureSex/LoveSounds

    Justin Timberlake · 2006 · Pop

    A sleek, Timbaland-produced peak of dancefloor R&B-pop, from 'SexyBack' on. Inventive and huge. His defining record.

  160. 160
    SacramentLamb of God

    Sacrament

    Lamb of God · 2006 · Metal

    A ferocious, Grammy-nominated modern-metal peak. Tight and acclaimed. A high point.

  161. 161
    Lupe Fiasco's Food & LiquorLupe Fiasco

    Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor

    Lupe Fiasco · 2006 · Hip-Hop

    A sharp, conscious debut of literate craft. Smooth and acclaimed. A breakthrough.

  162. 162
    Blood MountainMastodon

    Blood Mountain

    Mastodon · 2006 · Metal

    A dense, progressive-sludge concept peak. Heavy and acclaimed. A creative high.

  163. 163
    The Crane WifeThe Decemberists

    The Crane Wife

    The Decemberists · 2006 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    An ambitious, literate indie-folk peak of storytelling. Bold and acclaimed. A high point.

  164. 164
    Sam's TownThe Killers

    Sam's Town

    The Killers · 2006 · Alternative & Indie

    A grandiose, Springsteen-indebted second album of heartland anthems. Ambitious and big. A fan favourite.

  165. 165
    First Impressions of EarthThe Strokes

    First Impressions of Earth

    The Strokes · 2006 · Alternative & Indie

    A denser, more ambitious third album. Bold and varied. A divisive record.

  166. 166
    None Shall PassAesop Rock

    None Shall Pass

    Aesop Rock · 2007 · Hip-Hop

    A dense, verbose underground peak. Bold and beloved. A high point.

  167. 167
    Strawberry JamAnimal Collective

    Strawberry Jam

    Animal Collective · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    A vivid, hook-laden experimental-pop peak. Inventive and acclaimed. A high point.

  168. 168
    Neon BibleArcade Fire

    Neon Bible

    Arcade Fire · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    A darker, grander follow-up to Funeral of organ-swelled anxiety. Bold and acclaimed. A strong second act.

  169. 169
    Favourite Worst NightmareArctic Monkeys

    Favourite Worst Nightmare

    Arctic Monkeys · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    A faster, heavier follow-up of frantic energy and sharp writing. Tight and confident. A strong second record.

  170. 170
    Red AlbumBaroness

    Red Album

    Baroness · 2007 · Metal

    A vibrant, melodic sludge-metal debut of riffs and color. Heavy and acclaimed. A breakthrough.

  171. 171
    ColorsBetween the Buried and Me

    Colors

    Between the Buried and Me · 2007 · Metal

    A sprawling, genre-hopping progressive-metal landmark. Ambitious and acclaimed. A cult peak.

  172. 172
    For Emma, Forever AgoBon Iver

    For Emma, Forever Ago

    Bon Iver · 2007 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    Recorded alone in a remote winter cabin, its falsetto and layered harmonies feel both raw and otherworldly. The origin myth fits the music. A quietly influential debut.

  173. 173
    BlackoutBritney Spears

    Blackout

    Britney Spears · 2007 · Pop

    A dark, forward-thinking dance-pop record now regarded as her artistic peak, all icy production and hooks. Influential and assured. A critical favourite.

  174. 174
    UntrueBurial

    Untrue

    Burial · 2007 · Electronic

    Ghostly, rain-soaked dubstep built from pitched vocal fragments and vinyl crackle, evoking late-night London. Deeply atmospheric and emotional. One of the century's defining electronic albums.

  175. 175
    AndorraCaribou

    Andorra

    Caribou · 2007 · Electronic

    A sunny, psychedelic-pop peak. Tuneful and acclaimed. A high point.

  176. 176
    The Shepherd's DogIron & Wine

    The Shepherd's Dog

    Iron & Wine · 2007 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A richer, more rhythmic folk peak of layered arrangement. Warm and acclaimed. A high point.

  177. 177
    CrossJustice

    Cross

    Justice · 2007 · Electronic

    Maximalist, distorted French electro-house, brash and thrilling. 'D.A.N.C.E.' anchors it. A defining dance record of the late 2000s.

  178. 178
    GraduationKanye West

    Graduation

    Kanye West · 2007 · Hip-Hop

    A bright, stadium-sized pivot toward synths and anthems, home to 'Stronger'. Polished and huge. A turning point in mainstream rap.

  179. 179
    Sound of SilverLCD Soundsystem

    Sound of Silver

    LCD Soundsystem · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    Dance-punk with genuine heart, balancing irony and real feeling on 'All My Friends' and 'Someone Great'. Smart, propulsive and emotional. A defining record of its decade.

  180. 180
    Lupe Fiasco's The CoolLupe Fiasco

    Lupe Fiasco's The Cool

    Lupe Fiasco · 2007 · Hip-Hop

    A conceptual, literate peak of conscious rap. Bold and acclaimed. A creative high.

  181. 181
    KalaM.I.A.

    Kala

    M.I.A. · 2007 · Electronic

    A wild, globe-spanning blend of dancehall, electro and protest, home to 'Paper Planes'. Bold and acclaimed. A genre-blurring landmark.

  182. 182
    Oracular SpectacularMGMT

    Oracular Spectacular

    MGMT · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    A psychedelic synth-pop debut of inescapable hits like 'Kids' and 'Time to Pretend'. Bright and beloved. A 2000s landmark.

  183. 183
    Year ZeroNine Inch Nails

    Year Zero

    Nine Inch Nails · 2007 · Metal

    A dense, dystopian concept peak. Bold and acclaimed. A creative high.

  184. 184
    Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer?Of Montreal

    Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer?

    Of Montreal · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    A frantic, confessional psych-pop peak. Bold and acclaimed. A creative high.

  185. 185
    Person PitchPanda Bear

    Person Pitch

    Panda Bear · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    A blissful, sample-built solo landmark of layered vocal pop. Inventive and influential. A cult favourite.

  186. 186
    In RainbowsRadiohead

    In Rainbows

    Radiohead · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    A warm, intimate masterpiece released by pay-what-you-want, balancing electronics and emotion. Beautiful and acclaimed. Many fans' favourite.

  187. 187
    Good Girl Gone BadRihanna

    Good Girl Gone Bad

    Rihanna · 2007 · Pop

    A glossy pop-R&B breakthrough, home to 'Umbrella'. Sleek and huge. The album that made her a superstar.

  188. 188
    Raising SandRobert Plant and Alison Krauss

    Raising Sand

    Robert Plant and Alison Krauss · 2007 · Country & Americana

    A hushed, atmospheric Americana collaboration that swept the Grammys. Beautiful and acclaimed. A late-career landmark.

  189. 189
    Ga Ga Ga Ga GaSpoon

    Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga

    Spoon · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    A taut, soulful indie-rock peak of rhythmic precision. Sharp and beloved. Their finest.

  190. 190
    From Here We Go SublimeThe Field

    From Here We Go Sublime

    The Field · 2007 · Electronic

    A hypnotic, looping minimal-techno landmark. Immersive and acclaimed. A genre cornerstone.

  191. 191
    BoxerThe National

    Boxer

    The National · 2007 · Alternative & Indie

    Slow-burning, literate indie rock built on Berninger's baritone and intricate drumming. Understated and rewarding. The album that won them devotion.

  192. 192
    Two HuntersWolves in the Throne Room

    Two Hunters

    Wolves in the Throne Room · 2007 · Metal

    An atmospheric, nature-themed black-metal peak. Immersive and acclaimed. A genre high point.

  193. 193
    19Adele

    19

    Adele · 2008 · Pop

    A soulful, jazzy debut of mature songcraft. Warm and acclaimed. A striking start.

  194. 194
    Twilight of the Thunder GodAmon Amarth

    Twilight of the Thunder God

    Amon Amarth · 2008 · Metal

    A triumphant, Viking-themed melodic-death peak. Heavy and beloved. A high point.

  195. 195
    Viva la Vida or Death and All His FriendsColdplay

    Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends

    Coldplay · 2008 · Pop

    An ambitious, Eno-produced peak, home to its baroque title smash. Bold and huge. A creative high.

  196. 196
    Crystal CastlesCrystal Castles

    Crystal Castles

    Crystal Castles · 2008 · Electronic

    An abrasive, glitchy electro-punk debut. Bold and influential. A breakthrough.

  197. 197
    In Ghost ColoursCut Copy

    In Ghost Colours

    Cut Copy · 2008 · Electronic

    A bright, nostalgic dance-pop peak. Tuneful and beloved. A genre highlight.

  198. 198
    New Amerykah Part One (4th World War)Erykah Badu

    New Amerykah Part One (4th World War)

    Erykah Badu · 2008 · Soul & R&B

    A dense, political neo-soul peak. Bold and acclaimed. A creative high.

  199. 199
    Fleet FoxesFleet Foxes

    Fleet Foxes

    Fleet Foxes · 2008 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A lush, harmony-drenched debut of pastoral baroque folk. Timeless and beautiful. A defining record of its indie moment.

  200. 200
    Los AngelesFlying Lotus

    Los Angeles

    Flying Lotus · 2008 · Electronic

    A dense, woozy beat-scene landmark. Inventive and influential. A breakthrough.

  201. 201
    The Way of All FleshGojira

    The Way of All Flesh

    Gojira · 2008 · Metal

    A crushing, ambitious progressive-death peak. Heavy and acclaimed. A high point.

  202. 202
    808s & HeartbreakKanye West

    808s & Heartbreak

    Kanye West · 2008 · Hip-Hop

    A cold, Auto-Tuned grief record that reshaped pop-rap. Bold and influential. A pivotal record.

  203. 203
    Only by the NightKings of Leon

    Only by the Night

    Kings of Leon · 2008 · Alternative & Indie

    A widescreen, arena-sized peak, home to 'Sex on Fire' and 'Use Somebody'. Polished and huge. Their commercial breakthrough.

  204. 204
    The FameLady Gaga

    The Fame

    Lady Gaga · 2008 · Pop

    A glittering electro-pop debut that made Gaga a superstar, hook after hook. Bold and fun. A defining late-2000s record.

  205. 205
    Tha Carter IIILil Wayne

    Tha Carter III

    Lil Wayne · 2008 · Hip-Hop

    A blockbuster peak of Wayne's wordplay and weirdness, home to 'A Milli'. Eccentric and huge. His commercial high.

  206. 206
    Saturdays = YouthM83

    Saturdays = Youth

    M83 · 2008 · Electronic

    A nostalgic, 80s-drenched synth-pop peak. Dreamy and beloved. A breakthrough.

  207. 207
    obZenMeshuggah

    obZen

    Meshuggah · 2008 · Metal

    A crushing, polyrhythmic djent landmark of mechanical precision. Heavy and influential. A genre high point.

  208. 208
    WatershedOpeth

    Watershed

    Opeth · 2008 · Metal

    A dynamic, progressive peak balancing beauty and brutality. Bold and acclaimed. A high point.

  209. 209
    ThirdPortishead

    Third

    Portishead · 2008 · Electronic

    A stark, abrasive comeback far from their trip-hop roots. Bold and acclaimed. A creative high.

  210. 210
    Dear ScienceTV on the Radio

    Dear Science

    TV on the Radio · 2008 · Alternative & Indie

    A vibrant, art-rock peak of horns, funk and urgency. Bold and acclaimed. Their masterpiece.

  211. 211
    FearlessTaylor Swift

    Fearless

    Taylor Swift · 2008 · Pop

    The country-pop blockbuster that made Swift a star, home to 'Love Story'. Tuneful and huge. A breakthrough.

  212. 212
    Vampire WeekendVampire Weekend

    Vampire Weekend

    Vampire Weekend · 2008 · Alternative & Indie

    A bright, preppy debut blending Afropop guitars with witty literate pop. Fresh and instantly likeable. The start of a great run.

  213. 213
    Merriweather Post PavilionAnimal Collective

    Merriweather Post Pavilion

    Animal Collective · 2009 · Alternative & Indie

    A blissful, sample-swirled experimental-pop peak, home to 'My Girls'. Adventurous and beloved. Their masterpiece.

  214. 214
    HumbugArctic Monkeys

    Humbug

    Arctic Monkeys · 2009 · Alternative & Indie

    A darker, heavier desert-rock pivot. Bold and acclaimed. A turning point.

  215. 215
    Blue RecordBaroness

    Blue Record

    Baroness · 2009 · Metal

    A melodic, vibrant sludge-metal peak. Heavy and acclaimed. A high point.

  216. 216
    Axe to FallConverge

    Axe to Fall

    Converge · 2009 · Metal

    A ferocious, dynamic metalcore peak. Brutal and acclaimed. A high point.

  217. 217
    Bitte OrcaDirty Projectors

    Bitte Orca

    Dirty Projectors · 2009 · Alternative & Indie

    An inventive, angular art-pop peak. Bold and acclaimed. A breakthrough.

  218. 218
    LungsFlorence + the Machine

    Lungs

    Florence + the Machine · 2009 · Alternative & Indie

    A dramatic, baroque-pop debut of huge voice and harp. Bold and beloved. A breakthrough.

  219. 219
    VeckatimestGrizzly Bear

    Veckatimest

    Grizzly Bear · 2009 · Alternative & Indie

    A lush, intricate indie-folk peak of harmony and arrangement. Beautiful and acclaimed. Their finest.

  220. 220
    The Fame MonsterLady Gaga

    The Fame Monster

    Lady Gaga · 2009 · Pop

    A darker, sharper companion to The Fame, home to 'Bad Romance'. Bold and immaculate. Arguably her pop peak.

  221. 221
    Born Like ThisMF DOOM

    Born Like This

    MF DOOM · 2009 · Hip-Hop

    A dense, dark late peak of intricate wordplay. Bold and beloved. A cult favourite.

  222. 222
    Crack the SkyeMastodon

    Crack the Skye

    Mastodon · 2009 · Metal

    Their most progressive and melodic record, layered and conceptual. Dense and rewarding. A high point of modern metal.

  223. 223
    BLACKsummers'nightMaxwell

    BLACKsummers'night

    Maxwell · 2009 · Soul & R&B

    A lush, mature neo-soul comeback. Smooth and acclaimed. A high point.

  224. 224
    ModeratModerat

    Moderat

    Moderat · 2009 · Electronic

    A sleek, melodic techno-and-bass collaboration. Hypnotic and acclaimed. A genre highlight.

  225. 225
    Sigh No MoreMumford & Sons

    Sigh No More

    Mumford & Sons · 2009 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter

    A rousing, banjo-driven folk-rock debut that sparked a revival. Anthemic and huge. A breakthrough.

  226. 226
    Rated RRihanna

    Rated R

    Rihanna · 2009 · Pop

    A dark, edgy pop-R&B peak. Bold and acclaimed. A creative turning point.

  227. 227
    Monoliths & DimensionsSunn O)))

    Monoliths & Dimensions

    Sunn O))) · 2009 · Metal

    An ambitious, orchestral drone-metal peak of immense weight. Singular and acclaimed. A genre high point.

  228. 228
    xxThe xx

    xx

    The xx · 2009 · Alternative & Indie

    A spare, intimate debut of whispered vocals and minimal guitar. Atmospheric and acclaimed. A striking, influential arrival.

  229. 229
    It's Blitz!Yeah Yeah Yeahs

    It's Blitz!

    Yeah Yeah Yeahs · 2009 · Alternative & Indie

    A synth-driven dance-rock reinvention, home to 'Heads Will Roll'. Bright and acclaimed. A bold pivot.