1. The Bends : Radiohead
Radiohead’s Brit Pop album tops it for me. Every song is a masterpiece and definitely easier to consume than ‘Ok Computer’. Seeing them perform ‘Street Spirit (Fade Out)’ live is a definite highlight for me.
2. Definitely Maybe : Oasis
Raw and revolutionary. The album that initiated my favourite era of music Brit Pop. Lyrically loose but it doesn’t matter as the tunes hold their own. Play it, play it loud!
3. Nevermind : Nirvana
This album was on constant loop at university despite it having been around for ages. Heavy angst music at it’s finest. Kurt Cobain’s voice to this day is one the most iconic. Listen to ‘Where Did You Sleep Last Night’ on the MTV live album to hear what it can do
4. The Sun Is Often Out : Longpigs
A really interesting Brit Pop album that experimented all the way. ‘On and On’ is simply beautiful and is down as one of my funeral songs.
5. Peaceful The World Lays Me Down : Noah And The Whale
This may seem an odd choice but I don’t care. This album always makes me smile when I listen to it. A perfect happy summer album. ‘Rocks And Daggers’ ending is tremendous
6. Abbey Road : The Beatles
So many great Beatle’s album but this one just edges it. I absolutely love the 6 song medley at the end. It must have been a risk at the time but it paid off. Simply awesome!
7. Parklife : Blur
This came out long before Damon Albarn disappeared up his own arse. This album has iconic tunes such as ‘Park Life’, ‘This Is A Low’ and ‘Girls And Boys’. This was the Essex answer to Oasis, not even close but not a bad attempt.
8. Youth And Young Manhood : Kings of Leon
Raw! This album made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. To this day I still can’t determine what the hell he is singing about. Listen to ‘Joe’s Head’ loud for the hair thing
9. Hats Off To The Buskers : The View
An awesome collection of rocky pop songs. This album had the ability to cheer me up regardless of my mood. ‘Skag Trendy’ is my favourite on the album so please please please give this tune a go!
10. White Blood Cells : The White Stripes
What no bass player? A girl drummer? It all culminated in a unique sound, a unique sound I love. This is probably their finest album with a good mix of upbeat and chilled out tunes.