5 Underappreciated 1960s Classic Rock Albums You Need to Hear

Within the lively and explosive landscape of 1960s classic rock, there were records that shone brilliantly and influenced decades even if they weren’t given the credit they deserved when they were first released. These undiscovered jewels offer an in-depth exploration of the historical underpinnings and distinctive sounds of the time. These five albums from the 1960s are a must-listen for fans of classic rock who want to delve deeper than the usual routes.

Steve Miller Band – Children Of The Future

Before the Steve Miller Band became household names in the 1970s with hits like “The Joker” and “Fly Like An Eagle,” they had a much different sound. Their debut album, “Children Of The Future,” released in 1968, showcases a band experimenting with British blues and psychedelia, diverging significantly from their later mainstream rock successes.

This unexpected musical style comes from the album’s recording in the UK and the involvement of producer Glyn Johns, known for his work with major UK rock acts. The album features Steve Miller’s guitar prowess alongside new member Boz Skaggs. Despite its innovative sound and positive critical reviews, comparing it to ground-breaking music of its time, the album only achieved modest success, peaking at 134 on the Billboard 200. This makes “Children Of The Future” a fascinating, underappreciated piece of the Steve Miller Band’s history, especially for those curious about the band’s roots before they hit big.

Mott The Hoople – Mott The Hoople

Known for their hit “All The Young Dudes,” Mott The Hoople’s debut album, which carries the band’s name, didn’t quite hit the mark in the commercial sense when it was released in 1969. The album attempted to blend Bob Dylan’s lyrical style with the hard-edged rock sound of the Rolling Stones, setting an ambitious target for the band.

Starting with an instrumental version of the Kinks’ “You Really Got Me,” the album takes you on a journey that occasionally reaches the Dylan and Stones vibe it aspires to. Tracks like “Backsliding Fearlessly” and “Rock And Roll Queen” show the band’s range and potential, mixing powerful rock tunes with a sense of lyrical depth. Despite its solid sound and ambitious concept, the album didn’t make significant commercial waves, peaking at 185 on the Billboard 200. Thus, this album remains a must-listen for those interested in the roots of a band that would later define an era.

Fleetwood Mac – Fleetwood Mac

Before Fleetwood Mac reinvented themselves with their iconic mid-70s lineup, the original band, formed around Peter Green, Mick Fleetwood, and John McVie, released their self-titled debut album in 1968. This album, often overshadowed by the band’s later successes, is steeped in British blues and showcases the early foundation of a band that would become a global phenomenon.

The debut didn’t make a significant impact in the US but found some success in the UK. The blues-driven tracks distinguish it from the more polished, pop-oriented sound Fleetwood Mac was later known for. Missing from this album are the marquee hits of the band’s later years, but it presents a rich, bluesy sound that marked the early years of a band in transition. This early iteration of Fleetwood Mac offers a glimpse into the band’s beginnings, making it a fascinating listen for fans eager to explore beyond the band’s mainstream hits.

Harry Nilsson – Spotlight on Nilsson

Harry Nilsson, despite not achieving significant success with his debut album “Spotlight on Nilsson” in 1966, is often remembered for his later hits. This debut compiled earlier singles and showcased Nilsson’s burgeoning songwriting talent, which had already caught the attention of the Beatles.

While not polished, the album reveals Nilsson’s raw vocal talent and his knack for crafting compelling songs. Notable as a window into Nilsson’s early development as a musician, the album remains an interesting exploration into the nascent stage of a songwriter who would go on to pen hits like “Everybody’s Talking” and “Without You.” For fans of Nilsson or those interested in the evolution of songwriters, “Spotlight on Nilsson” offers a unique perspective.

The Allman Brothers Band – The Allman Brothers Band

The Allman Brothers Band’s self-titled debut album, released in November 1969, marked the arrival of what would be one of the most influential rock groups in the US. Despite its influence, the album did not initially achieve commercial success, only reaching 188 on the Billboard 200.

With a distinctive blend of electric blues and Southern rock, the album displayed the band’s unique sound, characterized by dual drummers and lead guitarists. Tracks like “Dreams” showcase their brilliant musicianship, highlighting why this album, though initially underappreciated, merits a special place in the history of rock music. The Allman Brothers Band’s debut stands as a testament to their raw, early sound that would eventually captivate a much larger audience, making it a must-listen for fans of Southern rock and electric blues.