7 70s Rock Albums That Sound Like They Were Made in a Rush

The 1970s produced many iconic rock albums, but some records give the impression of being hastily made. Here are seven albums from that era that some listeners feel sound rushed:

1. “New York Dolls” by New York Dolls (1973)

The New York Dolls’ self-titled debut album was recorded in April 1973 at the Record Plant in New York City. The sessions lasted eight days, with a budget of $17,000. Producer Todd Rundgren faced challenges due to the band’s chaotic lifestyle and the studio’s festive atmosphere. He later recalled that the expectations for the band and the social environment made it hard to concentrate during recording.

Despite these challenges, the album captured the raw energy of the band’s live performances. However, some critics felt that the hurried production resulted in a less polished sound. The mix was completed in less than half a day, leading to dissatisfaction among some band members. Guitarist Johnny Thunders famously complained that Rundgren “fucked up the mix” on the album.

2. “Highway” by Free (1970)

Free’s fourth studio album, “Highway,” was recorded in September 1970, following their success at the Isle of Wight Festival. The band approached the recording with a relaxed attitude, having achieved worldwide success with their previous album, “Fire and Water,” and the single “All Right Now.”

The album’s introspective nature differed from their earlier work, leading to mixed reactions. It reached only No. 41 in the UK Albums Chart, a decline from the No. 2 position of its predecessor. Some fans and critics felt that the album’s low-key approach lacked the energy of their previous releases.

3. “Technical Ecstasy” by Black Sabbath (1976)

Black Sabbath’s seventh studio album, “Technical Ecstasy,” marked a departure from their signature heavy sound. Released in 1976, the album featured more experimental tracks, incorporating elements of progressive rock and synthesizers.

The band was under pressure to evolve their sound, leading to a rushed production process. Some fans and critics felt that the album lacked cohesion and the raw power of their earlier work. Despite these criticisms, the album has gained appreciation over time for its experimentation.

4. “Presence” by Led Zeppelin (1976)

Led Zeppelin’s “Presence” was recorded over an intense 18-day session in Munich, Germany, in 1976. The band faced time constraints due to studio availability and personal issues, leading to a hurried recording process.

The album’s stripped-down sound differed from their previous, more elaborate productions. While some fans appreciated the rawness, others felt that the album lacked the depth and complexity of earlier releases. Despite mixed reviews, “Presence” achieved commercial success.

5. “Goats Head Soup” by The Rolling Stones (1973)

The Rolling Stones’ “Goats Head Soup” was recorded in 1973 under tight deadlines. The band faced tax issues in the UK, leading them to record in Jamaica, which presented logistical challenges.

The album’s production was rushed, resulting in a sound that some critics described as uneven. While it featured hits like “Angie,” some tracks were seen as lacking the energy and cohesion of their previous work. Over time, however, the album has been re-evaluated more favorably.

6. “The Soft Parade” by The Doors (1969)

Although released in 1969, “The Soft Parade” by The Doors is often associated with the early ’70s rock scene. The album was produced under pressure from the record label to deliver a hit, leading to a swift recording process.

The incorporation of brass and string arrangements marked a significant shift from their earlier sound. Some fans and critics felt that the album’s experimental approach seemed forced and lacked the authenticity of their previous records.

7. “Burn” by Deep Purple (1974)

Deep Purple’s “Burn” introduced new members David Coverdale and Glenn Hughes. The band aimed to quickly produce an album to showcase the new lineup, leading to a rapid recording process in late 1973.

While the album received positive reviews and featured strong tracks like the title song, some critics felt that certain songs seemed underdeveloped. The haste in production may have contributed to a lack of cohesion in the album’s overall sound.