8 Classic Rock Albums from the 60s That No One Talks About Anymore

The 1960s produced numerous rock albums that, despite their initial impact, have faded from mainstream discussions. Here are eight such albums that were significant at the time but are seldom mentioned today.

1. The Zombies – Odessey and Oracle

Released in 1968, Odessey and Oracle showcased The Zombies’ exceptional songwriting and harmonies. The album featured tracks like “Time of the Season,” which became a hit. Despite its artistic brilliance, the album didn’t achieve immediate commercial success, leading to the band’s breakup shortly after its release. Over time, however, it has been re-evaluated and is now considered a classic, though it remains underrepresented in mainstream classic rock conversations.

2. Love – Forever Changes

Forever Changes, released in 1967, is often hailed as Love’s magnum opus. The album’s intricate arrangements and poetic lyrics captured the essence of the late ’60s counterculture. Despite critical acclaim, it didn’t achieve significant commercial success at the time. Today, it’s revered by critics and musicians alike but isn’t frequently discussed among casual classic rock fans.

3. The Pretty Things – S.F. Sorrow

In 1968, The Pretty Things released S.F. Sorrow, one of the first rock operas. The album narrates the life of its protagonist, Sebastian F. Sorrow, through a series of psychedelic tracks. Despite its innovative approach, it was overshadowed by other concept albums of the time, such as The Who’s Tommy. S.F. Sorrow remains a pioneering work that is often overlooked in classic rock discussions.

4. The United States of America – The United States of America

This 1968 self-titled debut by The United States of America blended electronic experimentation with rock, creating a unique soundscape. Despite its innovative approach, the album didn’t achieve commercial success, leading to the band’s dissolution shortly after its release. Today, it’s considered a groundbreaking work, though it remains largely forgotten in mainstream classic rock narratives.

5. Moby Grape – Moby Grape

Moby Grape’s 1967 debut album showcased a fusion of rock, blues, and country, highlighting the band’s versatility. Despite containing potential hits, the album’s release was marred by poor marketing decisions, including the simultaneous release of multiple singles, which confused consumers. While the album is now appreciated by aficionados, it doesn’t frequently appear in classic rock discussions.

6. The Electric Prunes – I Had Too Much to Dream (Last Night)

Released in 1967, this debut album by The Electric Prunes featured the hit title track, which became emblematic of the psychedelic era. Despite its initial success, the band struggled with creative control, leading to inconsistent follow-up releases. As a result, the album faded from mainstream recognition, though it remains a significant piece of psychedelic rock history.

7. The Soft Machine – The Soft Machine

The Soft Machine’s 1968 debut album blended jazz and rock, laying the groundwork for the Canterbury scene. Despite its innovative sound, the album didn’t achieve significant commercial success. Today, it’s recognized for its influence on progressive rock, but it remains underrepresented in classic rock conversations.

8. The 13th Floor Elevators – The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators

Released in 1966, this debut album is often credited as one of the first to use the term “psychedelic” to describe its music. The band’s innovative sound influenced many, but legal issues and internal conflicts hindered their success. While the album is now considered a pioneering work, it’s seldom mentioned in mainstream classic rock discussions.