Great concept albums that are worth a listen

[jw5]

There isn't really a consensus as to what a concept album actually is, but generally speaking, it's safe to say that it's an album with an overall theme. This collective meaning can be achieved in a number of different ways. The narrative can be made through lyrics, the instrumental, the sequence of songs, or simply by having a central theme around which the album revolves.

Today, concept albums are not as popular as they were back in the '60s or '70s, but there are still a few examples from the late 21st century.

 

[jw5]

'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars' by David Bowie -

One of the most famous concept albums of all time, the story of this alien rock star is legendary. David Bowie's persona is one of the most remarkable in music and this concept album is a reflection of his genius.

 

[jw5]

'The Wall' by Pink Floyd -

'The Wall' tells the story of jaded rock star Pink, a character looking to find his place in society who eventually isolates himself from the world.

 

[jw5]

'Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band' by The Beatles -

The Beatles released one of the most popular concept albums of all time. Sgt. Pepper and his bandmates are indeed great songwriters!

 

[jw5]

'Tommy' by The Who -

The Who's iconic rock opera follows the story of Tommy Walker, a traumatized kid who becomes a spiritual leader. Released in 1969, 'Tommy' remains one of the greatest concept albums of all time.

 

[jw5]

'The Dark Side of the Moon' by Pink Floyd -

The concept of Pink Floyd's 1973 album remains ambiguous. It has been suggested that it's a journey from life to death. Each side of the record is essentially a continuous piece of music as well.

 

[jw5]

'What’s Going On' by Marvin Gaye -

Marvin Gaye's masterpiece is essentially a protest album. It touches on themes such as the urban African-American experience, drug addiction, and ecology.

 

[jw5]

'Welcome to My Nightmare' by Alice Cooper -

Alice Cooper's debut studio album takes us on a journey through the nightmares of a child named Steven. "I loved horror movies. Still do. And I also love theatre and musicals. And I always had the grand idea that we could take the basic album and create a stage show from it, which is what we ultimately did," he said.

 

[jw5]

'American Idiot' by Green Day -

Green Day's critically acclaimed album addresses the state of post-9/11 America and criticizes the Bush administration.

 

[jw5]

'The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway' by Genesis -

The band's last album with Peter Gabriel tells the story of Rael, a former gang member who goes looking for a missed sibling in New York City.

 

[Ah Max]

iz Sting’s Ten Summoner’s Tales on ze list?