7 Best Vinyl Rock Albums To Own, According To Audiophiles

Vinyl records have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with music enthusiasts and collectors alike appreciating the warm sound and tactile experience that vinyl provides. For fans of rock music, owning albums on vinyl can add an extra layer of nostalgia and authenticity to their music collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting to build your vinyl library, there are certain rock albums that are essential additions to any record collection. These albums not only showcase the best of the genre but also sound incredible when played on a high-quality turntable. Today, we at StudyFinds wanted to dive deeper into these very records, researching and uncovering the best vinyl rock albums to own that deserve a spot on your shelf. 

For those looking to add the essentials to their growing record collection, we at StudyFinds have just the list for you. We have taken the time to research across eight expert sources to bring you today’s ranking of the top seven best rock albums to own on vinyl. Don’t agree with our list or feel we missed out on a good recommendation? No worries! We would love to hear from you in the comments below. Now, onto the list!

The List: Best Rock Albums To Own On Vinyl, Per Music Fans

1. “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” The Beatles (1967)

The first must-have in your vinyl collection is “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” by The Beatles. While The Fab Four put out many notable albums, none quite encapsulate “The Beatles and what they represented” more than this one, says Paste Magazine. This groundbreaking album marked a shift in the band’s sound and image, showcasing their creativity and experimentation. From the iconic album cover to the innovative songwriting and production, “Sgt. Pepper’s” remains a timeless classic that every music lover should have in their collection.

Your Sound Matters notes “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” as being “essential listening” for any rock n’ roll fan. Its impact on the music industry continues to be felt, inspiring countless artists and bands to push the boundaries of what is possible in music. The album’s eclectic mix of genres and experimental techniques set a new standard for creativity and innovation in popular music.

As Louder Sound mentions, Sgt. Pepper’s was the first rock album to “have the lyrics to their songs printed on the cover,” making it an even more iconic record and piece of rock history. The album’s legacy is not just in its groundbreaking music but also in its ability to transcend time and connect with listeners from all walks of life. Truly, “Sgt. Pepper” is a timeless work of art that will always be remembered as a turning point in the history of popular music.

2. “The Dark Side of the Moon” Pink Floyd (1973)

Next up is Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon,” a record that is “so iconic” that it’s practically “cliche” at this point, according to Your Sound Matters. However, there’s no denying the impact that this album has had on the music industry and its lasting influence on countless artists. From its thought-provoking lyrics to its innovative use of studio effects, “Dark Side of the Moon” continues to captivate listeners and remains a timeless classic.

Shortlist adds that just about everything about this album was “epic,” as it also “featured one of the greatest album covers of all time.” The album’s themes of mental health, time, and mortality still resonate with listeners today, making it a truly beautiful piece of art. The innovative production techniques used on “Dark Side of the Moon” set a new standard for the industry, inspiring generations of musicians to push boundaries and think outside the box. It’s no wonder that this album continues to be celebrated and revered as one of the greatest albums of all time.

Watch Mojo comes full circle with their review raving that “Dark Side of the Moon” is a “must-have for any collection.” From the haunting vocals of “The Great Gig in the Sky” to the iconic guitar solos in “Money,” each track on the album offers a unique listening experience that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As fans and critics alike continue to praise its brilliance, “Dark Side of the Moon” remains a classic that will be cherished for generations to come.

3. “Led Zeppelin IV” Led Zeppelin (1971)

Led Zeppelin’s fourth album, “Led Zeppelin IV,” is the next record to take up ranks on our list, and for good reason. As Your Sound Matters described it, this collection of songs is a “true classic” and a must-have for any rock fan or collector. “Led Zeppelin IV” is a true representation of the band’s versatility and range, from the hauntingly beautiful acoustic ballads to the hard-hitting rock anthems. The album’s production quality is top-notch, with each instrument shining through in perfect harmony.

Watch Mojo notes both “Stairway to Heaven” and “Black Dog” as standouts on an album with no skips. The iconic album showcases Led Zeppelin at its peak, with Robert Plant’s soulful vocals and Jimmy Page’s masterful guitar work shining throughout. Each track on the album is a work of art in its own right. 

Paste Magazine adds that the only difficulty with naming “Led Zeppelin IV” the best rock album in history is because it’s much, much more than that. The album’s blend of hard rock, blues, and folk elements creates a unique sound that has stood the test of time. The powerful and dynamic drumming of John Bonham, along with the intricate bass lines of John Paul Jones, round out the band’s sound and add depth to each track. Led Zeppelin’s legacy lives on through this groundbreaking record, proving that their music will never fade into obscurity.

4. “Exile on Main St.” The Rolling Stones (1972)

The Rolling Stones’s tenth studio album, “Exile on Main St.” is the next album on our list. One that was initially “met with mixed reviews,” according to Watch Mojo, but has since been lauded as a classic. The album, released in 1972, features a mix of rock, blues, and country influences. Despite its initial reception, many critics and fans now consider it to be one of the band’s best albums. With hits like “Tumbling Dice” and “Happy,” “Exile on Main St.” showcases The Rolling Stones at their musical peak.

Paste Magazine noted the Stone as perfecting “the art of imperfection” with this record, capturing a raw and gritty energy that was unmatched in their previous works. The album’s sprawling double-disc format allowed the band to explore a wide range of musical styles and experiment with new sounds. 

The Digest Online even raves that the record has several songs that could simply “heal a suffering soul.” The Rolling Stones’ fearless approach to blending blues, rock, and soul on “Exile on Main St.” solidified their status as one of the greatest bands of all time. With its gritty production and infectious energy, this record continues to be a must-listen for music lovers of all ages. Its impact on the music industry is undeniable, cementing the Rolling Stones’ legacy as true pioneers in rock and roll.

5. “Pet Sounds” The Beach Boys (1966)

“Pet Sounds” by The Beach Boys takes our next spot, an album that, according to Jordan Hall Writes, “set the bar” by using the most cutting edge music production techniques, which were far from normal for the 1960s. The album is praised for its intricate vocal harmonies, innovative arrangements, and complex lyrical themes. Brian Wilson’s meticulous attention to detail and experimentation with different instruments and recording techniques resulted in a timeless and influential record that continues to be celebrated by music critics and fans alike.

Watch Mojo describes the arrangements in “Pet Sounds” as being as “complex as any classical piece” but without feeling overwhelming to the ear. The album’s lush production and emotional depth have solidified its place as a masterpiece in the world of music. Its impact can still be felt today, with countless artists citing “Pet Sounds” as a major influence on their own work. The harmonies and melodies created by Wilson and the Beach Boys on this record are truly a testament to the power of artistic innovation.

Devoted to Vinyl adds that “Pet Sounds” evokes nostalgia and a sense of longing, with its timeless songs capturing the complexities of love and loss. Each track on the album is a work of art in its own right, showcasing Wilson’s incredible talent for composition and arrangement. From the dreamy “God Only Knows” to the upbeat “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Pet Sounds” continues to inspire listeners and musicians alike, cementing its status as one of the greatest albums of all time.

6. “Are You Experienced” The Jimi Hendrix Experience (1967)

The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s debut album “Are You Experienced” takes the number six spot and is definitely a must-have for any rock and roll fan. Described by Jordan Hall Writes as capturing “Hendrix in his prime,” this album showcases his incredible guitar skills and innovative approach to music. From the iconic opening track “Purple Haze” to the soulful ballad “The Wind Cries Mary,” every song on the album is a masterpiece in its own right.

Paste Magazine reports that with “Are You Experienced,” Hendrix harnessed the “raw” sound of a band at the peak of its power. The album perfectly captures Hendrix’s ability to blend genres and create a sound that is uniquely his own. Each song on the album simply solidifies his place as one of the greatest musicians of all time. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, “Are You Experienced” is sure to leave a lasting impression and continue to inspire listeners for years to come.

Shortlist even raves that “Are You Experienced” is “one of the greatest debut albums of all time.” The album’s impact on the music industry cannot be overstated, as it paved the way for countless artists to experiment and push the boundaries of what was considered possible in music. Hendrix’s raw talent and passion shine through in every note, making “Are You Experienced” a timeless classic that will always be cherished by music lovers around the world. Whether you’re drawn in by the psychedelic sounds or the soulful lyrics, this album is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the art of music.

7. “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” David Bowie (1972)

The last vinyl that should be added to your collection is described by Your Sound Matters as a “loose concept album,” telling the story of a fictional rockstar of the same name. If we are talking about alter egos, we must be referring to David Bowie and his album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.” The album is filled with hit songs like “Starman” and “Suffragette City,” showcasing Bowie’s unique blend of glam rock and art pop. “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” is a must-have for any vinyl collector looking to delve into the world of concept albums and rock legends.

Watch Mojo adds that Bowie’s 1972 record is “layered, complex, and groundbreaking.” This album not only solidified Bowie’s status as a music icon but also showcased his innovative approach to storytelling through song. The character of Ziggy Stardust, an androgynous rock star from outer space, captivated listeners and set the stage for Bowie’s rise to fame. With its captivating lyrics and infectious melodies, “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” is unlike any other album on and off vinyl.

The Digest Online concludes that “The Rise & Fall of Ziggy Stardust” is a fine addition to any record collection. The album’s theatricality and futuristic concept made it a groundbreaking work in the realm of rock music, influencing countless musicians to experiment with their own storytelling and image. Even decades after its release, “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” continues to resonate with audiences and solidify David Bowie’s legacy as a visionary artist.

Sources:

• Louder Sound
• Your Sound Matters
• Paste Magazine
• Watch Mojo
• Shortlist
• The Digest Online
• Devoted to Vinyl
• Jordan Hall Writes

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.