Y'know, I'm not sure about this thread at all. "Essential albums one must have in ones collection"? How about "the ones you like"? It seems a bit ..ummm...anal-retentive and possibly elitist to me. But hey ho! Can't help but notice that this particular forum seems to be populated by folks for whom punk rock never happened (or maybe they "tried it,didn't like it"?). Now, I can't speak for the rest of the world, but in the UK, whether you like it or not, punk effected a revolution that impacted on the way (virtually all) music & art was subsequently approached, by changing the landscape and the "rules of engagement". This effect was felt across the board really: didn't just touch punk / new-wave / rock / indie, etc. but also mainstream pop, funk, dance/techno, electronica, avant-garde,...yes,even jazz. (Its not just me that thinks that:there are some excellent books out there on the subject...)
Might I therefore suggest to those who feel the need to complete their collections with "significant albums" (regardless of whether they like them or not) the following:
"Never Mind the Bollocks" - Sex Pistols
"London Calling" - The Clash
"Entertainment!" - Gang of Four
"Killing Joke" - Killing Joke
"Daydream Nation" - Sonic Youth
"Atomiser" - Big Black
"Zen Arcade" - Husker Du
"Nevermind" - Nirvana
I could go on, but....life's too short.
Incidentally, though, the very idea that my collection ought to include some album of U2. Woooaaargh! I'd sooner sever my own testicles and eat them, (raw and whole)
