These 15 records mark the conclusion of rock’s most impressive album streaks
Rock history is packed with awe-inspiring streaks of brilliance. These incredible runs occur when artists seem incapable of putting a foot wrong, each new album surpassing the previous one. From The Beatles with their albums from Rubber Soul to Abbey Road to icons like Bowie, Stevie Wonder, and Steely Dan in the ’70s and Radiohead in the 2000s, these artists have experienced moments where excellence feels like an unstoppable force, akin to lightning striking repeatedly. However, even the most exceptional artists can falter. Whether due to exhaustion, ego, changing times, or sheer bad luck, sometimes a stumble occurs, usually in the form of one album that breaks the spell of greatness.
This one album is not necessarily unbearable, but it acts as a stark reminder that even brilliance is not a guarantee. Below are 15 records that marked the end of some of the most astonishing runs in rock history, signaling the first time critics raised eyebrows, fans shook their heads, and the magic suddenly appeared fragile.
The Beatles’ Let It Be (1970) marked the conclusion of their streak, as the album, released post-breakup, showcased the scars of bitter disputes and creative exhaustion, with Phil Spector’s arrangements muddling the raw energy of the original recordings. Bob Dylan’s Self Portrait (1970) was a double album of covers and unfinished tracks that left critics and fans bewildered, with some viewing it as a deliberate attempt by Dylan to shed certain fans. The Rolling Stones’ Goats Head Soup (1973) followed a series of masterpieces and felt tired, lacking the energy and danger present in their earlier work.
Led Zeppelin’s Presence (1976) landed heavily compared to their previous albums, with a lacking vigor and mystique that defined their earlier discography. Yes’ Tormato (1978) felt lackluster in comparison to their grandeur in earlier releases, plagued by poor production quality and scattered sounds. Stevie Wonder’s Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants (1979) veered into experimental territories, deviating from his usual funk and soul tunes, leaving many fans puzzled.
Genesis’ …And Then There Were Three… (1978) marked a shift towards more streamlined arrangements, shedding the intricate playfulness of their earlier progressive works after guitarist Steve Hackett’s departure. Elton John’s A Single Man (1978) saw a decline in lyrical depth following his separation from longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, signifying an end to his earlier brilliance. Joni Mitchell’s Dog Eat Dog (1985) embraced a glossy ’80s production, straying from her characteristic intimacy and fluidity, illustrating a departure from her earlier work. Radiohead’s The King of Limbs (2011) was characterized by its short, twitchy, and unfinished nature, a departure from their groundbreaking albums of the past.
In rock history, these 15 albums marked the end of some of the most remarkable runs and served as humbling reminders that even the greatest artists can falter. Brilliance may not always be a constant, but it is this ebb and flow that adds depth and complexity to the rich tapestry of rock music history.