11 rock stars share the essential album before you die
Within the world of rock music, there is an inherent appreciation for a great album. The distinct charm of a well-crafted record resonates with fans and artists alike, showcasing the impact of music created by beloved rock bands. Embarking on a musical journey backstage at the infamous Download Festival earlier this year, we delved into a diverse range of rock legends to unveil a common thread: the one album each musician believed everyone should experience before departing from this world.
The responses we received from these musical icons may not align with conventional expectations. From titans like Metallica and Iron Maiden to newer names such as Boygenius and Panic! At the Disco, the beauty of influential albums is subjective and personal. Embracing this diversity of influences, we engaged with a myriad of rock luminaries from all corners of the globe to unearth their essential album choices. Even iconic bands like U2 contributed to the selection.
Among the eclectic group of participants were gothic maestros Cradle of Filth, chart-toppers Shinedown, metal heroes Jinjer, pop-rock sensation Lolo, Alt-Punk artist BEX, punk rocker Karen Dio, and hard rock giants Orbit Culture. Each artist shared the pivotal album that shaped their musical trajectory and earned an esteemed place in their hearts – albums that they believed every individual should encounter at least once in their lifetime.
Within this illustrious group, 11 of the world’s boldest, most eccentric, and influential rock stars disclosed to Shortlist the albums that left an indelible mark on their lives and which they strongly advocated for listeners to immerse themselves in before their final days. These selections undoubtedly warrant a place on your Spotify playlist for a musical odyssey like no other.
For Dani Filth of Cradle of Filth, the definitive album was Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of the Worlds. While not a conventional heavy metal offering, Filth emphasized his deep-rooted love for this cinematic and atmospheric masterpiece with a symphonic allure that gripped his soul. His nostalgic recount of the album’s allure and transcendental sensory experience illuminated its enduring impact on his musical sensibilities.
Jinjer’s bassist Eugene Abdukhanov vouched for Opeth’s Blackwater Park as a transcendental musical journey that reshaped his perspective and identity over 25 years ago. The album’s transformative power wielded an ineffable influence on his artistic evolution, encapsulating the essence of musical revelation.
Additionally, LOLO advocated for Green Day’s American Idiot and Boygenius’ The Record as dual essentials that encapsulate her musical ethos, bridging profound nostalgia with contemporary resonance. Zach Myers of Shinedown championed U2’s The Joshua Tree as a pivotal record, lauding its emotional depth and thematic richness that encapsulate the human experience in its entirety.
Furthermore, BEX urged listeners to uncover the raw intensity and artistry of The Pretty Reckless’ Light Me Up, highlighting Taylor Momsen’s potent vocals and musical prowess. These selections underscore the transformative potential of music to shape and resonate with listeners across genres and generations.
As rock music continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide, these iconic albums serve as testaments to the enduring power of musical expression. Each offering embodies a unique narrative that transcends time and resonates with the human spirit, inviting listeners to embark on a transformative sonic journey that transcends mere entertainment. Embrace these musical gems, indulge in their sonic tapestries, and allow yourself to be swept away by the transformative power of music.