Top Rolling Stones albums to listen to before the arrival of Foreign Tongues – Noise11.com

Let’s dive into the iconic albums that defined The Rolling Stones’ most creative era as they gear up to release Foreign Tongues on July 11. From Beggars Banquet to Some Girls, these five records represent a pivotal period in modern rock history and continue to influence the music industry today.

The quintet of albums, including Beggars Banquet, Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers, Exile On Main St. and Some Girls, from 1968 to 1978, stands as a cornerstone of The Rolling Stones’ career. This era saw Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and their collaborators blending genres like blues, country, gospel, and rock and roll to create a timeless catalogue that set a high standard for future releases.

In 1968, Beggars Banquet marked the band’s return to their roots, distancing themselves from the psychedelic sound of the time. Songs like “Sympathy For The Devil,” “Street Fighting Man,” and “Salt Of The Earth” showcased the band’s versatility and ability to tackle provocative themes against a backdrop of acoustic-driven arrangements.

Let It Bleed, released in 1969, encapsulated the uncertain atmosphere of the late ’60s, dealing with themes of apocalyptic rock and blues. Tracks like “Gimme Shelter,” “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” and “Midnight Rambler” showcased the band’s ability to capture the essence of the era in their music.

In 1971, Sticky Fingers saw The Rolling Stones embracing the new decade with guitarist Mick Taylor on board. Hits like “Brown Sugar,” “Wild Horses,” and “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” highlighted the band’s blend of commercial appeal and musical exploration, touching on themes of addiction and heartbreak.

Considered by many as their magnum opus, Exile On Main St. was recorded in the south of France and embraced a mix of blues, soul, gospel, country, and rock styles. Tracks like “Tumbling Dice,” “Happy,” and “Rocks Off” demonstrated the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with new sounds.

Some Girls, released in 1978, showcased The Rolling Stones’ ability to evolve with the changing music landscape, incorporating elements of punk and disco into their music. Hits like “Miss You,” “Beast Of Burden,” and “Shattered” highlighted the band’s adaptability and solidified their position in the rock scene.

As The Rolling Stones gear up for the release of Foreign Tongues, it’s worth revisiting the albums that shaped their unparalleled career. These five records stand as a testament to the band’s enduring influence and continue to set the standard for rock music today.