James Stafford

Inspired by the scenic Zuma Beach where Perry Farrell and Porno For Pyros recorded it, their atmospheric second album still sounds ocean-sized.

Smashing Pumpkins didn't rocket to stardom with their 1991 debut, but 'Gish' set an elaborate (and psychedelic) stage for Corgan and Co. to explore.

Although plenty of subsequent Bowie collections are far more comprehensive, none captured a specific moment in Bowie's evolution better than the first.

Two years after their trippy 2008 album with Danger Mouse, the Black Keys went back to basics and released their self-produced, blues-fueled breakthrough.

In the midst of the hair metal era, Perry Farrell, Dave Navarro and Jane's Addiction took to Hollywood's Sunset Strip to record their informal 1987 debut.

Between the radio breakthrough of 'Shake Your Money Maker' and their eventual jam band future, the Black Crowes captured themselves at their most fully realized.

Instead of offering up more of the same from their breakthrough debut, Garbage completely overhauled their creative OS for their sophomore album.

By 1996, Dolores O'Riordan and the Irish outfit had become ubiquitous on alternative radio. But their third album signaled the beginning of the end.

Damon Albarn and Blur drew from England's rich musical past to create a witty and poignant postmodern masterpiece that defined the Britpop era.

Fishbone were already underground L.A. legends when they recorded their third album, but their funk-metal masterpiece proved far more influential than successful.