Essential 2010s art rock

The best Art Rock albums of the 2010s.

Where to start with 2010–2019 art rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 2010s — art rock

Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.

New Blood

Peter Gabriel

New Blood

Orchestral arrangements intertwine with Gabriel's distinctive voice, creating a lush soundscape that reimagines his classic hits.

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Scratch My Back

Peter Gabriel

Scratch My Back

A contemplative collection of reimagined songs that meld orchestral arrangements with Gabriel's emotive vocal delivery.

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Heaven & Earth

Yes

Heaven & Earth

A lush tapestry of soaring melodies, intricate arrangements, and reflective lyrics that encapsulate Yes's progressive rock legacy.

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Fly from Here

Yes

Fly from Here

A symphonic journey blending intricate melodies with lush instrumentation, creating a soaring soundscape of progressive rock.

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Native Invader

Tori Amos

Native Invader

A haunting blend of introspective piano melodies and intricate storytelling, wrapped in Tori Amos's ethereal vocal delivery.

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Gold Dust

Tori Amos

Gold Dust

Orchestral arrangements intertwine with Tori Amos's emotive piano and haunting vocals, reimagining her classic songs with lush textures.

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The Prelude Implicit

Kansas

The Prelude Implicit

A fusion of complex arrangements and melodic hooks, blending progressive rock with a contemporary touch.

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Alone in the Universe

Electric Light Orchestra

Alone in the Universe

A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements and melodic pop that evokes nostalgia while embracing contemporary themes.

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From Out of Nowhere (Jeff Lynne's ELO album)

Electric Light Orchestra

From Out of Nowhere (Jeff Lynne's ELO album)

A vibrant blend of orchestral arrangements and pop melodies that showcases Lynne's signature production style.

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The Magic Whip

Blur

The Magic Whip

A vibrant blend of experimental sounds and introspective lyrics captures the essence of urban life and existential musings.

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Someday World

Brian Eno

Someday World

A vibrant fusion of art pop and experimental sounds, exploring themes of existence and connection through ethereal textures.

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High Life

Brian Eno

High Life

Ethereal soundscapes blend with pulsating rhythms, creating a meditative journey through ambient textures and melodic experimentation.

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Fuck Everyone and Run (F E A R)

Marillion

Fuck Everyone and Run (F E A R)

A sweeping narrative tapestry woven with intricate melodies and profound lyrical reflections on contemporary society.

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Sounds That Can't Be Made

Marillion

Sounds That Can't Be Made

An expansive journey through art rock, blending intricate arrangements with emotive storytelling and contemplative soundscapes.

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Walk Between Worlds

Simple Minds

Walk Between Worlds

A blend of soaring melodies and atmospheric textures that capture the essence of Simple Minds' enduring sound.

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Big Music

Simple Minds

Big Music

A vibrant blend of synth-driven melodies and anthemic choruses that evoke the spirit of 80s arena rock.

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Who

The Who

Who

A reflective blend of classic rock vigor and contemporary introspection, echoing the band's storied legacy with fresh energy.

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1965 – Their First Recordings

Pink Floyd

1965 – Their First Recordings

Raw and experimental, these early recordings capture a band on the brink of psychedelic innovation and artistic exploration.

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The Endless River

Pink Floyd

The Endless River

A serene soundscape intertwining ambient textures and reflective melodies, capturing the essence of nostalgia and introspection.

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Kisses on the Bottom

Paul McCartney

Kisses on the Bottom

A soothing collection of standards infused with nostalgic charm and McCartney's warm, reflective vocals.

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New

Paul McCartney

New

'New' captures the essence of McCartney's evolving sound while maintaining accessibility. The album showcases his talent for crafting memorable hooks and exploring contemporary themes, making it ideal for newcomers.

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OK Computer OKNOTOK 1997 2017

Radiohead

OK Computer OKNOTOK 1997 2017

A haunting blend of dystopian soundscapes and introspective lyrics that capture the alienation of modern life.

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A Moon Shaped Pool

Radiohead

A Moon Shaped Pool

Ethereal soundscapes intertwine with melancholic melodies, creating an immersive experience that explores themes of love and loss.

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The Next Day

David Bowie

The Next Day

A bold fusion of rock and introspective lyricism, revealing a veteran artist's reflections on life and legacy.

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