The best Art Rock albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 art rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — art rock
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Genesis
Nursery Cryme
Whimsical narratives intertwine with intricate melodies, creating a fantastical soundscape that defines early progressive rock.
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Genesis
Wind & Wuthering
A lush tapestry of progressive rock, blending intricate melodies with lyrical storytelling and atmospheric arrangements.
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10cc
Bloody Tourists
A vibrant fusion of Caribbean rhythms and pop sensibilities wrapped in clever lyrics and sophisticated arrangements.
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10cc
Sheet Music
Eclectic arrangements blend art rock and soft pop, punctuated by sharp wit and a playful approach to songwriting.
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A fusion of art rock and worldbeat that showcases Gabriel's eclectic vision and emotive storytelling.
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A fusion of art rock and experimental sounds, blending introspective lyrics with eclectic instrumentation and atmospheric textures.
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Yes
The Yes Album
A dynamic blend of intricate melodies, soaring harmonies, and expansive arrangements that define the essence of progressive rock.
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Yes
Close to the Edge
Expansive soundscapes weave intricate melodies with dynamic shifts, creating a transcendent journey through time and consciousness.
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King Crimson
Lizard
An experimental blend of jazz, rock, and avant-garde elements that defies conventional song structures and embraces surrealism.
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King Crimson
Starless and Bible Black
A complex tapestry of jazz-inflected rhythms and haunting melodies, pushing the boundaries of progressive rock into darker territories.
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Jethro Tull
A Passion Play
A surreal journey through theatrical narratives and intricate instrumentation, blending progressive rock with whimsical storytelling.
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Jethro Tull
Thick as a Brick
A sprawling, theatrical odyssey blending intricate melodies with a satirical narrative that challenges the conventions of rock music.
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Kansas
Monolith
A sprawling mix of progressive rock and hard-hitting melodies, layered with intricate arrangements and emotive vocals.
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Kansas
Masque
Epic melodies intertwine with intricate musicianship, creating a rich tapestry of progressive rock that is both introspective and expansive.
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Joni Mitchell
Blue
A poignant blend of confessional lyrics and delicate melodies that capture the essence of personal heartbreak and self-discovery.
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Joni Mitchell
Hejira
A contemplative journey through intricate melodies and introspective lyrics, blending folk and jazz with a sense of wanderlust.
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The Moody Blues
Seventh Sojourn
A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements and introspective lyrics woven into the fabric of progressive rock.
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The Moody Blues
Octave
A rich tapestry of orchestral arrangements and lush harmonies, exploring themes of love and existence through a progressive rock lens.
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Electric Light Orchestra
The Electric Light Orchestra
Symphonic rock arrangements intertwine with pop sensibilities, creating a lush soundscape that is both innovative and accessible.
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Electric Light Orchestra
Discovery
A vibrant fusion of orchestral arrangements and catchy pop melodies that epitomizes the late '70s rock era.
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Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Trilogy
A dynamic fusion of classical motifs and rock energy, with intricate compositions and virtuosic performances that push genre boundaries.
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Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Brain Salad Surgery
An ambitious blend of classical melodies, intricate instrumentation, and theatrical rock elements that reshaped progressive music.
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Brian Eno
Another Green World
This album showcases Eno's innovative layering techniques while presenting accessible melodies that invite deeper engagement. It bridges the gap between ambient soundscapes and more conventional song formats, making it approachable for new listeners.
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Brian Eno
After The Heat
A mesmerizing fusion of ambient textures and minimalist rhythms that envelops the listener in ethereal soundscapes.
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