The best Power Pop albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 power pop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — power pop
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
The Kinks
Preservation Act 2
A theatrical blend of rock and narrative storytelling that critiques societal issues with sharp wit and melodic flair.
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The Kinks
Soap Opera
A satirical rock opera that blends theatrical storytelling with catchy melodies and sharp social commentary.
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Blondie
Eat to the Beat
A vibrant fusion of dance-rock and new wave, pulsating with infectious energy and layered melodies.
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Blondie
Blondie
A vibrant fusion of punk energy and pop sensibility, laced with catchy hooks and experimental flair.
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R. Stevie Moore
Delicate Tension
A lo-fi collage of eclectic sounds that merges experimental pop with poignant lyrical reflections on everyday life.
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R. Stevie Moore
Phonography
A lo-fi tapestry of eclectic sounds weaving together country, pop, and experimental influences that defy conventional genre boundaries.
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Joe Jackson
Look Sharp!
'Look Sharp!' captures the essence of Joe Jackson's early sound, highlighting his innovative fusion of genres. The album’s energy and lyrical wit set the stage for what makes his music engaging.
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Joe Jackson
I'm the Man
A vibrant blend of new wave and punk energy, infused with sharp wit and melodic sophistication.
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Bay City Rollers
Elevator
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Big Star
Radio City
Melodic hooks intertwine with jangly guitars and introspective lyrics, creating a distinct power pop sound that resonates deeply.
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Big Star
#1 Record
#1 Record introduces listeners to the essence of Big Star's sound through its engaging melodies and layered instrumentation. It encapsulates their ability to blend raw emotion with polished songcraft, providing a well-rounded first experience.
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Badfinger
Ass
Melodic power pop harmonies intertwine with introspective lyrics, reflecting both vulnerability and resilience in a shifting musical landscape.
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Badfinger
Wish You Were Here
A vibrant blend of melodic hooks and emotive lyrics, encapsulating the essence of power pop's golden era.
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Bay City Rollers
Wouldn't You Like It?
This album combines energetic tracks with engaging melodies, representing the quintessential Bay City Rollers experience. It's cohesive and captures the spirit of their music well, making it ideal for new listeners.
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XTC
Go 2
A vibrant collision of angular guitars and playful melodies that define the quirky spirit of late '70s new wave.
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XTC
White Music
A frenetic blend of power pop and new wave, bursting with sharp hooks and biting social commentary.
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The Osmonds
Love Me for a Reason
Joyful harmonies and upbeat rhythms create a vibrant pop landscape that embodies the optimistic spirit of the early '70s.
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The Boomtown Rats
The Fine Art of Surfacing
A vibrant blend of punk energy, new wave sophistication, and sharp lyrical wit, capturing the spirit of late '70s youth culture.
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The Boomtown Rats
The Boomtown Rats
A vibrant blend of punk energy and melodic hooks that capture the restless spirit of late 70s youth culture.
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Eric Carmen
Eric Carmen
Melodic pop rock intertwines emotional balladry with upbeat anthems, showcasing a rich vocal performance and intricate arrangements.
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Eric Carmen
Change of Heart
A blend of melodic pop rock and introspective lyrics that captures the emotional nuances of love and relationships.
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The Osmonds
Crazy Horses
A vibrant blend of catchy melodies and exuberant energy, showcasing the Osmonds' signature harmony-driven sound.
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The Knack
Get the Knack
Energetic power pop melodies collide with catchy hooks and playful lyrics, capturing the spirit of late 70s rock.
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Raspberries
Raspberries
Bright harmonies and catchy melodies merge with a raw rock energy that defines early 70s power pop.
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