The best Proto-Punk albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 proto-punk — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — proto-punk
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Frank Zappa
Weasels Ripped My Flesh
A chaotic blend of rock, jazz, and avant-garde sounds that challenges conventions and embraces improvisation.
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Frank Zappa
Chunga's Revenge
A wild blend of avant-garde rock and jazz inflected with Zappa's signature satirical wit and complex arrangements.
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Iggy Pop
The Idiot
A gritty blend of art rock and punk with haunting melodies and dissonant instrumentation that captures a raw, urban energy.
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Iggy Pop
Lust for Life
A vibrant mix of punk energy and glam rock flamboyance, underpinned by infectious rhythms and Iggy Pop's raw, commanding vocals.
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The Kinks
Muswell Hillbillies
A whimsical blend of storytelling and satire, merging country influences with sharp social commentary and eclectic instrumentation.
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The Kinks
Everybody's in Show-Biz
A whimsical blend of rock and theatricality, reflecting the duality of life on and off the stage.
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Patti Smith
Set Free
An intersection of art rock and punk energy, blending poetic lyricism with raw instrumentation in a captivating sonic journey.
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Patti Smith
Horses
'Horses' is celebrated for its cohesive sound and lyrical depth, offering an insightful look into Smith's artistic vision. It marks the beginning of her journey in rock music while delivering powerful performances that resonate across generations.
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The Velvet Underground
Loaded
A vibrant blend of rock and pop that captures the exuberance of youth and the bittersweet nature of life.
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The Velvet Underground
Andy Warhol's Velvet Underground Featuring Nico
A haunting blend of avant-garde sounds and raw emotion wrapped in ethereal melodies and stark lyrical imagery.
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Sparks
Halfnelson
Whimsical melodies collide with eccentric lyrics in a playful exploration of pop and rock traditions.
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Sparks
Introducing Sparks
Eclectic melodies fuse with theatricality and playful lyrics, crafting a distinctive sound that defies genre boundaries.
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Lou Reed
Coney Island Baby
'Coney Island Baby' showcases Reed's ability to weave complex narratives within catchy tunes, making it an ideal entry point for those new to his music. It encapsulates both his lyrical prowess and musical innovation without overwhelming the listener.
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Lou Reed
The Bells
A haunting blend of ambient soundscapes and confessional lyrics that reflect both personal turmoil and societal observation.
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The Stooges
Raw Power
'Raw Power' showcases The Stooges at their most intense, offering a cohesive experience that highlights their defining sound. It features driving beats and jagged instrumentation that set the stage for what’s to come in their catalog.
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The Stooges
Fun House
Raw, chaotic energy collides with avant-garde experimentation to create a visceral proto-punk soundscape that defies convention.
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Roxy Music
Manifesto
A lush blend of art rock and glam aesthetics, infused with playful experimentation and emotive melodies.
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Roxy Music
Siren
A lush blend of art rock and glam, where sultry vocals intertwine with sophisticated instrumentation to create an intoxicating atmosphere.
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Todd Rundgren
Runt
A vibrant blend of blue-eyed soul and rock, infused with playful melodies and intricate arrangements that showcase Rundgren's eclectic artistry.
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Todd Rundgren
Something/Anything?
'Something/Anything?' is celebrated for its cohesive structure and diverse sound. It perfectly encapsulates Rundgren's ability to shift between styles while maintaining a strong sense of identity throughout the album.
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John Cale
Church of Anthrax
A mesmerizing blend of avant-garde textures and minimalist classical arrangements, evoking a sense of experimental introspection.
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John Cale
Paris 1919
Melodic arrangements intertwine with poetic lyricism, crafting a rich tapestry of emotional and historical reflection.
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The Mothers of Invention
Over-Nite Sensation
A wild fusion of rock, jazz, and satire that challenges norms with intricate musicianship and sharp lyrical wit.
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Jonathan Richman
Back in Your Life
A whimsical blend of folk melodies and proto-punk energy, evoking playful storytelling with an earnest heart.
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