The best Punk Rock albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 punk rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — punk rock
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Midnight Oil
Midnight Oil
Raw energy fuels this debut, blending punk rock urgency with new wave melodies and socially conscious lyrics.
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Midnight Oil
Head Injuries
A raw blend of punk energy and new wave experimentation, echoing the vibrant Australian music scene of the late 1970s.
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U2
Three
Raw post-punk energy combines with melodic hooks and anthemic choruses, showcasing U2's early songwriting prowess.
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The Damned
Music for Pleasure
Raw, energetic punk rock collides with sardonic lyrics, creating a chaotic yet engaging sonic landscape that defines early British punk.
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The Damned
Damned Damned Damned
Raw energy and chaotic melodies collide in a punk manifesto that captures the rebellious spirit of the late '70s.
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Sex Pistols
Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols
Raucous guitar riffs and sneering vocals collide in a raw, unapologetic declaration of rebellion and disillusionment.
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Ramones
Rocket to Russia
A frenetic burst of catchy melodies and raw energy that encapsulates the spirit of punk rock's early days.
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Ramones
Road to Ruin
A frenetic mix of catchy melodies and raw punk energy, encapsulating the spirit of youthful rebellion.
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Iggy Pop
New Values
A raw blend of punk energy and introspective lyrics, capturing a restless spirit in a shifting musical landscape.
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Iggy Pop
Kill City
A gritty exploration of urban decay, merging punk energy with a raw, confessional lyricism.
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The Stranglers
Rattus Norvegicus
Raw energy and sharp wit collide in gritty punk anthems layered with new wave elements and dark humor.
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The Stranglers
No More Heroes
A brash and confrontational blend of punk energy infused with sardonic wit and sharp melodies.
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The Clash
Give 'Em Enough Rope
A gritty blend of punk energy and socio-political commentary, underscored by infectious melodies and sharp guitar riffs.
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The Clash
London Calling
'London Calling' showcases The Clash's versatility and lyrical depth, representing their work. Its mix of energetic tracks and slower, reflective pieces makes it accessible while still impactful.
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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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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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Buzzcocks
Love Bites
A raw exploration of love and disillusionment delivered with infectious melodies and punk energy.
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Buzzcocks
Spiral Scratch
Raw, energetic punk anthems capture youthful frustration and rebellion with blistering guitars and incisive lyrics.
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The Jam
In the City
Punk-infused mod revival energy bursts through catchy melodies and sharp lyrical observations about urban life and youthful disillusionment.
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The Jam
All Mod Cons
A vibrant synthesis of punk energy and mod revival aesthetics, layered with sharp social commentary and melodic hooks.
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Black Flag
Nervous Breakdown
Raw, frenetic energy collides with chaotic instrumentation, capturing the essence of early hardcore punk in a blistering, short format.
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A Certain Ratio
The Graveyard and the Ballroom
A frenetic mix of punk energy and funk grooves, blending rhythmic complexity with raw, emotive vocals.
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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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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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