The best Proto-Punk albums
of the 1990s.
Where to start with 1990–1999 proto-punk — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1990s — proto-punk
Top picks from 1990–1999, ranked by where we would start.
Patti Smith
Gone Again
A haunting blend of raw emotion and poetic introspection, layered with rich instrumentation and Smith's evocative vocals.
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The Kinks
Phobia
A blend of introspective lyrics and layered instrumentals that traverse the realms of rock and pop with a contemplative edge.
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Iggy Pop
Avenue B
Avenue B intertwines intimate lyrics with a diverse sonic palette, blending rock grit with reflective and poignant melodies.
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Iggy Pop
Naughty Little Doggie
A gritty blend of punk energy and reflective lyrics, channeling raw emotion through Iggy's unmistakable growl.
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Frank Zappa
Läther
A sprawling avant-garde tapestry blending rock, jazz, and humor into an eclectic exploration of human experience.
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Frank Zappa
Everything Is Healing Nicely
A wild collage of musical styles blending humor, intricate compositions, and experimental soundscapes that challenge traditional rock norms.
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Patti Smith
Peace and Noise
A raw, introspective exploration of loss and resilience, blending rock with haunting poeticism and atmospheric instrumentation.
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Todd Rundgren
2nd Wind
A blend of soulful melodies and introspective lyrics wrapped in polished production that showcases Rundgren's eclectic artistry.
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Todd Rundgren
With a Twist...
A vibrant blend of pop and rock with soulful melodies and introspective lyrics that showcase Rundgren's eclectic style.
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The Velvet Underground
Live MCMXCIII
A raw and visceral blend of avant-garde noise and pop melodies, capturing the essence of The Velvet Underground's legendary live energy.
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John Cale
Songs for Drella
A haunting blend of minimalist arrangements and poignant narratives reflecting on the life of artist Andy Warhol.
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John Cale
Last Day on Earth
A kaleidoscopic blend of avant-garde textures and lyrical introspection that traverses themes of mortality and existence.
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Lou Reed
Set the Twilight Reeling
A reflective blend of rock and introspection, layered with Reed's signature storytelling and a touch of melancholy.
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The Velvet Underground
Chronicles
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Sparks
Plagiarism
A playful fusion of glam rock and synth-pop, reimagining Sparks' classics through a contemporary lens with theatrical flair.
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Sparks
Gratuitous Sax & Senseless Violins
An eclectic mix of quirky art pop and sharp satire, blending catchy melodies with a playful sense of irony.
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Lou Reed
Magic and Loss
A haunting exploration of grief and mortality, blending introspective lyrics with minimalist instrumentation.
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Jonathan Richman
I, Jonathan
A whimsical blend of folk melodies and offbeat lyrical storytelling, capturing the essence of everyday moments with a playful spirit.
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Jonathan Richman
You Must Ask the Heart
A whimsical blend of folk melodies and playful storytelling, capturing the essence of everyday life and love's intricacies.
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Television
Television
A vibrant blend of art rock and post-punk, characterized by intricate guitar interplay and introspective lyrics.
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Tom Verlaine
Warm and Cool
An experimental blend of ambient textures and intricate guitar work that evokes a dreamlike, introspective atmosphere.
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Tom Verlaine
The Wonder
Ethereal guitar textures intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a dreamlike soundscape that resonates with the art punk ethos.
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Jerry Harrison
Walk on Water
A textured blend of eclectic rock influences driven by introspective lyrics and experimental arrangements.
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Maureen Tucker
I Spent a Week There the Other Night
A jagged blend of experimental rock and folk, punctuated by raw vocals and unconventional song structures.
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