“On February 28, we're listing our all time eight favorite debut albums from artists where they hit paydirt the first time!”
Visit other participants from the list below and feel free to join in! This was a little more difficult than anticipated, but I finally came up with eight, great debut albums:
Released on July 24, 1990, Pantera brought heavy metal to a whole new level. Featuring Phil Anselmo's growling and screaming vocal style and Diamond Darrell Abbott's insane shredding, this disc was just brutal for the time. I thought Metallica and Megadeth were heavy but this took heavy up to 11. This band literally changed the sound of metal and it all started with this amazing disc.
Another great 1990 release, Facelift was a huge debut. Even though they formed in Seattle, I never placed them in the grunge category. Alice In Chains is its own singular entity, with a sound that is unique and instantly recognizable. Wow, so many great songs on this one from "We Die Young" and "Man In The Box" to "Sea Of Sorrow" and "Bleed The Freak.” What I love most about this disc is that it feels as fresh as it did 20 years ago.
Here's a debut that launched a band to superstardom. G N' R's first disc was a juggernaut selling over 28 million copies. While it had several tremendous hits ("Paradise City," "Sweet Child O' Mine," "Welcome to The Jungle") its the lesser played tracks that I truly love ("It's So Easy," "Nighttrain," "Mr. Brownstone".) It's truly a shame that Axl Rose pulled a Charlie Sheen and ruined what could have been the greatest rock band ever.
Also known as the official college party album from 1976 through the 80's, this album is one long string of hits. This disc sold over 17 million copies and stayed on the Billboard 200 for 132 weeks. Tom Scholz, the mastermind behind the iconic sound of Boston created an album so epic that it's still in heavy rotation today on classic rock stations. "More Than a Feeling," "Peace of Mind," "Hitch a Ride," "Long Time" - these songs are iconic and stand the test of time.
I know what you're thinking - "who the heck is that?” Formed by John Sykes of Whitesnake fame, this debut disc is a stunner from beginning to end. With an epic sound and some of the finest guitar work you will ever hear, Blue Murder's debut album is amazing. If you like hard rock, then I encourage you to check out this gem.
If you're not a dedicated fan of hard rock, you may have never heard of this amazing band. Crunching guitar mixed with brilliant harmonies made for a spectacular debut. Saigon Kick has a unique sound and style that separates them from all the bands of the early 90's.
Some bands have longevity and some burn hot and fast. Dangerous Toys only released four discs but their first was truly special. Lead singer Jason McMaster and the boys made a debut album that still kicks butt. Laced with humor and innuendo this disc is a hard rock classic.
Super groups don't last long and this is no exception. Formed by Steve Hackett (Genesis) and Steve Howe (Yes), GTR only made one album but it's a classic. "When The Heart Rules The Mind," "The Hunter," "Here I Wait" - just one brilliant song after another. It's a shame they never made a follow-up but at least we have this gem.
Join in the fun or feel free to name a major debut album in the comments. Come on – I know you can think of at least ONE!
