1966 ∙ Capitol ∙ Chamber Pop
This is the grandaddy of the alternative rock albums. Yes, Brian Wilson probably didn’t realize it at the time, but his tunes have inspired more indie and alternative rock artists than any album in history–or so say the artists themselves. I’ve read countless interviews with the cool indie guys of today, and all of them at some point mention this album as an influence. One listen and you’ll know exactly why. Wilson is the master behind this thing, and certainly breaks the genre wide open with his multi-layered production and amazing melodies. Give this thing a spin and then listen to any melodic alt rock produced in the last fifteen years and try to deny its influence–I dare you. I’m telling you, Matthew Sweet will kick your ass!