From left field...

Ready to Die - Notorious Big

Good one! And I'd have to add "AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted" by Ice Cube, it seemed NWA was stifling him creatively and this album seems to be proof that Ice Cube could do better.

One of them has to be "Tango in the Night" by Fleetwood Mac

Pearl Jam - Ten. Nirvana was given credit for bringing about the major change in musical direction during the 90s, but it was this Pearl Jam album that shook me from my strongly established 70's-80s prog-rock influence and made me want to learn to play songs like Even Flow, Once, Black, and Jeremy on the drums.

Primus - Suck on This

They had the balls to release a live album for their first official release and to also start the album with YYZ by Rush.

Primus has always been an awesome band with one of the most unique sounds around, so naturally I second that.

I also agree with NIN's Pretty Hate Machine to think that guy went from being a janitor to writing/recording one of the most accessible industrial albums of all time is pretty awesome by itself.

How about the Broken Bells an awesome collaboration from a singer/songwriter and respected producer/musician.





Muse Origin of Symmetry - Awesome album and now they're one of the biggest bands in the world.






Iron Maiden -Iron Maiden their early days were so raw and showcased the energy they still have today.

Led Zeppelin (I)

of course.
Van Halen-Van Halen is a strong contender as well.

Sad lover and Giants 45 rpm export 12" Epic Garden Music



The Pretenders first