18 albums rock music critics were forced to change their minds about

Despite the diminished air of authority that rock critics once held several decades ago, and with some notable figures like Lester Bangs no longer active, their opinions – whether positive or negative regarding a specific rock album – continue to carry weight.

Many individuals may strongly believe in their own judgment when it comes to a specific piece of music. But what occurs when these critics hold contrasting views or, at times, surprisingly, alter their stance regarding a particular album?

Different factors might lead to a shift in opinions about an album over time. For instance, as cultural perspectives evolve, critics may reconsider their initial evaluation. Additionally, a closer examination of the impact an individual artist and their particular album has made could influence their reassessment. Lastly, it’s possible that they have grown more accepting of a specific piece of music.

18 albums that rock music critics did not like upon original release

As a music enthusiast, I’ve often found myself appreciating albums more over time, with many initially receiving harsh criticism but eventually earning a spot on the list of all-time classics. In most instances, these 18 albums were not well-received at first, but in retrospect, they stand out for all the right reasons.

Pet Sounds – The Beach Boys (1966)

Initially, everyone adored The Beach Boys’ tunes about sunshine, surfing, and fast cars when they first emerged as a band. However, when Brian Wilson, the group’s creative force, opted for a fully orchestrated sound and more mature, self-reflective lyrics from Peter Asher for this particular album, it sparked some confusion within the band members themselves and was met with criticism, particularly in the U.S. Nowadays, it is widely recognized as one of the greatest rock classics ever made.

The Velvet Underground & Nico – The Velvet Underground (1967)

Initially upon its release, this album struggled commercially, with critics labeling it as “abrasive” and “too avant-garde.” This could have been due to its association with Andy Warhol and a cover art that was deemed controversial and even banned in certain regions. However, over time, it has come to be recognized as one of the most influential rock albums ever produced, earning a reputation as one of the most groundbreaking albums in rock music history.

Forever Changes – Love (1967)

Initially, this intricate, lavish album was met with indifference by most critics, who largely overlooked it, and its initial reception among audiences was also lackluster, as it struggled to sell well. However, over time, accolades for its brilliance have been increasingly bestowed upon it, its re-releases have grown more elaborate, and the term “classic” has become frequently associated with its praise.

Sweetheart of the Rodeo – The Byrds (1968)

Whenever an artist or band alters their sound significantly and sometimes creates a new genre in the process, there will be critics who disagree with this transformation. This was the case when Roger McGuinn, along with Gram Parsons and others, moved from psychedelia to full-on country music. At that time, the album failed to make an impact with both critics and listeners, but it is now recognized as a groundbreaking country rock album.

The White Album – The Beatles (1968)

Critics initially deemed the double album as “inconsistent” and felt it could have worked better as a single disc, or even described it as “four solo albums in one.” However, over time, this self-titled release has been elevated to stand alongside the great works of these legends. It’s now widely admired for its daring diversity and ambitious approach by all members of the band.

The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society – The Kinks (1968)

The early Kinks singles were characterized by their punkish energy, but their subsequent work took a turn towards a more pastoral, contemplative approach. This shift in attitude resulted in an album that, initially overlooked, is now recognized as the Kinks’ seminal work, marking a significant step forward in musical innovation.

Fun House – The Stooges (1970)

Initially, Iggy Pop and his bandmates were deemed quite contentious, especially during their performances, which often left many critics feeling displeased. In fact, numerous critics expressed their distaste by suggesting they throw the album away. However, it appears that those who discarded the album later reconsidered, as it’s now widely recognized as a timeless punk/garage rock classic in music history.

Paranoid – Black Sabbath (1970)

An album once criticized severely, labeled as straightforward and even hazardous, has since been recognized as a cornerstone in the development of heavy metal music. It seems some critics were overly cautious in their initial assessments.

Led Zeppelin IV – Led Zeppelin (1971)

Initially, some critics were hoping for more blues-influenced guitar work, but instead got a blend of pastoral, folky tones, heavy rock riffs, which they labeled as “bombastic” and “derivative.” However, today, those same critics often praise the album as the band’s finest. Time has a way of redefining opinions.

Exile on Main St. – The Rolling Stones (1972)

Despite initial criticisms labeling it as “too lengthy” and “uneven,” this album soon became another Stone’s classic, revered as one of the greatest in the annals of music history, perhaps overshadowed by rumors of disorder and indulgence during its recording process.

Berlin – Lou Reed (1973)

The discussion regarding certain albums by Lou Reed, notably Metal Machine Music, has been ongoing, but that particular album is no longer part of the debate. Initially, critics dismissed it as overly gloomy or depressing, but now it’s widely recognized as a classic not just in Reed’s discography, but in everyone else’s as well.

Tonight’s the Night – Neil Young (1975)

This piece shares the deliberate low-fi quality and faced similar criticism as the Lou Reed album mentioned earlier. Some listeners felt it was overly raw emotionally. However, despite its somber tone, it has become another timeless classic, standing the test of time.

Ramones – Ramones (1976)

Creating something entirely fresh and going against the mainstream music trends of the era can prove challenging, as it did for the Ramones’ first album.

Low – David Bowie (1977)

At first, some critics described it as “inaccessible,” “hermetic,” or simply having “too much electronics.” However, they eventually understood that David Bowie, a master of musical transformation in rock, was never static. His approach to music was always about innovation and fresh ideas. Indeed, this became another classic Bowie album. Interestingly, as punk gained popularity, the impact of Ramones and this particular album soon became apparent.

Tusk – Fleetwood Mac (1979)

How does one surpass your most successful and refined album? Rather than applying more shine, Fleetwood Mac opted for a more experimental sound, which was met with disapproval from several critics and a significant portion of their fan base at first. However, as time has passed, it appears that both the critics and the band’s audience have reconsidered this album, removing it from their real or imagined dustbins.

Tim – The Replacements (1985)

Initially, transitioning from a hardcore sound to power pop didn’t win over many critics back then, often labeled as “inconsistent.” However, with the passage of time, this change is now recognized as one of the band’s finest moments and even among the top albums of the ’80s.

Be Here Now – Oasis (1997)

In a different wording: This piece initially received a lot of positive reviews, especially in Britain. However, as time goes by, favorable opinions seem to be dwindling. Moreover, the ongoing debate over high concert ticket prices for the current band resurgence isn’t making things easier.

Kid A – Radiohead (2000)

The complaint from certain critics was that there weren’t enough guitars on the album, possibly because they found the extensive experimental aspects to be too much for their taste. Today, it is often hailed as one of the more forward-thinking albums of the 21st century.

2025-02-15 14:00