Back in Time Today
Some albums break records. Others break barriers. And a rare few quietly change the landscape of music—only to fade into obscurity. These seven albums from 1965 did just that. They pushed genres forward, influenced future legends, and left their fingerprints on music history… before seemingly vanishing from public memory.
1. The Angry Young Them – Them
Before Van Morrison became a household name, he fronted this gritty Belfast band. The Angry Young Them introduced raw garage rock energy with bluesy undertones and brooding vocals. “Gloria” became a garage rock staple, but the rest of the album was a moody, unpredictable ride that hinted at the psychedelic era to come.
This album shaped the sound of British R&B and inspired countless proto-punk acts. With fierce rhythms and evocative lyrics, it echoed the restless spirit of the 1960s. It remains an essential piece of music history, though often overshadowed by Morrison’s later work.
2. Animal Tracks – The Animals
Released during the British Invasion frenzy, Animal Tracks showcased The Animals’ unique blend of gritty blues and rock. While their hit “House of the Rising Sun” earlier dominated the charts, this album expanded their sonic identity—with covers of Nina Simone and Bo Diddley that oozed attitude.
Eric Burdon’s raw vocal prowess was on full display, capturing the essence of rebellion. Each track carried a potent mix of soul and swagger, setting the stage for edgier acts like The Doors. The album’s influence is felt, but its brilliance often fades into the background.
3. Out of Our Heads – The Rolling Stones (U.S. Version)
This U.S. version of Out of Our Heads features “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”—a track that would become a cultural and sonic landmark. The rest of the album, however, including soulful covers and deep blues cuts, gets little attention today despite its role in transforming the Stones from blues revivalists into rock icons.
Marked by rebellious energy and innovative sound, it signaled the Stones’ shift toward original material. Their daring experimentation played a critical role in shaping the rock genre. Yet, much of its pioneering essence remains underappreciated.
4. Bert Jansch – Bert Jansch
Folk fans know his name, but most music listeners don’t. Jansch’s self-titled debut was recorded for just £100 and blew minds with fingerstyle guitar, poetic lyrics, and haunting melodies. Jimmy Page and Neil Young later cited it as a major influence.
This album laid the groundwork for British folk-rock and acoustic innovation. Its delicate yet powerful soundscapes invite listeners into a world of introspection. Despite its subtle genius, it remains a hidden gem in the vast landscape of music history.
5. The Paul Butterfield Blues Band – The Paul Butterfield Blues Band
This debut brought electric Chicago blues to a whole new generation. Featuring future members of Electric Flag and the Band, it fused urban grit with sharp improvisation and helped turn blues into a staple of the rock festival scene.
The album opened the door for white audiences to discover authentic electric blues. Its artistic mastery and bold delivery made it a cornerstone of American blues music. Though influential, its profound impact often goes unnoticed in mainstream discussions.
6. I Ain’t Marching Anymore – Phil Ochs
This protest folk album was a soundtrack for the antiwar movement, combining poetic lyrics with biting political commentary. Ochs was often overshadowed by Dylan, but his passion and fire made this one of the most daring records of the decade.
Its bold messages and stirring melodies showcased the power of music as activism. Ochs’ voice became a symbol of resistance, echoing the cries for change across the nation. Despite its fearlessness, the album remains an underrated artifact of its era.
7. Here Are the Sonics – The Sonics
Wild, raw, and way ahead of its time, this album laid down the DNA for punk and garage rock. Songs like “Psycho” and “The Witch” roared with distortion and screamed vocals—years before it became trendy.
It created a blueprint for punk rock a decade before the term even existed. The Sonics’ unapologetic sound defied norms and electrified listeners. Though largely forgotten, its fearless spirit resonated in the hearts of future punk enthusiasts.