Destroyer by KISS
The fourth studio album released by KISS, Destroyer
With hindsight it is obvious that combining the production talents of Bob Ezrin in his heyday with the original line-up of KISS during theirs, was always going to bear fruit. Stanley described the sessions as “musical boot camp” but believed KISS learnt a lot from the experience. This was their first platinum-selling album in the US but it would not be their last. Personally, it will always be my favourite of theirs.
Favourite track: The magnificent “Detroit Rock City”
Tales Of Mystery & Imagination Edgar Allen Poe by The Alan Parsons Project
The album’s lyrics were all based on the works of Edgar Allen Poe
The debut album from the Alan Parsons Project was really quite an audacious thing to attempt for a debut. Using the works of Edgar Allen Poe was an ingenious idea and for the most part, worked really well. Gathering together a large group of some of Britain’s very best musicians also aided proceedings, as did the engineering and production skills of Alan Parsons himself.
Favourite track: “The Raven”
Boston by Boston
Boston’s self-titled debut album was released on the 25th August 1976
MIT graduate Tom Scholz displays his production, songwriting and multi-instrumentalist skills on Boston’s first album. Skills that he would continue to utilise for the rest of their career, remaining the only member of the band to appear on all their releases. Over the years he has built and rebuilt studios, re-recorded entire albums, fought legal battles with record executives all to try and record the most perfect sounding albums. But it all began here with an album that sold over 17 million copies in the US alone.
Favourite track: The majestic and unforgettable “More Than A Feeling”
Jailbreak by Thin Lizzy
Jailbreak was Thin Lizzy’s sixth studio album and third on the Vertigo label
This is the album that really made Thin Lizzy. The twin guitar attack of Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson finally gelled and the songs were great too. It also included some classic singles that earned chart success for the band. Which is all just as well as Vertigo considered this their final chance for a commercial breakthrough or they would have released the band from their contract.
Favourite track: “Emerald”
Hotel California by Eagles
Hotel California was the fifth album released by Eagles and the first to feature Joe Walsh
This for me will always be the finest work by Eagles. Featuring several hit songs and no filler, this album is great from start to finish. The addition of Joe Walsh to the line-up (replacing Bernie Leadon) was an inspired choice. The album was a critical and commercial success and was nominated for five Grammys.
Favourite track: “The Last Resort”
The Slabthrower 