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5 Overlooked Rock Albums of the 2000s Worthy of a Replay

Published January 21, 2024

The first decade of the 2000s revitalized the rock scene with a nod to the iconic rock star image and a blend of old and new sounds. Despite industry challenges and the dominance of pop genres, several rock albums from this era stood out and remain relevant today. These works, crafted by artists once under the umbrella of the WEA record label family, showcase a diversity of styles and deserve a second listen.

The Donnas: Revisiting 'Spend The Night'

The Donnas, who started out as The Electrocutes, showcased their rough, old-school rock flair in the 2002 album Spend The Night. They captured the spirit of legends like The Runaways and AC/DC with a fresh vitality. With tight production and sassy anthems like 'Take It Off,' the album's concise rock tracks make it an early 2000s highlight.

Kill Hannah's 'For Never and Ever'

Embracing new wave and post-punk influences, Kill Hannah's 2003 release For Never and Ever is a blend of danceable grooves and riff-heavy tracks. The album reflects the era's nostalgic return to the early '80s vibes while forging a sound that's distinctly theirs, with tracks like 'Boys & Girls' capturing this transition.

HIM and 'Love Metal'

Finnish band HIM, known for their unique blend of Gothic rock and metal, found a passionate global audience. Their 2003 album Love Metal is a pinnacle of their artistry, combining darkly romantic lyrics and a mix of aggressive and melodic tunes. It’s a deserving listen for those who seek intensity and craftsmanship in rock music.

Porcupine Tree's 'Deadwing'

Steven Wilson's Porcupine Tree pushed the boundaries of progressive rock with their 2005 album Deadwing. Its marriage of complex arrangements and accessible hard rock elements made this album stand out. Songs like the title track 'Deadwing' showcase an exceptional blend of creativity without pandering to mainstream expectations.

Head Automatica's Power Pop Explosion 'Popaganda'

2006 saw Head Automatica release Popaganda, an energetic power pop record with touches of '70s British rock and mod revival. Daryl Palumbo's diverse musical inspiration shines in tracks ranging from the bold 'Graduation Day' to the thoughtful 'God.' The album is a time capsule of genre-blending rock that remains engaging.

rock, albums, 2000s