Big Star – “Third/Sister Lovers” (1978)
Big Star’s “Third/Sister Lovers” is one of those records that was almost lost to time, but has slowly grown into a cult favorite. Released after the band’s initial breakup and plagued by chaos during recording, the album is a raw, emotional journey through heartbreak and confusion. At first, critics and radio stations didn’t know what to make of its somber tone and experimental flourishes. But, with the rise of alternative and indie rock, bands like R.E.M. and The Replacements have cited it as a huge influence. In fact, Rolling Stone now calls it “one of the most influential albums never to have charted.” Despite its rough edges, the album’s vulnerability and haunting melodies make it a treasure for anyone willing to dig deeper.
Love – “Four Sail” (1969)
Love’s 1969 album “Four Sail” sits in the shadow of their psychedelic masterpiece, “Forever Changes,” but it’s a powerful record in its own right. After major lineup changes, Arthur Lee steered Love into a heavier, rock-driven sound full of sharp guitar work and soul-searching lyrics. Many fans missed it because “Forever Changes” had set the bar so high, but tracks like “August” and “Robert Montgomery” show a band willing to evolve. Over the years, critics have gone back to praise its daring style. According to a 2022 Pitchfork retrospective, “Four Sail” is “an underrated gem that rewards repeated listens.”
Failure – “Fantastic Planet” (1996)
Failure’s “Fantastic Planet” is a space rock odyssey that never got the mainstream success it deserved in the ‘90s. Released at the height of grunge and alternative, it was lost in the shuffle but found a devoted following among musicians and fans alike—Tool and Paramore both cite it as an influence. The album’s single “Stuck on You” even cracked the Modern Rock charts, but the band broke up soon after. In 2015, the band reunited, and suddenly “Fantastic Planet” was being called “one of the greatest alternative rock albums of the 1990s” by Stereogum. Its brooding atmosphere and cinematic soundscapes make it a must-hear.
Fountains of Wayne – “Traffic and Weather” (2007)
Fountains of Wayne are best known for their hit “Stacy’s Mom,” but their 2007 album “Traffic and Weather” is a masterclass in smart, hook-filled rock songwriting. Overshadowed by their earlier success, the album was unfairly dismissed at release. Yet, it’s full of sharp character sketches and bittersweet humor, like in “I-95” and “Yolanda Hayes.” In recent years, critics have called it “an overlooked classic” and praised its storytelling. According to Billboard, the album has found new life with fans discovering it on streaming platforms, showing that great pop-rock can stand the test of time.
Redd Kross – “Third Eye” (1990)
Redd Kross’s “Third Eye” blends bubblegum pop with alternative rock, making it a true oddball in the early ‘90s scene. Released just as grunge was taking over, its sunny melodies and quirky lyrics didn’t fit the angst-filled mood of the era. But now, “Third Eye” is celebrated for its fearless creativity and fun. The single “Annie’s Gone” even made a minor dent on MTV. In 2023, Consequence of Sound called it “a lost power-pop masterpiece,” and its infectious energy is finally getting the recognition it deserves.
The Replacements – “Don’t Tell a Soul” (1989)
The Replacements’ “Don’t Tell a Soul” is an album that divided fans and critics when it came out. The band softened their sound and aimed for mainstream success, which some saw as selling out. Yet, tracks like “I’ll Be You” and “Achin’ to Be” show off a more mature songwriting style. Over time, perceptions have changed—Rolling Stone’s 2020 reappraisal described it as “a misunderstood classic that captures the band’s transition.” Modern listeners are now discovering its polished but heartfelt rock, and it’s finding a new audience through deluxe reissues.
The Afghan Whigs – “1965” (1998)
“1965” by The Afghan Whigs is an album full of swagger, soul, and dark romance. Released at the tail end of the ‘90s alternative boom, it got lost amid changing musical trends. The album moves beyond grunge, embracing R&B influences and cinematic storytelling. Critics at the time were mixed, but recent retrospectives have praised its ambition—NME called it “one of the most inventive rock albums of its era.” Songs like “Somethin’ Hot” sizzle with energy, and the album’s lush production rewards careful listening.
Material Issue – “International Pop Overthrow” (1991)
Material Issue’s “International Pop Overthrow” is a jangle-pop delight that never quite broke through to the mainstream. Released in 1991, it arrived as grunge was about to explode, which left its melodic songs fighting for attention. The title track and “Valerie Loves Me” are power-pop perfection, filled with catchy hooks and heartfelt lyrics. Though it only peaked at #86 on the Billboard 200, the album has been celebrated in power-pop circles ever since. In 2024, Paste Magazine called it “a blueprint for modern pop-rock bands,” and its influence is still heard in indie music today.
Cracker – “Gentleman’s Blues” (1998)
Cracker’s “Gentleman’s Blues” is a moody, bluesy rock album that didn’t get the respect it deserved on release. Known for their earlier hit “Low,” Cracker took a darker turn here, mixing Americana with classic rock influences. The album didn’t yield big singles, but it’s full of gritty storytelling and memorable riffs. In a 2023 interview with band leader David Lowery, he described it as “our most honest record.” Fans and critics have come to appreciate its depth and honesty, and the album’s streaming numbers have quietly grown in the past few years.
Fastball – “The Harsh Light of Day” (2000)
Fastball’s breakout hit “The Way” is still played everywhere, but their 2000 album “The Harsh Light of Day” often gets overlooked. Coming out after their big moment, the album showed real growth, with more sophisticated songwriting and a broader musical palette. It didn’t perform as well on the charts, but tracks like “You’re an Ocean” and “Love Is Expensive and Free” show the band’s knack for melody. In 2024, Variety called it “an underrated record full of hidden gems.” Fans rediscovering it now are surprised by how timeless it sounds.
Local H – “Pack Up the Cats” (1998)
Local H’s “Pack Up the Cats” is a concept album that tells the story of a struggling rock band, and it’s packed with crunchy riffs and sharp lyrics. Released during a crowded year for rock, it never got the attention it deserved, despite critical praise. The album’s narrative structure was ahead of its time, and tracks like “All-Right (Oh, Yeah)” are pure adrenaline. In a 2024 retrospective, Spin called it “the best album you never heard from the ‘90s.” Fans have kept its legacy alive, and it’s finally getting the respect it missed out on years ago.