It’s hard to believe these classics are now entering their 25th year! Each has cemented its status as required listening for lovers of classic albums, with generation-defining songs and legendary 90s angst distilled to its most potent form. Here are a few albums from 1997 that have earned their reputation.
The debut of French electronic duo Daft Punk set the course for 21st-century musical modernism, revolutionizing techno music with singles “Da Funk” and “Around the World.”
The passionate debut of R&B singer Erykah Badu showed off a bluesy jazz-inspired voice with graceful 90s production.
Finding their boundless potential in a fusion of breakbeat loops, electronica, and psychedelic appreciation, The Chemical Brothers peaked with their album Dig Your Own Hole.
OK Computer is the greatest expansive, innovative indie guitar-rock album, right on the cusp of Radiohead’s complete experimental makeover.
One album before their massive breakout album and the addition of drummer Travis Barker, the original lineup of the pop-punk heroes refine their songwriting while staying endlessly immature and rowdy.
After an album of fiery experiments culling from as many inspirations as possible, Björk took her icy to its sonic height.
Though nearly every song on the album was released as a single, Shania Twain’s persona was never captured better than in “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!”
All albums are available on streaming services!