Podcast Episode Details

252 - 5 Underrated Albums Every Guitar Player Should Listen To

Season 1 Episode 252

In this special bonus episode, Paul Andrews takes a break from the last two weeks’ exploration of the “10 albums every guitar player should listen to” and shines a light on five underrated, yet essential, guitar albums that deserve a spot in every player’s listening library. These records might not be the legendary household names, but they’ve deeply influenced guitarists and can inspire your playing with fresh techniques, tones, and approaches.

What’s Inside

Why Listen?

• Discover guitar albums that have shaped generations without always making the mainstream lists.
• Learn key guitar takeaways and lessons from each artist and album.
• Find fresh inspiration for your own playing by exploring sounds, tones, and phrasing that go beyond the classics.

Spotify playlists:

• 10 Essential Guitar Albums: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2wsbamC84DCMQQWFrnMNLD?si=Fp5elQeGQRynigYKgR31Aw
• 5 Underrated Guitar Albums You Need to Hear: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6As52V2e4zvsaYwZK5u6Hd?si=bm6pUsNuTLyNJ6nOrbxWGw

This Episode’s Featured Albums

John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton (1966) – “The Beano Album”

• Why it matters: Introduced the monumental Les Paul + Marshall amp British rock sound.
• Guitar takeaway: Tone is about phrasing, vibrato, and dynamics—not just speed or effects.
• Highlight track: “They Call It Stormy Monday” https://youtu.be/Az7sLKGOUe8?si=TsYkWP3nTXDvlVls

Jeff Beck – Blow by Blow (1975)

• Why it matters: An iconic instrumental album blending rock, jazz, and funk; inspired countless fusion musicians.
• Guitar takeaway: Focus on phrasing and expression—make your guitar “sing.”
• Highlight track: “Because We Ended as Lovers” (Live in Japan, 1986) https://youtu.be/5aWd88rs6JE?si=qa6KiwTIqcGobjbm

Rory Gallagher – Irish Tour ‘74 (1974)

• Why it matters: Raw, passionate blues rock, capturing Gallagher’s fiery live energy.
• Guitar takeaway: Energy and heart matter more than perfection. Play with soul.
• Highlight track: “Cradle Rock” (Live from Montreal, 1975) https://youtu.be/dZIs6bosh-Q?si=btUdLiR8Q-5ueLSg

King Crimson – In the Court of the Crimson King (1969)

• Why it matters: The album that kickstarted prog rock. Robert Fripp’s experimental guitar work broke all the rules.
• Guitar takeaway: Don’t be afraid to experiment—try odd time signatures, new chord voicings, and unusual dynamics.
• Highlight track: “21st Century Schizoid Man” (Live at the Fillmore East, 1969) https://youtu.be/0kOjsKhlC1I?si=ado5SLQ-dgW51RxU

The Allman Brothers Band – At Fillmore East (1971)

• Why it matters: One of the best live albums ever. Showcases southern rock’s harmonized twin guitars and epic jams.
• Guitar takeaway: Collaboration and jamming with other players can massively improve your skills.
• Highlight track: “Whipping P

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  Published on 3 months, 2 weeks ago