Who doesn’t love a good acoustic album? If done right, a stripped-down album can be all the more intimate and engaging. The following four acoustic albums, in particular, prove that sometimes less really is more.
Let’s take a look! You’ve probably already heard a few of these bonafide classics in rock and country before.
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1. ‘American IV: The Man Comes Around’ by Johnny Cash
Out of all the entries on this list of acoustic albums, American IV by Johnny Cash is this writer’s personal favorite. And that’s saying a lot, considering Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged album is on here.
American IV was a stunning ending to an illustrious career for Johnny Cash, and the fact that he passed mere months after it was released casts a haunting shadow on the record. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. This record was meant to be haunting, complete with stripped-down folk and rock covers that take on a whole new meaning when sung by Cash’s aged, gravelly, and powerful voice.
2. ‘Flaws’ by Bombay Bicycle Club
This 2010 acoustic album might be new to you, and it might just become your new favorite indie folk record.
Flaws by Bombay Bicycle Club was originally a bit of an accident. It was recorded when the band was simply jamming together during a tour break. However, the song “Ivy And Gold” caught mainstream attention, and the record shot to no. 8 on the UK Albums chart. The covers on this record are lovely, too.
3. ‘Sea Change’ by Beck
This is quite a well-loved release from Beck, and Sea Change is easily one of his greatest works. Oddly enough, this album is made even better by the fact that it is on the minimalist side. This album is one of Beck’s most acoustic records, and that stripped-down feel shines a light on his talent over anything else. The guitar ballads on this record are very simple, and they’re absolutely beautiful.
4. ‘MTV Unplugged In New York’ by Nirvana
One of the greatest acoustic albums of all time, MTV Unplugged by Nirvana really defines that series of live performances. It’s more well-known than any other MTV Unplugged set, and even incredible performances from Eric Clapton and Pearl Jam can’t hold a candle to this one.
The whole thing is essential listening, but Kurt Cobain’s covers of “Where Did You Sleep Last Night” by Lead Belly and “The Man Who Sold The World” by David Bowie are particularly arresting.
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