252 - 5 Underrated Albums Every Guitar Player Should Listen To
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 Post” (Recorded at University of Florida, 1982) https://youtu.be/lwWmNZpkHX4?si=KmrUg6RQoataQY2q
Key Guitar Lessons:
- Tone is in your hands. It’s not about lots of gear—phrasing, vibrato, and dynamic control are what matter.
- Expression matters. Bends, vibrato, and phrasing are your tools for making music, not just playing notes.
- Play with heart, not just accuracy. Energy and emotion can be more important than playing every note “correctly.”
- Break the rules! Explore outside standard time signatures and chord shapes for new creative discoveries.
- Collaborate. Play and harmonize with others, or use a looper to experiment by yourself.
Get Involved & Connect
- Feedback: Are there other underrated albums you think guitarists should hear? Let Paul know inside the Academy, on Spotify, or by email via the website.
- Level Up Your Playing: Try Beginner Guitar Academy for just $1 with a 14-day trial. Details at beginnerguitaracademy.com
- Community: Join a worldwide group of guitarists for support, structured learning, and fun jams.
Thank you for listening! Keep practicing, stay inspired, and catch Paul in the next episode.
