Some albums take time to find their audience. Maybe they were overshadowed by bigger releases, misunderstood upon their debut, or simply ahead of their time. But with the benefit of hindsight, these overlooked gems earn the recognition they truly deserve. Here’s a list of underrated albums that warrant another spin, each showcasing artistry that’s as powerful now as it was when they first dropped.

1. "Sea Change" by Beck (2002)

Known for his quirky experimental tracks, Beck took a sharp and unexpected turn with Sea Change. This melancholic yet gorgeously arranged album sees Beck strip back the irony and lean into raw vulnerability. Written in the aftermath of a breakup, the album is rich with emotional depth, featuring acoustic instrumentation, lush string arrangements, and a dreamy atmosphere that stands in contrast to his earlier work.

Tracks like “Lost Cause” and “Guess I’m Doing Fine” hit hard with their sincerity, while the production, helmed by Nigel Godrich, delivers a sense of intimacy that feels timeless. While Sea Change didn’t make a monumental splash at its release, it’s come to be seen as one of Beck’s most profound and enduring works.

2. "The Idler Wheel…" by Fiona Apple (2012)

Fiona Apple has always been a champion of raw lyricism and emotional honesty, but The Idler Wheel… takes her artistry to uncharted levels. This album strips away polish, presenting a haunting combination of her ferocious vocals, unorthodox piano melodies, and inventive percussion. It’s a deeply introspective record, full of intricate storytelling and emotional catharsis.

Songs like “Every Single Night” and “Anything We Want” capture the chaos and beauty of the human experience, and Apple’s unapologetic approach to baring her soul can send chills down your spine. Though it didn’t dominate mainstream charts, The Idler Wheel proved to be a masterpiece of vulnerability and creativity, earning a quiet but loyal fanbase that continues to grow.

3. "Pink Moon" by Nick Drake (1972)

Nick Drake’s Pink Moon is a hauntingly beautiful album that went largely overlooked during his lifetime but has since become a cult classic. Stripped down to just Drake’s delicate voice and intricate acoustic guitar, the album’s simplicity makes its emotional impact even more profound.

Clocking in at just 28 minutes, Pink Moon feels like a fleeting dream. Tracks like the title song and “Which Will” carry a heartbreaking melancholy, yet there’s also a strange comfort in Drake’s gentle delivery. Rediscovered by new generations of listeners, this album now holds a revered place in the canon of folk music.

4. "From a Basement on the Hill" by Elliott Smith (2004)

Elliott Smith’s posthumous album From a Basement on the Hill is an aching farewell packed with the singer-songwriter’s trademark vulnerability. While his earlier albums like Either/Or and XO received widespread acclaim, this one flew slightly under the radar upon its release.

The album’s raw production gives it an intimate feel, and its themes of loneliness and longing resonate deeply with listeners. Tracks like “King’s Crossing” and “Twilight” showcase Smith’s unparalleled ability to weave beauty into sadness. Now seen as a fitting tribute to Smith’s legacy, From a Basement on the Hill has earned its status as a must-listen for fans of introspective indie music.

5. "Transcendental Youth" by The Mountain Goats (2012)

The Mountain Goats’ Transcendental Youth is an emotionally charged exploration of despair and resilience. While their earlier albums often garnered cult adoration, this 2012 release was quietly celebrated but didn’t break into the mainstream.

John Darnielle’s trauma-laced storytelling paired with surprising brass arrangements creates an album that is both heartbreaking and uplifting. Tracks like “Amy aka Spent Gladiator 1” urge listeners to survive against all odds, while “White Cedar” captures small moments of grace amid chaos. It’s a triumph for anyone seeking comfort in difficult times, and it’s well worth revisiting.

6. "Sound of Silver" by LCD Soundsystem (2007)

Sound of Silver didn’t receive the attention it deserved at first, but it’s an undeniable masterpiece of dance music that also doubles as a meditation on aging, love, and longing. James Murphy, the genius behind LCD Soundsystem, crafts tracks that are as infectious as they are introspective.

Songs like “All My Friends” deliver crushing nostalgia through a pulsating rhythm, while the title track marries humor with existential dread. Beyond just a club-ready album, Sound of Silver proves that dance music can be both highly conceptual and deeply emotional, making it an essential re-listen for music lovers of all genres.

7. "Grace" by Jeff Buckley (1994)

It’s hard to believe now, but when Grace was released in the mid-90s, it barely made waves. Over time, however, Jeff Buckley’s singular vocal talent and emotional depth have made this album legendary. Buckley’s soaring falsetto combined with lush instrumentation make for an ethereal listening experience.

The haunting cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” is now iconic, but the deeply original tracks like “Lover, You Should’ve Come Over” and “Eternal Life” capture the full spectrum of human emotion. A true masterpiece, Grace continues to gain the acclaim it always deserved.

8. "Stankonia" by OutKast (2000)

Though OutKast is celebrated for their commercially successful hits, Stankonia was initially met with limited recognition compared to the duo’s later work. With its bold experimentation, genre-defying sound, and politically charged lyrics, the album wasn’t immediately understood for how revolutionary it truly was.

Songs like “B.O.B.” (Bombs Over Baghdad) and “Ms. Jackson” highlighted André 3000 and Big Boi’s distinct lyrical styles while pushing boundaries within the hip-hop genre. Now hailed as a pioneering album that bridged mainstream appeal with artistic risk, Stankonia has rightfully claimed its spot among hip-hop’s greatest records.

9. "In Rainbows" by Radiohead (2007)

Though Radiohead’s OK Computer and Kid A often overshadow its successors, In Rainbows quietly cemented itself as one of the band’s most beloved works. Released in a groundbreaking pay-what-you-want model, the album’s impact extends beyond its innovative distribution method.

Tracks like “Nude” and “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” showcase the band’s stunning ability to blend haunting melodies with Thom Yorke’s introspective lyricism. With its warm production and emotional resonance, In Rainbows feels like an intimate conversation, making it worth revisiting for those who may have missed its understated genius.

Music has the remarkable ability to grow with us. These underrated albums might not have shattered charts upon their release, but their timeless themes, masterful craftsmanship, and emotional weight earn them lasting recognition. Take a moment to rediscover these albums. Sometimes, music needs a second listen to reveal its full beauty, and these records are proof that great art never fades; it just waits to be truly heard.