Artist: Beach Boys
Year released: 1966
Peak chart position: 10
Essential songs:" Wouldn't It Be Nice," "God Only Knows"
Why it matters: It was a commercial bust when it was initially released, but now many critics consider it a masterpiece. Brian Wilson's genius lay in using complex overlapping vocals to produce a lush sound. Plus: It was considered an important influence on The Beatles' "Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band."