Top 10 Best Albums of 1990

1990 was a year of transition and innovation in music, bridging the sounds of the '80s with the cultural shifts that would define the '90s. It was a time when genres collided, artists reinvented themselves, and new voices emerged to shake things up. You could feel the winds of change sweeping across the industry, as pop, rock, hip-hop, and alternative music all found fresh directions.

Pop music was alive with energy, as some of the biggest stars of the decade cemented their dominance with career-defining releases. Meanwhile, rock was in a fascinating phase, with the grunge movement quietly brewing in the background while stadium-filling bands kept the anthems coming. On the hip-hop front, 1990 saw the genre grow more complex, confident, and influential, with artists beginning to explore its full narrative and rhythmic potential.

This was also a year of incredible variety. Dance music brought people to their feet with vibrant beats and club-ready hits, while the alternative scene laid the groundwork for what would soon become a mainstream explosion. The music of 1990 wasn't just about catchy hooks - it was about experimentation, reinvention, and paving the way for the trends that would dominate the decade.
The Top Ten
Painkiller - Judas Priest

1990 was a big year for metal. Once again, I'm glad Megadeth's Rust in Peace isn't above the real metal gods.

Rust in Peace - Megadeth

24? Probably the best metal album of all time.

Cowboys from Hell - Pantera
Violator - Depeche Mode

A turning point in Depeche Mode's career. Should be #1.

This should be in the top 3.

Seasons in the Abyss - Slayer
Facelift - Alice in Chains
Paintings in Yellow - Sandra

Just look at this beautiful cover. Do you need more? Just kidding, the whole album is just as awesome.

My favorite Sandra album! Simply the best! She looks stunningly beautiful on the cover.

This woman is a true goddess! Only one bad thing - her music is so underrated!

The Razor's Edge - AC/DC
Goo - Sonic Youth
Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 - George Michael

The Newcomers

? GodWeenSatan: The Oneness - Ween
? Pod - The Breeders
The Contenders
I'm Your Baby Tonight - Whitney Houston

Brilliant album from my lovely Whitney. "All the Man That I Need" is a masterpiece. "My Name Is Not Susan" and "Miracle" were such underrated singles.

There are some good songs on this album.

Persistence of Time - Anthrax
Crazy World - Scorpions
Heaven or Las Vegas - Cocteau Twins
I'm Breathless - Madonna

Yes, I do love this album! Madonna was so brave and innovative back in the day.

A decent jazz album from pop queen Madonna! A must-hear album!

Social Distortion - Social Distortion
Bossanova - Pixies
Recycler - ZZ Top
Nowhere - Ride
Slaves and Masters - Deep Purple
Flood - They Might Be Giants
Lawn Boy - Phish
Up from the Ashes - Don Dokken
Repeater - Fugazi
Fear of a Black Planet - Public Enemy
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