I tend to be a fan of second albums. The cliché is that a band has a lifetime to write its debut, but only a year or two to write the followup, which leads to diminishing results. While it’s true that some bands peak out the gate and then fall off (Guns N Roses, The Strokes), I find that some of my favorite bands tend to produce better second albums, where they really come into their own. All the touring that follows a debut often results in a tighter band and hotter performances. And if their first album did well, there’s something about knowing people are paying attention this time around that can bring out the best. Pearl Jam is an example that comes to mind, although I don’t think Vs. is their best work. I do, however, think it exemplifies what I’m talking about in terms of second albums. I prefer it to Ten and it’s an album where the band really blossomed and came into its own.

Other examples of second albums that improved upon an already good debut are:









How ‘bout you? What are your favorite second albums?

Ones that I think are superior to the debuts off the top of my head...

I thought of Prince right after I posted that. Good call on Public Enemy, The Smiths, Springsteen, and Blur. Blur reminds me that this one was a big step forward.

Definitely Maybe is probably one of my ten favorite albums of all-time, so I can't get on board with the Oasis choice.

I love it, too, but I took my first backpacking around Europe trip when Morning Glory went gangbusters. I'll forever associate that album with that trip, which was a life changer. I wouldn't argue with anyone who said that Live Forever was their best song.

Definitely agreed in regards to Pearl Jam, Beastie Boys, Metallica, Public Enemy, Blur and Public Image Ltd.

Not so much with Nirvana, Smiths, My Bloody Valentine and Led Zeppelin however (though I can certainly see the argument).

Though the Cure are probably my favourite band ever, I'll readily admit their debut, engaging as it is, is slightly less fully-formed than the superb follow-up:

Lament beat me to it.

Seventeen Seconds is probably my second favorite Cure album. It's a shame how underrated it is.

Your picture was bigger though.

Kendrick Lamar. Section 80 is a very good album but Good Kid is just phenomenal.

Solid thread idea. Did anybody say Joy Division- Closer yet?

No kidding. Talk about a massive leap forward.