Before diving into these titles and trying to track them down, there are a few important things you should know.
Understanding the Vinyl Market
First, you’re unlikely to find original pressings of some of these albums from the year they were released. Vinyl wasn’t in high demand at this point in the 1990s, resulting in fewer records being pressed. Some of these albums never got a proper vinyl release until several years later.
It’s also important to note that some of the bands on the list, such as Bad Religion and the Descendents, found success well before the start of the 1990s. You’ll want to work your way backwards in their catalogues after checking out the albums we highlight here.
The Rise of Punk in the ’90s
Both Bad Religion and the Descendents proved to be influential as punk went mainstream in the 1990s. In the first half of the decade, we saw Green Day and The Offspring explode into big-time international acts. A few years later, the Warped Tour started its first run of shows, allowing pop punk to blossom into its own genre, as the rough edges of punk got sanded down a bit. Both were instrumental in delivering punk to a wider audience.
Whether you missed out on the 1990s or you’re looking to relive them, here are some of the best punk albums from that decade that you need to own on vinyl.
1. Avail, Over the James (1998)
Label: Lookout Records
Key tracks: “Deepwood,” “Scuffle Town,” “August”
2. Bad Religion, Stranger Than Fiction (1994)
Label: Atlantic Records
Key tracks: “21st Century (Digital Boy),” “Infected,” “Stranger Than Fiction”
3. Blink 182, Dude Ranch (1997)
Label: MCA Records
Key tracks: “Dammit,” “Josie,” “Apple Shampoo”
4. The Bouncing Souls, The Bouncing Souls (1997)
Label: Epitaph Records
Key tracks: “Kate is Great,” “Say Anything,” “East Coast Fuck You”
5. Descendents, Everything Sucks (1996)
Label: Epitaph Records
Key tracks: “I’m the One,” “Everything Sux,” “Coffee Mug”
6. Green Day, Dookie (1994)
Label: Reprise
Key tracks: “Welcome to Paradise,” “Basket Case,” “When I Come Around”
7. Jawbreaker, 24 Hour Revenge Therapy (1994)
Label: Tupelo/Communion
Key Tracks: “Boxcar,” “The Boat Dreams From the Hill,” “Do You Still Hate Me?”
8. Less Than Jake, Hello Rockview (1998)
Label: Capitol Records
Key tracks: “All My Best Friends are Metalheads,” “History of A Boring Town,” “Al’s War”
9. NOFX, Punk in Drublic (1994)
Label: Epitaph Records
Key Tracks: “Linoleum,” “Don’t Call Me White,” “The Brews”
10. The Offspring, Smash (1994)
Label: Epitaph
Key tracks: “Self Esteem,” “Gotta Get Away,” “Bad Habit”
11. Rancid, Let’s Go (1994)
Label: Epitaph Records
Key tracks: “Salvation,” “Radio,” “Side Kick”
Conclusion
The ’90s punk scene was pivotal in shaping the sound of modern rock and alternative music. These albums not only capture the spirit of the era but also laid the groundwork for the evolution of punk. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, adding these essential vinyl records to your collection will provide a rich auditory experience that defines a generation.
FAQs
1. Why are some of these albums difficult to find on vinyl?
Many albums from the ’90s were not pressed in large quantities due to the declining popularity of vinyl at the time. Some also didn’t receive a vinyl release until years later.
2. Are there any specific pressings I should look for?
If you’re a collector, look for first pressings and limited editions, which can be more valuable. Many vinyl records also have special colored editions or anniversary releases that might interest you.
3. How can I care for my vinyl records?
To maintain the quality of your vinyl, store them upright, keep them away from direct sunlight, and clean them regularly with a soft cloth. Consider investing in a quality turntable and speaker setup to enhance your listening experience.
4. What other punk albums from the ’90s should I check out?
Besides the albums listed, explore works by bands like Pennywise, AFI, and Face to Face, which also contributed significantly to the punk scene during that time.
