#49. Here are the Sonics - The Sonics (1965)

When I first listened to this album, I was less than enthused. It sounded like a rougher version of the Beatles or the Stones. But, then I gave it a second listen and it clicked. Back in 1965, America was clamoring for all things British and some kids needed an alternative. The Sonics were that alternative. They still delivered rock versions of blues songs like the Beatles and Stones, but they weren't so clean about it, which has a charm to it.

And then I did my research. This album is actually credited for starting the music scene in Seattle. It all started making sense. This sound was the grandfather of grunge. Of course, bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam would come along later and build on this, but the Sonics laid the groundwork for all American garage bands to follow.

Favorite Tracks: "The Witch," "Do You Love Me," "Psycho" and "Strychnine"