10 More Perfect Rock Albums Of The 80s With No Bad Songs

4. The Lion And The Cobra - Sinéad O'Connor (1987)

Damn, Sinéad O'Conner came out swinging with this record. She managed to incorporate themes of sexuality, religion, death and oppression, all with an equal conviction and intensity on her debut record.

The recording process was set with difficulties, however. Sinead had just landed a record deal and soon after discovered she was pregnant. Her label panicked at the news and apparently encouraged her to terminate the pregnancy for fear it might hinder her career. But the Irish rebel wasn't having it and finished the album in spite of her situation.

Her resolve not to be swayed by figures of authority can be felt in this record. Songs like, Just Like U Said It Would B, displayed the duality of O'Conner, there were strong sentiments of defiant independence, and in the same breath she was calling out for support.

Troy is over five minutes of compelling vocal deliveries that weave masterfully from hushed whispers to furious outcries of loathing. With the only accompaniment being a simple drum beat and swelling string sections, the track was one of the more haunting numbers on the album.

I Want Your Hands On Me was the closest thing to a pop song, it was unapologetic expression of lust with a jaunty dance-pop beat. But, listening to this song alone would give you little insight into the depth on this album.