10 Most Inaccessible But Ultimately Rewarding Albums Ever

1. Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band - Trout Mask Replica

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZFG1yAxjdQ Of all the experimental albums to be released since the inception of the genre, none have topped the sheer poetic intent of Trout Mask Replica. It defies interpretation often, it frustrates for the majority but it also pushes the envelope further than any other musician in history to the point where over forty-five years later, critics and listeners alike are still trying to decipher the mystifying secrets buried within its impenetrable shell. Indeed a lot of the record doesn't even sound like music because of its all encompassing approach to songwriting. It is therefore even more bewildering to find out that all of the off beat, off center weirdness that drives every song was designed in that very way. Captain Beefheart is known for his notorious iron fist control over his minions and Trout Mask is the ultimate in this uncompromising vision of a true artistic visionary. Throughout its 28 nuggets of deep introspection and traditional composition abandonment lie some absolute crackers but it takes some digging first to locate them. With that said, this isn't a record where cherry picking tracks is benificial because they all combine to create this unique moment in music. It's like taking a segment of a great piece of art without ever seeing the complete picture. That is why it is regarded as one of the true masterpieces in the history of music. It requires even the most open minded listener to endure great punishment for the great relief of its rewards. Essays could be written and have been written on the philosophical and historical (the infamous recording process) merits of this incredible achievement in artistic license but the musical attributes don't disappoint either. If you can wrap your head around the chaotic assembly and juxtaposition of the instrumental makeup of the record then you are half way there to unlocking the locks that shackle this vivid recluse record. Highlights include the acid-tinged frenzy of 'Moonlight On Vermont', the erratic bumbling drive of 'Pachuco Cadaver', the thinly produced blues expulsion of 'China Pig' and many, many more that require repeated listens but release their ingenuity over time. It's incredible to think that this was produced in 1969 because it still sounds as revolutionary and abstract now as it did back then which is a great credit to the unstable musicianship that Beefheart coxed out of his band. I could use every music cliche around for this record but they simply wouldn't do it justice. Simply put - this is one of the most important and instrumental albums ever to be recorded.