Mixing standard pop and rock practices with experimental sprinklings, ‘Nazz Nazz’ should have sent Todd Rundgren’s band into the superstar stratosphere.

‘The Remains’ documents the unstoppable exuberance of an exciting – and sadly short-lived – young band.

Although the Young Rascals were already tuned in and tight, ‘Groovin” showed off a new-found sense of maturity and sophistication.

This remains a strong, too-often overlooked Warren Zevon album. Yet ‘Mr. Bad Example’ marked the beginning of his career’s second act.

Mixing and matching experimental edges with bouts of moodiness, the Temptations stage more exceptional performances throughout ‘All Directions.’

The Lovin’ Spoonful really sounded like nobody except themselves, and their 1966 sophomore release ‘Daydream’ consistently underscored that individuality.

While ‘Telekon’ went on to inspire many new wave synth-pop artists during the ’80s, Gary Numan’s time in the spotlight wouldn’t last long.

The late Gene Clark’s work never lacked critical praise, but mainstream acceptance was not to be had – and ‘Firebyrd’ was no exception.

‘Christmas Album’ finds the Jackson 5 interpreting smartly selected material with an emotional maturity and sincerity far beyond their young ages.

With 1968’s ‘Infinite McCoys,’ the McCoys showed they were dead serious about burying their image as a radio-ready pop act.