Roxy Music, Stranded (side A)

After Brian Eno's departure, Roxy Music took a distinct turn in a more approachable direction. While there are some really strange parts on Stranded (1973), with very abstract solos in extended instrumental sections, the strong personality that often emerges as a leader is Brian Ferry. His theatric/cabaret influences are far more notable here than on their first two albums. The production also emphasizes the vocals in very clean mixes, and lead instruments are often brought to the front in instrumental sections—it's a leap from the more ensemble-focused sound of the earlier albums. Stranded defies the unfortunate modern convention to front-load albums, with "A Song for Europe" and "Mother of Pearl" near the end.