The Flaming Lips – The Soft Bulletin (2xLP)

Not only did this record pave the way for The Flaming Lips to achieve commercial success far beyond their homeland, but it also opened the doors for younger acts with a sense of adventure in their blood to break through on the pop charts. Just as earlier releases had influenced the likes of Grandaddy and Mercury Rev, The Soft Bulletin and its follow-up Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots have informed acts such as MGMT and Empire of the Sun. This is an album of its time, sure - but one with a reach that continues to feel its way through the modern musical landscape.