Bands that had a "masterpiece", w/ common theme

Seems to me, "Sgt.Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" should be on the list.

2nd for "Desperado".

A'feil- Haven't read the McCartney interviews you reference so will glady defer to you in that regard. The OP asked about a "common theme" not necessarily concept albums. Based on tracks 1, 2, 7, and 12 I'd argue there is a "common theme" to SPLHCB. (though many of the tracks are "off theme"). At the least that's my view. FWIW - I'd consider Pink Floyd's "Ummagumma" another entry for this thread. By the way, if you're willling, I'm interested in understanding more about what you mean regarding, "The Beatles playing themselves is the gimmick." Ciao.