Perfect Debute Albums

Fun thread.
Adding to the list I'd suggest:
Eric Johnson "Ah Via Musicom"
Simply Red "Picturebook"
Julian Lennon "Valotte"
Rolling Stones

I think another worthwhile thread would be, "Best Sophomore Release After a Smash Debut". Seems to me delivering something equal to or better than the initial release - especially after early success - is a real challenge.

Chadnliz - that's my read on the situation too. To me, it makes bands like the Beatles that turned out album after album of great songs all the more remarkable.

Hi Madhf - I did not know EJ had released anything solo before Viacom. I stand corrected.

So far as I know, "Music From Big Pink" was The Band's debut. However, their self-titled album ("the brown album") is a great examle of a sophomore release that, to my mind, was even stronger than their debut.

Onhwy61- you have some great stuff listed. Nice depth. Especially like Flying Burrito Bros.

Marty-once again you w/something that works for me. I got A Man Called E when it first came out. Heard it on xpn out of phila. Thought he was a one hitter. Will have to check his other stuff that you posted. Thanks.