At the age of 12, my world was forever changed when I first heard the electrifying sound of Eddie Van Halen’s Frankenstein guitar. In that moment, I knew my destiny was to rock n’ roll and express myself. Van Halen’s first six albums, all featuring the iconic David Lee Roth as the frontman, are landmarks in rock history. Each album brought something unique to their catalog, showcasing the band’s evolution and their impact on the hard rock genre. Here’s a look at these albums, ranked from legendary to “still pretty great.”
1. Van Halen (1978)
The debut album, Van Halen, is nothing short of revolutionary. It introduced the world to Eddie Van Halen’s ground-breaking tapping technique on “Eruption” and solidified the band’s place in rock history. While songs like “Runnin’ with the Devil,” “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love,” and their cover of “You Really Got Me” are timeless classics, what really makes this album so great are the deep cuts. “I’m the One” is a blistering shuffle with rapid-fire riffs and vocal harmonies, while “Feel Your Love Tonight” and “Little Dreamer” highlight the band’s knack for combining catchy melodies with hard rock energy. “Jamie’s Cryin'” also stands out with its infectious groove, unique structure, and memorable chorus. The raw energy, innovative guitar work, and Roth’s dynamic vocals make this album an unmatched masterpiece. It set a new standard for rock music and remains a touchstone for aspiring guitarists and rock bands.
2. Women and Children First (1980)
Women and Children First marks Van Halen’s third studio effort and introduces a heavier sound compared to their previous albums. Tracks like “And the Cradle Will Rock” and “Everybody Wants Some” are quintessential Van Halen anthems, displaying the band’s powerful fusion of raw energy and musical precision. Eddie’s innovative guitar work shines through in tracks like “Fools” and “Romeo Delight,” while Roth’s charismatic vocals and stage presence are at their peak. The album also features “Could This Be Magic?,” a standout track that shows Van Halen blending acoustic instruments with their signature hard rock sound. Women and Children First reveals the band’s growing confidence and innovative instinct. The raw energy and experimental spirit make it a high point in their discography, capturing the band at a creative peak.
3. Fair Warning (1981)
Fair Warning is often hailed as Van Halen’s darkest and most intense album, featuring some of Eddie Van Halen’s most intricate guitar work. “Mean Street” opens with one of Eddie’s most iconic intros, a dazzling display of finger-tapping that sets the stage for a gritty track with an urban vibe. “Unchained” also stands out with its infectious energy and a prechorus which features a dizzying, syncopated rhythm that keeps the listener on their toes and heightens the anticipation for the explosive chorus. This unexpected twist in the song structure shows how Van Halen could transform a straightforward rock song into something much more intricate and engaging. Overall, Fair Warning delves into darker themes and complex musical arrangements, making it a standout in their discography. While its intensity may appeal to a more select audience, the album reflects substantial artistic growth and Eddie Van Halen’s unparalleled skill as a guitarist.
4. Van Halen II (1979)
Coming off the massive success of their debut, Van Halen II had big shoes to fill. The album features several standout tracks. “Dance the Night Away” is a catchy, feel-good anthem that blends pop with rock. “Spanish Fly,” a solo acoustic guitar piece, highlights Eddie Van Halen’s virtuosity and innovative technique, proving his prowess extends beyond electric guitar wizardry. “Beautiful Girls,” is a quintessential feel-good rock song that captures the essence of summer fun and carefree vibes. David Lee Roth’s vocal delivery is full of personality and swagger. His playful and slightly cheeky style fits perfectly with the song’s theme, and his vocal performance is both powerful and entertaining. Eddie’s guitar work continued to innovate, and Roth’s charismatic vocals kept listeners hooked.
5. 1984 (1984)
1984 is a landmark album that propelled Van Halen to mainstream success. With hits like “Jump,” “Panama,” and “Hot for Teacher,” the album combines catchy hooks with Eddie’s signature guitar solos. “Jump,” the lead single, is a quintessential ’80s anthem that blends rock with pop. The iconic synthesizer riff, played by Eddie Van Halen, immediately grabs the listener’s attention and sets the stage for David Lee Roth’s exuberant vocals. Eddie’s guitar solo, though brief, is a masterful display of his technical prowess and innovative style. However, the use of synthesizers, led to mixed reactions among fans and critics. While some appreciated the innovation and mainstream appeal, others felt it strayed too far from the band’s hard rock essence. Despite these divisions, “Jump” remains an iconic and influential track on an album that highlights Van Halen’s desire to experiment and push musical boundaries.
6. Diver Down (1982)
While Diver Down isn’t a weak album by any means, it stands out as the most inconsistent in Van Halen’s early discography. The album includes several covers, which, although well-executed, feel less innovative compared to their original material. However, tracks like “Little Guitars” and “Secrets” show the band’s versatility and Eddie Van Halen’s guitar wizardry. “Big Bad Bill (Is Sweet William Now)” is a delightful detour on the album, revealing the band’s playful side and their versatility. Featuring the smooth clarinet stylings of Alex and Eddie’s father, Jan Van Halen, the song stands out with its jazzy, old-time charm. The interplay between the clarinet and the band’s rock instrumentation creates a whimsical, retro feel that highlights their musical roots and family connections. This track not only adds a unique flavor to the album but also serves as a touching tribute to their father, blending rock and jazz in an unexpected and enjoyable way.
In Conclusion
Van Halen’s first six albums each brought something unique and enduring to the world of hard rock. From the raw, ground-breaking debut album to the synth-infused heights of 1984, each album reflected the band’s evolution and their innovative spirit. While these rankings might vary depending on my mood, and the weather, there’s no denying the immense impact and enduring legacy of Van Halen’s early discography. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, diving into these albums is a journey worth taking.