The Plastic blog
February 4th
album anniversaries
By Plastic · Published


Fleetwood Mac • Rumours
Released 4 February 1977 · 50th anniversary
Personal turmoil fueled every note of this record, as the band members navigated messy breakups and internal conflicts while recording in the studio. These raw emotions transformed into some of the most enduring pop-rock songs ever written, turning their private heartbreak into a universal soundtrack.
Polished production and impeccable vocal harmonies define the sound, capturing a quintessential late-seventies aesthetic that feels both breezy and deeply intense. It remains a masterclass in songwriting, where the tension between the musicians creates a unique, electric atmosphere that still resonates perfectly today.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra • II
Released 4 February 2013 · 14th anniversary
Ruban Nielson recorded these tracks in his basement, creating a sound that feels like a hazy, sun-drenched memory. The songwriting leans into a raw, vulnerable intimacy that makes every guitar fuzz and drum crack feel deeply personal.
Released on Jagjaguwar, the record defines the early 2010s lo-fi psychedelic revival. It balances catchy pop sensibilities with experimental textures, capturing a distinct sense of isolation that remains incredibly relatable today.

Echo & The Bunnymen • Porcupine
Released 4 February 1983 · 44th anniversary
Recording sessions for this record took place in the remote Welsh countryside, where the band famously sought inspiration from the landscape to craft their most atmospheric work yet. The resulting sound is dense and icy, defined by Ian McCulloch’s haunting vocals and Will Sergeant’s shimmering, textured guitar lines.
Released during the height of the post-punk era, the production leans heavily into a dark, cinematic aesthetic that feels both expansive and claustrophobic. It remains a definitive statement of the early eighties UK alternative scene, capturing a band at the peak of their mysterious, brooding powers.

James Blake • James Blake
Released 4 February 2011 · 16th anniversary
Sparse piano chords and heavily processed vocal loops define this debut, marking a pivotal shift in electronic music. It strips away the aggressive energy of the UK dubstep scene in favor of a fragile, deeply personal intimacy.
Minimalist production techniques create a sense of vast, empty space that feels both haunting and incredibly grounded. Released during a time when electronic artists were moving toward more song-oriented structures, this record remains a masterclass in tension and restraint.

Dolly Parton • Jolene
Released 4 February 1974 · 53rd anniversary
Classic storytelling defines this iconic collection, blending traditional folk sensibilities with a distinct country flair. These tracks showcase masterful songwriting and vocal clarity that solidified a legendary career in the industry.
Released as a high-quality reissue, this record captures the raw emotion and acoustic warmth of the original sessions. It remains an essential listen for anyone exploring the foundations of modern country music.

Grouper • The Man Who Died In His Boat
Released 4 February 2013 · 14th anniversary
Haunting melodies emerge from a sea of tape loops and ethereal, wordless vocalizations. The music feels like a ghost story told through a thin veil of static and drone.
Field recordings and degraded audio textures give the album an organic, weathered quality that feels both ancient and timeless. It is a perfect example of how experimental folk can be used to evoke a profound sense of place and memory.
Also on this day

Les McCann Ltd. • Pretty Lady
Released 4 February 1961 · 66th anniversary

Anthony Braxton • Recital Paris 71
Released 4 February 1971 · 56th anniversary

Can • Tago Mago
Released 4 February 1971 · 56th anniversary

Elvis Presley • Aloha From Hawaii Via Satellite
Released 4 February 1973 · 54th anniversary

Elvis Presley • Aloha From Hawaii
Released 4 February 1973 · 54th anniversary

Johann Sebastian Bach, Andrej Lütschg • Sonaten Und Partiten Für Violine Solo
Released 4 February 1975 · 52nd anniversary

Giorgio Gaslini Quartet • Concerto Della Libertà / Universo Donna
Released 4 February 1975 · 52nd anniversary
Elliot Lurie • Elliot Lurie
Released 4 February 1975 · 52nd anniversary

The Shadows • 20 Golden Greats
Released 4 February 1977 · 50th anniversary

Bennie Maupin • Slow Traffic To The Right
Released 4 February 1977 · 50th anniversary

Fleetwood Mac • Rumors
Released 4 February 1977 · 50th anniversary

Dean Friedman • Dean Friedman
Released 4 February 1977 · 50th anniversary

Ohio Players • Angel
Released 4 February 1977 · 50th anniversary

Tommy Flanagan Trio • Eclypso
Released 4 February 1977 · 50th anniversary

George Benson • In Flight
Released 4 February 1977 · 50th anniversary

Rubicon • America Dreams
Released 4 February 1979 · 48th anniversary

The Buggles • The Age Of Plastic
Released 4 February 1980 · 47th anniversary

Ramones • End Of The Century
Released 4 February 1980 · 47th anniversary

The Chipmunks • Urban Chipmunk
Released 4 February 1981 · 46th anniversary

Al Di Meola • Tour De Force - "Live"
Released 4 February 1982 · 45th anniversary
How to track album anniversaries in your collection
Give the records on your shelf another spin. Plastic helps you organize your vinyl and CDs, sync your collection with Discogs, and discover album anniversaries and the stories behind them. Explore new releases and rediscover something you already own.