Verve – Urban Hymns (2LP)
A defining Britpop-era classic, Urban Hymns propelled The Verve to international stardom with its sweeping melodies and emotional depth. Anchored by the anthemic “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” the album blends lush orchestration with Richard Ashcroft’s soulful vocals and introspective lyrics. Other highlights like “The Drugs Don’t Work” and “Sonnet” showcase the band’s ability to craft deeply moving ballads alongside soaring guitar-driven tracks. With its rich production and timeless themes, Urban Hymns remains one of the most important UK albums of the late '90s, straddling rock and psychedelia with elegance and intensity.