Third eye blind self titled. If you really listen-and actually listen, I believe no album moving forward will have enough backing from a label, or funds from elsewhere, to be produced like that. (16 guitar tracks on one song 'the background' with $50k worth of amps alone to modify sound).

Also most Zeppelin albums come to mind.

Originally Posted by Steeeve Perry

My Bloody Valentine bankrupted people to make Loveless, and that is a far, far, far superior album.
I mean, I understand your point but Zero by teh Smashing Pumpkins has as many, if not more, guitar layers.

I think loveless is ok, but for me the self titled by 3eb really sums up the period it came from, and for me that's what makes it a classic. -prog rock, post grunge, pop, and amazing collaboration with a duo of talented people (kevin cadogan and stephen jenkins). It stands the test of time every time I listen to it (multiple times a month). I feel today the 'big hits' don't have the depth as some of the albums from the 90's that had talent (pumpkins, flaming lips, etc).

To sum up a classic is representative of its time & an album that is still just genuinely good. I may like Devo songs the best bust some Duran Duran albums are more 'classic' in that respect.