Dance music, a genre built for movement and emotion, often finds its expression in the singular power of tracks. Yet, for true aficionados and immersive experiences, the dance album remains an unparalleled art form. While playlists and singles serve their purpose, there’s a unique journey to be found within a carefully curated album, designed to take you through peaks and valleys of sound, perfect for losing yourself on the dance floor all night long. In an era dominated by individual track consumption, we champion the enduring significance and profound impact of the dance album – the complete artistic statement that transcends fleeting trends.
This meticulously compiled list of the Best Dance Records Of All Time focuses exclusively on artist albums. These are not mere collections of singles; they are cohesive narratives, expressions of artistic intention, and declarations of dancefloor ambition. Singles may command the charts, but albums like these form the bedrock of dance music’s rich history and its vibrant future.
Forget compilations, best-of collections, soundtracks, or DJ mixes. While valuable in their own right, this list is dedicated to the long-playing format, the LP. We’ve meticulously selected 99 albums that have indelibly marked dance floors across the globe and are guaranteed to ignite your passion for movement. Whether you’re dancing in the privacy of your bedroom, under the dazzling lights of a disco ball, or bathed in the open air of a starlit night, these albums are your perfect soundtrack.
99. Stromae: Racine Carrée [Mosaert/Republic] 2013
Dance music speaks a universal language, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. Belgian singer-songwriter-producer Stromae embodies this philosophy perfectly. Racine Carrée, his groundbreaking sophomore album, is sung entirely in French, yet its musical scope is global. From the infectious party vibes of “Ta fête” to the playful rhythms of “Tous les mêmes” and the energetic pulse of “Humain à l’eau,” the album seamlessly blends diverse sounds, creating a sonic tapestry as inclusive as a global gathering. Stromae’s Racine Carrée proves that compelling rhythms and universal themes can overcome any linguistic barrier, making it a standout dance record.
98. Fischerspooner: Odyssey [Capitol] 2005
Fischerspooner, the art-pop duo of Warren Fischer and Casey Spooner, redefined electro with their major label debut, Odyssey. They moved beyond mere sonic clashes, offering a witty critique of pop album conventions while simultaneously crafting a pop album themselves. Odyssey is infused with a self-aware irony that never overshadows the sheer danceability of tracks like “Never Win” and “Just Let Go.” Fischerspooner’s Odyssey is a smart and stylish entry into the best dance records, proving that intellect and irresistible beats can coexist brilliantly.
97. Les Rythmes Digitales: Darkdancer [Wall of Sound] 1999
Before Stuart Price became the celebrated Jacques Lu Cont, Thin White Duke, and the sought-after producer for icons like Madonna, Kylie, and The Killers, he was Les Rythmes Digitales. Under this alias, Price crafted Darkdancer, his second album, as a heartfelt homage to the French electronica of the 90s that he so deeply admired. The album is a thrilling journey through sound, with tracks evoking sweat-soaked dance floors, ecstatic loss of control, and reverent nods to disco’s past, all infused with Price’s signature touch. Darkdancer is a testament to the enduring appeal of French touch and Price’s early brilliance, securing its place among the best dance records.
96. Ellen Allien & Apparat: Orchestra of Bubbles [Bpitch Control] 2006
German electronic music titans Ellen Allien and Apparat boast impressive individual catalogs of exceptional albums. Yet, their collaborative masterpiece, Orchestra of Bubbles, stands out as a truly unique dancefloor experience. The album beautifully balances Apparat’s signature glitchy soundscapes with Allien’s deep bass obsession. Their distinct sonic personalities collide and coalesce in the darkness, resulting in a rare techno gem that is both a sophisticated artistic statement and irresistibly danceable. Orchestra of Bubbles is a testament to the power of collaboration and sonic exploration, making it one of the best dance records.
95. The Presets: Apocalypso [Modular] 2008
Australian duo The Presets solidified their status as subversive figures of the club scene with their second album, Apocalypso. The album features “My People,” a powerful and dark track addressing the harsh realities of immigrant detention centers in Australia. However, Apocalypso is not solely defined by political commentary. Tracks like “This Boy’s In Love” and “Talk Like That” explore more conventional themes of love and relationships, all woven together with a current of intense synthesizer energy. Apocalypso showcases The Presets’ ability to blend social consciousness with dancefloor anthems, earning its spot among the best dance records.
94. Colette: When the Music’s Loud [Candy Talk] 2013
After establishing herself on the influential West Coast label Om, singer/DJ/producer Colette embarked on a new chapter with her own label, Candy Talk, and her album When the Music’s Loud. On this LP, Colette boldly moved away from the deep house sound that had gained global popularity, embracing Italo-disco, electro, and 80s synth influences. The album’s lyrics delve into the life of a DJ, but the driving force is undeniably the dancefloor. When the Music’s Loud is a personal and vibrant statement, showcasing Colette’s evolution and passion for diverse dance sounds, making it one of the best dance records.
93. Boys Noize: Oi Oi Oi [Boysnoize Records] 2007
Boys Noize’s debut album, Oi Oi Oi, exploded onto the scene with raw energy and impact. Imagine hip-hop breaks and acid house colliding at a wild party – the result is Oi Oi Oi. This album is a high-octane fusion of sounds that demands movement. Playing Oi Oi Oi in public may lead to uncontrollable strutting, unintentional scowls, and spontaneous dance-offs. Oi Oi Oi is a raw and electrifying statement, solidifying Boys Noize’s position as a force in electronic music and a place on the best dance records list.
92. Skrillex: Bangarang [Atlantic/OWSLA] 2011
When Bangarang dropped, dubstep was a global phenomenon, and Skrillex was at the forefront of dance music’s commercial explosion. Bangarang defied expectations by showcasing collaborations with The Doors, introspective tracks like “Tokyo,” and ravey, fidget-glitch adventures like “Right On Time” featuring 12th Planet and Kill the Noise. This release proved Skrillex was not just riding a wave but shaping the future of the sound he helped popularize. Bangarang is a crucial snapshot of a pivotal moment in dance music history, securing its place amongst the best dance records.
91. Drexciya: Neptune’s Lair [Tresor] 1999
Detroit duo Drexciya’s Neptune’s Lair became almost mythical. Out of print and difficult to find for years, its influence only grew. Tracks like “Surface Terrestrial Colonization” reveal why. Neptune’s Lair is the sound of the future as envisioned by the first video game generation: hopeful yet anxious, experimental yet grounded in song structure and melody. Drexciya’s Neptune’s Lair is a timeless and influential work of electronic music, deserving its status as one of the best dance records.
90. Clean Bandit: New Eyes [Big Beat/Atlantic] 2014
As EDM’s heavy-handed approach began to lose its appeal, Clean Bandit emerged, offering a more refined and nuanced take on dance music. This Cambridge-born group brought classical elements and a charmingly intellectual sensibility to their music, seamlessly blending rap, piano house, and even Mozart with genuine enthusiasm. Tracks like “Rather Be” reintroduced house music to mainstream radio. New Eyes is a refreshing and sophisticated take on dance-pop, earning its place among the best dance records.
89. Major Lazer: Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do [Downtown] 2009
Before Diplo became a household name, Major Lazer was a more underground project featuring two producers and a cartoon Jamaican character with a laser arm. Recorded in Jamaica’s legendary Tuff Gong studio, Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do delivered a raw, speaker-destroying sound. This was the era of Skerrit Bwoy, when dancehall was edgy and “Pon De Floor” was a global anthem even before Beyoncé jumped on the remix. Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do is a raw and influential album that captured a specific moment in dancehall and electronic music history, making it one of the best dance records.
88. Deadmau5: For Lack of a Better Name [Ultra/Mau5trap] 2009
For Lack of a Better Name, Deadmau5’s fourth studio album, is arguably his most intense. Packed with progressive, trance-infused anthems like “Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff” and the euphoric “Strobe,” the album showcases his exceptional sound design skills. Deadmau5 pushes boundaries and carves out his own sonic space, solidifying his position as a leading innovator in electronic music. For Lack of a Better Name is a landmark album in Deadmau5’s career and a significant entry on the list of best dance records.
87. The Killers: Hot Fuss [Island] 2004
If Interpol was the Joy Division of the 2000s post-punk revival, The Killers were undoubtedly the New Order. Their debut album, Hot Fuss, is a vibrant homage to the great 80s English dance-rock bands, executed with American flair. Hot Fuss delivered indie dance classics like “Smile Like You Mean It,” “Somebody Told Me,” and the ubiquitous “Mr. Brightside.” Hot Fuss successfully bridged indie rock and dance music, making it a vital record and one of the best dance records for a new generation.
86. Simian Mobile Disco: Attack, Sustain, Decay, Release [Wichita/Interscope] 2007
Simian Mobile Disco’s debut album, Attack, Sustain, Decay, Release, captures the duo at their most raw and visceral. Expect glitchy analog sounds and relentless beats from the Manchester-based act. While much of their catalog veers away from straightforward dance floor tracks, this album is purpose-built for movement. Tunes like “Hustler” fit perfectly into the electro landscape of the time but with a distinctive edge that set them apart. Attack, Sustain, Decay, Release is Simian Mobile Disco at their most dance-focused, earning its place among the best dance records.
85. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu: Nanda Collection [Warner Japan] 2013
Anyone who encounters the video for “Fashion Monster” by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is immediately captivated. This costumed Japanese pop singer is mesmerizing, making Lady Gaga look understated. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s computer-generated sounds and hyper-meta J-pop aesthetic are as influential as they are unique, inspiring artists like Porter Robinson. Nanda Collection is a vibrant and unforgettable album, featuring hits like “Ninja Re Bang Bang.” Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s Nanda Collection is a unique and influential album that pushes the boundaries of pop and dance music, making it one of the best dance records.
84: Classixx: Hanging Gardens [Innovative Leisure] 2013
Hanging Gardens by Classixx felt like a classic even before its release. “I’ll Get You” was a revolutionary track in 2009, and while it took four years for the LA duo to deliver a full LP, it was well worth the wait. Hanging Gardens is twelve tracks of pure, feel-good perfection. If you were to soundtrack the perfect first date, this album would be it. Hanging Gardens is sunshine in sonic form, a consistently joyful and expertly crafted album that deserves recognition as one of the best dance records.
83. Calvin Harris: I Created Disco [Columbia] 2007
While promoting his debut album, I Created Disco, a young Calvin Harris clarified he wasn’t claiming to have invented disco but rather created an album of disco music. Before his pop radio dominance, Harris established his talent for crafting infectious, danceable melodies perfect for live shows and DJ sets with tracks like “The Girls” and “Acceptable in the 80s.” I Created Disco is a foundational album in Calvin Harris’s career, showcasing his early talent and securing its place among the best dance records.
82. Hot Chip: Made in the Dark [EMI/Astralwerks/DFA] 2008
As the world increasingly embraced electronic sounds in dance music, Hot Chip reminded us of the power of organic instrumentation. Made in the Dark made us dance with guitars, a synth, and a whole lot of heart. This unassuming band from Nottingham became one of the few indie acts fully embraced by the dance music community. Albums like Made in the Dark prove that the spirit of the rave exists in everyone. Hot Chip’s Made in the Dark is a unique and influential album that bridged the gap between indie and dance music, earning its spot among the best dance records.
81. Akufen: My Way [Force Inc] 2002
Montreal producer Marc LeClair, known as Akufen, meticulously crafted My Way from over two thousand tiny samples recorded from shortwave radio. He expertly cut and pasted these snippets onto upbeat house loops, creating an album that is both intellectually stimulating and incredibly funky. My Way is a gloriously chaotic yet masterfully controlled collection of sound fragments, proving that experimentation and danceability can coexist. Akufen’s My Way is a groundbreaking and innovative album, solidifying its place as one of the best dance records.
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