Probably not a popular suggestion on this forum, but 'Prison Song' by System of a Down, from 'Toxicity'. Absolute statement of intention with no time wasted.
Close to the Edge - Yes That's It for the Other One - Grateful Dead Larks Tongues in Aspic Part I - King Crimson
When King Crimson came back in the 80s this really made the statement.. may be my favorite Crimson lineup.
For its time, at its time, this intro was the coolest and weirdest thing ever: And not to re-open a can of worms, but I can't believe any one doesn't think it's George. I always thought so -- still do -- only time I've ever heard it disputed is on this forum.
I have trouble deciding between Radiohead's "Airbag" (OK Computer) and "Everything in its Right Place" (Kid A). The former kicked of one of the most exciting, epic albums ever, and the latter let you know that everything you expected on the followup just went out the window.
how about the first 2 sounds of 'good times bad times' on led zeppelin one? nothing ever like it before......
+100. "Hello There Ladies and Gentlemen, Hello There Ladies n' Gents - Are you ready to rock?" I mean cmon - if this is not the penultimate album starter (in the "rock" era) - I do not know what is Honorable mention: Kiss - Deuce (from Alive!). It permanently changed this teenager at the time and still gives me shivers when that comes on. Cheers VP
Always loved that little Mick Taylor guitar lick that comes up in the mix at the tail end of the fade out. Classic Stones dirty mix.
When one thinks about it, most Zeppelin albums have strong opening numbers: Good Times, Bad Times Whole Lotta Love Immigrant Song Black Dog The Song Remains the Same Custard Pie Achilles Last Stand
