Indigo Girls

The self-titled major label debut from Indigo Girls is a cornerstone of the late-80s folk revival. Produced by Scott Litt, known for his work with R.E.M., the album successfully translated the duo's grassroots Atlanta energy into a platinum-selling phenomenon. While technically their second album, it served as their global introduction, showcasing the distinct songwriting styles of Amy Ray (the lower-registered, more aggressive rocker) and Emily Saliers (the soprano-leaning, melodic philosopher). The record is notable for its guest appearances, including Michael Stipe and the rest of R.E.M., which helped bridge the gap between the folk and alternative rock scenes of Athens, Georgia. It won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk Recording and remains a touchstone for the 'women in rock' movement of the early 90s. Its success proved that earnest, acoustic-driven music could thrive in a decade dominated by synthesizers and hair metal.