The 1960s were, undeniably, an iconic time for music. Many legendary artists emerged from the decade, such as Janis Joplin, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones. One band, often overseen, that originated in 1964 Newcastle, England, is The Animals, singers of the hit song, but not an Animals’ original, “The House of the Rising Sun.”

The original lineup consisted of Eric Burdon, Alan Price, Chas Chandler and Hilton Valentine.

One major factor contributing to The Animals’ fame was Burdon’s voice–one that sounded like velvet in a dark night. The sultriness of his vocals mixed with the oddness of the lyrical content to their songs gave The Animals the reputation they deserved, something weird, but beautiful.

The Animals’ Retrospective album is the perfect compilation of The Animals’ variety of style. “The House of the Rising Sun,” their most-known song, sets a darker mood for the band, although they are not the original artists. Not all of their music is like this, though. Songs such as “Baby Let Me Take You Home,” “Gonna Send You Back to Walker,” and Bring It On Home to Me” are fun, energetic songs with less darker themes and sounds. Songs such as “Boom Boom” and “I’m Crying” are songs that beautifully exemplify Burdon’s raspy vocals.

“When I Was Young” and “Sky Pilot” are songs with deeper meanings, one about how much better Burdon’s life was during his younger years and the other about a priest in the Vietnam War, a taboo subject at the time of its release.

The Animals are an often overseen band that emerged straight from ’60s San Francisco, one of the most iconic times for rock n roll. Whether your music taste has anything to do with this era or genre, the band’s entire discography is recommended to anyone who enjoys music with soul and passion behind it.