Styx Albums in Order:Styx Albums in order tell the story of one of America’s most innovative rock bands, blending theatrical flair with powerful rock melodies.
Formed in Chicago in 1972, Styx rose to fame with a unique mix of progressive rock, pop rock, and soft rock. Their early albums, beginning with Styx (1972) and Styx II (1973), showcased their fusion of hard rock guitars with lush keyboards and soaring vocals, culminating in the breakthrough single “Lady.” As the band evolved, albums like Equinox (1975) and Crystal Ball (1976) expanded their fan base, the latter marking Tommy Shaw’s debut. The band reached new heights with The Grand Illusion (1977), Pieces of Eight (1978), and Cornerstone (1979), each delivering multi-platinum success and iconic hits like “Come Sail Away,” “Renegade,” and the chart-topping “Babe.”
In the 1980s, Paradise Theatre (1981) and Kilroy Was Here (1983) cemented their legacy with bold concepts and commercial success. With 17 studio albums to date, Styx’s discography is a testament to their adaptability and enduring popularity, making exploring Styx albums in order a fascinating journey through decades of musical evolution.
All Styx Albums Available on: Apple Music
List of Styx Studio Albums in Order of Release Date
1. Styx (1972)
Styx’s self-titled debut album, released in 1972, laid the foundation for the band’s progressive rock sound. The album features a blend of rock, folk, and elements of classical music, showcasing the band’s versatility and songwriting prowess. Tracks like “Best Thing” and “What Has Come Between Us” display the band’s early potential, while “Lady,” the album’s standout single, became a regional hit, foreshadowing the commercial success that would come later in their career. Styx’s debut album may not have achieved widespread mainstream recognition, but it introduced audiences to their unique musical style and set the stage for their subsequent growth as a band in the years to come.
2. Styx II (1973)
Styx’s second studio album, “Styx II,” released in 1973, showcased the band’s emerging progressive rock sound and set the stage for their future success. The album featured a diverse mix of musical styles, blending hard rock with intricate harmonies and melodic passages. The powerful vocals of Dennis DeYoung and James “JY” Young, combined with the guitar work of John Curulewski, added depth and dimension to the album’s tracks.
Notable songs on “Styx II” included “You Need Love” and “Lady,” which garnered attention for their captivating melodies and compelling lyrics. The album demonstrated Styx’s talent for crafting memorable hooks and offered a glimpse of the band’s potential for becoming one of the most influential rock acts of the 1970s. “Styx II” remains an essential part of the band’s discography, showcasing their early artistic evolution and laying the groundwork for their subsequent achievements.
3. The Serpent Is Rising (1973)
Styx’s third studio album, “The Serpent Is Rising,” released in 1973, showcases the band’s early progressive rock style. The album is a conceptual piece revolving around the theme of the biblical serpent tempting humanity. With a mix of intriguing storytelling and progressive musical elements, Styx experiments with different sounds, blending rock, folk, and even theatrical elements into their compositions. Tracks like “Winner Take All” and “As Bad as This” highlight the band’s developing songwriting skills, while “Krakatoa” and “Plexiglas Toilet” demonstrate their playful and imaginative side. Though not as commercially successful as some of their later works, “The Serpent Is Rising” is an essential record in Styx’s discography, laying the groundwork for their future artistic evolution and cementing their reputation as a prominent force in the progressive rock scene of the 1970s.
4. Man of Miracles (1974)
Styx’s “Man of Miracles,” released in 1974, is their fourth studio album that showcases the band’s early progressive rock style. This album features a mix of intricate musical arrangements, strong vocal harmonies, and thought-provoking lyrics. Tracks like “Rock & Roll Feeling” and “Havin’ a Ball” exude the band’s energetic spirit, while “Man of Miracles” and “Young Man” demonstrate their ability to craft emotional ballads.
Though not as commercially successful as some of their later works, “Man of Miracles” still garnered praise for its musical ambition and artistic expression. The album highlighted Styx’s evolution as a band, setting the stage for their subsequent successes in the late 1970s and 1980s. “Man of Miracles” remains a significant piece of Styx’s discography, cherished by fans for its unique blend of progressive rock elements and captivating storytelling.
5. Equinox (1975)
Styx’s “Equinox,” released in 1975, is the band’s fifth studio album and a significant step in their musical journey. Showcasing their progressive rock sound mixed with elements of hard rock, the album features standout tracks like “Lorelei,” “Suite Madame Blue,” and “Light Up.” With the addition of Tommy Shaw as a guitarist and songwriter, “Equinox” marked a pivotal moment for Styx, contributing to their rise in popularity.
The album’s lyrical themes touch on a variety of subjects, including love, politics, and societal reflections. “Lorelei” tells the tale of a mysterious enchantress, while “Suite Madame Blue” presents a compelling political commentary. With powerful vocals, intricate instrumentals, and thought-provoking storytelling, “Equinox” solidified Styx’s presence in the 1970s rock scene and laid the groundwork for their subsequent successes.
6. Crystal Ball (1976)
Styx’s “Crystal Ball” is a captivating studio album released in 1976. It marked a turning point in the band’s career, showcasing their progressive rock sound with a blend of melodic and hard rock elements. The album features iconic tracks like “Mademoiselle,” “Crystal Ball,” and “The Grand Illusion,” which later became one of the band’s signature songs.
With the powerful vocals of Dennis DeYoung and Tommy Shaw’s guitar prowess, the album’s songs have a mystical and enigmatic feel, exploring themes of destiny, illusions, and the unknown. “Crystal Ball” received critical acclaim for its musicianship, well-crafted songwriting, and innovative soundscapes, solidifying Styx’s place in the rock music scene of the 1970s. This record remains a favorite among fans, leaving a lasting impact on the progressive and classic rock genres.
7. The Grand Illusion (1977)
Styx’s “The Grand Illusion,” released in 1977, stands as a landmark album in the band’s discography and in the classic rock genre. With its captivating mix of progressive and hard rock, the album showcases the band’s exceptional musicianship and songwriting prowess. The album’s themes revolve around the illusionary nature of fame, success, and the pursuit of material wealth, reflecting on society’s constant desire for superficial pleasures.
Featuring iconic tracks such as “Come Sail Away,” “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man),” and the title track “The Grand Illusion,” the album boasts a perfect blend of catchy hooks, intricate melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics. Styx’s brilliant harmonies and memorable arrangements make it a standout release in the ’70s rock era. “The Grand Illusion” remains a timeless classic, loved by generations of music enthusiasts for its depth and lasting impact on the rock music landscape.
8. Pieces of Eight (1978)
Styx’s “Pieces of Eight,” released in 1978, is a captivating studio album that solidified the band’s reputation as a progressive rock powerhouse. The album blends hard rock, pop, and elements of progressive music, showcasing the band’s exceptional musicianship and songwriting. It features timeless classics like “Renegade” and “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights),” which became iconic staples in Styx’s repertoire.
“Pieces of Eight” explores diverse themes, from personal struggles to societal issues, with a touch of mysticism and fantasy. The album’s dynamic arrangements and powerful vocal harmonies contribute to its enduring appeal. Notable tracks like “Sing for the Day” and “Queen of Spades” further demonstrate Styx’s ability to craft meaningful and memorable songs. With its commercial success and critical acclaim, “Pieces of Eight” remains a standout release in Styx’s discography, securing its place as one of the defining albums of the late ’70s rock era.
9. Cornerstone (1979)
Styx’s “Cornerstone,” released in 1979, is a landmark studio album that solidified the band’s position in the rock music landscape. Showcasing their signature blend of progressive and arena rock, the album features some of their most iconic hits. Tracks like “Babe” became an instant classic and reached the top of the charts, marking Styx’s first No. 1 single. The album also includes other standout songs like “Boat on the River” and “Lights,” which further exemplify their musical versatility and songwriting prowess.
“Cornerstone” is known for its strong vocal harmonies, powerful guitar riffs, and grandiose synthesizer arrangements. The album’s themes touch on love, introspection, and life’s journey, resonating with a wide audience. With its commercial success and critical acclaim, “Cornerstone” remains a significant album in Styx’s discography and remains a favorite among classic rock enthusiasts.
10. Paradise Theatre (1981)
Styx’s “Paradise Theatre,” released in 1981, is a concept-driven studio album that showcases the band’s progressive rock and AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) style. Set in the fictional Paradise Theatre, the album reflects on the rise and fall of the theater, drawing parallels to societal changes and the loss of innocence in America during that era.
With memorable tracks like “The Best of Times” and “Too Much Time on My Hands,” the album blends catchy melodies, powerful vocals, and intricate instrumentations. It achieved commercial success, becoming the band’s fourth consecutive multi-platinum album.
“Paradise Theatre” marks a pivotal point in Styx’s career, demonstrating their ability to combine intricate storytelling with their signature rock sound. It remains a fan-favorite and a classic example of the band’s artistry and enduring impact on the rock music landscape.
11. Kilroy Was Here (1983)
Styx’s “Kilroy Was Here,” released in 1983, is a concept-driven rock album that delves into a dystopian storyline set in a future dominated by censorship and totalitarianism. The album centers around the character of Robert Orin Charles Kilroy, a rock star who is unjustly imprisoned by Dr. Righteous, the leader of a repressive regime. The music incorporates elements of rock, progressive rock, and synth-pop, featuring both energetic anthems like “Mr. Roboto” and emotionally charged ballads such as “Don’t Let It End.” Despite mixed critical reception at the time of its release, “Kilroy Was Here” developed a cult following and has become a symbol of the ’80s rock era. The album’s narrative-driven approach and blend of various musical styles continue to resonate with Styx fans to this day.
12. Edge of the Century (1990)
“Edge of the Century,” released in 1990, is Styx’s eleventh studio album. It marked a notable transition for the band, as it was their first album without longtime lead vocalist and founding member Dennis DeYoung. Tommy Shaw and James Young took on more significant roles in the album’s songwriting and vocal performances. The album features a mix of rock and pop influences, showcasing the band’s versatility and ability to adapt to changing musical trends.
Lead single “Love Is the Ritual” achieved moderate success, while the power ballad “Show Me the Way” became a radio hit, resonating with fans. Styx’s signature harmonies and melodic hooks are evident throughout the album, maintaining their distinctive sound despite the lineup changes. Though “Edge of the Century” received a mixed critical reception, it remains an essential part of Styx’s discography, representing a significant era in the band’s history.
13. Brave New World (1999)
Styx’s “Brave New World” is a studio album released in 1999, marking their 13th studio effort. The album saw the return of founding member Dennis DeYoung, reuniting the classic lineup. The record features a mix of classic Styx elements, blending rock anthems with progressive rock influences. It showcases the band’s signature harmonies and powerful vocals, along with impressive instrumental performances.
“Brave New World” explores a range of themes, from introspective lyrics to societal commentary. Standout tracks include the epic opener “I Will Be Your Witness,” the emotional ballad “While There’s Still Time,” and the title track “Brave New World,” which highlights the band’s musical prowess.
The album received mixed reviews from critics, but it still managed to capture the essence of Styx’s sound, pleasing longtime fans and displaying the band’s ability to adapt to contemporary music trends while staying true to their core identity.
14. Cyclorama (2003)
Released in 2003, “Cyclorama” is Styx’s thirteenth studio album. It marked the return of original band member Dennis DeYoung, after a long absence from the group. The album features a diverse blend of rock styles, showcasing the band’s signature harmonies and melodic hooks. “Cyclorama” captures both the classic Styx sound and a more contemporary approach, exploring themes of introspection and societal issues. The standout tracks include “Fields of the Brave,” “Bourgeois Pig,” and “Yes I Can.” With solid songwriting and powerful performances, the album received mixed reviews from critics but resonated well with Styx fans. “Cyclorama” serves as a testament to the band’s enduring talent and their ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their musical roots.
15. Big Bang Theory (2005)
Styx’s studio album “Big Bang Theory,” released in 2005, showcases the band’s unique twist on classic rock hits. Unlike their original compositions, this album pays homage to iconic rock songs by reimagining them with a modern touch. Styx’s legendary lineup, featuring Tommy Shaw, James “JY” Young, Lawrence Gowan, Todd Sucherman, and Ricky Phillips, deliver a refreshing take on beloved tracks such as “I Am the Walrus” (originally by The Beatles), “I Can See for Miles” (originally by The Who), and “Locomotive Breath” (originally by Jethro Tull). With their impeccable musicianship and innovative arrangements, Styx’s “Big Bang Theory” resonates with both loyal fans and new audiences, honoring the timeless classics while adding their signature flair to create a memorable and enjoyable listening experience.
16. The Mission (2017)
Styx’s “The Mission,” released in 2017, is a concept studio album that marks the band’s first original studio release in over a decade. This ambitious work takes listeners on a space-themed journey, with a story set in the year 2033 when a manned mission is sent to Mars. The album masterfully blends the classic rock elements that Styx is known for, featuring powerful vocal harmonies, intricate guitar work, and captivating keyboard melodies.
“The Mission” showcases the band’s musicianship and storytelling prowess, with standout tracks like “Gone Gone Gone” and “Radio Silence” that resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners. The album’s rich instrumentation and attention to detail create a vivid sonic experience, perfectly complementing the futuristic narrative. With “The Mission,” Styx proves that they still have the ability to craft compelling and relevant music, continuing to solidify their position as one of rock’s iconic acts.
17. Crash of the Crown (2021)
Styx’s “Crash of the Crown,” released in 2021, is a captivating studio album that showcases the band’s timeless rock prowess. Embracing their signature sound while pushing boundaries, the album features a blend of classic rock elements and modern touches. With poetic lyrics and powerful vocal harmonies, the band addresses various themes, including societal issues, introspection, and hope for a better future.
“Crash of the Crown” consists of 15 tracks, each with its own unique flavor, taking listeners on a journey through a diverse musical landscape. From the anthemic title track to the introspective balladry of “Reveries,” the album is a testament to Styx’s enduring musical craftsmanship. It proves that even after decades in the industry, Styx continues to create music that resonates with old fans and captivates new audiences alike, solidifying their place as legendary rock artists.
How many albums does Styx have?
This is the discography of American rock band Styx. Over the years they have released 17 studio albums, 9 live albums, 16 compilation albums, 39 singles, and 3 extended plays.
All Styx Albums in Order of Release Date
Here is the list of Styx Album in Order of Release Date:
Studio albums:
1. Styx — August 31, 1972
2. Styx II — July 1, 1973
3. The Serpent Is Rising — October 1, 1973
4. Man of Miracles — November 8, 1974
5. Equinox — December 1, 1975
6. Crystal Ball — October 1, 1976
7. The Grand Illusion — July 7, 1977
8. Pieces of Eight — September 1, 1978
9. Cornerstone — October 19, 1979
10. Paradise Theatre — January 16, 1981
11. Kilroy Was Here — February 28, 1983
12. Edge of the Century — October 9, 1990
13. Brave New World — June 29, 1999
14. Cyclorama — February 18, 2003
15. Big Bang Theory — May 10, 2005
16.The Mission — June 16, 2017
17. Crash of the Crown — June 18, 2021
Live albums:
1. 1984 Caught in the Act — 1984
2. Return to Paradise — May 6, 1997
3. Arch Allies: Live at Riverport — September 26, 2000
4. Styx World: Live — June 5, 2001
5. At the River’s Edge: Live in St. Louis — July 9, 2002
6. 21st Century Live — October 7, 2003
7. One with Everything: Styx and the Contemporary Youth Orchestra — November 14, 2006
8. The Grand Illusion/Pieces of Eight – Live (2012) — 7 May 2013
9. Live at the Orleans Arena, Las Vegas — 2015
Compilation albums:
1. Best of Styx — 1977
2. Lady — 1980
3. Styx Classics Volume 15 — 1987
4. Styx Radio-Made Hits 1975–1991 — 1991
5. Greatest Hits — 1992
6. Styx Greatest Hits — August 22, 1995
7. Styx Greatest Hits Part 2 — June 11, 1996
8. The Best of Times: The Best of Styx — 1997
9. Best of Styx 1973–1974 — 1999
10. Extended Versions — 2000
11. Singles Collection — 2000
12. Styx Yesterday & Today — 2001
13. 20th Century Masters — 2002
14. Rockers — August 26, 2003
15. Come Sail Away – The Styx Anthology — May 4, 2004
16. The Complete Wooden Nickel Recordings — February 15, 2005
Extended plays:
1. Regeneration: Volume 1— October 14, 2010
2. Regeneration: Volume 2 — 2011
3. The Same Stardust — June 12, 2021
Conclusion:
In conclusion, exploring the Styx albums in order offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of one of America’s most innovative rock bands. From their 1972 self-titled debut to later albums like Kilroy Was Here and Edge of the Century, Styx seamlessly blended progressive rock, theatrical elements, and radio-friendly ballads. Their chart-topping hits such as “Lady,” “Come Sail Away,” “Babe,” and “Mr. Roboto” showcase the band’s versatility and global appeal. With a legacy built on musical experimentation and powerful performances, Styx’s discography reflects their lasting influence in rock history and cements their place among the genre’s enduring legends.
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