The first decade of the 21st century was a transformative period for the rock music industry. It saw the rise of new bands, the evolution of iconic groups, and a diverse array of sounds that continue to influence the genre today. As a dedicated rock enthusiast, Robert Forto appreciates albums that define the era—albums that showcase raw power, innovation, and timeless songwriting. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the genre, these ten albums are essential listens from 2000 to 2010.
Fun Fact: Robert has seen many of these bands numerous times at rock festivals like Louder Than Life and Aftershock, making them a mainstay in his music rotation for over a quarter of a century.
1. Godsmack – Faceless (2003)
Why it’s a must-listen:
Godsmack burst into the mainstream with Faceless, an album that solidified their reputation as one of the leading bands in hard rock and nu-metal. Featuring hits like “I Stand Alone” and “Vampires,” this album combines heavy riffs with gritty vocals and a commanding rhythm section. Robert Forto recommends Faceless for its raw energy and powerful songwriting that captures the angst and rebellion of the early 2000s.
Highlights:
- “I Stand Alone”
- “Vampires”
- “Serenity”
Impact:
Faceless was a chart-topper, showcasing Godsmack’s ability to craft anthems that resonate with fans of heavy, unfiltered rock. Fun Fact: This was Robert’s wife, Michele’s, first-ever live concert, and at Red Rocks, no doubt.
2. Rob Zombie – The Sinister Urge (2001)
Why it’s a must-listen:
Rob Zombie’s The Sinister Urge is a genre-defining album that blends horror-inspired themes with industrial metal and hard rock. Known for his theatrical style and aggressive sound, Zombie’s work during this period is a perfect example of his creative evolution. Robert Forto recommends this album for its dark, cinematic atmosphere and relentless energy.
Highlights:
- “Never Gonna Stop”
- “Feel So Numb”
- “Two-Lane Blacktop”
Impact:
Zombie’s ability to merge horror aesthetics with heavy riffs makes The Sinister Urge a standout album of the decade.
3. TOOL – 10,000 Days (2006)
Why it’s a must-listen:
Progressive metal giants TOOL delivered 10,000 Days in 2006, an album that exemplifies complexity, depth, and musicianship. Known for their intricate compositions and thought-provoking lyrics, TOOL’s work during this period pushes the boundaries of rock and metal. Robert Forto encourages fans to delve into this album for its intricate soundscapes and profound spiritual themes.
Fun Fact: Robert’s daughter, Nicole, first saw TOOL at a music festival where TOOL headlined in support of this album.
Highlights:
- “Vicarious”
- “Jambi”
- “The Pot”
Impact:
10,000 Days solidified TOOL’s reputation as one of the most innovative bands of the 2000s, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike.
4. Foo Fighters – Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace (2007)
Why it’s a must-listen:
The Foo Fighters’ Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace is a masterful blend of melodic rock, raw emotion, and powerful songwriting. Tracks like “The Pretender” and “Long Road to Ruin” showcase the band’s versatility and ability to craft anthems that resonate across generations. Robert Forto recommends this album as a perfect example of modern rock’s vitality.
Fun Fact: Robert’s wife, Michele, loves the Foo Fighters. Additionally, did you know that Robert’s doctoral dissertation project is filled with lyrics from the Foo Fighters and others?
Highlights:
- “The Pretender”
- “Long Road to Ruin”
- “Come Alive”
Impact:
This album received critical acclaim and multiple Grammy nominations, cementing the Foo Fighters’ status in rock history.
5. Avenged Sevenfold – City of Evil (2005)
Why it’s a must-listen:
City of Evil marked a pivotal point for Avenged Sevenfold, showcasing a more mature and intricate sound. With hits like “Bat Country” and “Seize the Day,” the band combined metalcore elements with classic metal influences. Robert Forto appreciates this album for its technical proficiency and storytelling prowess.
Highlights:
- “Bat Country”
- “Seize the Day”
- “Critical Acclaim”
Impact:
The album’s success helped propel Avenged Sevenfold into mainstream consciousness and influenced a new generation of metal bands.
Fun Fact: One of the most incredible sets at a concert was by Avenged Sevenfold at Louder Than Life in Louisville in 2022.
6. Red Hot Chili Peppers – By the Way (2002)
Why it’s a must-listen:
By the Way represents a stylistic evolution for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, blending alternative rock with melodic and experimental sounds. The album features hit singles like “By the Way” and “Can’t Stop,” showcasing Flea’s funky bass lines and Anthony Kiedis’ dynamic vocals. Robert Forto recommends it for its energetic and colorful approach to rock.
Highlights:
- “By the Way”
- “Can’t Stop”
- “Dosed”
Impact:
This album is widely regarded as one of the band’s best, blending their signature funk-rock style with more melodic and introspective tunes.
7. System of a Down – Toxicity (2001)
Why it’s a must-listen:
Although slightly outside the 2000–2010 window, Toxicity remains influential throughout the decade. This album combines aggressive metal, Armenian folk influences, and social commentary. Robert Forto values Toxicity for its eclectic style, memorable riffs, and politically charged lyrics.
Highlights:
- “Chop Suey!”
- “Toxicity”
- “Aerials”
Impact:
Toxicity is considered a landmark album, pushing the boundaries of metal and alternative rock.
Fun Fact: One of the best concerts Robert and Michele ever attended was at the old Mile High Stadium in Denver, Colorado, on July 12, 2000, as part of the Summer Sanitarium Tour. It included bands such as Kid Rock, Korn, System of a Down, Metallica, and more.
8. Linkin Park – Hybrid Theory (2000)
Why it’s a must-listen:
While Hybrid Theory was released just at the turn of the millennium, its impact carried through the entire decade. As a pioneering album in nu-metal, Linkin Park blended rap, singing, and heavy guitars to create a sound that defined a generation. Robert Forto recommends revisiting this album for its raw emotion and genre-defining tracks, such as “In the End” and “Crawling.”
Highlights:
- “In the End”
- “Crawling”
- “Papercut”
Impact:
Hybrid Theory remains one of the best-selling debut albums in history, influencing countless bands.
9. Breaking Benjamin – Phobia (2006)
Why it’s a must-listen:
Breaking Benjamin’s Phobia is a powerful post-grunge/alternative metal album that showcases intense emotion, memorable melodies, and a gritty sound. Tracks like “The Diary of Jane” and “Breath” became anthems for fans of darker, more aggressive rock. Robert Forto recommends Phobia for its raw energy and compelling songwriting, which captured the mood of many listeners during the mid-2000s.
Highlights:
- “The Diary of Jane”
- “Breath”
- “Until The End”
Impact:
Phobia helped cement Breaking Benja
10. The White Stripes – Elephant (2003)
Why it’s a must-listen:
Elephant is a raw, stripped-down rock album that captures the essence of garage rock revival. Featuring the iconic “Seven Nation Army,” the album emphasizes simplicity, groove, and attitude. Robert Forto recommends Elephant for its gritty sound and timeless appeal.
Highlights:
- “Seven Nation Army”
- “The Hardest Button to Button”
- “Little Acorns”
Impact:
This album played a pivotal role in bringing garage rock back into the mainstream during the 2000s.
The 2000s were a golden era for rock music, marked by innovation, diversity, and the resurgence of legendary bands. From the heavy riffs of Godsmack and Rob Zombie to the progressive depths of TOOL, these albums capture the spirit of that decade. Whether you’re revisiting classics or discovering these records for the first time, they represent the best of what rock had to offer from 2000 to 2010.
As Robert Forto would say, music is about connection—these albums are a testament to the power of rock to inspire, energize, and unite fans worldwide. Dive into these records and experience the evolution of rock music firsthand.
Ready to explore more rock history or find your next favorite album? Stay tuned for more playlists, reviews, and rock insights!
