The Rolling Stones - The Rolling Stones No. 2

The Rolling Stones No. 2 catches the band in 1965 as Britain's rowdiest R&B disciples, still raiding American records but already sounding like nobody else.

Produced by manager Andrew Loog Oldham, the album was cut partly at Chess Studios in Chicago, home of the blues heroes the band worshipped, and partly in Hollywood. That transatlantic trip shows in the grooves, which crackle with the excitement of young players finally standing in the rooms where their favourite records were made.

"Everybody Needs Somebody to Love" opens the album with Solomon Burke's soul revue anthem turned into a swaggering, extended rave-up. "Time Is on My Side" gives Mick Jagger one of his most persuasive early vocals, and the band's take on the Drifters' "Under the Boardwalk" swaps seaside romance for moody London cool.

Jagger and Keith Richards also slip in a few originals, including the sharp, nervy "Off the Hook", a sign of the songwriting partnership about to take over the world.

Raw, loud and full of affection for its sources, it remains one of the great British Invasion albums, and essential listening for anyone tracing the Stones' path from blues apprentices to rock royalty. Brian Jones's guitar and Charlie Watts's swing make every cover their own.