One of the most substantial albums of the 2000s, this underrated thematic record by Green Day was their magnum opus. Released in May 2009, it’s timing was a bit late, as it pummeled the Bush administration’s obsession with starting wars.

Billie Joe described as “a snapshot of the era in which we live as we question and try to make sense of the selfish manipulation going on around us, whether it be the government, religion, media or frankly any form of authority”. He also suggested that he had tried to see the world through his young teenagers eyes, the horror they must have felt inheriting a world with Bush, Cheney, war, greed, 911. 

By the time 21st Century came out, Obama had just come into office, so the impact of their message was diminished (for the moment). However, it was still an amazing array of musical styles and songwriting and melodies, led by Billy Joe Armstrong, but showcasing all the others in the band.

They changed their game by hiring Butch Vig as a their producer, famous for his alternative gems throughout the 1990s (Garbage, Nirvana, Sonic Youth). They also had Jeff Matika playing lead guitar.

This was pre-rehab Billy Joe.