"The Animals" is the self-titled debut album by the British R&B/blues rock band the Animals, released in the United Kingdom in October 1964 on EMI's Columbia Records. The album reached No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart and spent 20 weeks on the chart.
The Animals features a mix of original songs and covers, showcasing the band's raw energy and distinctive sound. The album includes tracks like "The House of the Rising Sun," which became one of their most iconic hits, and "Baby Let Me Take You Home." The band's blend of blues and rock elements, along with Eric Burdon's powerful vocals, helped define the British Invasion sound of the 1960s.
The album's release marked the beginning of the Animals' rise to fame, contributing to their reputation as one of the prominent groups of the era. Critics praised their gritty interpretation of rhythm and blues, and the album's success laid the groundwork for future releases, solidifying their place in music history.
