B Album

A "B album" typically refers to a musical album released by an artist that contains material considered less commercially viable or experimental compared to their main studio albums (the "A albums"). These albums can consist of B-sides, remixes, live recordings, demos, outtakes, or entirely new material that doesn't quite fit the aesthetic or marketability of their primary releases. The term is often used informally within the music industry and fan communities to differentiate between an artist's core discography and supplemental projects. The quality and reception of B albums can vary widely; some are seen as valuable glimpses into an artist's creative process, while others are viewed as less essential additions to their catalogue. The motivation for releasing a B album can range from contractual obligations to a desire to satisfy fans with previously unreleased material or to explore different musical directions without jeopardizing their established sound.