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An album is a collection of audio recordings issued together as a unit. Typically, an album consists of a set number of songs, often released on a physical medium like vinyl records, compact discs, or digital files. The term "album" originated from the practice of collecting gramophone records in a book-like binding, with each record occupying a sleeve. These early albums were often compilations of singles or had a thematic connection.

In modern music, an album is usually conceived as a complete artistic statement by a musician or group, rather than just a random assortment of tracks. Artists often put significant effort into sequencing the songs, creating a flow and narrative that enhances the listening experience. The concept of an album gained prominence with the advent of the LP (long-playing) record in the late 1940s, which allowed for longer recordings and thus more cohesive artistic presentations.

Albums can span various genres and formats, including studio albums, live albums, compilation albums, and concept albums. Studio albums are recorded in a recording studio, while live albums capture performances in front of an audience. Compilation albums gather previously released tracks, often from different sources, and concept albums revolve around a central theme or story. The album format remains a fundamental way for musicians to share their work with the public.