I think one album to look out for is the new Aerosmith Album. They have got back there old 70s producer and claim they are gona go back to there simple riff rock style!
Also Slash Matt and duffs new band Velvet Revolver seem to be on the right wavelength.
I think monster Albums reflect particular fashions so far as appearence... I mean you gould try and immitate the style and lifestyle of slash or kurt back in those days. But these days people dont seem to, its like the image of what a rock band is is now inaccessible, unobtainable. Its no longer in our culture to be a rock fan, esp in the UK.
Blame what you like, drugs, drink or just the development of other sports and hobbies, but I doubt there will ever be monster albums or classic rock bands because the people of my guitaring generation have any real guitar heros :(