Recommended hard rock and heavy metal

An introduction to Western heavy metal: the masterpieces that changed the history of metal

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Music producer, composer, vocal coach, keyboard playerKei Takahata
From around 1995 to 2000, I built experience with a major label as a composer and producer. I then moved to the United States and studied voice and singing under Elizabeth Sabine, one of Los Angeles’s top vocal coaches, mastering the so-called Hollywood vocal technique advocated by Sabine. After returning to Japan, I have been involved in training and producing a variety of singers. My direction, which brings out the full appeal of both the music and the vocalist, is highly regarded. In the collaboration video with Vo. ryuichi of the band Guild below, I handled keyboards, vocal direction, and sound production. For inquiries and requests regarding voice training and music production, please contact me via the website below. SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-402518821

The heavy metal genre has countless subgenres, and its breadth is so vast that even devoted metal fans often have very different tastes.

Some people say, “I like metal, but death metal is a bit much,” while others are only interested in the extreme side of metal, and some can enjoy any kind of metal.

That diversity is part of what makes it so fascinating.

If you’re just getting into metal, you might not know where to start.

In this article, we’ll introduce some recommended classics and popular tracks for metal beginners!

We hope you enjoy this wide-ranging lineup that not only features staple heavy metal, but also spotlights subgenres that showcase metal’s possibilities.

Introduction to Western Heavy Metal: Masterpieces That Changed Metal History (61–70)

Just Another PsychoMötley Crüe

Just Another Psycho

Just Another PsychoMötley Crüe

This track from the 2008 album “Saints of Los Angeles” is a groovy number with a grunge-like vibe.

Vince Neil’s sticky vocals match the song’s languid atmosphere, making it a piece that captures the current MOTLEY CRUE.

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Tears In The SkyTalisman

Talisman – Tears In The Sky

Tears In The SkyTalisman

Among TALISMAN’s songs, this one falls on the heavier side and may feel a bit unsatisfying to fans who were expecting a more distinctly Scandinavian flavor from the band.

That said, listening now, Marcel Jacob’s groove nestled within the heaviness feels truly satisfying.

It’s a track I’d recommend to all heavy metal fans.

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Living For The NightViper

Viper – Living For The Night – Official Video

Living For The NightViper

This is a Brazilian heavy metal band also known for having André Matos, formerly of ANGRA, as a member.

They established an uncharacteristically Brazilian sound early on by fusing classical music with heavy metal.

In this song, you can hear melodies that are both raw and classical.

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Endless DarkHiM

HIM – Endless Dark [Lyrics Video]

Endless DarkHiM

It’s a song by a Finnish gothic metal band that enjoys high popularity, especially among young women.

The track is notable for its highly technical, heavy guitar riffs and a distinctive worldview, making it a masterpiece worthy of representing gothic metal.

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ShotgunLimp Bizkit

LIMP BIZKIT – SHOTGUN [2011]

ShotgunLimp Bizkit

It’s a track by a hugely popular American rap-metal band.

This song showcases their signature blend of nimble, technical MC rapping and heavy, aggressive guitar work.

It’s incredibly catchy and a must-mention classic when talking about rap-metal.

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Look at YourselfUriah Heep

Look at Yourself (2017 Remastered)

Look at YourselfUriah Heep

This is the opening track of the self-titled third album by the British hard rock band Uriah Heep, released in October 1971.

It was also the band’s first song to enter the UK charts.

Being a 1970s track, it leans more toward hard rock than heavy metal, but its uptempo drive—powered by band leader Ken Hensley’s roaring Hammond organ—still gets the heart racing even today in the 21st century.

The midsection featuring organ and guitar in unison is thrilling and highly recommended.

In fact, when I first started a band as a keyboard player, I covered this song myself.

It’s a must-listen for keyboard players who love HM/HR!

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Save meEdguy

Edguy – Save me

Save meEdguy

This is a popular song by a German melodic power metal band that enjoys strong popularity in South America.

The track features straightforward, message-driven lyrics delivered with beautiful, melodic vocals, and together with the melodic guitar work, it becomes a truly excellent classic.

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