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: Legendary Tracks That Changed Metal History (21–30)

PsychosocialSlipknot

Slipknot – Psychosocial [OFFICIAL VIDEO] [HD]

PsychosocialSlipknot

A track by Slipknot, the large metal band whose members all wear masks and jumpsuits.

Parts like samplers and turntables are used effectively, making it more than just a heavy number.

The contrast between ferocious screamed vocals and melodic singing is addictive, resulting in a richly expressive song with plenty of highlights.

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In The EndBlack Veil Brides

Black Veil Brides – In The End

In The EndBlack Veil Brides

It’s a track by a popular American band known for their full-body makeup reminiscent of the legendary heavy metal band KISS and their progressive LA metal sound.

This song is a classic, featuring melodic, accessible vocals and standout, well-crafted guitar melodies.

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Intro to Western Heavy Metal: The iconic songs that changed metal history (31–40)

…To Be LovedPapa Roach

Papa Roach – …To Be Loved

...To Be LovedPapa Roach

It’s a popular song by a well-known American alternative metal band.

The track is a classic of heavy metal, featuring a driving, fast-paced drum beat, heavy metal-style guitar riffs, and vocals with a distinctive distorted edge.

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Born In A Mourning HallBLIND GUARDIAN

BLIND GUARDIAN – Born In A Mourning Hall

Born In A Mourning HallBLIND GUARDIAN

Many of BLIND GUARDIAN’s early songs are fast and straightforward, but among them, this track is a bit different in style, featuring a story with a clear beginning, development, twist, and conclusion within a single song.

It’s a dramatic masterpiece that connects to the BLIND GUARDIAN we know today.

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Black DiamondStratovarius

Stratovarius – Black Diamond

Black DiamondStratovarius

A song by Stratovarius, a power metal band from Finland.

It opens with a classical intro featuring a beautiful harpsichord timbre, then surges ahead with a fast-paced rhythm, topped by melodic, soaring high-pitched vocals that are pleasing to the ear.

The dueling guitar and keyboard solos are another highlight—this is a quintessential example of so-called Nordic metal.

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Wash It All AwayFive Finger Death Punch

Five Finger Death Punch – Wash It All Away (Explicit)

Wash It All AwayFive Finger Death Punch

It’s a song by a hugely popular American heavy metal band.

This track blends their signature heavy metal with European sonic elements, featuring technically intense guitar work and a resonant, highly skilled vocal performance that makes it a memorable classic.

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JadedSpiritbox

Spiritbox – Jaded (Official Music Video)

JadedSpiritbox

This song, nominated for Best Metal Performance at the 2024 Grammy Awards, drew worldwide attention.

Emblematic of the Canadian band Spiritbox, it captivates with djent-rooted aggressive riffs and irresistible groove.

Vocalist Courtney LaPlante’s stunning contrast between beautiful clean vocals and ferocious screams powerfully conveys inner turmoil such as disillusionment and self-loathing—truly breathtaking.

It’s a masterpiece that brilliantly embodies the band’s musical evolution.

Paired with a music video whose labyrinth of mirrors creates an eerie atmosphere, why not immerse yourself in its one-of-a-kind sound?

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