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[For Beginners] Metal Masterpieces: A Curated List of Must-Listen, History-Making Albums
Even within the broad label of “metal,” did you know there are many subgenres built around a heavy, muscular sound—such as thrash, death, black, power, and progressive? Heavy metal, which began in the 1970s, has evolved over time and has become a major genre that encompasses a wide variety of musical styles.
This time, we’ll introduce a selection of classic metal albums that are especially well-suited for beginners.
These works let you fully savor metal’s depth and appeal, so whether you’ve just started getting interested or want to dive deeper, be sure to check them out!
[For Beginners] Metal Masterpieces: A Roundup of Must-Listen, History-Making Albums (1–10)
(sic)Slipknot
A monstrous form of heavy rock born in the late ’90s.
Slipknot’s self-titled debut album, released in 1999 by the masked collective, stood out with a singular identity and explosive energy even among bands playing the nu metal and loud rock sounds that dominated the scene at the time, instantly igniting popularity in Japan as well.
The sound they crafted with famed producer Ross Robinson—who helped bring Korn and Limp Bizkit to prominence—is so densely packed with information that first-time listeners might find themselves thinking, “What is this?” At the same time, surprisingly accessible melodies are woven throughout, and it’s precisely because each track is so strong on its own that you can understand how they became such a hugely popular band.
Holy Wars… The Punishment DueMegadeth
This is the masterful fourth album released in 1990 by Megadeth—one of the so-called Big Four of thrash metal—who dub their musical approach “intellectual thrash metal.” It’s their first album featuring guitarist Marty Friedman and drummer Nick Menza, and an essential work that heralds the beginning of what can be called Megadeth’s golden era.
A storm of technical riffs, meticulously crafted band interplay, Dave Mustaine’s venom-laced, cerebral lyrics, and a surprisingly melodic edge—packed with classics still performed live today.
It was a massive hit and even earned a Grammy nomination—accolades that feel entirely deserved for such a landmark record.
ParanoidBlack Sabbath
Paranoid is an album released in 1970 by the British rock band Black Sabbath.
Known as a cornerstone of heavy metal, this historic record shakes the listener’s soul with Tony Iommi’s thunderous guitar riffs, Geezer Butler’s socially conscious lyrics, and the band’s overall dark atmosphere.
It topped the UK charts and includes immortal classics like the title track and Iron Man.
Beyond its heavy sound, it also features psychedelic pieces, making it a perfect work for discovering the band’s deep musicality.
Experience for yourself the shock that reshaped an era.
Shout At The DevilMötley Crüe
Motley Crue, who led the American glam metal scene, released Shout at the Devil in 1983, the album that catapulted them to stardom.
Its demonic artwork stirred controversy, but the sound—heavier and more aggressive yet still unmistakably glamorous—strikes a captivating balance.
The barrage of piercing guitar riffs and catchy choruses makes for an addictive listen that will hook you from the first spin.
It’s a must-hear for anyone who wants to experience both the dangerous aura of ’80s metal and the dazzling fun of rock ’n’ roll at the same time.
Master of PuppetsMetallica
Not only is it a quintessential album from the peak of 1980s thrash metal, it’s also a masterpiece that has etched its name into the history of heavy metal.
Released in 1986, it’s Metallica’s third studio album, widely known in Japan by its Japanese title “Metal Master.” It also stands as the final work left during the tenure of the legendary bassist Cliff Burton, who tragically passed away in an accident after the album’s release.
Its historical significance hardly needs repeating, but it can surely be called a landmark that revealed the full potential of the heavy metal genre to the world.
Packed with live staples, it drew huge attention at Summer Sonic 2006, the album’s 20th anniversary, when the band performed it in its entirety on stage.
SymbolicDEATH
Death is an American band led by Chuck Schuldiner, often called the “father of death metal.” Their sixth album, Symbolic, was released in 1995.
This work perfectly fuses their technical style with more refined melodies, creating a landmark record that had a profound influence on the scene that followed.
The combination of intense performances and philosophical lyrics adds a distinctive touch, and the synergy is outstanding.
Why not take the time to savor this artistic sound that transcends the boundaries of death metal?
Dream HouseDeafheaven
Sunbather, the album that propelled the American band Deafheaven—renowned for their unique “blackgaze” sound—onto the world stage.
It’s a truly one-of-a-kind work where ferocious metal shrieks and storm-like drumming fuse with radiant, sunlit guitar tones.
Featured in an Apple keynote, it’s also known for transcending genre boundaries and making a powerful impact.
The way personal emotions like envy of wealth and loneliness are portrayed within its grand, dreamlike sonic landscapes is deeply striking.
Highly recommended for anyone seeking a moving, heart-shaking musical experience!