[2025] Iconic metal masterpieces that define the era: A roundup of the latest tracks and timeless favorites

Carry OnAngra

Angra – Carry On (Official)

An early signature song by Angra, a heavy metal band representing Brazil.

It’s also a classic from the period when their original vocalist, André Matos—who sadly passed away in 2019—was in the band.

André’s overwhelming high-tone vocals and the band ensemble, grounded in exceptional musicianship, create a dramatic song progression that is simply outstanding; it’s no exaggeration to call it a number that will go down in the history of metal.

Wash It All AwayFive Finger Death Punch

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

It’s a popular song by a heavy metal band that enjoys tremendous popularity in the United States.

The track is notable for the vocalist’s powerful yet melodic singing and a sound with a beautiful, European-style atmosphere.

While it’s a relatively standard metal song, it’s one that can truly be called a classic.

I Want OutHelloween

HELLOWEEN – I Want Out (Official Music Video)

An early classic from Helloween, a defining force in German metal that continues to thrive today.

Featured on the 1988 masterpiece Keeper of the Seven Keys Part II, it’s a staple in their live sets.

A dramatic track that epitomizes German metal, with young Michael Kiske’s high-tone vocals—rough around the edges, yet incredibly powerful!

Chop Suey!System Of A Down

System Of A Down – Chop Suey! (Official HD Video)

Since their return to activity in 2011, fans have been eagerly awaiting a new release from System of a Down.

This song is a classic included on Toxicity, the masterpiece that brought their name to worldwide fame.

Their musical style defies simple description—an exceedingly unique sound where elements from various genres intertwine in complex and unpredictable ways—but this track is relatively accessible, so give it a listen as an entry point.

Are You Dead Yet?Children of Bodom

Children Of Bodom – Are You Dead Yet?

A masterpiece by the Finnish melodic death metal band Children of Bodom.

Its melodic, tight guitar phrases paired with brutal vocal work are outstanding.

The tear-jerking elements in the chord work at key moments strike a chord and have captivated metalheads around the world.

Electric EyeJudas Priest

Judas Priest – Electric Eye (Official Video)

Featured on Judas Priest’s smash-hit album Screaming for Vengeance, fronted by the “Metal God” Rob Halford, this song is customarily performed live immediately following the opening instrumental The Hellion.

With its twin-guitar’s fluid riffs driving forward at breakneck speed, it stands as one of the most outstanding masterpieces in metal history.

Suffocate (Ft. Poppy)Knocked Loose

Knocked Loose “Suffocate” Ft. Poppy (Official Music Video)

Currently, the most talked-about American band is the beatdown hardcore/metalcore outfit Knocked Loose from Kentucky.

While maintaining an extreme and intensely brutal sound, they’re carving out a new frontier in hardcore and metal.

The track that shocked the scene in 2024 was Suffocate, featuring Poppy.

It drew so much attention it earned a Grammy nomination, and it’s a relentless blast of aggressive riffs, a ferocious back-and-forth of screamed vocals from both sides, and—most strikingly—a breakdown in the latter half that rides a reggaeton-style beat.

Brutal yet strangely catchy, this is a song you should definitely check out.