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 for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Music producer, composer, vocal coach, keyboard playerKei Takahata
From around 1995 to 2000, he built experience as a composer and producer at a major label, then moved to the United States. In Los Angeles, he studied vocalization and singing under top voice trainer Elizabeth Sabine, mastering the so-called Hollywood vocal method she advocated. After returning to Japan, he trained and produced a variety of singers, earning high praise for his direction that maximized the appeal of both the songs and the vocalists. In a collaboration video with Guild’s vocalist ryuichi, he handled keyboard performance, vocal direction, and sound production. (Passed away in 2025)

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.

An Introduction to Western Heavy Metal: The Classic Tracks That Changed Metal History (41–50)

SuperheroesRacer X

Racer X – Superheroes (Official Audio)

SuperheroesRacer X

A song by the American heavy metal band Racer X, led by Paul Gilbert—who, at 19 when the band formed, was dubbed the “light-speed guitarist.” As the band is known for the technical prowess of all its members, you can enjoy performances at a very high level.

In particular, the guitar work features highly demanding techniques not only in the solos but also in the rhythm parts, making it a track that’s compelling to listen to for the guitar alone.

Raise the rankinglower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

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.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Roots Bloody RootsSepultura

Sepultura – Roots Bloody Roots [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Roots Bloody RootsSepultura

A song by Sepultura, a Brazilian metal band formed in 1984.

They began as a thrash metal band, but drew on the culture of their home country to create a distinctive sound.

In particular, their “tribal beat,” which blends percussion elements of folk music into the drum parts, has influenced metal drummers around the world.

Raise the rankinglower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

MasqueradeSymphony X

Masquerade

MasqueradeSymphony X

If we’re talking about SYMPHONY X’s hidden gems, this has to be the one.

It’s a track from their debut album released before they broke through, and unlike their current style, they play a classically inspired, straightforward form of melodic metal.

Even among that, Michael Romeo’s guitar playing really shines.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

I Am The Black WizardsEmperor

I Am The Black Wizards (Remastered)

I Am The Black WizardsEmperor

A song by Emperor, a black metal band from Norway.

It’s a track where you can fully enjoy black metal’s hallmarks: single-note tremolo-picked guitar riffs, a majestic atmosphere, and shout-style vocals.

Even as its expression shifts, the piece maintains a consistently dark mood—an impressive, highly polished work, as expected.

Raise the rankinglower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem