[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!
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[For Beginners] Metal Masterpieces: A Curated List of Historic, Must-Listen Albums (11–20)
BlindKorn
Today, Korn are recognized in Japan as veteran musicians with a steady following, but when they debuted, they didn’t sell well here.
Twin seven-string guitars firing off unconventional riffs, a bass producing a fierce metallic clang with a scooped EQ, drums heavy on ghost notes with a hint of jazz influence, and a charismatic vocal laying bare childhood traumas—their self-titled debut, released in 1994, hit the scene with a shock strong enough to redefine the very idea of loud music.
One can’t help but imagine that the label simply didn’t know how to market such an uncanny strain of heavy rock.
Many bands tried to imitate Korn, but it’s fair to say that none have matched their originality.
PainkillerJudas Priest
Painkiller, released in 1990 by Judas Priest, the heavyweight icons of British heavy metal, stands as their final towering achievement before Rob Halford’s departure, and the first to feature new drummer Scott Travis.
With thunderous drums, razor-sharp twin guitars, and devilish high-pitched shouts fused into one, the album shakes the listener’s very soul.
Themed around a “savior of metal,” it’s drenched in overwhelming speed and aggression, as if racing along the border between life and death.
Immerse yourself in the true spirit of traditional British metal.
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.
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!
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?