Wishlist
Alright, metalheads, let's dive into the deep end of the metal pool and thrash around a bit, shall we? We're talking about the top metal albums of all time. You know, those records that shaped our rebellious spirits and gave us the anthems to headbang to. So, crank up the volume and let's get nostalgic!
What is the Number One Metal Album of All Time?
This question might spark some heated debates, but many will agree that Black Sabbath's "Paranoid" takes the crown. Released in 1970, this album didn't just put Black Sabbath on the map; it practically invented heavy metal. With iconic tracks like "Iron Man" and "War Pigs," it’s the blueprint for everything metal that followed. Ozzy Osbourne's haunting vocals and Tony Iommi's thunderous riffs are simply legendary.
What is the Biggest Selling Metal Album?
When it comes to sales, Metallica's "The Black Album" is the undisputed champion. Released in 1991, this self-titled album has sold over 16 million copies in the US alone. With hits like "Enter Sandman" and "Nothing Else Matters," Metallica reached a massive audience and brought metal into the mainstream. It's a commercial juggernaut and a gateway album for many new metal fans.
What is the Most Influential Metal Album?
Influence is a tricky thing to measure, but Judas Priest's "British Steel" is a strong contender. Released in 1980, this album solidified the leather-and-studs image of metal and brought anthems like "Breaking the Law" and "Living After Midnight" to the masses. Judas Priest's razor-sharp guitars and Rob Halford's piercing vocals influenced countless bands and helped define the genre's sound and look.
Other Must-Have Metal Albums
Let’s not forget about some other heavy hitters in the metal world:
- Iron Maiden's "The Number of the Beast" (1982): With Bruce Dickinson taking over vocal duties, this album is a powerhouse of riffs and epic storytelling. Tracks like "Hallowed Be Thy Name" and the title track are metal classics.
- AC/DC's "Back in Black" (1980): Though more hard rock than pure metal, this album's influence on metal bands is undeniable. It's a tribute to the late Bon Scott and introduced us to Brian Johnson's gritty voice.
- Machine Head's "Burn My Eyes" (1994): This debut album brought groove metal to the forefront with tracks like "Davidian." It's raw, aggressive, and a landmark in '90s metal.
- Deep Purple's "Machine Head" (1972): Featuring the iconic "Smoke on the Water," this album is a cornerstone of hard rock and metal. The riffs and solos are simply unforgettable.
- Stoner Rock Honourable Mention - Kyuss' "Welcome to Sky Valley" (1994): A pivotal album in the stoner rock genre, which has deep roots in metal. Its heavy, psychedelic sound has influenced a myriad of bands.
Rock On!
So there you have it, a quick tour through the pantheon of metal greatness. Whether you're spinning these records for the first time or the hundredth, they never fail to deliver that electrifying jolt we all crave.
If you’re as passionate about vinyl as we are, you need to check out Utopia Records Sydney. As Australia’s largest heavy metal and hard rock specialty independent record store, we’ve been rocking since 1978. With over 20,000 items in stock, Utopia Records is your ultimate destination for everything vinyl. Dive into the world of vinyl records today and experience music like never before at Utopia Records!
VISIT OUR LEGENDARY STORE! THE HOME OF METAL ROCKING SINCE 1978
Utopia Records, Lower Ground Floor, 511 Kent Street (Entrance on Bathurst St.), Sydney, NSW 2000
Call us: (02) 9571 6662 | Email: contact@utopia.com.au
Keep those horns up and the records spinning!
