Essential ’80s Metal Albums to Add to Your Vinyl Collection
The 1980s marked a transformative era for the metal genre, which had only recently begun to carve its identity. Black Sabbath, the pioneering force of metal, faced changes when Ozzy Osbourne was replaced by Ronnie James Dio in 1979. This decade saw metal branching into distinct styles, from traditional heavy metal led by bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest to the burgeoning thrash, death, and black metal scenes.
For vinyl collectors, metal enthusiasts, and ’80s aficionados, we present a curated list of 11 essential albums that should find a place in your collection. This selection showcases various styles within the genre, ensuring a diverse listening experience.
Essential ’80s Metal Albums
Black Sabbath, ‘Heaven and Hell’ (1980)
Black Sabbath, ‘Heaven and Hell’ (1980)
Label: Vertigo
Key Tracks: “Neon Knights,” “Children of the Sea,” “Heaven and Hell”
Ozzy Osbourne, ‘Blizzard of Ozz’ (1980)
Ozzy Osbourne, ‘Blizzard of Ozz’ (1980)
Label: Jet
Key Tracks: “Crazy Train,” “Suicide Solution,” “Mr. Crowley”
Scorpions, ‘Animal Magnetism’ (1980)
Scorpions, ‘Animal Magnetism’ (1980)
Label: Mercury
Key Tracks: “Make It Real,” “Lady Starlight,” “The Zoo”
Iron Maiden, ‘The Number of the Beast’ (1982)
Iron Maiden, ‘The Number of the Beast’ (1982)
Label: EMI
Key Tracks: “The Number of the Beast,” “Run to the Hills,” “Hallowed Be Thy Name”
Judas Priest, ‘Screaming for Vengeance’ (1982)
Judas Priest, ‘Screaming for Vengeance’ (1982)
Label: Columbia
Key Tracks: “The Hellion/Electric Eye,” “You’ve Got Another Thing Coming”
Dio, ‘Holy Diver’ (1983)
Dio, ‘Holy Diver’ (1983)
Label: Warner Bros. / Vertigo / Mercury
Key Tracks: “Holy Diver,” “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “Rainbow in the Dark”
Metallica, ‘Ride the Lightning’ (1984)
Metallica, ‘Ride the Lightning’ (1984)
Label: Megaforce
Key Tracks: “Ride the Lightning,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “Fade to Black”
Exodus, ‘Bonded by Blood’ (1985)
Exodus, ‘Bonded by Blood’ (1985)
Label: Torrid/Combat
Key Tracks: “Bonded by Blood,” “A Lesson in Violence,” “Strike of the Beast”
Death, ‘Leprosy’ (1988)
Death, ‘Leprosy’ (1988)
Label: Combat
Key Tracks: “Leprosy,” “Left to Die,” “Pull the Plug”
Slayer, ‘South of Heaven’ (1988)
Slayer, ‘South of Heaven’ (1988)
Label: Def Jam Recordings
Key Tracks: “South of Heaven,” “Silent Scream,” “Mandatory Suicide”
Overkill, ‘The Years of Decay’ (1989)
Overkill, ‘The Years of Decay’ (1989)
Label: Megaforce
Key Tracks: “Time to Kill,” “Elimination,” “The Years of Decay”
Conclusion
The ’80s were a pivotal decade for metal, producing iconic albums that continue to influence the genre today. Each of these selections not only showcases the diversity of metal music during this time but also represents essential listening for any true fan. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the genre, these albums are must-haves for your vinyl collection.
FAQs
What makes these albums essential?
These albums are considered essential due to their influence on the metal genre, their popularity, and their critical acclaim. They represent various styles within metal, showcasing the diversity of the genre during the ’80s.
Where can I buy these albums?
These albums can be purchased through various online retailers, including Loudwire’s online merch store, where you can find them on vinyl.
Are these albums still relevant today?
Yes, many of these albums are still celebrated and continue to influence new generations of metal musicians and fans alike.
