Metallica released Master of Puppets on March 3, 1986, and years later, it remains one of metal’s most iconic masterpieces.

In honor of its anniversary, we take a look back on that album, as well as other ’80s metal albums we think everyone should own.

The list in the gallery below also doubles as a convenient “metal starter kit” (if you will) for the youths dipping their toe into metal for the first time, because frankly, someone has to think about the children.

• Metallica – ‘Master Of Puppets’

  Share

  More like 'Masterpiece of Puppets.'  Everyone should obey this album.

• Dio – ’Holy Diver’

  Share

  The late Ronnie James Dio was 5’4”, but his voice could move mountains, and it’s on full display on this iconic metal album.

• Motorhead – ‘Ace Of Spades’

  Share

  We’re certainly born to lose, but we live for this Motorhead album.
• Iron Maiden – ‘The Number Of The Beast’

  Share

  It was difficult to pick just one album from Maiden to include on this list, but we picked The Number Of The Beast for its historical significance of it being the first Maiden album to feature Bruce Dickinson. (FYI:  Runner-up was 'Powerslave.')

• Megadeth – ‘Peace Sells…But Who’s Buying?’

  Share

  Speaking of “buying,” BUY THIS ALBUM RIGHT NOW IF YOU SOMEHOW DON'T HAVE IT!

• Slayer – ‘Reign In Blood’

  Share

  If someone creates a “best metal albums” list and a Slayer album isn’t on it, does it actually exist?  No…it doesn’t, and if your metal collection doesn’t include this iconic album, it’s just sorely lacking.
• Judas Priest – ‘British Steel’

  Share

  Like actual steel, this Priest classic is f*cking solid.

• Motley Crue – ‘Shout At The Devil’

  Share

  Badass and glam-influenced and proud of it! Also, that title track, though…

Sign Up For The WRIF Everything That Rocks Newsletter

Get everything that rocks sent right to your inbox. We're talking rock news, concert updates, stories from all around metro Detroit, plus exclusive contests, games and more.

Email *

Subscribe

By clicking "Subscribe" I agree to the website's terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.