1. Sir Lord Baltimore – Kingdom Come (1970)
Often overshadowed by their contemporaries, Sir Lord Baltimore’s Kingdom Come is a groundbreaking release that deserves more recognition. Released in 1970, this album is a raw and powerful example of proto-metal. With its aggressive guitar riffs and frenetic drumming, it was one of the first albums to be described as “heavy metal” in print. Tracks like “Master Heartache” and “Hard Rain Fallin'” showcase the band’s ability to blend hard rock with a nascent metal sound.
2. Leaf Hound – Growers of Mushroom (1971)
Leaf Hound’s Growers of Mushroom is a hidden gem in the proto-metal universe. Released in 1971, this album combines heavy blues rock with psychedelic elements. The standout track “Freelance Fiend” features powerful vocals and a driving rhythm, exemplifying the band’s ability to deliver hard-hitting rock music. Despite its lack of commercial success, the album has gained a cult following and is considered a precursor to the stoner rock genre.
3. Captain Beyond – Captain Beyond (1972)
Captain Beyond’s self-titled debut album is a masterclass in early heavy metal experimentation. Released in 1972, it features former members of Deep Purple and Iron Butterfly, bringing together a wealth of musical talent. The album’s complex song structures and psychedelic influences are evident in tracks like “Dancing Madly Backwards (On a Sea of Air)” and “Mesmerization Eclipse.” Its innovative approach to rock music establishes it as an essential listen for proto-metal enthusiasts.
4. Budgie – Budgie (1971)
Welsh rock band Budgie’s self-titled debut album is another underrated masterpiece in the proto-metal genre. Released in 1971, the album blends heavy riffs with a unique vocal style that would influence many future metal bands. Songs like “Guts” and “Homicidal Suicidal” feature the band’s signature sound: a mix of hard rock and progressive elements. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, Budgie has been recognized as a crucial step in the evolution of heavy metal.
5. Lucifer’s Friend – Lucifer’s Friend (1970)
German band Lucifer’s Friend released their self-titled album in 1970, introducing a sound that combined heavy metal, progressive rock, and jazz influences. The album’s opening track, “Ride the Sky,” is particularly notable for its powerful guitar work and aggressive vocals. The band’s willingness to experiment with different musical styles paved the way for future innovators in the metal genre. Although it never reached mainstream success, Lucifer’s Friend remains a critical influence on the development of heavy metal.
6. Bang – Bang (1971)
The American band Bang released their self-titled debut album in 1971, which, despite its lack of commercial success, has become an underground classic. With its heavy guitar riffs and dark lyrical themes, Bang showcases a sound that was ahead of its time. The track “Lions, Christians” is a standout, blending hard rock with proto-metal intensity. Bang’s music is often compared to that of Black Sabbath, yet they remain one of the genre’s best-kept secrets.
7. Night Sun – Mournin’ (1972)
Night Sun’s Mournin’ is a powerful and intensely heavy album that many consider to be a proto-metal treasure. Released in 1972, the German band’s only album is a tour de force of aggressive guitar riffs and thundering drums. Tracks like “Got a Bone of My Own” and “Plastic Shotgun” exemplify the band’s raw energy and innovative approach to heavy music. Despite its obscurity, Mournin’ has been influential among metal musicians and collectors.
8. Dust – Hard Attack (1972)
Dust’s second album, Hard Attack, released in 1972, is a significant yet underappreciated contribution to proto-metal. The American band’s combination of heavy riffs and melodic sensibilities is evident in tracks like “Pull Away/So Many Times” and “Ivory.” Featuring future members of the Ramones and KISS, Dust left an indelible mark on the music world despite their brief existence. Hard Attack is a testament to the band’s influence on the burgeoning metal scene.
9. High Tide – Sea Shanties (1969)
High Tide’s Sea Shanties is a pioneering work in the proto-metal genre. Released in 1969, the album combines elements of hard rock, progressive rock, and psychedelic music. Tracks like “Futilist’s Lament” and “Death Warmed Up” feature heavy guitar work and complex song structures. Although High Tide never achieved widespread recognition, Sea Shanties is often cited as a precursor to the heavier sounds that would dominate the 1970s.
10. Flower Travellin’ Band – Satori (1971)
Japanese band Flower Travellin’ Band’s album Satori, released in 1971, is an extraordinary example of proto-metal with an international flair. The album’s blend of Eastern musical influences and heavy rock is evident in tracks like “Satori Part I” and “Satori Part II.” The band’s innovative sound and willingness to experiment with different musical traditions make Satori a unique entry in the proto-metal canon.
Conclusion
The albums highlighted in this article represent a fascinating and often overlooked chapter in the history of heavy metal. Each record offers a unique perspective on the development of the genre, showcasing the diversity and creativity that characterized proto-metal. While these albums may not have achieved commercial success at the time of their release, their influence on subsequent generations of musicians is undeniable. As we continue to explore the roots of heavy metal, it’s essential to acknowledge and appreciate these underrated gems that helped shape the music we know and love today.