{"id":12540,"date":"2026-01-24T13:17:49","date_gmt":"2026-01-24T12:17:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/metalverseforum.com\/news\/the-best-metal-album-of-each-year-since-1970"},"modified":"2026-02-15T21:59:41","modified_gmt":"2026-02-15T20:59:41","slug":"the-best-metal-album-of-each-year-since-1970","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/metalverseforum.com\/news\/the-best-metal-album-of-each-year-since-1970","title":{"rendered":"THE BEST METAL ALBUM OF EACH YEAR SINCE 1970"},"content":{"rendered":"

1971: Led Zeppelin \u2013 Led Zeppelin IV<\/h2>\n
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While Led Zeppelin is often categorized as hard rock, the influence of their fourth album on the metal genre is undeniable. Released in 1971, Led Zeppelin IV features iconic tracks such as “Stairway to Heaven” and “Black Dog.” The band’s blend of heavy riffs, mystical lyrics, and dynamic arrangements inspired a generation of metal musicians and helped solidify the genre\u2019s mainstream appeal.<\/p>\n

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1972: Deep Purple \u2013 Machine Head<\/h2>\n
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Deep Purple\u2019s “Machine Head” is a cornerstone of early metal, showcasing the band\u2019s virtuosic musicianship and pioneering sound. Released in 1972, the album features the legendary track “Smoke on the Water,” characterized by its unforgettable riff. With its aggressive energy and technical prowess, “Machine Head” played a significant role in shaping the future of heavy metal.<\/p>\n

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1973: Black Sabbath \u2013 Sabbath Bloody Sabbath<\/h2>\n
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“Sabbath Bloody Sabbath,” released in 1973, marked a creative peak for Black Sabbath. The album saw the band experimenting with more complex song structures and lyrical themes, while maintaining their signature heavy sound. Tracks like “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” and “A National Acrobat” showcase the band\u2019s evolution and continued influence on the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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1974: Judas Priest \u2013 Rocka Rolla<\/h2>\n
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Judas Priest\u2019s debut album “Rocka Rolla,” released in 1974, introduced the world to their unique brand of heavy metal. While the album leans more towards hard rock, it laid the groundwork for the band\u2019s future exploration of a heavier, more aggressive sound. With tracks like “One for the Road,” Judas Priest began to define the metal aesthetic that would dominate the late ’70s and ’80s.<\/p>\n

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1975: Rainbow \u2013 Ritchie Blackmore\u2019s Rainbow<\/h2>\n
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Formed by former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, Rainbow released their debut album in 1975. “Ritchie Blackmore\u2019s Rainbow” features the powerhouse vocals of Ronnie James Dio and combines elements of hard rock and early metal. This album set the stage for the development of power metal and showcased Blackmore’s virtuosic guitar work and Dio’s commanding presence.<\/p>\n

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1976: Judas Priest \u2013 Sad Wings of Destiny<\/h2>\n
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“Sad Wings of Destiny” is often regarded as Judas Priest\u2019s breakthrough album, released in 1976. This album saw the band refining their sound, incorporating more speed and complexity into their music. Tracks like “Victim of Changes” and “The Ripper” highlight the band\u2019s dual guitar attack and Rob Halford\u2019s soaring vocals, influencing the direction of heavy metal in the years to come.<\/p>\n

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1977: Mot\u00f6rhead \u2013 Mot\u00f6rhead<\/h2>\n
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Mot\u00f6rhead\u2019s self-titled debut album, released in 1977, is a raw and aggressive record that helped define the speed metal subgenre. Led by the iconic Lemmy Kilmister, the band\u2019s blend of punk rock energy and heavy metal intensity set them apart. Tracks like “Mot\u00f6rhead” and “Iron Horse\/Born to Lose” exemplify the band\u2019s gritty sound and rebellious spirit.<\/p>\n

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1978: Van Halen \u2013 Van Halen<\/h2>\n
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Van Halen\u2019s debut album, released in 1978, revolutionized the guitar-driven sound of metal and hard rock. Eddie Van Halen\u2019s innovative guitar techniques, particularly his use of tapping, influenced countless musicians. Songs like “Eruption” and “Runnin\u2019 with the Devil” are quintessential tracks that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in rock music, leaving a lasting impact on the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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1979: AC\/DC \u2013 Highway to Hell<\/h2>\n
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Though often categorized as hard rock, AC\/DC\u2019s “Highway to Hell,” released in 1979, is essential to the development of heavy metal. The album features anthems like “Highway to Hell” and “Touch Too Much,” characterized by Angus Young\u2019s electrifying guitar work and Bon Scott\u2019s distinctive vocals. Its raw energy and rebellious spirit continue to resonate with metal fans around the world.<\/p>\n

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1980: Black Sabbath \u2013 Heaven and Hell<\/h2>\n
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In 1980, Black Sabbath released “Heaven and Hell,” featuring new vocalist Ronnie James Dio. This album marked a resurgence for the band, with a more polished and powerful sound. Tracks like “Heaven and Hell” and “Neon Knights” showcase Dio\u2019s commanding voice and the band\u2019s renewed energy, contributing to the album\u2019s status as a classic within the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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1981: Iron Maiden \u2013 Killers<\/h2>\n
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“Killers,” Iron Maiden\u2019s second studio album released in 1981, further solidified the band\u2019s role in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). With tracks like “Wrathchild” and “Murders in the Rue Morgue,” Iron Maiden showcased their intricate guitar work and galloping rhythms. The album\u2019s success paved the way for Iron Maiden\u2019s continued dominance in the metal scene.<\/p>\n

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1982: Iron Maiden \u2013 The Number of the Beast<\/h2>\n
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“The Number of the Beast,” released in 1982, is often hailed as one of the greatest metal albums of all time. Featuring new vocalist Bruce Dickinson, the album includes iconic tracks such as “Hallowed Be Thy Name” and the titular “The Number of the Beast.” This release catapulted Iron Maiden to international fame and remains a defining moment in the band\u2019s illustrious career.<\/p>\n

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1983: Metallica \u2013 Kill ‘Em All<\/h2>\n
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Metallica\u2019s debut album “Kill ‘Em All,” released in 1983, revolutionized the thrash metal subgenre. The album\u2019s high-speed riffs, aggressive drumming, and powerful vocals set a new standard for heavy metal. Tracks like “Seek & Destroy” and “Whiplash” exemplify Metallica\u2019s raw energy and technical prowess, establishing them as pioneers of thrash metal.<\/p>\n

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1984: Metallica \u2013 Ride the Lightning<\/h2>\n
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Following the success of their debut, Metallica released “Ride the Lightning” in 1984, showcasing their growth as musicians. This album features more complex song structures and lyrical themes, with standout tracks like “Fade to Black” and “Creeping Death.” “Ride the Lightning” solidified Metallica\u2019s reputation as leaders of the thrash metal movement.<\/p>\n

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1985: Slayer \u2013 Hell Awaits<\/h2>\n
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Slayer\u2019s “Hell Awaits,” released in 1985, is a seminal album in the thrash and extreme metal genres. The album\u2019s dark and aggressive sound, characterized by complex riffs and rapid-fire drumming, pushed the boundaries of heavy metal. Tracks like “Hell Awaits” and “At Dawn They Sleep” showcase Slayer\u2019s relentless intensity and cemented their status as metal icons.<\/p>\n

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1986: Metallica \u2013 Master of Puppets<\/h2>\n
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“Master of Puppets,” released in 1986, is widely regarded as Metallica\u2019s magnum opus. The album combines intricate songwriting, powerful themes, and unparalleled musicianship. Tracks like “Battery,” “Master of Puppets,” and “Welcome Home (Sanitarium)” are quintessential examples of thrash metal at its finest. This album\u2019s influence extends beyond the metal genre, earning its place as a timeless classic.<\/p>\n

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1987: Guns N\u2019 Roses \u2013 Appetite for Destruction<\/h2>\n
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While Guns N\u2019 Roses is often categorized as hard rock, their debut album “Appetite for Destruction,” released in 1987, had a significant impact on the metal genre. The album\u2019s raw energy and rebellious attitude, exemplified by tracks like “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Sweet Child o\u2019 Mine,” resonated with metal fans and contributed to its massive commercial success.<\/p>\n

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1988: Iron Maiden \u2013 Seventh Son of a Seventh Son<\/h2>\n
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Iron Maiden\u2019s “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son,” released in 1988, is a conceptual masterpiece that marked a departure from their previous work. The album features complex arrangements and themes, with tracks like “Can I Play with Madness” and “The Evil That Men Do.” This release showcased Iron Maiden\u2019s willingness to experiment and innovate within the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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1989: Sepultura \u2013 Beneath the Remains<\/h2>\n
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Brazilian metal band Sepultura\u2019s “Beneath the Remains,” released in 1989, is a landmark album in the death and thrash metal scenes. Known for its intense energy and technical precision, the album features tracks like “Inner Self” and “Stronger Than Hate.” “Beneath the Remains” helped establish Sepultura as a major force in the global metal community.<\/p>\n

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1990: Pantera \u2013 Cowboys from Hell<\/h2>\n
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Pantera\u2019s “Cowboys from Hell,” released in 1990, marked a turning point for the band and the metal genre as a whole. The album introduced the world to Pantera\u2019s groove metal sound, characterized by powerful riffs and Phil Anselmo\u2019s aggressive vocals. Tracks like “Cowboys from Hell” and “Cemetery Gates” showcased the band\u2019s technical prowess and laid the foundation for their future success.<\/p>\n

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1991: Metallica \u2013 Metallica (The Black Album)<\/h2>\n
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Metallica\u2019s self-titled album, commonly known as “The Black Album,” released in 1991, marked a significant shift in the band\u2019s sound. With a more polished and accessible approach, the album features hits like “Enter Sandman” and “The Unforgiven.” “The Black Album” achieved immense commercial success and introduced Metallica to a wider audience, influencing countless bands across the genre.<\/p>\n

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1992: Megadeth \u2013 Countdown to Extinction<\/h2>\n
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Megadeth\u2019s “Countdown to Extinction,” released in 1992, is a landmark album that showcased the band\u2019s evolution towards a more refined sound. With tracks like “Symphony of Destruction” and “Sweating Bullets,” the album combines technical precision with socially conscious lyrics. “Countdown to Extinction” solidified Megadeth\u2019s status as one of the leading bands in the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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1993: Carcass \u2013 Heartwork<\/h2>\n
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Carcass\u2019s “Heartwork,” released in 1993, is a pivotal album in the melodic death metal subgenre. Known for its intricate guitar work and melodic sensibilities, “Heartwork” features tracks like “No Love Lost” and “Buried Dreams.” This release helped bridge the gap between death metal and more melodic forms of metal, influencing a new wave of metal bands.<\/p>\n

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1994: Pantera \u2013 Far Beyond Driven<\/h2>\n
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Pantera\u2019s “Far Beyond Driven,” released in 1994, is a testament to the band\u2019s uncompromising heaviness and aggression. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, a rare achievement for a metal band at the time. Tracks like “I\u2019m Broken” and “5 Minutes Alone” exemplify Pantera\u2019s groove metal sound and cemented their legacy as one of the most influential metal bands of the 1990s.<\/p>\n

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1995: Fear Factory \u2013 Demanufacture<\/h2>\n
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Fear Factory\u2019s “Demanufacture,” released in 1995, is a groundbreaking album that combined elements of industrial and death metal. Known for its mechanical precision and futuristic themes, the album features tracks like “Replica” and “Demanufacture.” “Demanufacture” influenced a new wave of industrial metal bands and remains a classic within the genre.<\/p>\n

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1996: Tool \u2013 \u00c6nima<\/h2>\n
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Tool\u2019s “\u00c6nima,” released in 1996, is a genre-defying album that blends elements of progressive, alternative, and metal music. Known for its complex arrangements and thought-provoking lyrics, the album features tracks like “Stinkfist” and “Forty Six & 2.” “\u00c6nima” showcased Tool\u2019s unique sound and solidified their status as one of the most innovative bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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1997: Machine Head \u2013 The More Things Change\u2026<\/h2>\n
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Machine Head\u2019s “The More Things Change\u2026,” released in 1997, is a raw and powerful album that showcases the band\u2019s groove and thrash metal influences. Tracks like “Ten Ton Hammer” and “Take My Scars” highlight the band\u2019s aggressive sound and lyrical intensity. This release further established Machine Head as a major force in the metal scene.<\/p>\n

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1998: Slayer \u2013 Diabolus in Musica<\/h2>\n
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Slayer\u2019s “Diabolus in Musica,” released in 1998, marked a departure from the band\u2019s traditional thrash sound, incorporating elements of nu-metal and groove metal. While the album received mixed reviews, tracks like “Bitter Peace” and “Stain of Mind” demonstrate Slayer\u2019s willingness to experiment and adapt to the evolving metal landscape.<\/p>\n

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1999: Slipknot \u2013 Slipknot<\/h2>\n
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Slipknot\u2019s self-titled debut album, released in 1999, introduced the world to their unique brand of nu-metal and extreme metal. Known for their chaotic live performances and aggressive sound, the album features tracks like “Wait and Bleed” and “Spit It Out.” Slipknot\u2019s debut album quickly gained a dedicated fanbase and set the stage for their future success.<\/p>\n

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2000: Iron Maiden \u2013 Brave New World<\/h2>\n
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Iron Maiden\u2019s “Brave New World,” released in 2000, marked the return of vocalist Bruce Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith to the band. The album features a revitalized sound, with tracks like “The Wicker Man” and “Blood Brothers.” “Brave New World” was well received by fans and critics alike, reaffirming Iron Maiden\u2019s status as one of the greatest metal bands of all time.<\/p>\n

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2001: System of a Down \u2013 Toxicity<\/h2>\n
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System of a Down\u2019s “Toxicity,” released in 2001, is a landmark album that blends elements of nu-metal, alternative, and progressive metal. Known for its dynamic and eclectic sound, the album features tracks like “Chop Suey!” and “Toxicity.” “Toxicity” achieved massive commercial success and solidified System of a Down\u2019s place in modern metal history.<\/p>\n

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2002: Opeth \u2013 Deliverance<\/h2>\n
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Opeth\u2019s “Deliverance,” released in 2002, is a masterful blend of death metal and progressive rock. Known for its intricate compositions and dynamic shifts, the album features tracks like “Deliverance” and “Master\u2019s Apprentices.” “Deliverance” showcased Opeth\u2019s ability to seamlessly blend brutality and melody, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated following.<\/p>\n

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2003: Lamb of God \u2013 As the Palaces Burn<\/h2>\n
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Lamb of God\u2019s “As the Palaces Burn,” released in 2003, is a pivotal album in the resurgence of American heavy metal. Known for its aggressive sound and politically charged lyrics, the album features tracks like “Ruin” and “11th Hour.” “As the Palaces Burn” helped establish Lamb of God as one of the leading bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2004: Mastodon \u2013 Leviathan<\/h2>\n
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Mastodon\u2019s “Leviathan,” released in 2004, is a concept album inspired by Herman Melville\u2019s “Moby-Dick.” Known for its progressive and sludge metal influences, the album features tracks like “Blood and Thunder” and “Iron Tusk.” “Leviathan” received critical acclaim and established Mastodon as one of the most innovative bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2005: System of a Down \u2013 Mezmerize<\/h2>\n
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System of a Down\u2019s “Mezmerize,” released in 2005, is the first part of a double album that showcases the band\u2019s eclectic and dynamic sound. Known for its political themes and diverse influences, the album features tracks like “B.Y.O.B.” and “Question!” “Mezmerize” achieved commercial success and continued to solidify System of a Down\u2019s place in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2006: Mastodon \u2013 Blood Mountain<\/h2>\n
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Mastodon\u2019s “Blood Mountain,” released in 2006, is a progressive metal masterpiece that showcases the band\u2019s technical prowess and inventive songwriting. Known for its complex arrangements and mythological themes, the album features tracks like “The Wolf Is Loose” and “Colony of Birchmen.” “Blood Mountain” received widespread acclaim and further established Mastodon as leaders in the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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2007: Machine Head \u2013 The Blackening<\/h2>\n
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Machine Head\u2019s “The Blackening,” released in 2007, is a modern metal classic known for its intricate compositions and powerful themes. The album features tracks like “Clenching the Fists of Dissent” and “Aesthetics of Hate.” “The Blackening” received critical acclaim and solidified Machine Head\u2019s reputation as one of the leading bands in contemporary metal.<\/p>\n

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2008: Metallica \u2013 Death Magnetic<\/h2>\n
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Metallica\u2019s “Death Magnetic,” released in 2008, marked a return to the band\u2019s thrash metal roots. Known for its aggressive sound and complex song structures, the album features tracks like “The Day That Never Comes” and “All Nightmare Long.” “Death Magnetic” received positive reviews and reaffirmed Metallica\u2019s status as one of the most influential bands in metal history.<\/p>\n

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2009: Mastodon \u2013 Crack the Skye<\/h2>\n
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Mastodon\u2019s “Crack the Skye,” released in 2009, is a progressive metal masterpiece that explores themes of spirituality and astral travel. Known for its intricate compositions and dynamic soundscapes, the album features tracks like “Oblivion” and “The Czar.” “Crack the Skye” received widespread critical acclaim and solidified Mastodon\u2019s place as one of the most innovative bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2010: Deftones \u2013 Diamond Eyes<\/h2>\n
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Deftones\u2019 “Diamond Eyes,” released in 2010, is a critically acclaimed album that blends elements of alternative, nu-metal, and post-metal. Known for its atmospheric sound and emotionally charged lyrics, the album features tracks like “Diamond Eyes” and “Sextape.” “Diamond Eyes” received positive reviews and reaffirmed Deftones\u2019 status as one of the most innovative bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2011: Opeth \u2013 Heritage<\/h2>\n
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Opeth\u2019s “Heritage,” released in 2011, marked a departure from the band\u2019s traditional death metal sound, embracing a more progressive and psychedelic approach. Known for its intricate compositions and vintage influences, the album features tracks like “The Devil\u2019s Orchard” and “I Feel the Dark.” “Heritage” received critical acclaim and showcased Opeth\u2019s willingness to experiment and evolve.<\/p>\n

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2012: Gojira \u2013 L\u2019Enfant Sauvage<\/h2>\n
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Gojira\u2019s “L\u2019Enfant Sauvage,” released in 2012, is a powerful album that blends elements of death metal, groove metal, and progressive metal. Known for its heavy sound and intricate compositions, the album features tracks like “L\u2019Enfant Sauvage” and “Explosia.” “L\u2019Enfant Sauvage” received critical acclaim and solidified Gojira\u2019s status as one of the leading bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2013: Black Sabbath \u2013 13<\/h2>\n
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Black Sabbath\u2019s “13,” released in 2013, marked the band\u2019s first studio album in 18 years and featured original members Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, and Geezer Butler. Known for its heavy sound and classic metal influences, the album features tracks like “God Is Dead?” and “End of the Beginning.” “13” received positive reviews and showcased Black Sabbath\u2019s enduring influence on the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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2014: Mastodon \u2013 Once More ‘Round the Sun<\/h2>\n
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Mastodon\u2019s “Once More ‘Round the Sun,” released in 2014, is a critically acclaimed album that blends elements of progressive, sludge, and alternative metal. Known for its intricate compositions and dynamic sound, the album features tracks like “High Road” and “The Motherload.” “Once More ‘Round the Sun” received positive reviews and further established Mastodon as one of the most innovative bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2015: Lamb of God \u2013 VII: Sturm und Drang<\/h2>\n
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Lamb of God\u2019s “VII: Sturm und Drang,” released in 2015, is a powerful album that blends elements of groove metal and thrash metal. Known for its aggressive sound and politically charged lyrics, the album features tracks like “Still Echoes” and “512.” “VII: Sturm und Drang” received positive reviews and reaffirmed Lamb of God\u2019s status as one of the leading bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2016: Metallica \u2013 Hardwired… to Self-Destruct<\/h2>\n
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Metallica\u2019s “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct,” released in 2016, marked a triumphant return to the band\u2019s thrash metal roots. Known for its aggressive sound and complex song structures, the album features tracks like “Hardwired” and “Moth Into Flame.” “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct” received positive reviews and reaffirmed Metallica\u2019s status as one of the most influential bands in metal history.<\/p>\n

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2017: Mastodon \u2013 Emperor of Sand<\/h2>\n
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Mastodon\u2019s “Emperor of Sand,” released in 2017, is a concept album that explores themes of mortality and resilience. Known for its intricate compositions and dynamic sound, the album features tracks like “Sultan\u2019s Curse” and “Show Yourself.” “Emperor of Sand” received widespread critical acclaim and solidified Mastodon\u2019s place as one of the leading bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2018: Judas Priest \u2013 Firepower<\/h2>\n
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Judas Priest\u2019s “Firepower,” released in 2018, is a powerful album that blends elements of classic and modern metal. Known for its heavy sound and anthemic tracks, the album features songs like “Lightning Strike” and “Firepower.” “Firepower” received widespread critical acclaim and showcased Judas Priest\u2019s enduring influence on the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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2019: Slipknot \u2013 We Are Not Your Kind<\/h2>\n
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Slipknot\u2019s “We Are Not Your Kind,” released in 2019, is a critically acclaimed album that blends elements of nu-metal, alternative, and extreme metal. Known for its aggressive sound and emotionally charged lyrics, the album features tracks like “Unsainted” and “Solway Firth.” “We Are Not Your Kind” received positive reviews and reaffirmed Slipknot\u2019s status as one of the leading bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2020: Trivium \u2013 What the Dead Men Say<\/h2>\n
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Trivium\u2019s “What the Dead Men Say,” released in 2020, is a powerful album that blends elements of thrash, metalcore, and progressive metal. Known for its intricate compositions and dynamic sound, the album features tracks like “Catastrophist” and “The Defiant.” “What the Dead Men Say” received positive reviews and solidified Trivium\u2019s status as one of the leading bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2021: Gojira \u2013 Fortitude<\/h2>\n
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Gojira\u2019s “Fortitude,” released in 2021, is a critically acclaimed album that blends elements of death metal, groove metal, and progressive metal. Known for its heavy sound and socially conscious lyrics, the album features tracks like “Born for One Thing” and “Amazonia.” “Fortitude” received widespread acclaim and further established Gojira as one of the leading bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2022: Slipknot \u2013 The End, So Far<\/h2>\n
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Slipknot\u2019s “The End, So Far,” released in 2022, is a powerful album that blends elements of nu-metal, alternative, and extreme metal. Known for its aggressive sound and emotionally charged lyrics, the album features tracks like “The Chapeltown Rag” and “Yen.” “The End, So Far” received positive reviews and reaffirmed Slipknot\u2019s status as one of the leading bands in modern metal.<\/p>\n

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2023: Metallica \u2013 72 Seasons<\/h2>\n
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Metallica\u2019s “72 Seasons,” released in 2023, marks another powerful entry into the band\u2019s legendary discography. Known for its blend of thrash metal intensity and melodic depth, the album features tracks like “Lux \u00c6terna” and “If Darkness Had a Son.” “72 Seasons” received wide acclaim for its exploration of themes both personal and universal, reinforcing Metallica\u2019s enduring influence in the metal genre.<\/p>\n

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Conclusion<\/h2>\n

The journey through the best metal albums of each year since 1970 highlights the genre\u2019s evolution and enduring influence on the world of music. From the pioneering sounds of Black Sabbath to the contemporary innovations of bands like Gojira and Slipknot, metal has continually pushed boundaries and inspired generations of musicians and fans alike. As we look to the future, the legacy of these albums and the artists behind them will continue to shape the sound and spirit of metal for years to come.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

1971: Led Zeppelin \u2013 Led Zeppelin IV While Led Zeppelin is often categorized as hard rock, the influence of their fourth album on the metal genre is undeniable. Released in 1971, Led Zeppelin IV features iconic tracks such as “Stairway to Heaven” and “Black Dog.” The band’s blend of heavy riffs, mystical lyrics, and dynamic arrangements inspired a generation of metal musicians and helped solidify the genre\u2019s mainstream appeal. 1972: Deep Purple \u2013 Machine Head…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12540","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-news"],"yoast_head":"\nTHE BEST METAL ALBUM OF EACH YEAR SINCE 1970<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"1971: Led Zeppelin \u2013 Led Zeppelin IV While Led Zeppelin is often categorized as hard rock, the influence of their fourth album on the metal genre is\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" 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