Every dedicated metalhead should have a collection of essential thrash albums on vinyl. These records not only showcase the raw energy of the genre but also serve as a testament to the evolution of heavy metal music.
The origins of thrash metal can be traced back to the early 1980s, a time when cassette tapes dominated the music scene, eclipsing vinyl records in popularity. As the decade progressed, CDs emerged as the preferred music format, leading many collectors to own these iconic albums in that format instead.
However, the vinyl revival has taken the music world by storm over the past few years, making it the perfect time to explore or expand your vinyl collection. Whether you are a newcomer to thrash or a seasoned collector seeking to enhance your library, we are here to guide you on which crucial albums you should add to your collection.
Recently, Loudwire’s online merchandise store has begun offering a wide array of vinyl records. With countless artists and genres available to explore, we took a deep dive into the thrash section to curate a list of must-own albums that every fan of the genre should possess.
Among our selections, you’ll find a notable record that was released in the last decade, showcasing the enduring legacy of thrash metal.
READ MORE: 10 Essential Rock + Metal Records Every New Vinyl Collector Should Own
For each album featured, we have included three key tracks that exemplify its significance in the genre, along with a link to purchase the record directly from our store. These tracks highlight why we believe these albums are indispensable.
Scroll down to discover our carefully curated picks.
Explore Metallica’s Groundbreaking Album Ride the Lightning (1984)
metallica, ride the lightning, 1984
Key Tracks: “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “Fade to Black,” “Creeping Death”
Buy it here.
Experience Anthrax’s Iconic Album Among the Living (1987)
Anthrax, ‘Among The Living’ (1987)
Key Tracks: “Caught in a Mosh,” “I Am the Law,” “Indians”
Buy it here.
Discover Testament’s Classic Album The Legacy (1987)
Testament, ‘The Legacy’ (1987)
Key Tracks: “Over the Wall,” “Alone in the Dark,” “Burnt Offerings”
Buy it here.
Immerse Yourself in Slayer’s Masterpiece South of Heaven (1988)
Key Tracks: “South of Heaven,” “Mandatory Suicide,” “Silent Scream”
Buy it here.
Unleash Overkill’s Powerful Album The Years of Decay (1989)
Megaforce / Atlantic
Key Tracks: “Elimination,” “I Hate,” “The Years of Decay”
Buy it here.
Celebrate Megadeth’s Landmark Album Rust in Peace (1990)
megadeth, rust in peace, fourth albums
Key Tracks: “Holy Wars… the Punishment Due,” “Hangar 18,” “Tornado of Souls”
Buy it here.
Embrace Suicidal Tendencies’ Energetic Album Lights…Camera…Revolution! (1990)
Key Tracks: “You Can’t Bring Me Down,” “Lost Again,” “Send Me Your Money”
Buy it here.
Discover Power Trip’s Contemporary Gem Nightmare Logic (2017)
power trip nightmare logic album art
Key Tracks: “Soul Sacrifice,” “Executioner’s Tax (Swing of the Axe),” “Nightmare Logic”
Buy it here.
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Explore the Best Thrash Album Released Each Year Since 1983
Join us on a journey through the history of the best thrash metal albums, year by year, celebrating the genre’s most impactful releases.
Gallery Credit: Joe DiVita
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