What is the best Anvil album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Metal on Metal" (1982). It's the most representative of what makes Anvil worth hearing.

What are the best Anvil albums?

The essential Anvil albums include "Hard 'n' Heavy" (1981), "Metal on Metal" (1982), "Forged in Fire" (1983), "Backwaxed" (1985) and "Strength of Steel" (1987).

How many albums does Anvil have?

Anvil has 26 releases in their discography, including 25 albums and 1 EP.

Photo: Frank Schwichtenberg · CC BY-SA 3.0

Anvil

Q: Who is Anvil for?

If you're into heavy metal, Anvil is worth your time. Grounded by aggressive rhythms and steady tempos, Anvil's music conveys a sense of relentless drive punctuated by sharp guitar lines and dynamic shifts in intensity.

Grounded by aggressive rhythms and steady tempos, Anvil's music conveys a sense of relentless drive punctuated by sharp guitar lines and dynamic shifts in intensity.

heavy metal

Canada Est. 1978

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Start here

The album

Metal on Metal (1982)

Presents a cohesive collection that showcases Anvil's classic heavy metal sound with aggressive rhythms and sharp guitar work, making it accessible for newcomers.

The song

“Mothra” from This Is Thirteen

Features an engaging hook and dynamic shifts, encapsulating Anvil's style while being a standout track that introduces their energetic approach.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Juggernaut of Justice" — from Juggernaut of Justice (2011)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"Hope in Hell" — from Hope in Hell (2013)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Forged in Fire" — from Forged in Fire (1983)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"Daggers and Rum" — from Anvil Is Anvil (2016)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"Race Against Time" — from Still Going Strong (2002)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Metal on Metal" — from Anthology (2000)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Anvil

Anvil holds a crucial place in the narrative of heavy metal, serving not just as pioneers but as embodiment of the genre's relentless spirit.

Their influence extends beyond mere melodies and riffs; they've become a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity, showcasing how passion for music can sustain artists through years of struggle and obscurity. This journey resonates with listeners who value authenticity and resilience, making Anvil a unifying force within the metal community. Their approach to music creation is characterized by an earnestness that melds high-energy performance with raw sincerity. Anvil draws upon personal experiences, crafting songs that reflect their journey through the trials and tribulations of life as musicians. This earnest writing process fosters a connection with audiences, allowing them to feel a part of Anvil's story — one that embraces both triumphs and setbacks. Lyrically, their work often revolves around themes of determination, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of playing music. The storytelling tends to balance gravity with humor, navigating life's hardships while instilling hope and motivation. This combination creates an engaging listening experience where fans feel both uplifted and understood.

25 studio albums· 26 total releases· 4 decades· Canada