The albums that define
nu metal.
Our picks for where to start with nu metal — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top nu metal artists
Start with one of these.
The nu metal essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Linkin Park
One More Light
A poignant blend of electronic textures and introspective lyrics that reflect vulnerability and resilience.
Start here
Sepultura
Schizophrenia
A relentless exploration of chaos where thrash metal meets haunting melodies and intricate rhythms.
Start here
XXXTentacion
Skins
A raw and fragmented exploration of vulnerability, laced with emotional intensity and minimalist production.
Start here
XXXTentacion
17
A raw exploration of emotional turmoil, blending introspective lyrics with minimalist production and haunting melodies.
Start here
Slipknot
.5: The Gray Chapter
A visceral blend of aggressive riffs and haunting melodies that captures both rage and vulnerability.
Start here
Slipknot
Adderall
Aggressive riffs and chaotic rhythms converge with introspective lyrics, revealing a darker emotional landscape.
Start here
Korn
Untouchables
A heavy and aggressive exploration of inner turmoil, blending dark melodies with intense rhythms.
Start here
Korn
The Path of Totality
A turbulent fusion of metal and electronic elements, punctuated by aggressive riffs and dynamic vocal performances.
Start here
Linkin Park
Studio Collection
A sweeping blend of alternative metal and electronic elements that encapsulates a decade of emotional turmoil and introspection.
Start here
Demi Lovato
Here We Go Again
A vibrant mix of pop and rock infused with heartfelt ballads and upbeat anthems capturing youthful exuberance.
Start here
Demi Lovato
Confident
Empowering anthems blend dance-pop and rock elements, showcasing bold vocals and personal narratives.
Start here
Hollywood Undead
New Empire, Vol. 1
A high-energy blend of rap rock and nu metal with anthemic choruses and introspective lyrics.
Start here
Hollywood Undead
Five
A dynamic blend of rap-rock and nu-metal, punctuated by anthemic choruses and sharp lyrical commentary.
Start here
Deftones
Saturday Night Wrist
A haunting blend of atmospheric textures and raw intensity that captures the band's emotional complexity.
Start here
Deftones
Adrenaline
A raw sonic explosion blending heavy riffs with atmospheric melodies and introspective lyrics.
Start here
Serj Tankian
Imperfect Remixes
Dynamic remixes blend rock energy with electronic textures, showcasing Serj Tankian's versatile artistry.
Start here
Serj Tankian
Serart
A surreal blend of avant-garde rock, operatic vocals, and eclectic instrumentation defying genre boundaries.
Start here
Static-X
Project Regeneration Vol. 1
A raw and relentless fusion of industrial metal and nu metal that channels nostalgia and aggression.
Start here
Static-X
Start a War
Aggressive industrial metal anthems collide with dark, mechanical grooves and cathartic vocals.
Start here
P.O.D.
The Awakening
A dynamic blend of rap-infused metal and melodic hooks reflecting social themes and personal struggles.
Start here
P.O.D.
Snuff the Punk
Raw energy and aggressive riffs merge with introspective lyrics, crafting a unique blend of metal and rap.
Start here
Drowning Pool
Sinner
A visceral explosion of aggressive riffs and raw, cathartic vocals that epitomize early 2000s nu metal.
Start here
Drowning Pool
Desensitized
Aggressive riffs and anthemic choruses collide in a raw expression of angst and resilience.
Start here
Mudvayne
The New Game
A blend of aggressive riffs and melodic elements that reflect Mudvayne's evolution into a more accessible sound.
Start here