The albums that define
pop metal.
Our picks for where to start with pop metal — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top pop metal artists
Start with one of these.
The pop metal essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Lordi
Monstereophonic (Theaterror Vs. Demonarchy)
A theatrical blend of hard rock and heavy metal, steeped in horror imagery and campy bravado.
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Lordi
Zombilation – The Greatest Cuts
A raucous blend of hard rock and theatrical flair, punctuated by monstrous imagery and catchy choruses.
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Poppy
Flux
A kaleidoscopic blend of metallic riffs and ethereal pop melodies that defies genre boundaries.
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Poppy
Music to Scream To
An experimental blend of industrial sounds and pop hooks that challenges genre boundaries while inviting cathartic release.
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Andrew W.K.
Gundam Rock
A high-energy fusion of hard rock and anime themes, celebrating the iconic Gundam series.
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Andrew W.K.
55 Cadillac
A vibrant blend of hard rock energy and whimsical storytelling, encapsulating the thrill of automotive adventures.
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Ugly Kid Joe
Uglier Than They Used Ta Be
A gritty blend of hard rock and alternative metal infused with a nostalgic edge and raw emotion.
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Ugly Kid Joe
Stairway to Hell
A gritty blend of hard rock and funk-infused melodies that captures the band's irreverent spirit.
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Amaranthe
Leave Everything Behind
A vibrant fusion of melodic death metal and electronic elements that energizes and captivates from start to finish.
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Amaranthe
Massive Addictive
A vibrant blend of electronic beats and heavy guitar riffs, merging pop sensibilities with metal intensity.
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