The albums that define
speed metal.
Our picks for where to start with speed metal — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top speed metal artists
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The speed metal essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Europe
Definitive Collection
Anthemic choruses and soaring guitar solos encapsulate the glam metal spirit of the late '80s and early '90s.
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Europe
Almost Unplugged
Acoustic reinterpretations of classic hits blend sentimental melodies with raw emotionality, showcasing the band's enduring appeal.
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Megadeth
Countdown to Extinction: Live
A blistering live performance that captures the raw energy and intricate musicianship of thrash metal titans Megadeth.
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Megadeth
Peace Sells… but Who's Buying?
Razor-sharp riffs and aggressive rhythms create a relentless thrash metal assault that critiques societal norms.
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Motörhead
Metallic Attack: The Ultimate Tribute
A thunderous collection where iconic metal anthems are reimagined through Motörhead's gritty lens.
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Motörhead
On Parole
Raw energy and relentless riffs propel this album, capturing the essence of Motörhead's early heavy metal sound.
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Babymetal
Metal Forth
A frenetic blend of J-pop melodies and heavy metal riffs, infused with playful energy and theatricality.
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Babymetal
Legend – Metal Galaxy
An explosive fusion of J-pop and metal, merging melodic hooks with relentless riffs and theatrical performances.
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Blind Guardian
At the Edge of Time
Epic power metal anthems intertwine orchestral arrangements with soaring vocals and intricate guitar harmonies.
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Blind Guardian
Beyond the Red Mirror
A symphonic blend of power metal and intricate storytelling wrapped in grandiose orchestration.
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Pretty Maids
Red Hot and Heavy
A vibrant blend of hard rock and power metal, pulsing with energetic riffs and soaring vocals.
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Pretty Maids
Stripped
A raw, acoustic-driven exploration of emotion that strips back the band's heavy metal roots to reveal poignant songwriting.
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Gamma Ray
Heading for Tomorrow
Epic power metal anthems intertwine with melodic hooks and soaring vocals, encapsulating a spirit of resilience.
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Gamma Ray
To the Metal!
A high-octane blend of soaring melodies and aggressive riffs that embodies the spirit of classic power metal.
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DragonForce
Maximum Overload
Epic melodies and virtuosic guitar solos propel DragonForce's relentless power metal into a thrilling, high-speed adventure.
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DragonForce
Warp Speed Warriors
Epic guitar solos and soaring vocals combine with sci-fi themes for a high-octane power metal experience.
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Riot V
Riot Live
A thunderous celebration of power metal energy, blending raw vocals with electrifying guitar riffs.
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Riot V
Inishmore
A vibrant blend of melodic power metal and hard rock, rich with soaring vocals and intricate guitar work.
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Venom
Metal Black
A relentless barrage of aggressive riffs and dark themes, embodying the raw essence of heavy metal.
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Venom
Resurrection
A relentless barrage of speed metal riffs intertwined with dark, provocative themes and venomous energy.
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