50. Dream Theater - Metropolis Part II: Scenes From A Memory
The masters of prog metal took a step well outside their comfort zone for this album which defined their career trajectory for a long time after. Their first and only concept album, Metropolis tells the story of a young man named Nicholas haunted by dreams of a young girl who is killed, as well as his investigation into reincarnation, time travel and his own life.
49. Rainbow - Rising
Rainbow's second album, Rising is considered by many to be one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time. The combination of Ritchie Blackmore's killer riffs and searing leads with Ronnie James Dio's superb vocals and wonderfully demented lyrics have made this album a classic all rock fans should enjoy at least once.
48. Queens Of The Stone Age - Songs For The Deaf
QOTSA are a very marmite band but you cannot deny how much 'No One Knows' rocks. The combination of Josh Homme, Mark Lanegan, Nick Oliveri and Dave Grohl meshed to produce an album of alt-stoner gems that the band haven't managed to surpass since.