10 Best Self-Titled Music Albums In Metal History

One could assume - with relative safety - that there isn’t an adult on the face of the planet who has never heard of Metallica. Unquestionably amongst the most famous metal acts of all time (if not the most famous of all time), much of Metallica’s enduring popularity in modern culture derives from the songs included on this classic record. 

Often referred to as the ‘Black Album’, Metallica’s self-titled record was released in 1991 and became the fifth full-length record in their discography. Although Metallica were already phenomenally famous within a blossoming American metal scene, this self-titled record elevated them to heights that no metal band had reached before. 

The difficulties on both creative and personal levels during the production of this record are well documented, with members of the band constantly clashing with producer Bob Rock. Despite these battles, this album saw Metallica drift away from their raw, brash thrash metal roots and towards a more refined sound. Although the change in direction alienated some fans, the gamble paid off in the long run as ‘Metallica’ went on to sell over 30 million copies worldwide and top the charts in nations such as the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Germany. Meanwhile, chart-topping single ‘Enter Sandman’ has over 1.3 billion Spotify streams, and ‘Nothing Else Matters’ follows closely behind with 1.1 billion.

Regardless of your opinion on this album, there's no denying it changed not only metal, but world music as a whole, forever.