FIVE METAL CLASSICS FROM THE FRINGES

This week features selections that live on the outskirts of metal. Be sure to check out PART 1 and PART 2.

1. The Faith/Void split (1982)

Highly influential record from two D.C. bands. The Void side in particular is considered by many to be a prototype for the punk/metal hybrid dubbed "Crossover".


2. Exciter - Violence and Force (1984)

A gem from Canada's impressive contribution to speed metal in the early eighties.


3. Helloween - Walls of Jericho (1985)

The debut LP for these German power metal pioneers. It features guitarist Kai Hansen on vocals with a decidedly aggressive edge to the music. Remastered and expanded in 2006, Walls of Jericho is a must hear.


4. Death - Scream Bloody Gore (1987)

While the origins of Death Metal could be debated, Scream Bloody Gore is a definitive recording. There is no question as to where these guys are coming from. Classic.


5. Candlemass - Nightfall (1987)

Swedish doom metal originals got it so right in 1987. This album was reissued in 2001 with a bonus disc. Epic and towering, Nightfall's  musical statement and influence stand strong to the present day.


- AUDIOJUNKIE EVIL E.