Discover the Ultimate Death Metal Albums from 1985 to Present

Our journey begins in the pivotal year of 1985, a key moment in the history of death metal. This year is often debated among enthusiasts, as it marks the emergence of the genre with iconic albums like Possessed’s Seven Churches and Death’s Scream Bloody Gore. These two legendary albums have been at the forefront of discussions regarding the true inception of death metal, each claiming a significant place in the hearts of fans. This ongoing debate ensures that neither album is overlooked, which is why we are committed to highlighting this era and its revolutionary impact on music history.

By acknowledging Possessed, we remove any triviality surrounding its exclusion; instead, we create a broader platform to explore the gut-wrenching breakdowns, thunderous riffs, intricate leads, and visceral vocal performances that define the genre. Death metal has become synonymous with an aggressive sound that pushes the limits of musical expression, and we are excited to delve into its rich history.

READ MORE: The 27 Best Death Metal Albums of 2024

This exploration represents just a fraction of nearly four decades of death metal evolution. We recognize that many fans may have differing opinions on our selections, and that’s perfectly acceptable. We encourage you to engage in discussions and debates about these choices! The early ’90s, with its wealth of influential releases, presents a particularly challenging landscape for making definitive decisions.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the diverse and expansive sounds of death metal as we unveil the Best Death Metal Album of Each Year Since 1985 in the gallery below, showcasing the genre’s relentless innovation and artistry.

Curated Playlists for Death Metal Aficionados:

Explore the Evolution of Early Death Metal: The First 15 Years

Dive into 2000s Death Metal (’00-’09)

Experience the Ultimate Melodic Death Metal Playlist

Discover the Ultimate Technical Death Metal