Metal Misfits: 10 Underrated Albums That Deserve Your Attention

 

when it comes to metal, everyone’s got their Mount Rushmore of iconic albums, and yeah, we get it—Master of Puppets and Reign in Blood will always be holy ground. But what about the heavy hitters that got lost in the shuffle? The albums that didn’t get the stadium lights or magazine covers but still shred harder than most of what gets spoon-fed to the masses?

These are the unsung beasts, the records that slipped under the radar but have every damn right to take up space in your collection. We’re talking hidden treasures that every true metalhead should know but probably doesn’t—because sometimes the real gold stays underground. Here’s our list of the top 10 underrated metal albums that deserve more respect.

10. Machine Head: The Burning Red (1999)

Alright, let’s kick off with The Burning Red, the black sheep of Machine Head’s discography—and one that deserves way more respect than it gets. Yeah, it’s different, and yeah, Robb Flynn brought in nu-metal vibes that die-hard fans were quick to tear apart. But let’s be real: the album has some serious chops. Songs like “The Blood, the Sweat, the Tears” and “From This Day” are packed with intensity, and Flynn’s vocals bring a level of vulnerability that adds an edge you don’t always find in the genre.

The Burning Red was Machine Head stepping out of the comfort zone, mixing heavy riffs with a groove that punched mainstream metal in the face. It may not be the Burn My Eyes brutality that fans wanted, but it’s a bold, raw album that took risks and, in its own way, still slaps.

9. Korn: Issues (1999)
Issues was a watershed moment for Korn, blending angst with aggression in a way that resonated with a generation. Sure, it has its fair share of mainstream success with tracks like "Falling Away from Me," but many fans overlook the deeper cuts. The raw emotion, paired with the band’s trademark downtuned riffs, creates an atmosphere that’s both haunting and cathartic. This album is a twisted, emotional ride that showcases Korn at their most vulnerable and brutally honest.

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8. Gojira: Terra Incognito (2001)
Before they became the giants of modern metal, Gojira dropped Terra Incognito, an album that’s often overshadowed by their later masterpieces. This record is a monster of technicality, filled with complex rhythms and riffs that are as punishing as they are melodic. It’s a raw glimpse into their evolving sound, showcasing themes of nature and existential dread. Terra Incognito may not be the first album that comes to mind, but it’s a crucial piece of the Gojira puzzle that demands your attention.

7. Rammstein: Reise, Reise! (2004)
Reise, Reise! might not get the same spotlight as Sehnsucht, but this album is a relentless journey through heavy riffs and industrial beats. Rammstein’s signature blend of theatricality and brutality shines here, with tracks like “Mein Teil” and “Amerika” hitting hard and leaving a mark. It’s a bold exploration of darker themes wrapped in powerful instrumentation, proving that Rammstein knows how to get you moving while making you think.

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6. Fear Factory: Archetype (2004)
Fear Factory has been churning out crushing industrial metal for years, but Archetype often flies under the radar. This album marked a return to form after some tumultuous times, and it’s loaded with neck-breaking grooves and thought-provoking lyrics. Tracks like “Cyberwaste” and “Linchpin” capture the essence of Fear Factory’s sound, fusing machine-like precision with emotional depth. It’s an underappreciated gem that deserves a place in any metalhead's rotation.

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5. Judas Priest: Turbo (1986)
Turbo is often the odd one out in the Priest catalog, thanks to its synth-heavy sound and commercial appeal. But don’t let that fool you. This album showcases some killer tracks like “Turbo Lover” and “Locked In,” mixing the classic metal sound with an ’80s flair that’s hard to resist. It’s a bold risk that’s aged like fine wine, proving that even legends can take chances and still deliver some badass tunes.

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4. AC/DC: Flick of the Switch (1983)
After the high-octane energy of Back in Black, Flick of the Switch often gets overlooked. This album is raw and unpolished, returning to the band’s bluesy roots and packing a punch with tracks like “Rising Power” and “Flick of the Switch.” It may not have the radio hits of its predecessors, but it embodies the gritty spirit of AC/DC, showcasing their ability to rock hard without frills. It’s a testament to their resilience and a must-listen for anyone wanting the real AC/DC.

3. Mötley Crüe: Self-Titled (1994)
The self-titled album from Mötley Crüe is often brushed aside, lost in the noise of the grunge explosion that was overtaking the ‘90s. But this record is a heavy-hitting, no-nonsense testament to their ability to adapt while still rocking hard. Tracks like “Power to the Music” and “Hooligan’s Holiday” showcase the band’s gritty essence, blending their glam roots with a more mature sound. It’s raw, it’s real, and it deserves way more recognition for capturing the spirit of a band refusing to die in an era that wasn’t ready for them.

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2. Trivium: The Crusade (2006)
Trivium took a bold step with The Crusade, and while it might not be the Ascendancy everyone remembers, it’s a damn strong album that deserves a listen. This one ditches some of the metalcore elements for a more classic thrash sound, channeling the essence of metal legends while still sounding fresh. Tracks like “Entrance of the Conflagration” and “To the Rats” showcase their technical prowess and songwriting chops. It’s a killer blend of melody and aggression that often gets overshadowed by their earlier work, but it’s worth revisiting for any true metalhead.

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1. Morbid Angel: Illud Divinum Insanus (2011)
Now, let’s talk about Illud Divinum Insanus—the most polarizing album in the Morbid Angel catalog. Sure, it stirred up controversy with its industrial influences and bold experimentation, but fuck, it’s still a beast of an album! Tracks like “Nevermore” and “Too Extreme!” deliver crushing riffs and relentless energy that scream Morbid Angel’s signature sound. Critics might have lost their minds over the changes, but this album showcases a band unafraid to evolve and push boundaries. If you’re still sleeping on this record, it’s time to wake the fuck up and appreciate the madness.

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So there you have it, folks! These albums might not have gotten their due, but they’re all certified bangers in their own right. Don’t like my picks? Drop a comment and let’s get the debate rolling. Metal is all about opinions, so let’s hear yours!