Every single album in the list below is highly recommended.
Traditional Heavy Metal:
Accept - I'm a Rebel, a quality early 80s release from a German band who have a sound similar to early Judas Priest & AC/DC
Saxon - Strong Arm of the Law, another quality early 80s release, this band produced mid-paced metal based on familiar rock song structures
Tank - Filth Hounds of Hades, this music was not crafted by someone with an intimate knowledge of music theory. Every song is centered around a blues riff, and the structures are imperfect. However, it is exceedingly enjoyable.
Thrash Metal:
Sepultura - Schizophrenia, while better known for their nu-metal, their early work was genuinelly amazing. Some call this proto-death metal, others just call it thrash. A landmark album.
Vio-Lence - Eternal Nightmare, incisive guitars, well thought out riffs, and an energy that is hard to deny. This album is done within the then well established confines of thrash; if you don't like thrash, it will not win you over. But if you like thrash, it's quite a treasure.
Other:
Mercyful Fate - Melissa, a classic. A classically trained vocalist teams up with a guitarist who crafts some insanelly memorable riffs. Overly dramatic, often tongue and cheek, this memorable album influenced everyone.
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