The Best Heavy Metal Album of 1985: “Master of Puppets” Redefined the Genre…..
When it comes to naming the greatest heavy metal album of 1985, there’s one undisputed champion that towers above the rest: Master of Puppets by Metallica. Released on March 3, 1986, this groundbreaking record — often hailed as one of the most influential albums of all time — still sends shockwaves through the metal scene nearly 40 years later.
But what makes Master of Puppets so special? It wasn’t simply a collection of songs. It was a powerful, cohesive statement that showcased Metallica at the absolute height of their creative powers. From the dark, acoustic opening of “Battery” to the sprawling eight-and-a-half-minute title track, every moment on the album pushed the boundaries of what heavy metal could achieve. At a time when mainstream metal was dominated by glam aesthetics and flashy showmanship, Metallica doubled down on sonic intensity, lyrical depth, and intricate musicianship.
The record was produced by Flemming Rasmussen at Sweet Silence Studios in Denmark and was the first Metallica album to be released on a major label, Elektra Records. It debuted at No. 29 on the Billboard 200 — a remarkable feat for a metal band in 1985 — and eventually went on to sell more than six million copies in the U.S. alone.
One of the most celebrated tracks, “Master of Puppets,” explores themes of addiction and control with an unrelenting guitar riff that has become iconic in its own right. Other standout songs, such as “Welcome Home (Sanitarium)” and “Disposable Heroes,” combine technical brilliance with introspective lyrics, showcasing a level of musical and thematic complexity rarely seen in heavy metal at the time.
The lineup — James Hetfield on vocals and rhythm guitar, Kirk Hammett on lead guitar, Cliff Burton on bass, and Lars Ulrich on drums — was at its peak. Tragically, this would also be the last Metallica album to feature Burton, who died in a bus accident in Sweden while touring in support of the record. His contributions to Master of Puppets, especially the haunting bass solo “Orion,” have been immortalized as some of the most melodic and virtuosic bass playing in the genre.
Metal fans and critics alike continue to praise the album for its impeccable songcraft and sonic ambition. Many credit Master of Puppets with shaping thrash metal into an art form and laying the groundwork for progressive elements in future heavy music. Even after decades of new bands and shifting trends, Master of Puppets remains the gold standard by which all other heavy metal albums are measured.
In short, Master of Puppets is not only the best heavy metal album of 1985 — it may very well be one of the greatest albums ever made. Its intensity, complexity, and influence ensure that its legacy will live on forever, inspiring future generations of headbangers and guitar heroes alike.