Iron Maiden-Iron Maiden (1980)

This is one of the gems of heavy metal, yet simultaneously undervalued by the newer Iron Maiden fans of the era when Bruce Dickinson was frontman. Considered one of the seminal works of the so-called "NWOBHM" (New Wave of British Heavy Metal), this debut album showcased all the qualities of the movement, with the added touch of punk influences seasoned with more complex and epic sounds. The band was still in the process of solidifying its most classic, successful, and enduring lineup, comprised at that time of bassist Steve Harris, guitarists Dave Murray and Dennis Stratton, drummer Clive Burr, and vocalist Paul Di'Anno. This lineup would undergo significant changes starting with their third album, including the addition of Bruce Dickinson, and a year earlier, guitarist Adrian Smith, followed later by drummer Nicko McBrain in other words, their most classic and long-lasting lineup. But focusing on this first, seminal album, these young musicians demonstrated great instrumental virtuosity and very clear preconceived ideas, all revealed in the powerful "Prowler", the epic instrumental "Transylvania", the marathon progressive "Phantom of the Opera", the visceral and punk-infused "Running Free" and "Sanctuary", and the glorious "Iron Maiden". From here began the legend of a band as iconic as it is fundamental to the history of heavy metal and rock in general.