I'm looking to buy more CDs and expand my depth and breadth of metal music appreciation. Instead of "greatest hits" I'd like a studio (or live) album that is a shining example of a great band.

I'll start:
Ratt: Out of the Cellar
Listen

This was Ratt's breakthrough hit and debut album that put them on the map. Several hits on this disc like "Round and Round". Also a couple great songs that were not hits like "Lack of Communication" and "I'm Insane".

Edit To Add: Some great responses below, thanks! Please feel free to ponder further and add to your response or respond again with other bands!

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[–] clubb 6 points 10 months ago* (last edited 10 months ago)

I personally recommend Amon Amarth's "Once Sent From The Golden Hall".

Johan Hegg delivers two styles of vocals and sometimes intertwines his screaming with growling, like in the third track, "Without Fear".

The album shares many characteristics with subsequent albums such as "The Avenger" and "The Crusher". However, in my opinion, this album simply has the best contrast between the almost happy riffs and the brutal vocals, while "The Avenger" has a darker tone, and "The Crusher", weaker recording quality.

"Once Sent From The Golden Hall" is also Amon Amarth's debut album, after three demos, one being released under the name of "Scum", and one EP.