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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[–] [email protected] 2 points 10 months ago* (last edited 10 months ago)

Scorpions - Humanity: Hour 1

Listen

I know many nowadays do not consider the Scorpions to be metal. I disagree, but I'm using older standards. Metal didn't used to be as heavy, see some of the classic metal bands for examples (Black Sabbath, etc.). Whatever standard you use to measure, this album rocks.

I love this album because it is a very interesting departure from the norm for the Scorpions. This is a rock opera and has some really great tracks on it. I listen to most of my music in album format, that is, as an album from beginning to end in the order the band put it on the album. I think listening this way is even more important for this album because it tells a story as any good opera should do. I think the best track is the last: Humanity (note: this song is missing from the "Listen" link above). An awesome conclusion to a great opera and dramatic, in true operatic style. You're Lovin Me to Death is another great song. 321 rocks too.

This is a hidden gem among much bigger hit albums from a band with decades of experience. I wish they would do another rock opera.