💿 The most significant albums of 90s metal (and their cult products)

The 90s: a defining decade for metal

Massive riffs, a rebellious attitude and dark aesthetics — the 1990s marked a turning point in metal history. Gone was the glam of the 80s, replaced by a rawer, more introspective scene, yet just as powerful. Bands like Metallica, Pantera, Sepultura, Korn and Slipknot left their sonic and visual mark, releasing albums that have since become legendary.

5 essential albums to (re)discover

1. Metallica – Black Album (1991)
The record that elevated the band to legendary status. A minimalist cover, a massive sound. Merch featuring this era remains a bestseller — t-shirts, flags, mugs and more.

2. Pantera – Vulgar Display of Power (1992)
A visual and sonic punch to the face. The embroidered patch with the famous punch has become a staple on metal jackets worldwide.

3. Sepultura – Chaos A.D. (1993)
Brazilian metal makes its stand. The tribal, politically charged artwork lives on through highly sought-after stickers and t-shirts.

4. Korn – Follow the Leader (1998)
Pioneers of nu-metal, Korn introduced a darker urban aesthetic. Their stylised logos are everywhere — from patches to flags.

5. Slipknot – Slipknot (1999)
Masks, chaos and controlled aggression. Slipknot’s merch remains among the most striking in the scene — stickers, pins, postcards, and more.

Show your passion for 90s metal

Find all these bands and many more in our metal collection on MusikMachine. Cult items to relive the raw power of an unforgettable decade.