The anticipation for Record Store Day on April 12 is palpable among metal enthusiasts eager to support independent record shops. Established in 2007, this special day highlights the importance of independent music retailers in the U.S., allowing fans to snag exclusive vinyl releases of their beloved albums. Metal fans particularly have much to celebrate, as the event has consistently showcased the genre’s titans.
Notable ambassadors over the years have included influential artists such as Jesse Hughes (Eagles of Death Metal), Joshua Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), Ozzy Osbourne, Jack Black, and Dave Grohl (Nirvana/Foo Fighters). Their participation underscores the ongoing love for metal within Record Store Day festivities. As we look forward to 2025, a range of exceptional metal records will be available, inviting fans to explore the limited releases (Record Store Day).
12 The Eternal Idol
Black Sabbath
2025 promises to be a nostalgic year for Black Sabbath fans. The legendary band, featuring Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, will headline their last show, BACK TO THE BEGINNING, on July 5. This performance marks the first reunion of the original lineup in two decades, bringing back memories for fans who witnessed their tumultuous history.
Among their offerings for Record Store Day, the re-release of The Eternal Idol stands out. This landmark album, featuring Tony Martin’s vocals, will be presented on 140-gram red translucent vinyl, allowing collectors to appreciate its historic significance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOBObMjv4UQhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOBObMjv4UQ
11 Junk
Blue Cheer
As pioneers of heavy metal, Blue Cheer made a significant impact in the late ’60s. Their debut album, Vincebus Eruptum, featuring the iconic cover of “Summertime Blues,”solidified their status in rock history. For RSD 2025, Flatiron Records will release Junk on blue and silver splatter vinyl, a collection of studio recordings and live performance highlights, including a special rendition of “Summertime Blues”captured in 2008.
10 Necroticism – Descanting The Insalubrious
Carcass
Renowned for their pioneering role in the death metal scene, Carcass has been a force since their inception in 1985. After reuniting in 2007, the band continues to captivate audiences worldwide. For Record Store Day, fans can look forward to a special translucent green vinyl release of their acclaimed third album, Necroticism – Descanting The Insalubrious, first unveiled in 1991. This release features fan-favorite tracks such as “Corporal Jigsore Quandary”and is hailed as a masterpiece that solidified Carcass’s legacy.
9 Once Upon The Cross (30th Anniversary Edition)
Deicide
The Florida death metal scene, exemplified by Deicide, remains influential to this day. With Glen Benton at the helm, the band is known for their unapologetic and provocative style. For Record Store Day, the 30th anniversary edition of Once Upon The Cross will be released by Real Gone Music on blue, red, and gray “autobots” vinyl, allowing new and long-time fans alike to appreciate the controversial yet beloved album.
8 Beast From The East (Live)
Dokken
Releasing a special edition of Beast from the East for Record Store Day honors the band’s live history, capturing their 1988 tour performance in Japan. This album includes iconic tracks like “Just Got Lucky” and “Dream Warriors” from A Nightmare on Elm Street 3. Fans will have the opportunity to acquire this classic on a vibrant green and orange vinyl pressing, adding value to any collection. It also earned a Grammy nomination, reinforcing the band’s status in metal history.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noLPhZvcBpwhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noLPhZvcBpw
7 Hex (20th Anniversary Edition)
Earth
The band originally named Earth before evolving into Black Sabbath has returned, offering a unique sound that merges drone, doom, and psychedelic rock. For RSD 2025, Earth is set to release the 20th anniversary edition of Hex; Or Printing in the Infernal Method. This pressing showcases their shift towards acoustic elements, forging new paths in rock music. Fans can look forward to enjoying this special release, reflecting the band’s innovative spirit.
6 High
Flotsam & Jetsam
Known for its contributions to thrash metal, Flotsam & Jetsam experienced significant hurdles throughout their career yet has continued to impress fans since the early ’80s. This Record Store Day marks the first North American vinyl release of their 1997 album, High. For those seeking thrash metal that lies beyond the mainstream, this record represents a hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered.
5 Black Knight: Sword Of Rage
Scott Ian
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGz7xf9uVdchttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGz7xf9uVdc
For the true metal aficionados, a unique release for Record Store Day is the soundtrack for the pinball game Black Knight: Sword of Rage, crafted by Scott Ian of Anthrax and Brendon Small from *Metalocalypse*. This LP includes twelve enthralling instrumentals that will resonate with fans who have immersed themselves in the game, allowing them to relive the excitement beyond the arcade.
4 Live In Atlanta ‘82
Judas Priest
Marking a significant period in their career, Judas Priest is celebrating with a release of Live In Atlanta ‘82, offering a glimpse into their dynamic performance during a pivotal era for the band. The album, previously exclusive to a limited-edition box set, is now accessible as a standalone double LP on solid red vinyl, making it an essential acquisition for fans of classic heavy metal.
3 The Lost Tapes, Vol. 6
Motörhead
In honor of Lemmy Kilmister, the legendary frontman of Motörhead, any new material from the band is a notable celebration. For Record Store Day 2025, BMG presents The Löst Tapes, Vol. 6, showcasing a never-before-released live performance from December 1992. Featuring classic tracks like “Overkill” and “Killed By Death,” this double LP invites fans to reminisce about the unforgettable energy that Motörhead brought to every stage.
2 Live On Tour 1993
Rage Against The Machine
While hopes for new music from Rage Against The Machine seem dim, fans can recall the band’s raw power through their latest offering, Live On Tour 1993. This double-LP set features unpolished, live recordings that encapsulate the band’s inaugural world tour. With three sides of music and one etched side, listeners are invited to experience the unfiltered intensity that defined the band’s early days.
1 Live In New Haven 1994
Stone Temple Pilots
Shortly after their acclaimed album, Purple, debuted, Stone Temple Pilots performed a memorable concert in New Haven, Connecticut, which will now be available as a standalone double LP. Featuring their signature hits from their early discography, this release offers fans a chance to revisit the exceptional talent of Scott Weiland, making it a fitting tribute marking a decade since his passing.