About this album
Sound:
"Aggressive riffs, intricate solos, and powerful vocals define Testament's fierce thrash metal debut."
Where they were
Released in 1987, 'The Legacy' is Testament's debut album, launching their career in the burgeoning thrash metal scene. At this point, the band was establishing themselves alongside contemporaries like Metallica and Slayer, contributing to the genre's popularity with their technical prowess and lyrical depth.
Why it matters
'The Legacy' solidified Testament's place in thrash metal history, receiving critical acclaim for its musicianship. The album helped them gain a strong following, leading to chart placements that included reaching No. 43 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart.
Essential tracks
- "Over the Wall" — This opening track showcases Testament's signature sound with its relentless pace and intricate guitar work, setting the tone for the entire album.
- "Burnt Offerings" — With its haunting melodies and complex structure, this track highlights the band's ability to blend aggression with atmosphere, a hallmark of their style.
- "C.O.T.L.O.D." — A fan favorite, this short yet impactful song demonstrates Testament's lyrical intensity and musical complexity, becoming a staple in their live performances.
- "Alone in the Dark" — This track features dynamic shifts between heavy riffs and melodic sections, illustrating the band's versatility and depth in songwriting.
Release Date
January 1, 1987
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Over the Wall 4:06
- 2 The Haunting 4:16
- 3 Burnt Offerings 5:06
- 4 Raging Waters 4:32
- 5 C.O.T.L.O.D. 2:31
- 6 First Strike Is Deadly 3:43
- 7 Do or Die 4:39
- 8 Alone in the Dark 4:04
- 9 Apocalyptic City 5:50
