Megadeth is an LA speed/thrash metal outfit formed by Dave Mustaine, an original member of Metallica. Since the early 80’s, they’ve released thirteen albums, and have an extensive repertoire of now classic heavy metal songs.

80’s metal bands rarely attempted to do things like write songs like this. Commentary on the government, politics, and the social system? Unheard of, until 1986, when Megadeth released their second LP, Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying? The single “Peace Sells” from that album is considered a heavy metal staple, with a legendary bass line and lyrics packed full of political jabs. The song also confronts what Megadeth vocalist Dave Mustaine considers to be the unfair stereotyping of metalheads.

This is definitely what I consider to be one of the more perfect traditional metal songs. It has intelligent thoughts, instead of cliche metal imagery. It has a killer, infectious bass line, and the rhythm guitar work is excellent. Plus, it does all this while still maintaining that masculine feeling that heavy metal is known for.

Check out the video for “Peace Sells” below.