This section of the Vinyl Record Collectors Guide is the complete discography of records released by the record company: "Music For Nations", see also Roadrunner Records
The 1980s witnessed an explosive period for heavy metal, and few record labels were as influential in nurturing and expanding the genre as Music For Nations (MFN). Established in 1983 in the UK, MFN quickly became synonymous with heavy metal’s rawest, most innovative sounds. With its commitment to promoting bands that straddled various metal subgenres—from thrash and death to glam and progressive—Music For Nations helped shape the genre’s commercial landscape and contributed significantly to its rise in popularity during that decade.
A Launchpad for Global Metal Giants
Music For Nations was instrumental in providing a European platform for several American and international metal bands who would go on to achieve iconic status. Through MFN, bands such as Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth released their albums in Europe, ensuring that these U.S.-based acts reached audiences across the Atlantic who were clamoring for new, aggressive sounds. For instance, Metallica’s debut album, Kill ’Em All, initially distributed by MFN, gained significant traction in the European market, amplifying the band’s reach and solidifying their position as global metal heavyweights.
This cross-continental distribution allowed MFN to become a critical channel through which European fans accessed these groundbreaking U.S. metal acts, often unavailable through domestic labels. By bridging this gap, MFN became known as an arbiter of quality in heavy metal, fostering a bond with listeners who trusted the label to introduce them to the best of the genre.
Embracing the UK and European Metal Scenes
In addition to promoting American acts, Music For Nations dedicated itself to discovering and nurturing British and European metal talent. It championed several UK-based bands, including Angel Witch and Tank, both of whom played crucial roles in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. Additionally, the label signed acts from other European countries, including Sweden’s Europe, helping broaden the appeal of European metal and giving these bands a significant platform.
The label’s diverse roster showcased a wide spectrum of metal’s stylistic variety, from the melodic and polished sounds of Europe to the brutal and aggressive tones of bands like Hellhammer. This diversity allowed MFN to appeal to a broad audience, catering to fans with different tastes within the heavy metal spectrum.
Iconic Releases and Legacy
MFN’s catalog during the 1980s reads like a who’s who of heavy metal, with releases that have since become iconic. Albums such as Metallica’s Ride the Lightning, Manowar’s Into Glory Ride, and Mercyful Fate’s Melissa exemplify the range and influence of MFN’s roster. These albums, now celebrated as classics, underscored the label’s commitment to artistic integrity and musical innovation within heavy metal. The label’s attention to high-quality packaging and often collectible artwork further contributed to its status among metal fans, who treasured these releases not only for their music but as physical symbols of the genre’s aesthetic.
Commercial Success and the Cult of Heavy Metal
Music For Nations did more than simply provide a platform for heavy metal artists; it helped to commercialize the genre in Europe. At a time when heavy metal was often sidelined by mainstream outlets, MFN’s dedicated approach carved out a commercial space for metal in record stores and in the public consciousness. It wasn’t just a label; MFN was a lifestyle brand, embodying the defiant, counter-cultural spirit of heavy metal. Fans saw MFN’s logo as a mark of authenticity, a badge that indicated the music within was truly metal.
Moreover, MFN’s commitment to touring support and publicity for its artists helped create loyal fan bases for bands across Europe. By organizing tours, managing fan engagement, and capitalizing on heavy metal’s rapidly growing culture, the label contributed significantly to the development of a fan community that transcended national borders and reinforced metal as a global genre.
Enduring Influence and Legacy
As the 1980s came to a close, Music For Nations had solidified itself as a key player in heavy metal. The label’s dedication to bringing uncompromising heavy metal to audiences far and wide left an indelible mark on the genre. The groundwork MFN laid helped pave the way for the global popularity of heavy metal, creating a model that later independent labels would emulate.
Today, the impact of Music For Nations endures in the heavy metal community. Its contribution to the genre during the 1980s remains a testament to the power of independent labels in championing bold and groundbreaking music. Through its commitment to quality, artist development, and unwavering support for the metal genre, MFN established itself as a defining force in heavy metal history, leaving a legacy that resonates with metal fans and artists alike.
Label & Catalogno | Band/Performers - Album Title | Year | Country |
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MFN 1 |
VIRGIN STEELE - Self-Titled ( 1982 Europe ) New Web-Page Virgin Steele's eponymous 1982 debut album, released on 12" Vinyl LP (MFN 1) via Music For Nations, captivates with a diverse sonic journey. From the electrifying "Danger Zone" to the anthemic "Dead End Kids" and the heartfelt ballad "Still In Love With You," the record showcases the band's raw power and musical versatility, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. |
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MFN 3 |
TANK - This Means War ( 1983 France ) "This Means War" is the third album by British heavy metal band Tank, released in 1983. On this album, the line-up expanded to a four-piece, with the addition of second guitarist Mick Tucker, former member of the NWOBHM band "White Spirit". Thanks to Tucker's songwriting contributions and to the sound expanded by an extra guitar, the band changed their music in comparison with their previous albums with longer, more melodic compositions, which helped differentiate Tank from Motörhead, the band they were often compared to. |
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MFN 7 |
METALLICA - Kill 'Em All ( 1983 France ) Metallica's debut album, "Kill 'Em All," recorded in a mere two weeks on a tight budget, gained legendary status. The French release on MFN, limited to 1500 copies, features a 170-gram 12" vinyl LP, adding rarity and collectible appeal. With iconic artwork and impactful music, this edition has become a sought-after gem, embodying Metallica's pivotal role in shaping the thrash metal genre. |
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Music For Nations MFN 12 KUT 109 |
W.A.S.P - Animal (F**K Like a Beast) ( England ) W.A.S.P.'s "Animal (Fuck Like a Beast)" defied 1980s norms, excluded from the debut album due to explicit content. Released as a stand-alone UK 12" Maxi-Single Vinyl, it embraced controversy. PMRC's "Filthy Fifteen" designation only fueled its rebellious legacy. The song, a symbol of defiance and collector's item, encapsulates an era when artists challenged societal norms, leaving an indelible mark on music history. |
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MFN 12 KUT 124 |
AGENT STEEL - Mad Locust Rising ( 1986 England ) New Web-Page Agent Steel's "Mad Locust Rising" is a seminal 1986 EP, the band's second release, featuring three intense speed metal tracks: "The Swarm Is Upon Us," "Mad Locust Rising," and a cover of Judas Priest's "The Ripper." Originally released by Music For Nations, it gained significance in metal history. A 1999 reissue by Century Media introduced it to a new audience, adding further value to this classic vinyl release. |
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MFN 14 P |
ANTHRAX - Fistful of Metal ( 1984 UK ) The picture disc 12" vinyl LP album of "Fistful of Metal" features the iconic cover art of the album, which depicts a hand holding a chain wrapped around a fist, with the Anthrax logo in the background. The picture disc is a special type of vinyl record that has a picture or design printed on one or both sides of the disc, i |
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MFN 15 |
HELLION - Self-Titled ( Mini-LP, 1983 USA ) "Hellion's self-titled 12" mini-LP, a hallmark of '80s heavy metal, immortalizes the charismatic Ann Boleyn's vocal prowess and the band's electrifying sound. As the founder of New Renaissance Records, Boleyn's influence extends beyond Hellion's sonic landscape, leaving an enduring legacy in metal history. The vinyl experience encapsulates the era's essence, ensuring Hellion's impact persists, echoing through the corridors of heavy metal for generations to come." |
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MFN 19 |
"Manowar's 'Hail to England' is a quintessential American heavy metal masterpiece released on Music For Nations' 12" Vinyl LP. This iconic album, brimming with powerful anthems, showcases the band's prowess in delivering epic and heroic metal. With thunderous rhythms and soaring vocals, Manowar pays homage to England, leaving an indelible mark on the metal landscape, solidifying their status as legends in the genre." |
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MFN 20 |
HELSTAR - Burning Star ( 1984 USA ) Helstar's "Burning Star" on Music For Nations' 12" vinyl LP is a seminal release in the Texan speed metal realm. Unleashed in 1984, the album showcases the band's dynamic prowess through relentless guitar riffs, breakneck drumming, and James Rivera's commanding vocals. A collector's gem, the vinyl format preserves the fiery spirit of an era, cementing "Burning Star" as a timeless classic in the history of speed metal. |
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MFN 27 |
METALLICA - Ride The Lightning ( 1984 England ). Metallica's 1984 "Ride the Lightning" 12" Vinyl LP, Made in England, is a collector's gem. This iconic album marked a turning point in metal history, blending thrash metal and intricate compositions. The vinyl's "Made in England" stamp adds international significance, reflecting Metallica's global impact. With its original artwork and packaging, this edition has become a sought-after item in the collectors' market, embodying the enduring allure of analog music. |
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EXODUS - Bonded By Blood ( 1985 Made in France )New Web-Page "Exodus' 1985 debut, 'Bonded By Blood,' is a seminal thrash metal LP. The iconic cover features conjoined twin infants representing good and evil. The album, renowned for its aggressive sound and intense lyrics, solidified Exodus as a force in the genre. Re-issues from 1989 onward feature alternative cover art. A classic in thrash metal history, 'Bonded By Blood' remains a cornerstone of the band's legacy." |
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MEGADETH - Killing is my Business and Business is Good 12" Picture Disc New Web-Page This is the Picture Disc version "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" the debut album by American thrash metal band Megadeth. It was originally released in 1985 on Combat Records. The album's artwork, featuring a plastic skull with tinfoil, was not intended to be the original artwork. Mustaine wanted a picture of Megadeth mascot Vic Rattlehead on the cover, however the studio lost the artwork, so they improvised the low-budget replacement. |
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MFN 47 |
"Long Live the Loud" by Canadian speed metal band Exciter, unleashed through Music For Nations in 1984, is a seminal sonic assault that defined the genre's intensity. Written primarily by drummer Dan Beehler, the album's relentless energy and iconic tracks like "I Am the Beast" cemented Exciter's status as speed metal pioneers. Its legacy endures, a timeless testament to the raw power and creativity of 1980s metal. |
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MFN 60P |
METALLICA - Master of Puppets Picture Disc The METALLICA "Master of Puppets" 12" Vinyl Picture Disc, a 1986 UK 1st ISSUE with no barcode, is a rare gem for collectors. This limited edition features unique artwork on the vinyl picture disc, adding to its allure. Recognized as a landmark in heavy metal, "Master of Puppets" remains a coveted and sought-after album, making this edition a prized possession for fans and vinyl enthusiasts alike. |
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MFN 60 DM |
METALLICA - Master of Puppets Audiophile 45rpm Double LP ( 1986 USA ) Metallica's "Master of Puppets" England Audiophile 45rpm Double 2LP Vinyl Album is a sonic masterpiece, combining the band's iconic heavy metal with England's audiophile legacy. The 45rpm format enhances fidelity, offering unparalleled clarity and detail. The special edition, a visual and tactile experience, pays homage to the album's cultural impact. Each ritualistic play transports listeners into Metallica's sonic universe, making it a must-have for enthusiasts seeking the purest musical experience. |
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MFN 61 |
EXCITER - Unveiling the Wicked ( 1986 France ) "EXCITER - Unveiling the Wicked" is a thrilling 12" vinyl LP released in 1986 by Canadian Heavy Metal band Exciter. Published under the MFN Music for Nations label and manufactured in France, this album showcases the band's evolution, blending powerful riffs, blistering solos, and intense vocals. With its aggressive energy and dark lyrical themes, "Unveiling the Wicked" solidifies Exciter's status as a force to be reckoned with in the Metal scene. This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing. |
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MFN 65 |
RIO - Sex Crimes ( 1986 England ) "Sex Crimes," RIO's final NWOBHM album, challenges norms with provocative themes and bold artistry. Released on Music For Nations and New Electric Way, the vinyl LP encapsulates the rebellious spirit of the genre. The album's alluring nudity on the cover aligns with its daring musical exploration, offering a sonic journey from the hard-hitting title track to anthemic tunes. "Sex Crimes" remains a lasting legacy in NWOBHM, embodying the era's fearless creativity and rebellious ethos. |
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MFN 66 |
AGENT STEEL- Unstoppable Force ( 1986 USA ) "Unstoppable Force" is the second and final album by the Speed Metal band: "Agent Steel", after the recording of this album the band split up. This album "AGENT STEEL UNSTOPPABLE FORCE UK MFN " includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos If you like "King Diamond's" high-pitched singing style, you will definitely like "John Cyriis's" singing on this album |
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Music For Nations MFN 68 |
ROGUE MALE - Animal Man ( 1986 England ) "Animal Man," Rogue Male's 1986 NWOBHM masterpiece, roars to life on its 12" vinyl release. The album, a sonic beast of gritty riffs and primal energy, encapsulates the band's rebellious spirit. With visceral vocals and explosive instrumentals, each track on the LP is a declaration of heavy metal prowess. This cult classic, celebrated for its DIY ethos, stands as a timeless gem in the world of British heavy metal history.
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MFN 71 |
VARIOUS ARTISTS - Music For Nations - The Singles Album ( 1986 USA ) "Explore the golden era of heavy metal with 'Music For Nations: The Singles Vinyl Album 2LP.' Housed in a captivating gatefold cover adorned with iconic band photos, this compilation features legendary acts like Metallica, W.A.S.P., and Mercyful Fate. A visual and auditory feast, the album showcases the diverse legacy of Music For Nations, providing a nostalgic journey for metal enthusiasts and a gateway for new generations." |
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MFN 73 |
HELLION - Screams in the Night ( 1987 England ) "Hellion's inaugural 1987 release, 'Screams in the Night,' marks their debut LP showcasing the English metal band's prowess. This 12" vinyl album delivers a powerful blend of heavy metal and hard rock, featuring signature vocals and intricate guitar work. A cornerstone in Hellion's discography, this record solidified their place in the '80s metal scene with a hauntingly resonant impact." |
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MFN 75 |
HEATHEN - Breaking The Silence ( 1987 England ) Heathen's "Breaking the Silence" 12" Vinyl LP delivers a sonic assault that melds thrash and power metal seamlessly. Released with impactful artwork, the album showcases technical prowess and lyrical depth. Tracks like "Death by Hanging" and "Goblins Blade" exemplify Heathen's relentless energy, while the vinyl format enhances the listening experience. A |
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MFN 76 |
ZOETROPE - A Life of Crime ( 1987 USA ) ZOETROPE's "A Life of Crime" Die-Cut Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album epitomizes their Thrash Metal legacy. Formed in Chicago in 1976, the band's peak success spanned 1980-1987. The album's iconic die-cut design reflects their daring musical style, offering fans a visual portal into the intense sonic world within. Tracks like "Prohibition" and "N.A.S.A." showcase ZOETROPE's technical prowess, leaving an enduring mark on the Thrash Metal genre. |
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MFN 77 |
EXODUS - Pleasures for the Flesh ( 1987 England ) "Pleasures of the Flesh" is the second album by American thrash metal band Exodus, released in 1987. This is the first Exodus album to feature Steve Souza ( ex-Metal Warrior, ex-Legacy ) on vocals. This album "EXODUS Pleasures of the Flesh " includes the original custom made inner sleeve (OIS) with album production details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos |
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MFN 82 |
HELLION - Postcards from the Asylum ( 1988 England ) Hellion's "Postcards from the Asylum" offers a captivating metal experience. The iconic album cover features Ann Boleyn touching a mirror, symbolizing a journey into madness. The vinyl includes the original inner sleeve with album details, lyrics, and artwork, providing fans with a tangible connection to Hellion's haunting narratives and raw energy.
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MFN 86 |
KING KOBRA - III Uncensored Inner Sleeve ( 1986 England ) King Kobra's third album, "III," boasts an uncensored inner sleeve in its original UK 12" LP vinyl release. The band's explosive sound and raw energy shine through, offering a dynamic listening experience. With unbridled creativity, the album pushes boundaries, making it a must-have for fans of hard rock. The uncensored inner sleeve adds an extra layer of authenticity to this iconic release.
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Relativity, Music For Nations MFN 87 |
IMPELLITTERI - Stand in Line ( 1988 England ) Impellitteri's 1988 debut, "Stand in Line," etches a heavy metal legacy with Chris Impellitteri's electrifying guitar work and Graham Bonnet's powerful vocals. The neoclassical shred and speed metal fusion, encapsulated on the UK 12" vinyl, showcase technical brilliance. The iconic album cover enhances its collector's allure, solidifying its status as a timeless masterpiece in the world of metal history.
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MFN 90 |
EXODUS - Fabulous Disaster ( 1988 France ) "Fabulous Disaster" is the third album by Exodus. UK label Music for Nations released the album in 1988, but in the USA, it was released in January 1989 by Combat/Relativity Records. In 1999, Century media remastered and reissued the band's first three albums in Europe only. This was Tom Hunting's last album with Exodus . |
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MFN 99 |
"Gimme Gimme" by Warp Drive is a 12" vinyl LP album that demands attention. With their infectious energy and irresistible hooks, the band takes listeners on a high-octane ride through hard rock and heavy metal. The album's dynamic sound, fueled by powerful riffs and soaring vocals, leaves a lasting impact. "Gimme Gimme" is a must-have for fans of energetic, guitar-driven music and vinyl enthusiasts alike. |
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MFN 203 |
DEARLY BEHEADED - Temptation ( 1996 England ) Dearly Beheaded - Temptation" is a gripping 12" vinyl LP album that immerses listeners in a world of dark and captivating metal music. With powerful guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and intense vocals, the album delves into themes of temptation and inner struggles. Dearly Beheaded's craftsmanship shines through each track, delivering a mesmerizing and atmospheric experience that leaves a lasting impression on fans of heavy music. |
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RR 9787 |
EXODUS - Bonded by Blood ( 1985 ) Exodus' debut album, "Bonded by Blood", released in 1985 on Music for Nations, is widely regarded as one of the greatest thrash metal albums of all time. The album was recorded in just two weeks and features fast, aggressive riffs, powerful drumming, and harsh vocals. Exodus was formed in the San Francisco Bay Area in 1980, and quickly became a key player in the emerging thrash metal scene. The band's early lineup included guitarist Kirk Hammett, who would later join Metallica. "Bonded by Blood" was the band's debut album, and was recorded in 1984 at Prairie Sun Recording Studios in Cotati, California. |
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Music for Nations RR 9789 |
ROGUE MALE - First Visit ( 1985 Netherlands ) "First Visit," Rogue Male's 1985 debut, encapsulates the essence of NWOBHM. Produced by Steve James, the UK pressing 12" vinyl LP is a collector's gem, featuring iconic cover art and a sonic journey through powerful vocals, blistering guitar riffs, and pounding drums. Tracks like "All Over You" and "On the Line" define an era, solidifying Rogue Male's influential role in shaping the landscape of heavy metal. |
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Music For Nations 12 KUT 103 |
ROX - Krazy Kutz / Sweet Sixteen ( 1983 France ) ROX's "Krazy Kutz / Sweet Sixteen" 12" vinyl EP, released in 1983 during the NWOBHM era, encapsulates the band's raw energy and sonic rebellion. With relentless tracks like "Krazy Kutz" and the versatile "Sweet Sixteen," ROX's final recording until 2019 remains a cherished collector's item. The album cover's gritty artwork complements the band's legacy, making it a timeless artifact in the rich tapestry of metal history.
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PKUT 105 |
METALLICA - Jump In The Fire Shaped Picture Disc Metallica's "Jump In The Fire" shaped vinyl picture disc is a collector's treasure, enhancing the raw energy of the iconic thrash metal track. Released as a limited edition, the disc takes the form of the demonic figure from the cover art, fusing auditory power with visual artistry. Its rarity amplifies its appeal, making it a coveted piece for Metallica fans and vinyl enthusiasts alike, representing the golden era of metal music. |