In 1982, Metal Blade Records put out its first release: Metal Massacre, a compilation album that included Metallica, Ratt, and many other influential artists. Now, Metal Blade will be releasing Metal Massacre XV on May 21st - and continuing the legacy of the first album - the collection will once again contain a sampling of contemporary heavy metal, curated by Decibel Magazine's Albert Mudrian.

Ryan Williams (Metal Blade Records A&R), who coordinated this installment of Metal Massacre, comments: "The legend of the 'Metal Massacre' series is the first thing many people think of when they hear 'Metal Blade Records'. Famously, it's how Brian Slagel introduced the world to Metallica - not to mention many up-and-coming bands throughout the 80s, 90s and 2000s. When Metal Blade's president Tracy Vera suggested I organize the next volume, I was honored to pick up the baton and run with it. While brainstorming about the direction to take, Nikki Law (our Head of Publicity) suggested partnering with Albert at Decibel Magazine, who is legendary in his own right for having a perpetual ear-to-the-ground of the deepest corners of the underground metal scene. Luckily it didn’t take any arm twisting for Albert to be a part of the team on this the 15th edition, so we went to work looking for awesome bands to work with, and I think we have put together a diverse and interesting collection of bands and songs. We tried to stay true to the old school mentality of making a compilation tape for your friends, featuring bands you really just want other people to check out. This edition includes a diverse collection of metal acts, heavy hitters, thrash, speed and old school tunes - so hopefully there is something for everyone here! Turn it up and enjoy!"

Albert Mudrian (Decibel Magazine Editor in Chief) adds: "It was an extreme honor to be called upon to help curate an installment of the truly transformative 'Metal Massacre' series. Rather than concentrate on one particular era or style, I dutifully attempted to bring the best sub-genres metal has produced over the past 40 years into a cohesive portrait of what today's underground metal scene faithfully represents. May it and 'Metal Massacre' forever reign."

Metal Blade Records

Atonement LP

Killswitch Engage: 20th Anniversary LP (Color)

Killswitch Engage 20th Anniversary LP (Color)

The Raging River EP

The Parallax II: Future Sequence 2LP (Color)

Coma Ecliptic 2LP (Color)

Metal Massacre XV LP (Color)

Haunting The Chapel EP (Color)

Carnival Of Chaos LP (Color)

Show No Mercy LP (Color)

Hammer Smashed Face EP

Mercyful Fate EP