We kick off our 2018 edition of the Essential Project where we dig deep into a particular genre, bringing you the important records and historical context you need to be a true Album Nerd. This year we’re focusing on NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) and Funk music.

Our first NWOBHM record is from a ‘what-could-have-been’ band named Angel Witch and their 1980 album by the same name. They helped to pioneer the fast, metallic, proto-thrash style that would mature into the modern metal sound we know today. While the band dealt with production and marketing issues, there’s no denying the catchiness and pure fun they captured on this release. If you’re down with guitars and songs about witches and demons, this is essential listening.

On the funk side, we start with the roots of funk – 60s soul music and the incomparable James Brown. ...