Metallica - 'Master of Puppets'

It was the band’s first on a major label, their last with the late, great Cliff Burton (who died in a bus accident in Europe on the tour promoting the album) and their first to go gold, eventually selling six million copies. And while more than three decades later the band faithful have become one incredibly fractured bunch, their love for this one is unanimous. As it should be. Widely acclaimed as one of the greatest rock albums of all time, it is undoubtedly one of the greatest metal albums ever made.

Released March 3, 1986.

Karen Anne Carpenter (3/2/1950 - 2/4/1983)

Milestones: 'Stain'

Living Colour's third album—and first with bassist Doug Wimbush—was nearly the band’s last, as they broke up after its tour. And while they managed to reunite a decade later, with a new album, this one was out of print for yet another decade over legal issues. So, it’s not been smooth sailing for a record that was darker, harder and more intense than their previous output, garnering many negative reviews along the way.

A challenging listen indeed, but a rewarding one depending on your frame of mind and willingness to experience both the album and the band in a new light.

Released March 2, 1993.

Lou Reed (3/2/1942 - 10/27/2013)

Milestones: 'Dark Side of the Moon'

There’s very little, if anything, left to be said about this legendary and ubiquitous collection of songs. The vision of its creators, the reach of its influence, the majesty of its songs and the gargantuan sales numbers have all been repeatedly covered with much better eloquence and detail than I ever could. Suffice to say it is not only our favorite of theirs but we truly love this record more and more as the years go by.

Released March 1, 1973.