The List of Destruction Albums in Order of Release Date

All Destruction Albums Available on:  Apple Music 

Also See: Overkill Band Albums in Order

How many albums does Destruction have?

Destruction has released Sixteen (16) studio albums since their 1985 debut Infernal Overkill, culminating with Birth of Malice (2025). Their discography also includes 4 EPs, 5 Live albums, 3 Compilation albums, 6 Music videos, and 3 Demos.

The List of  Destruction Albums in Order of Release Date

Here is the list of Destruction  Albums in Order of Release Date:

1. Infernal Overkill — 24 May 1985
2. Eternal Devastation — 12 July 1986
3. Release from Agony — 1 December 1987
4. Cracked Brain — 1 June 1990
5. The Least Successful Human Cannonball — 1998
6. All Hell Breaks Loose — 25 April 2000
7. The Antichrist — 27 August 2001
8. Metal Discharge — 22 September 2003
9. Inventor of Evil — 22 August 2005
10. D.E.V.O.L.U.T.I.O.N. — 29 August 2008
11. Day of Reckoning — 18 February 2011
12. Spiritual Genocide — 23 November 2012
13. Under Attack — 13 May 2016
14. Born to Perish — 9 August 2019
15. Diabolical — 8 April 2022
16. Birth of Malice — 7 March 2025

All Destruction Albums List in Order

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1. Infernal Overkill (1985)

Tracks:

1. Invincible Force
2. Death Trap
3. The Ritual
4. Tormentor
5. Bestial Invasion
6. Thrash Attack
7. Antichrist
8. Black Death

“Infernal Overkill,” released on May 24, 1985, is the groundbreaking debut album by German thrash metal pioneers Destruction. This album showcases the band’s raw energy, aggressive riffs, and blistering solos, defining the early European thrash metal sound. Tracks like “Invincible Force” and “Bestial Invasion” highlight Destruction’s speed and technical precision, while “Black Death” delivers an epic, ominous conclusion. Schmier’s distinctive snarling vocals, Mike Sifringer’s razor-sharp guitar work, and Tommy Sandmann’s relentless drumming create an unrelenting sonic assault. Engineered by Horst Müller and featuring Udo Linke’s striking cover art, “Infernal Overkill” remains a cult classic in thrash metal history.

2. Eternal Devastation (1986)

Tracks:

1. Curse the Gods
2. Confound Games
3. Life Without Sense
4. United by Hatred
5. Eternal Ban
6. Upcoming Devastation
7. Confused Mind

Released on July 12, 1986, Eternal Devastation solidified Destruction’s status as pioneers of German thrash metal. This album marked a shift from the band’s earlier speed metal and proto-black metal influences, embracing a more aggressive, technically intricate thrash sound. Tracks like “Curse the Gods” and “Life Without Sense” feature razor-sharp riffs, relentless drumming, and intense vocals from Marcel Schmier. It was also the final studio appearance of drummer Thomas “Tommy” Sandmann, who departed later that year. With its ferocious energy and complex compositions, Eternal Devastation remains a landmark in thrash metal history, earning a re-release in 2017.

3. Release from Agony (1987)

Tracks:

1. Beyond Eternity
2. Release from Agony
3. Dissatisfied Existence
4. Sign of Fear
5. Unconscious Ruins
6. Incriminated
7. Our Oppression
8. Survive to Die

“Release from Agony,” the third studio album by German thrash metal pioneers Destruction, was released on December 1, 1987, through Steamhammer/SPV in Europe and in 1988 via Profile/Rock Hotel Records in North America. Marking the final album with bassist and vocalist Marcel “Schmier” Schirmer until his return in 1999, it showcased a more technical and progressive approach to thrash metal. Featuring dual guitar work from Mike Sifringer and Harry Wilkens, along with Oliver Kaiser’s powerful drumming, the album delivered aggressive riffs, intricate solos, and intense lyrical themes. Despite its musical prowess, its grotesque cover earned a spot on Metal Hammer’s list of “50 most hilariously ugly rock and metal album covers ever.”

4. Cracked Brain (1990)

Tracks:

1. Cracked Brain
2. Frustrated
3. S.E.D.
4. Time Must End
5. My Sharona (The Knack cover)
6. Rippin’ You off Blind
7. Die a Day Before You’re Born
8. No Need to Justify
9. When Your Mind Was Free

“Cracked Brain,” released on May 1, 1990, marked a unique phase in Destruction’s history as their only album without original vocalist/bassist Schmier. Following his departure, André Grieder of Poltergeist stepped in, bringing a melodic thrash approach that set the album apart. Recording began in 1989 but faced delays due to internal conflicts, forcing the band to restart with Grieder. The album blends aggression with technical precision, highlighted by tracks like “Cracked Brain” and “Frustrated.” Notably, it features a thrash-infused cover of The Knack’s “My Sharona.” Despite its turbulent creation, “Cracked Brain” remains a distinctive entry in Destruction’s discography.

5. The Least Successful Human Cannonball (1998)

Tracks:

1. Formless, Faceless, Nameless
2. Tick on a Tree
3. 263 Dead Popes
4. Cellar Soul
5. God Gifted
6. Autoaggression
7. Hofffmannn’s Helll
8. Brother of Cain
9. A Fake Transition
10. Continental Drift I
11. Continental Drift II

The Least Successful Human Cannonball is the fifth studio album by German thrash metal pioneers Destruction, released in 1998 under Brain Butcher Compact. It marked the end of the band’s controversial “Neo-Destruction” era, featuring Thomas Rosenmerkel on vocals. The album’s sound deviated significantly from Destruction’s classic thrash roots, incorporating groove and alternative influences. Tracks like “263 Dead Popes” and “Tick on a Tree” showcased experimental songwriting but failed to resonate with longtime fans. Eventually, Destruction disowned this release, removing it from their official discography. Despite its polarizing reception, the album remains a unique chapter in the band’s history.

6. All Hell Breaks Loose (2000)

Tracks:

1. Intro
2. The Final Curtain
3. Machinery of Lies
4. Tears of Blood
5. Devastation of Your Soul
6. The Butcher Strikes Back
7. World Domination of Pain
8. X-Treme Measures
9. All Hell Breaks Loose
10. Total Desaster 2000
11. Visual Prostitution
12. Kingdom of Damnation
13. Whiplash

All Hell Breaks Loose marks a powerful return for German thrash metal legends Destruction, re-establishing their aggressive roots while incorporating elements from their 1990s groove metal era. Released on April 25, 2000, via Nuclear Blast, this album is particularly significant as it sees the return of Schmier on vocals and bass after a decade-long absence. The band’s classic three-piece lineup is reinstated, delivering an intense and relentless sonic assault. Tracks like “The Butcher Strikes Back” and “The Final Curtain” showcase blistering riffs and high-speed drumming, while the Metallica cover “Whiplash” pays homage to their thrash metal influences.

7. The Antichrist (2001)

Tracks:

1. Days of Confusion
2. Thrash till Death
3. Nailed to the Cross
4. Dictators of Cruelty
5. Bullets from Hell
6. Strangulated Pride
7. Meet Your Destiny
8. Creations of the Underworld
9. Godfather of Slander
10. Let Your Mind Rot
11. The Heretic

Destruction’s “The Antichrist”, released on September 15, 2001, through Nuclear Blast, is a relentless thrash metal assault that solidifies the band’s reputation as one of Germany’s premier metal acts. This seventh studio album is marked by its ferocious riffs, aggressive drumming, and Schmier’s piercing vocals. Tracks like “Thrash till Death” and “Nailed to the Cross” embody the band’s signature raw energy, while “Bullets from Hell” and “Godfather of Slander” showcase their refined songwriting. Produced by Peter Tägtgren at Abyss Studios, the album achieved a peak position of 89 on the German charts. The limited edition features a re-recording of “Curse the Gods.”

8. Metal Discharge (2003)

Tracks:

1. The Ravenous Beast
2. Metal Discharge
3. Rippin’ the Flesh Apart
4. Fear of the Moment
5. Mortal Remains
6. Desecrators of the New Age
7. Historical Force Feed
8. Savage Symphony of Terror
9. Made to Be Broken
10. Vendetta

“Metal Discharge,” the eighth studio album by German thrash metal legends Destruction, was released on September 22, 2003. This record marked a new era for the band as it introduced drummer Marc “Speedy” Reign, whose aggressive drumming added an intense edge to their sound. The album delivers a relentless assault of fast-paced riffs, blistering solos, and powerful vocals, with standout tracks like “The Ravenous Beast,” “Metal Discharge,” and “Fear of the Moment.” Additionally, the bonus disc features covers of Iron Maiden, Metallica, and The Exploited, showcasing the band’s influences. Produced by V.O. Pulver, the album maintains Destruction’s signature raw thrash energy.

9. Inventor of Evil (2005)

Tracks:

1. Soul Collector
2. The Defiance Will Remain
3. The Alliance of Hellhoundz
4. No Mans Land
5. The Calm Before the Storm
6. The Chosen Ones
7. Dealer of Hostility
8. Under Surveillance
9. Seeds of Hate
10. Twist of Fate
11. Killing Machine
12. Memories of Nothingness

Inventor of Evil is the ninth studio album by German thrash metal titans Destruction, released on August 22, 2005. Showcasing relentless aggression and technical precision, the album delivers a blistering assault through tracks like “Soul Collector” and “The Defiance Will Remain.” A standout feature is “The Alliance of Hellhoundz,” featuring an unprecedented collaboration with vocalists from bands like Saxon, Death Angel, and Doro. Produced by Destruction with mixing by Peter Tägtgren, the album balances raw intensity with polished production. With razor-sharp riffs, thunderous drumming, and venomous vocals, Inventor of Evil cements Destruction’s legacy as thrash metal pioneers.

10. D.E.V.O.L.U.T.I.O.N. (2008)

Tracks:

1. D.evolution
2. E.levator to Hell
3. V.icious Circle – The 7 Deadly Sins
4. O.ffenders of the Throne
5. L.ast Desperate Scream
6. U.rge (The Greed of Gain)
7. T.he Violation of Morality
8. I.nner Indulgence
9. O.dyssey of Frustration
10. N.o One Shall Survive

“D.E.V.O.L.U.T.I.O.N.” is the tenth studio album by German thrash metal pioneers Destruction, released on August 29, 2008, via AFM Records worldwide and Candlelight Records in the U.S. Showcasing an aggressive yet refined sound, the album integrates intricate solos from guest guitarists, including Gary Holt (Exodus/Slayer), Jeff Waters (Annihilator), and Vinnie Moore (UFO). A conceptual approach is evident, as the first letters of each track spell out “devolution,” emphasizing themes of societal decay. With powerful riffs, intense drumming, and Schmier’s commanding vocals, the album cements Destruction’s legacy in thrash metal. The Japanese edition includes a cover of Tank’s “Shellshock.”

11. Day of Reckoning (2011)

Tracks:

1. The Price
2. Hate Is My Fuel
3. Armageddonizer
4. Devil’s Advocate
5. Day of Reckoning
6. Sorcerer of Black Magic
7. Misfit
8. The Demon Is God
9. Church of Disgust
10. Destroyer or Creator
11. Sheep of the Regime

Day of Reckoning is the eleventh studio album by German thrash metal legends Destruction, released on 18 February 2011 in Europe and 8 March 2011 in North America via Nuclear Blast. Marking the debut of drummer Vaaver, this album embraces a ferocious, high-speed thrash approach reminiscent of the band’s early roots. With tracks like “Hate Is My Fuel” and “Armageddonizer,” the album delivers relentless aggression, razor-sharp riffs, and Schmier’s signature snarling vocals. The limited edition features a cover of Dio’s “Stand Up and Shout.” Despite peaking at #95 in Germany, Day of Reckoning remains a fan-favorite for old-school thrash devotees.

12. Spiritual Genocide (2012)

Tracks:

1. Exordium
2. Cyanide
3. Spiritual Genocide
4. Renegades
5. City of Doom
6. No Signs of Repentance
7. To Dust You Will Decay
8. Legacy of the Past
9. Carnivore
10. Riot Squad
11. Under Violent Sledge

Released in 2012 to commemorate Destruction’s 30th anniversary, Spiritual Genocide stands as a brutal testament to the German thrash metal legends’ enduring power. This twelfth studio album sees the band embracing relentless speed, crushing riffs, and raw aggression, fueled by drummer Vaaver’s explosive precision. The album features guest appearances from thrash icons like Tom Angelripper (Sodom) and Gerre (Tankard), reinforcing Destruction’s deep roots in the genre. Tracks like “Cyanide” and the title track deliver an unrelenting sonic assault, while covers of Saxon’s “Princess of the Night” and Motörhead’s “The Hammer” pay homage to their influences.

13. Under Attack (2016)

Tracks:

1. Under Attack
2. Generation Nevermore
3. Dethroned
4. Getting Used to the Evil
5. Pathogenic
6. Elegant Pigs
7. Second to None
8. Stand Up for What You Deliver
9. Conductor of the Void
10. Stigmatized

“Under Attack,” the thirteenth studio album by German thrash metal pioneers Destruction, was released on May 13, 2016. The album delivers an aggressive yet thought-provoking critique of modern society, particularly focusing on technology’s impact and its consequences. Vocalist Schmier described the title track as a reflection of humanity being “under attack” by its own technological advancements, warning of the dangers of complacency. Lyrically, tracks like “Second to None” tackle cyberbullying, adding a socially relevant edge to the album’s unrelenting thrash assault. With blistering riffs, pounding drums, and raw intensity, “Under Attack” reaffirms Destruction’s legacy in the metal scene.

14. Born to Perish (2019)

Tracks:

1. Born to Perish
2. Inspired by Death
3. Betrayal
4. Rotten
5. Filthy Wealth
6. Butchered for Life
7. Tyrants of the Netherworld
8. We Breed Evil
9. Fatal Flight 17
10. Ratcatcher
11. Hellbound

Destruction’s 2019 album Born to Perish marks a new era for the legendary German thrash band, boasting a fresh lineup and a revitalized sound. Featuring drummer Randy Black and second guitarist Damir Eskic, the album strives to blend the band’s classic aggression with modern precision. Tracks like the title song, “Inspired by Death,” and “Betrayal” showcase relentless speed, razor-sharp riffs, and Schmier’s venomous vocals, capturing the raw energy of their 80s heyday. However, weaker cuts such as “Rotten” and “Filthy Wealth” hinder the album’s momentum. Despite inconsistency, Born to Perish proves Destruction still has the fire to thrash on.

15. Diabolical (2022)

Tracks:

1. Under the Spell
2. Diabolical
3. No Faith in Humanity
4. Repent Your Sins
5. Hope Dies Last
6. The Last of a Dying Breed
7. State of Apathy
8. Tormented Soul
9. Servant of the Beast
10. The Lonely Wolf
11. Ghost from the Past
12. Whorefication
13. City Baby Attacked by Rats

“Diabolical,” the fifteenth studio album by German thrash metal veterans Destruction, was released on April 8, 2022, via Napalm Records, marking the band’s 40th anniversary. This album signifies a major lineup change, as it is the first to feature guitarist Martin Furia, who replaced longtime member Mike Sifringer. The album delivers a relentless thrash assault with tracks like “Diabolical,” “No Faith in Humanity,” and “State of Apathy,” blending aggression with precision. Featuring intense riffs, pounding drums, and Schmier’s signature snarls, “Diabolical” upholds Destruction’s legacy while injecting fresh energy, reaffirming their status as thrash metal pioneers.

16. Birth of Malice (2025)

Tracks:

1. Birth of Malice
2. Destruction
3. Cyber Warfare
4. No Kings – No Masters
5. Scumbag Human Race
6. God of Gore
7. A.N.G.S.T.
8. Dealer of Death
9. Evil Never Sleeps
10. Chains of Sorrow
11. Greed
12. Fast as a Shark

German thrash metal legends Destruction return with their sixteenth studio album, Birth of Malice, released on March 7, 2025, via Napalm Records. The album showcases the band’s signature aggressive riffs, blistering solos, and raw intensity, solidifying their dominance in the thrash scene. Preceded by the explosive single “No Kings – No Masters”, the album explores themes of rebellion, chaos, and social decay. With powerhouse performances from Schmier (bass/vocals), Damir Eskic and Martin Furia (guitars), and Randy Black (drums), Birth of Malice delivers unrelenting energy across twelve ferocious tracks, including a cover of Accept’s “Fast as a Shark.”

Conclusion:

Destruction’s extensive discography stands as a testament to their enduring influence on thrash metal. From their raw and aggressive debut Infernal Overkill (1985) to their latest album Birth of Malice (2025), they have consistently evolved while staying true to their signature sound. Despite lineup changes and industry challenges, Destruction remains a cornerstone of German thrash, alongside Kreator, Sodom, and Tankard. Their legacy is defined by relentless energy, technical prowess, and groundbreaking contributions to metal. As fans explore Destruction Albums in Order, they witness a band that has shaped and refined the thrash metal genre for over four decades.

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