The List of Testament Albums in Order of Release Date

Exploring Testament Albums in Order offers a powerful journey through the evolution of one of thrash metal’s most influential bands.
Formed in 1983 in Berkeley, California, Testament quickly rose to prominence with a sound rooted in raw aggression, technical precision, and thematic intensity. Originally known as Legacy, the band solidified its identity with the iconic lineup of Chuck Billy, Eric Peterson, Alex Skolnick, Greg Christian, and Louie Clemente—often referred to as their “classic lineup.” Over the decades, Testament has endured numerous lineup changes, musical shifts, and personal challenges, yet their commitment to thrash metal has remained unwavering. With fourteen studio albums, including a collection of re-recorded classics, along with several live and compilation releases, their discography reflects both innovation and consistency. From early breakthroughs like The Legacy and The New Order to modern triumphs such as Dark Roots of Earth, Titans of Creation, and their 2025 release Para Bellum, Testament has continually shaped the landscape of heavy music.
As you explore Testament Albums in Order, you gain a deeper appreciation for their legacy, resilience, and lasting impact on the global metal scene. So, if you are a die heart fan of Testament Albums then check out here we have list of Testament albums in order of release so far.
All Testament Albums Available on: Apple Music
Also See: Megadeth Albums in Order
How Many Albums Does Testament Have?
The discography of Testament consists of fourteen studio albums, four live albums, five compilations, two extended plays, thirteen singles, and three video albums.
The List of Testament Albums in Order of Release Date
Here is the list of Testament Album in Order of Release Date:
- The Legacy — April 21, 1987
- The New Order — May 5, 1988
- Practice What You Preach — August 8, 1989
- Souls of Black — October 9, 1990
- The Ritual — May 1992
- Low — September 30, 1994
- Demonic — June 24, 1997
- The Gathering — June 8, 1999
- First Strike Still Deadly — October 24, 2001
- The Formation of Damnation — April 29, 2008
- Dark Roots of Earth — July 27, 2012
- Brotherhood of the Snake — October 28, 2016
- Titans of Creation — April 3, 2020
- Para Bellum — October 10, 2025
All Testament Albums List in Order
1. The Legacy (1987)

Tracks
- Over the Wall
- The Haunting
- Burnt Offerings
- Raging Waters
- C.O.T.L.O.D.
- First Strike Is Deadly
- Do or Die
- Alone in the Dark
- Apocalyptic City
The Legacy, released on April 21, 1987, is the powerful debut album by American thrash metal band Testament. Originally known as Legacy, the band introduced new vocalist Chuck Billy just before recording, helping define their signature aggressive sound. Produced at Pyramid Sound Studios, the album showcases intense riffs, dark themes, and standout tracks like “Apocalyptic City” and “Burnt Offerings.” Praised by critics for its raw energy and superb production, The Legacy helped Testament gain major respect in the thrash scene. Supported by a worldwide tour and strong early sales, it remains one of metal’s most influential debut albums.
2.The New Order (1988)

Tracks
- Eerie Inhabitants
- The New Order
- Trial by Fire
- Into the Pit
- Hypnosis
- Disciples of the Watch
- The Preacher
- Nobody’s Fault
- A Day of Reckoning
- Musical Death (A Dirge)
The New Order, released on May 10, 1988, is Testament’s powerful second studio album and a landmark in thrash metal history. Despite a rushed writing process, the band delivered a sharper, more focused sound that pushed them into the mainstream. Featuring fan favorites like “Into the Pit,” “The Preacher,” and “Trial by Fire,” the album also marked their first entry on the Billboard 200. Its mix of aggressive riffs, strong songwriting, and standout performances—especially from guitarist Alex Skolnick—cemented its legacy as one of thrash’s essential releases. Today, The New Order remains a defining moment in Testament’s evolution.
3. Practice What You Preach (1989)

Tracks
- Practice What You Preach
- Perilous Nation
- Envy Life
- Time Is Coming
- Blessed in Contempt
- Greenhouse Effect
- Sins of Omission
- The Ballad
- Nightmare (Coming Back to You)
- Confusion Fusion
Practice What You Preach, released on August 8, 1989, is Testament’s breakthrough third studio album, showcasing a sharper blend of thrash metal with touches of traditional heavy metal, jazz fusion, and progressive elements. Supported by popular singles like “Greenhouse Effect,” “The Ballad,” and the title track, the album earned near-gold status and became the band’s first release to enter the Billboard 200 Top 100. Known for its socially conscious themes—ranging from politics and environmental issues to personal struggle—the record marked a creative shift for Testament and solidified their reputation as one of thrash metal’s most dynamic bands.
4. Souls of Black (1990)

Tracks
- Beginning of the End
- Face in the Sky
- Falling Fast
- Souls of Black
- Absence of Light
- Love to Hate
- Malpractice
- One Man’s Fate
- The Legacy
- Seven Days of May
Souls of Black, released on October 9, 1990, is the fourth studio album by American thrash metal band Testament. The album blends the band’s classic thrash sound with technical and progressive elements, continuing the evolution started on Practice What You Preach. Featuring reworked songs from late-1980s demos, it explores themes of politics, society, religion, and warfare. Produced by Michael Rosen, it marked the band’s first shift from longtime producer Alex Perialas. Souls of Black gained notable attention through the Clash of the Titans tour and became one of Testament’s highest-charting albums, solidifying its influence in metal history.
5. The Ritual (1992)

Tracks
- Signs of Chaos
- Electric Crown
- So Many Lies
- Let Go of My World
- The Ritual
- Deadline
- As the Seasons Grey
- Agony
- The Sermon
- Return to Serenity
- Troubled Dreams
Testament’s The Ritual, released on May 12, 1992, marks a pivotal moment in the band’s evolution. Produced by Tony Platt, the album showcases a shift from pure thrash to a slower, more melodic heavy metal style while preserving Testament’s signature intensity. Recorded over several months at One on One Recording in Los Angeles, it reflects the band’s desire to slow down and explore a more refined sound after years of nonstop touring. Featuring standout tracks like “Return to Serenity,” the album became a commercial success, peaking at No. 55 on the Billboard 200 and remaining a fan favorite for its bold musical direction.
6. Low (1994)

Tracks
- Low
- Legions (In Hiding)
- Hail Mary
- Trail of Tears
- Shades of War
- P.C
- Dog Faced Gods
- All I Could Bleed
- Urotsukidōji
- Chasing Fear
- Ride
- Last Call
Testament’s 1994 album Low marks a powerful turning point in the band’s career, showcasing a heavier and more diverse sound as they embraced elements of death metal, groove metal, and alternative influences. Released on October 4, 1994, it introduced a new lineup with guitarist James Murphy and drummer John Tempesta, bringing fresh intensity to their thrash roots. The album reflects both artistic reinvention and transition, serving as their final release with Atlantic Records. Featuring standout tracks like “Low” and “Dog Faced Gods,” the record is remembered for its darker tone, bold experimentation, and lasting impact on Testament’s evolving musical direction.
7. Demonic (1997)

Tracks
- Demonic Refusal
- The Burning Times
- Together as One
- Jun-Jun
- John Doe
- Murky Waters
- Hatred’s Rise
- Distorted Lives
- New Eyes of Old
- Ten Thousand Thrones
- Nostrovia
Testament’s 1997 album Demonic marks a bold shift in the band’s sound, diving into a darker, death-metal-influenced style that set it apart from their earlier thrash roots. Featuring core members Chuck Billy and Eric Peterson, along with Derrick Ramirez, Gene Hoglan, and Glen Alvelais, the album delivers an intense exorcism-themed atmosphere. Tracks like “John Doe” and “Hatred’s Rise” highlight the heavier direction praised in reviews. The striking cover art by Dave McKean deepens the album’s ominous tone, inspired by African exorcism rituals. Reissued in 2018 with updated artwork, Demonic remains a distinct and powerful chapter in Testament’s discography.
8. The Gathering (1999)
Tracks
- D.N.R. (Do Not Resuscitate)
- Down for Life
- Eyes of Wrath
- True Believer
- 3 Days in Darkness
- Legions of the Dead
- Careful What You Wish For
- Riding the Snake
- Allegiance
- Sewn Shut Eyes
- Fall of Sipledome
Testament’s The Gathering (1999) stands as one of the band’s most powerful and influential albums, marking a bold fusion of thrash and death metal. Released via Spitfire Records, it introduced bassist Steve Di Giorgio and legendary drummer Dave Lombardo, whose dynamic collaboration with Chuck Billy and Eric Peterson shaped the album’s heavier, sharper sound. Featuring standout tracks like “D.N.R.,” “Riding the Snake,” and “Legions of the Dead,” the album earned widespread acclaim for its intensity, precision, and Billy’s versatile vocals. Often viewed as a return to form, The Gathering remains a defining moment in Testament’s evolution and a fan favorite in modern metal.
9. First Strike Still Deadly (2001)

Tracks
- First Strike Is Deadly
- Into the Pit
- Trial by Fire
- Disciples of the Watch
- The Preacher
- Burnt Offerings
- Over the Wall
- The New Order
- The Haunting
- Alone in the Dark
- Reign of Terror
First Strike Still Deadly is Testament’s powerful 2001 studio release that revisits the band’s early thrash roots with fresh energy. The album features re-recorded classics from The Legacy and The New Order, along with an updated version of “Reign of Terror.” It also marks a notable reunion with past members Alex Skolnick, Steve Di Giorgio, John Tempesta, and original vocalist Steve “Zetro” Souza. While reviews were mixed, the album stands out for its modern production and nostalgic intensity. Some Japanese editions even include alternate artwork and a special documentary, offering fans a deeper look into Testament’s evolving legacy.
10. The Formation of Damnation (2008)

Tracks
- For the Glory Of..
- More than Meets the Eye
- The Evil Has Landed
- The Formation of Damnation
- Dangers of the Faithless
- The Persecuted Won’t Forget
- Henchmen Ride
- Killing Season
- Afterlife
- F.E.A.R.
- Leave Me Forever
The Formation of Damnation, released on April 29, 2008, marks Testament’s powerful return after nearly a decade without new material. This tenth studio album reunites the classic lineup, featuring the comeback of guitarist Alex Skolnick and bassist Greg Christian, alongside drummer Paul Bostaph. Blending intense thrash riffs, dual-lead guitar work, and Chuck Billy’s commanding vocals, the album showcases Testament at their heaviest and most focused. Widely praised by critics, it earned major awards and charted globally, proving the band’s enduring influence in metal. Tracks like “More Than Meets the Eye” highlight the band’s revived energy and modern thrash mastery.
11. Dark Roots of Earth (2012)

Tracks
- Rise Up
- Native Blood
- Dark Roots of Earth
- True American Hate
- A Day in the Death
- Cold Embrace
- Man Kills Mankind
- Throne of Thorns
- Last Stand for Independence
Dark Roots of Earth is the eleventh studio album by American thrash metal legends Testament, released on July 27, 2012, via Nuclear Blast Records. Produced by Andy Sneap and featuring striking artwork by Eliran Kantor, the album showcases the band’s signature thrash sound with a modern edge. It marks the reunion with drummer Gene Hoglan and the final Testament album with bassist Greg Christian. Highlights include the singles “Native Blood” and “True American Hate,” reflecting themes of heritage, social commentary, and personal struggle. Critically acclaimed, it peaked at number 12 on the Billboard 200, Testament’s highest U.S. chart position, and solidified their legacy in modern metal.
12. Brotherhood of the Snake (2016)

Tracks
- Brotherhood of the Snake
- The Pale King
- Stronghold
- Seven Seals
- Born in a Rut
- Centuries of Suffering
- Black Jack
- Neptune’s Spear
- Canna-Business
- The Number Game
Released on October 28, 2016, Brotherhood of the Snake is the twelfth studio album by American thrash metal legends Testament. Marking the return of bassist Steve Di Giorgio, it showcases the band’s signature aggressive riffs and high-energy thrash, described by guitarist Eric Peterson as their “kind of Reign in Blood record.” Produced by long-time collaborator Andy Sneap, the album blends fast-paced thrash with mid-tempo and heavy tracks, drawing lyrical inspiration from ancient secret societies and the ancient astronaut hypothesis. Debuting at number 20 on the Billboard 200, it remains one of Testament’s highest-charting albums, praised for its powerful, relentless thrash sound.
13. Titans of Creation (2020)

Tracks
- Children of the Next Level
- WWIII
- Dream Deceiver
- Night of the Witch
- City of Angels
- Ishtar’s Gate
- Symptoms
- False Prophet
- The Healers
- Code of Hammurabi
- Curse of Osiris
- Catacombs
Titans of Creation is the thirteenth studio album by American thrash metal legends Testament, released on April 3, 2020. Marking the first time since The Ritual (1992) that the band recorded consecutive albums with the same lineup, it was also drummer Gene Hoglan’s last with the band. Co-produced by Juan Urteaga and featuring Chuck Billy, Eric Peterson, Alex Skolnick, Steve Di Giorgio, and Hoglan, the album delivers aggressive riffs, powerful vocals, and themes ranging from World War III to cult tragedies. Critically acclaimed, Titans of Creation appeared on multiple year-end best metal album lists, cementing Testament’s thrash metal legacy.
14. Para Bellum (2025)

Tracks
- For the Love of Pain
- Infanticide A.I.
- Shadow People
- Meant to Be
- High Noon
- Witch Hunt
- Nature of the Beast
- Room 117
- Havana Syndrome
- Para Bellum
Para Bellum, released on October 10, 2025, is the fourteenth studio album by American thrash metal legends Testament, marking the debut of drummer Chris Dovas. The album blends thrash, death, and black metal, with tracks like “Meant to Be” incorporating orchestral and progressive elements. Recorded over several years with contributions from long-time members Chuck Billy, Eric Peterson, Alex Skolnick, and Steve Di Giorgio, Para Bellum showcases Testament’s evolution while honoring their Bay Area thrash roots. Critically acclaimed for its intensity and innovation, the album features standout tracks like “Infanticide A.I.” and the title track, cementing Testament’s status as metal trailblazers.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, exploring Testament Albums in Order offers a powerful look at the evolution of one of thrash metal’s most influential bands. From their explosive debut The Legacy to their modern resurgence with albums like Dark Roots of Earth, Brotherhood of the Snake, and Titans of Creation, each release reflects Testament’s resilience, technical mastery, and enduring impact on heavy music. Their discography highlights constant reinvention, unwavering intensity, and a legacy shaped by both stability and change. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, revisiting Testament Albums in Order provides the ultimate journey through their groundbreaking career.
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