Based on the heyday of thrash:
1. Metallica
Yes i know they are the most popular, but out of the big four Metallica were the ones that really thought outside the box and tried to break the constraints of thrash. They're probably THE most influential metal band of the past 30 years and their first 4 albums are metal monuments.
2. Slayer
Probably the defining thrash metal band. They've never really ventured too far from their traditional sound but if it ain't broke don't fix it i guess. They set the bar for speed and evilness and they helped pave the way for death metal and black metal. Not to mention Jeff Hanneman and Kerry King being one of the best guitar partnerships in metal.
3. Anthrax
Ok they were never exactly ground-breaking or anything. But what Anthrax brought to thrash was a sense of fun, they never took themselves too seriously and rather than being a dumb thrill they were actually very witty and intelligent. Despite a few bum notes here and there and sounding a tad dated now, they released some pretty good music during the thrash heyday.
4. Megadeth
Megadeth fans forgive me but i just cannot stand Dave Mustaine. His voice irritates me and his persona irritates me. He is however a great guitarist and formed a great guitar partnership with Marty Friedman. Their music isn't bad as such, there's some great moments on Rust In Peace and Peace Sells..., but in the end Dave just gets to me.
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