Founded in Sheffield, England, in 1977, Def Leppard started out as a metal band, influenced by and involved in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement. However, an introduction to producer Robert "Mutt" Lange led to a working successful working relationship; he helped to hone some of the rough edges into something more commercially viable, while still maintaining some of their heavier sound.

On the eve of their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nomination, we're looking back at Def Leppard's recording history, ranking their original studio albums from worst to best. With original content being the focus, their well-received covers set Yeah! will not be part of the list, nor will their Retro Active and Vault compilations or their live albums. Check out the gallery below.

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