When it comes to debut albums that hit like a sledgehammer, Van Halen’s self-titled debut, released on February 10, 1978, doesn’t just smash expectations—it obliterates them. From jaw-dropping guitar solos to arena-worthy anthems, this record set the bar for every rock band that dared to follow. Simply put, Van Halen wasn’t just an album; it was a declaration: “We’ve arrived, and we’re here to melt your faces.”