Top NWOBHM Bands: A Guide To British Heavy Metal
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was a groundbreaking movement that redefined the landscape of heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Emerging from the industrial heartlands of Britain, bands infused raw energy, aggression, and a DIY ethic into their music, contrasting with the established progressive rock and fading hard rock scenes. This movement not only revitalized heavy metal but also paved the way for future subgenres like thrash, speed, and black metal. For anyone looking to dive headfirst into the genre, understanding the key bands is essential. This article will explore some of the most influential and iconic bands of the NWOBHM era, highlighting their contributions and impact on the broader metal scene.
The NWOBHM movement was characterized by its raw, unpolished sound, reflecting the socio-economic environment of the time. Bands often played in small clubs and pubs, building a loyal following through relentless touring and word-of-mouth. They embraced independent record labels, giving them greater control over their music and image. This DIY approach fostered a sense of authenticity and connection with their fans, setting them apart from the more corporate and commercially driven music industry. Musically, NWOBHM bands blended elements of traditional heavy metal with punk rock's energy and aggression. They sped up tempos, incorporated more intricate guitar riffs, and adopted a more direct and confrontational lyrical style. This fusion created a sound that was both powerful and exciting, capturing the angst and frustration of a generation.
The impact of NWOBHM on the broader metal scene cannot be overstated. It revitalized a genre that was in danger of becoming stale, injecting new life and creativity. Many of the bands that emerged from this movement went on to achieve international success, influencing countless musicians and shaping the sound of heavy metal for decades to come. The NWOBHM's emphasis on speed, technicality, and aggression paved the way for the rise of thrash metal in the 1980s, with bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth citing NWOBHM acts as major influences. The movement also inspired the development of other subgenres, such as speed metal and black metal, each pushing the boundaries of extreme music in their own way. The NWOBHM's legacy continues to be felt today, with many contemporary bands drawing inspiration from its pioneers.
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden, arguably the most successful band to emerge from the NWOBHM scene, remains a global metal phenomenon. Formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975, the band's high-energy performances and intricate musical arrangements quickly garnered them a dedicated following. Their self-titled debut album in 1980 was a landmark release, capturing the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the NWOBHM movement. With classic tracks like "Prowler" and "Running Free," the album showcased the band's signature sound, characterized by Steve Harris's galloping bass lines, Dave Murray and Adrian Smith's twin guitar harmonies, and Paul Di'Anno's gritty vocals. Iron Maiden's rapid ascent continued with subsequent albums like "Killers" (1981) and "The Number of the Beast" (1982), which cemented their status as one of the leading bands in heavy metal.
One of the defining characteristics of Iron Maiden's sound is the interplay between the twin guitars of Dave Murray and Adrian Smith (and later Janick Gers). Their intricate harmonies, blistering solos, and dynamic arrangements create a rich and layered sonic tapestry that is instantly recognizable. Steve Harris's galloping bass lines provide a powerful and driving rhythmic foundation, while the band's drummers, including Clive Burr and Nicko McBrain, have consistently delivered thunderous and precise performances. Over the years, Iron Maiden has experimented with different vocal styles, from the raw energy of Paul Di'Anno to the operatic grandeur of Bruce Dickinson, each adding a unique dimension to the band's sound.
Iron Maiden's impact on the broader metal scene is undeniable. They have sold over 100 million albums worldwide, toured extensively, and built a loyal following that spans generations. Their influence can be heard in countless bands across various subgenres of metal, from thrash to power metal to progressive metal. Iron Maiden's commitment to their craft, their relentless touring schedule, and their unwavering dedication to their fans have made them one of the most respected and enduring bands in heavy metal history. Beyond their musical contributions, Iron Maiden has also had a significant cultural impact. Their mascot, Eddie the Head, has become one of the most recognizable icons in metal, appearing on album covers, merchandise, and stage sets. The band's elaborate stage productions, featuring pyrotechnics, props, and costumes, have set a new standard for live metal performances. Iron Maiden's legacy extends far beyond their music, making them true pioneers and innovators in the world of heavy metal.
Def Leppard
Def Leppard, hailing from Sheffield, England, carved a unique path within the NWOBHM scene, blending hard rock sensibilities with pop hooks to achieve massive commercial success. Formed in 1977, the band initially embraced the raw energy and DIY ethos of the movement, but they soon began to incorporate more melodic elements into their music. Their early albums, such as "On Through the Night" (1980) and "High 'n' Dry" (1981), showcased their evolving sound, with tracks like "Wasted" and "Bringin' On the Heartbreak" becoming staples of rock radio. However, it was their breakthrough album, "Pyromania" (1983), that catapulted them to international stardom.
One of the key elements of Def Leppard's success was their ability to craft catchy and memorable songs that appealed to a broad audience. Their music blended the power and energy of hard rock with the melodic sensibilities of pop, creating a sound that was both accessible and exciting. The band's songwriting team, led by Joe Elliott and Mutt Lange, meticulously crafted each song, paying attention to every detail, from the hooks and melodies to the arrangements and production. This attention to detail resulted in a string of hit singles, including "Photograph," "Rock of Ages," and "Foolin'," which dominated the airwaves and MTV.
Def Leppard's impact on the broader rock scene is undeniable. They have sold over 100 million albums worldwide, toured extensively, and built a loyal following that spans generations. Their influence can be heard in countless bands across various subgenres of rock, from hard rock to pop-punk to alternative rock. Def Leppard's commitment to their craft, their relentless touring schedule, and their ability to adapt to changing musical trends have made them one of the most successful and enduring bands in rock history. Beyond their musical contributions, Def Leppard has also overcome numerous challenges, including the loss of drummer Rick Allen's arm in a car accident. The band's resilience and determination to continue making music in the face of adversity have inspired countless fans and musicians around the world. Def Leppard's legacy extends far beyond their music, making them true survivors and innovators in the world of rock.
Saxon
Saxon, another prominent figure in the NWOBHM movement, delivered a more straightforward and traditional brand of heavy metal. Formed in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, in 1977, the band quickly gained a reputation for their powerful live performances and their anthemic, fist-pumping songs. Their early albums, such as "Saxon" (1979), "Wheels of Steel" (1980), and "Strong Arm of the Law" (1980), are considered classics of the NWOBHM era, featuring tracks like "Motorcycle Man," "Wheels of Steel," and "747 (Strangers in the Night)." Saxon's music is characterized by its driving rhythms, soaring vocals, and twin guitar harmonies, creating a sound that is both powerful and melodic.
One of the defining characteristics of Saxon's sound is Biff Byford's powerful and distinctive vocals. His soaring voice, combined with the band's anthemic choruses, creates a sense of energy and excitement that is infectious. The twin guitar harmonies of Graham Oliver and Paul Quinn add depth and complexity to the band's sound, while the rhythm section, featuring bassist Steve Dawson and drummer Pete Gill (and later Nigel Glockler), provides a solid and driving foundation. Saxon's music is rooted in the traditions of classic heavy metal, but they also incorporate elements of hard rock and blues, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Saxon's impact on the broader metal scene is significant. They have sold millions of albums worldwide, toured extensively, and built a loyal following that spans generations. Their influence can be heard in countless bands across various subgenres of metal, from thrash to power metal to speed metal. Saxon's commitment to their craft, their relentless touring schedule, and their unwavering dedication to their fans have made them one of the most respected and enduring bands in heavy metal history. Beyond their musical contributions, Saxon has also been instrumental in shaping the sound and style of the NWOBHM movement. Their raw energy, their DIY ethos, and their dedication to playing live music helped to define the movement and inspire countless other bands to follow in their footsteps. Saxon's legacy extends far beyond their music, making them true pioneers and innovators in the world of heavy metal.
Diamond Head
Diamond Head, formed in Stourbridge, England, brought a more intricate and progressive approach to the NWOBHM sound. Emerging in the late 1970s, the band quickly gained a reputation for their complex song structures, innovative guitar riffs, and thought-provoking lyrics. Their debut album, "Lightning to the Nations" (1980), is considered a landmark release, featuring tracks like "Am I Evil?" and "The Prince," which have become staples of the metal repertoire. Diamond Head's music is characterized by its intricate arrangements, its dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, and its blend of heavy metal, progressive rock, and classical influences.
One of the defining characteristics of Diamond Head's sound is Brian Tatler's innovative and virtuosic guitar playing. His complex riffs, soaring solos, and dynamic arrangements create a unique and instantly recognizable sound. Sean Harris's vocals, while sometimes criticized for their unconventional style, add a distinctive character to the band's music. The rhythm section, featuring bassist Colin Kimberley and drummer Duncan Scott, provides a solid and driving foundation, allowing Tatler's guitar work to shine. Diamond Head's music is ambitious and challenging, pushing the boundaries of traditional heavy metal and incorporating elements of progressive rock and classical music.
Diamond Head's impact on the broader metal scene is significant, particularly on the thrash metal genre. Metallica has famously covered several of Diamond Head's songs, including "Am I Evil?" and "The Prince," introducing the band's music to a wider audience. Diamond Head's influence can be heard in countless bands across various subgenres of metal, from thrash to progressive metal to power metal. Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of their NWOBHM contemporaries, Diamond Head's musical contributions and their influence on the development of thrash metal have cemented their status as one of the most important and influential bands of the NWOBHM era. Diamond Head's legacy extends far beyond their commercial success, making them true innovators and pioneers in the world of heavy metal.
Angel Witch
Angel Witch, formed in London in 1978, brought a darker and more occult-tinged sound to the NWOBHM movement. Led by guitarist and vocalist Kevin Heybourne, the band's music is characterized by its haunting melodies, its atmospheric arrangements, and its lyrical themes of witchcraft, black magic, and the occult. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1980, is considered a classic of the NWOBHM era, featuring tracks like "Angel Witch," "Sorceress," and "Atlantis." Angel Witch's music is both powerful and eerie, creating a sense of mystery and foreboding.
One of the defining characteristics of Angel Witch's sound is Kevin Heybourne's distinctive guitar playing and vocals. His haunting melodies, his atmospheric arrangements, and his raw and emotive vocals create a unique and instantly recognizable sound. The rhythm section, featuring bassist Kevin Riddles and drummer Dave Hogg, provides a solid and driving foundation, allowing Heybourne's guitar work to shine. Angel Witch's music is dark and atmospheric, drawing inspiration from classic horror films and occult literature.
Angel Witch's impact on the broader metal scene is significant, particularly on the doom metal and black metal genres. Their dark and atmospheric sound, their lyrical themes of the occult, and their raw and emotive vocals have influenced countless bands across various subgenres of metal. Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of their NWOBHM contemporaries, Angel Witch's musical contributions and their influence on the development of doom metal and black metal have cemented their status as one of the most important and influential bands of the NWOBHM era. Angel Witch's legacy extends far beyond their commercial success, making them true innovators and pioneers in the world of heavy metal.
In conclusion, the New Wave of British Heavy Metal was a pivotal movement in the history of heavy metal, and these bands represent just a small fraction of the talent that emerged from that era. Their music continues to inspire and influence musicians and fans around the world, and their legacy will endure for generations to come. So crank up the volume and celebrate the sound of the NWOBHM!