New Wave Of British Heavy Metal: The Complete Guide
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was a groundbreaking movement that revitalized heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Emerging from the industrial heartlands of Britain, this genre injected a raw, energetic, and rebellious spirit into the music scene, setting the stage for the global metal explosion that followed. For anyone interested in the roots of modern metal, understanding the NWOBHM is absolutely essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from its origins and key bands to its lasting impact and influence. So, crank up the volume and get ready to dive deep into the powerful sounds of the NWOBHM!
Origins and Influences
To truly appreciate the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, it’s important to understand its origins and the influences that shaped its sound. The late 1970s was a period of significant change in the music industry. Punk rock had exploded onto the scene, challenging the established norms and paving the way for new, independent bands to emerge. At the same time, the initial wave of heavy metal bands like Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Led Zeppelin had begun to wane, leaving a void for a new generation of metal musicians to fill.
The economic and social climate of Britain also played a crucial role. The country was grappling with high unemployment, industrial decline, and social unrest. This discontent found its voice in the music of the NWOBHM bands, who often sang about the struggles and frustrations of working-class youth. Bands like Iron Maiden, Saxon, and Diamond Head captured the raw energy and anger of the times, creating a sound that resonated deeply with their audience. The DIY ethic of punk rock also had a significant impact, encouraging bands to self-produce and promote their music, bypassing the traditional music industry gatekeepers. This newfound independence allowed for greater experimentation and creativity, leading to the diverse and innovative sound of the NWOBHM.
Several musical influences contributed to the development of the NWOBHM sound. The blues-based hard rock of the 1970s, pioneered by bands like AC/DC and Thin Lizzy, provided a foundation for the genre. These bands emphasized powerful guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and anthemic choruses, which became hallmarks of the NWOBHM sound. The progressive rock of bands like Rush and Yes also had an impact, inspiring NWOBHM bands to incorporate more complex song structures and instrumental arrangements. However, unlike progressive rock, the NWOBHM retained a raw, gritty edge, reflecting its working-class roots. Ultimately, the NWOBHM was a unique fusion of punk rock energy, hard rock power, and metal intensity, creating a sound that was both familiar and revolutionary. This combination is what made the movement so influential and enduring.
Key Bands and Their Contributions
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal produced a plethora of influential bands, each contributing their unique style and sound to the genre. Iron Maiden is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and successful bands to emerge from the NWOBHM scene. Their signature sound, characterized by Steve Harris's galloping bass lines, Dave Murray and Adrian Smith's twin guitar harmonies, and Bruce Dickinson's soaring vocals, helped define the genre. Albums like "Iron Maiden" (1980), "Killers" (1981), and "The Number of the Beast" (1982) are considered classics and essential listening for any metal fan. Iron Maiden's theatrical stage shows and epic songwriting also set them apart, paving the way for future generations of metal bands.
Def Leppard, while initially part of the NWOBHM scene, later evolved into a more polished and commercially successful sound. Their early albums, such as "On Through the Night" (1980) and "High 'n' Dry" (1981), showcased their raw energy and catchy songwriting. However, it was their later albums, like "Pyromania" (1983) and "Hysteria" (1987), that propelled them to global superstardom. Def Leppard's blend of hard rock and pop sensibilities helped broaden the appeal of heavy metal, attracting a wider audience.
Saxon is another key band that helped define the NWOBHM sound. With their powerful riffs, anthemic choruses, and biker-inspired imagery, Saxon captured the spirit of the times. Albums like "Wheels of Steel" (1980) and "Denim and Leather" (1981) are considered classics, showcasing their raw energy and uncompromising attitude. Saxon's influence can be heard in many later metal bands, particularly in the power metal genre.
Diamond Head, though not as commercially successful as some of their contemporaries, were highly influential in shaping the sound of the NWOBHM. Their complex song structures, intricate guitar work, and dark, atmospheric lyrics set them apart. Metallica famously covered several of their songs, including "Am I Evil?" and "The Prince," introducing Diamond Head to a new generation of metal fans. Other notable bands from the NWOBHM scene include Venom, known for their extreme and Satanic imagery; Motörhead, with their raw and aggressive sound; and Angel Witch, with their dark and melodic take on heavy metal. Each of these bands contributed to the diverse and vibrant sound of the NWOBHM, leaving a lasting impact on the metal genre.
The Lasting Impact and Influence
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal had a profound and lasting impact on the music world. It not only revitalized the heavy metal genre but also paved the way for many of the subgenres we know and love today. The NWOBHM's emphasis on raw energy, catchy songwriting, and DIY ethos inspired countless bands around the world to pick up their instruments and start playing. The influence of the NWOBHM can be heard in the thrash metal of bands like Metallica and Slayer, the power metal of bands like Helloween and Blind Guardian, and the NWOBHM's influence even extends to the glam metal of bands like Mötley Crüe and Poison, all of whom drew inspiration from the NWOBHM's emphasis on catchy hooks and energetic performances.
One of the most significant contributions of the NWOBHM was its emphasis on guitar virtuosity. Bands like Iron Maiden and Diamond Head showcased complex guitar harmonies, intricate solos, and technical proficiency, inspiring a new generation of guitarists to hone their skills. This emphasis on guitar playing helped elevate the status of the guitar hero in metal music, with guitarists like Eddie Van Halen and Yngwie Malmsteen building on the foundation laid by the NWOBHM pioneers. The NWOBHM also helped to break down the barriers between bands and their fans. The DIY ethic of the movement encouraged bands to interact directly with their audience, whether through fanzines, local gigs, or word-of-mouth promotion. This close connection between bands and fans helped to create a sense of community within the metal scene, fostering a loyal and dedicated following. Ultimately, the NWOBHM was more than just a musical genre; it was a cultural movement that transformed the landscape of heavy metal and continues to inspire musicians and fans to this day. The raw energy, rebellious spirit, and unwavering passion of the NWOBHM bands serve as a reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire.
How to Explore the NWOBHM Today
So, you're ready to explore the New Wave of British Heavy Metal? Awesome! There are tons of ways to dive into this incredible genre and discover your new favorite bands. First off, start with the classics. Iron Maiden's "The Number of the Beast," Saxon's "Wheels of Steel," and Def Leppard's "High 'n' Dry" are essential starting points. These albums showcase the raw energy, catchy songwriting, and guitar virtuosity that defined the NWOBHM sound.
Once you've familiarized yourself with the classics, venture into the deeper cuts. Explore the discographies of bands like Diamond Head, Angel Witch, Venom, and Motörhead. These bands offer a diverse range of sounds and styles, from the complex song structures of Diamond Head to the extreme imagery of Venom. Don't be afraid to explore compilation albums and playlists dedicated to the NWOBHM. These collections often feature lesser-known bands and hidden gems that you might not find otherwise. Online resources like AllMusic, Encyclopaedia Metallum, and Spirit of Metal are also valuable tools for discovering new bands and learning more about the history of the NWOBHM. Fan forums and social media groups dedicated to the NWOBHM are great places to connect with other fans, share recommendations, and discuss your favorite bands.
Attending metal festivals and concerts is another great way to experience the NWOBHM firsthand. Many of the original NWOBHM bands are still active and touring, and there are also tribute bands and newer bands inspired by the NWOBHM sound. Supporting these bands helps to keep the spirit of the NWOBHM alive and ensures that future generations can discover and appreciate this influential genre. So, crank up the volume, explore the depths of the NWOBHM, and get ready to rock! This music is timeless, energetic, and sure to get your head banging. Enjoy the journey!