New Wave Of British Heavy Metal: The Complete Guide

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New Wave of British Heavy Metal: The Complete Guide

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was a monumental movement that revitalized heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This period saw a surge of new bands injecting fresh energy and raw aggression into the genre, setting the stage for the metal scene that we know and love today. If you're just diving into metal or you're a long-time headbanger looking to brush up on your knowledge, this guide will give you a comprehensive overview of the NWOBHM. From its origins and key bands to its lasting impact, we’ll cover everything you need to know. So, crank up the volume and let’s get started!

Origins and Influences

The NWOBHM emerged from the cultural and economic landscape of late 1970s Britain. The UK was grappling with economic recession, high unemployment, and social unrest. Punk rock had exploded onto the scene, challenging the established music industry and inspiring a DIY ethos. Bands like the Sex Pistols and The Clash showed that anyone could pick up an instrument and make music, regardless of technical proficiency or record label support. This punk attitude permeated the NWOBHM, with many bands adopting a raw, energetic sound that was a direct reaction against the more polished and progressive rock that dominated the early 1970s.

However, the NWOBHM wasn't just a punk-inspired phenomenon. These bands also drew heavily from the first wave of British heavy metal bands like Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Led Zeppelin. These pioneers had laid the groundwork for heavy metal with their blues-based riffs, powerful vocals, and dark, mystical themes. The NWOBHM bands took these elements and combined them with the energy and aggression of punk, creating a sound that was both familiar and refreshingly new. The movement was also influenced by earlier hard rock acts such as Motörhead, which, while not strictly NWOBHM, shared a similar raw and aggressive sound and paved the way for the heavier, faster tempos that would become a hallmark of the genre. This blend of influences allowed the NWOBHM to carve out its unique identity, distinct from both its predecessors and contemporaries.

One of the key factors that fueled the NWOBHM was the emergence of independent record labels and fanzines. These independent labels, such as Neat Records and Ebony Records, were willing to take a chance on unsigned bands, giving them the opportunity to record and release their music. Fanzines like Sounds and Kerrang! provided crucial media coverage, championing the new bands and helping them reach a wider audience. This DIY infrastructure allowed the NWOBHM to thrive outside the mainstream music industry, creating a vibrant and supportive community for bands and fans alike. The combination of punk's DIY ethos and the foundational sounds of early metal created a potent mix that propelled the NWOBHM into a significant cultural force. This fertile ground allowed countless bands to experiment and innovate, resulting in a diverse and influential movement.

Key Bands of the NWOBHM

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal boasted a plethora of talented bands, each contributing their unique flavor to the movement. Here are some of the most influential and iconic bands that defined the NWOBHM era:

  • Iron Maiden: Arguably the most successful band to emerge from the NWOBHM, Iron Maiden set the gold standard for melodic heavy metal. With their galloping rhythms, dual guitar harmonies, and Bruce Dickinson's soaring vocals, they created a signature sound that would influence countless bands to come. Albums like "The Number of the Beast" and "Piece of Mind" are considered classics of the genre.
  • Def Leppard: Known for their polished production and catchy hooks, Def Leppard achieved massive commercial success in the 1980s. Their early NWOBHM-era albums, such as "On Through the Night" and "High 'n' Dry," showcased a raw, energetic sound that was a far cry from their later, more polished stadium rock. These albums solidified their place in the NWOBHM pantheon before their sound evolved.
  • Saxon: A cornerstone of the NWOBHM, Saxon delivered powerful, anthemic metal with driving riffs and Biff Byford's commanding vocals. Albums like "Wheels of Steel" and "Strong Arm of the Law" are quintessential NWOBHM, capturing the energy and excitement of the era. Their consistent output and energetic live performances made them a fan favorite.
  • Motörhead: While technically predating the NWOBHM, Motörhead's raw, aggressive sound and punk attitude made them a major influence on the movement. Lemmy Kilmister's gravelly vocals and the band's relentless energy set the stage for the heavier, faster tempos that would become a hallmark of the NWOBHM. Their album "Ace of Spades" is a timeless classic.
  • Venom: Venom took the darkness and aggression of heavy metal to a new extreme, incorporating occult themes and a proto-black metal sound. Their album "Welcome to Hell" is considered a seminal work, influencing the development of extreme metal genres like black metal and thrash metal. Their chaotic and confrontational style set them apart from their contemporaries.
  • Diamond Head: Diamond Head's complex song structures and Brian Tatler's intricate guitar work set them apart from the more straightforward NWOBHM bands. Their album "Lightning to the Nations" is a cult classic, featuring songs that would later be covered by Metallica, further cementing their influence.
  • Angel Witch: Known for their dark, mystical atmosphere and Kevin Heybourne's distinctive vocals and guitar work, Angel Witch created a unique blend of heavy metal and doom. Their self-titled debut album is a highly regarded example of the NWOBHM sound.

These are just a few of the many bands that contributed to the NWOBHM. Others worth checking out include Raven, Tank, Tygers of Pan Tang, Girlschool, and Witchfinder General. Each band brought something unique to the table, contributing to the diversity and richness of the movement. The NWOBHM was a breeding ground for talent, producing bands that would go on to shape the future of heavy metal. Their collective impact continues to resonate today, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans.

The Sound of the NWOBHM

Defining the sound of the NWOBHM involves understanding its blend of raw energy and technical prowess. NWOBHM guitar work is a defining characteristic. Bands featured dual guitar harmonies, intricate solos, and driving riffs. Guitarists drew from blues scales but incorporated more aggressive and technically demanding playing styles. Think of Iron Maiden's dueling guitars or Diamond Head's complex arrangements. The guitar sound was often raw and energetic, reflecting punk influences. NWOBHM drumming often involved a faster tempo and a more aggressive approach. Drummers used double bass techniques and emphasized the backbeat, providing a driving rhythm for the music. The drumming style was energetic and relentless, pushing the music forward with intensity. Vocals in NWOBHM ranged from melodic to aggressive. Vocalists like Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden showcased powerful, soaring vocals, while others adopted a grittier, more raw style. The vocal delivery often conveyed a sense of urgency and rebellion. Lyrical themes varied widely, but often touched on mythology, fantasy, social issues, and the occult. Bands explored dark and epic themes, reflecting the turbulent times and the escapist tendencies of the genre. NWOBHM songs often featured complex arrangements and dynamic shifts, showcasing the musicality of the bands. Songs could range from fast-paced, high-energy anthems to more melodic and atmospheric pieces. The combination of these elements created a unique and distinctive sound that set the NWOBHM apart from other metal subgenres. This sound was both a product of its time and a reaction against the prevailing musical trends, making it a truly unique and influential force in the history of heavy metal.

Impact and Legacy

The impact and legacy of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal are undeniable. This movement not only revitalized the heavy metal scene but also paved the way for future generations of metal bands. The NWOBHM's influence can be heard in the music of thrash metal bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth, who took the speed and aggression of the NWOBHM and pushed it to even greater extremes. Many of these bands covered NWOBHM classics, further cementing the movement's influence. The NWOBHM also influenced the development of other metal subgenres, such as black metal and power metal. Bands like Venom and Angel Witch explored darker, more occult themes, laying the groundwork for the extreme metal genres that would follow. The emphasis on melody and technicality in bands like Iron Maiden and Def Leppard influenced the development of power metal. The NWOBHM's DIY ethos and independent spirit also had a lasting impact on the music industry. The movement demonstrated that bands could achieve success outside the mainstream, inspiring countless musicians to start their own bands and record labels. This DIY spirit continues to thrive in the independent music scene today. Moreover, the NWOBHM brought heavy metal to a wider audience. The movement's accessibility and energy attracted a new generation of fans, helping to solidify heavy metal's place in popular culture. The NWOBHM also helped to break down cultural barriers, with bands like Girlschool proving that women could rock just as hard as men. The legacy of the NWOBHM can be seen in the countless bands that continue to be inspired by its music and ethos. Festivals and events dedicated to the NWOBHM draw fans from around the world, celebrating the movement's enduring appeal. The NWOBHM remains a vital and influential part of heavy metal history, continuing to inspire and shape the genre for years to come. It stands as a testament to the power of music to unite, inspire, and transcend cultural boundaries.

Conclusion

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal was more than just a musical genre; it was a cultural phenomenon that left an indelible mark on the history of heavy metal. From its humble beginnings in the pubs and clubs of Britain to its global impact on the music industry, the NWOBHM revitalized a genre and inspired countless musicians. Its influence can still be heard in the music of today's metal bands, and its legacy continues to grow. Whether you're a seasoned metalhead or new to the genre, exploring the NWOBHM is a journey worth taking. So, put on your leather jacket, crank up the volume, and get ready to experience the raw energy and excitement of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. You won't be disappointed! The NWOBHM's blend of punk attitude, heavy metal tradition, and DIY spirit created a unique and enduring sound that continues to resonate with fans around the world. Its bands not only produced timeless music but also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie that remains a hallmark of the metal scene. The NWOBHM serves as a reminder of the power of music to unite, inspire, and transcend cultural boundaries, solidifying its place as one of the most important and influential movements in the history of rock and roll. As new generations discover the music of the NWOBHM, its legacy will continue to grow, ensuring that its impact on the world of heavy metal remains as potent and relevant as ever.