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), guys, was a movement that exploded in the late 1970s and early 1980s, injecting fresh energy into the heavy metal scene. It was a reaction against the prevailing trends of established rock giants and the rising punk rock movement. NWOBHM bands brought a raw, aggressive sound with blistering guitar riffs, soaring vocals, and a DIY attitude. This movement not only revitalized heavy metal but also paved the way for many subgenres that followed. In this complete guide, we’ll delve into the history, key bands, musical characteristics, and lasting impact of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal.

History and Origins

The late 1970s saw the music landscape shifting dramatically. Established rock bands like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath were still popular, but punk rock was making significant inroads. However, many felt that the original heavy metal sound had become stagnant. This created a void that the NWOBHM filled with explosive force. Bands were emerging from industrial towns across Britain, armed with a hunger to play loud and fast, and a determination to make their mark. These bands drew inspiration from the earlier heavy metal acts but added a punk rock edge, making their sound more immediate and energetic.

One of the critical factors in the rise of NWOBHM was the changing economic and social climate in Britain. The late 1970s were a period of economic recession and social unrest, providing fertile ground for a rebellious musical movement. Many young musicians felt disenfranchised and used music as a way to express their frustration and anger. This raw emotion resonated with a generation of fans who were also looking for something new and authentic. The movement was also fueled by a network of independent record labels, fanzines, and local gigs, creating a vibrant underground scene that supported and promoted the new bands.

The term "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" was coined by Sounds journalist Geoff Barton in 1979. It was used to describe the emerging bands that were playing a heavier and faster style of music than the established rock acts. This label helped to unify the movement and gave it a distinct identity. Bands started to gain recognition through airplay on local radio stations and coverage in music magazines. The early NWOBHM scene was characterized by a strong sense of community, with bands often sharing equipment, venues, and fans. This collaborative spirit helped to propel the movement forward and create a lasting legacy.

Key Bands of the NWOBHM

The NWOBHM scene spawned a plethora of influential bands, each contributing their unique flavor to the movement. Here are some of the key players:

  • Iron Maiden: Arguably the most successful band to emerge from the NWOBHM, Iron Maiden combined complex song structures with galloping rhythms and soaring vocals. Their mascot, Eddie, became an iconic symbol of the band and the metal genre as a whole. Their early albums, such as "Iron Maiden" (1980) and "Killers" (1981), are considered classics of the genre. Iron Maiden's impact on heavy metal is undeniable, influencing countless bands and shaping the sound of the genre for decades to come.
  • Def Leppard: Def Leppard achieved massive commercial success with their polished, melodic sound. While they retained the energy and aggression of NWOBHM, they also incorporated elements of pop and arena rock, making them accessible to a wider audience. Albums like "On Through the Night" (1980) and "High 'n' Dry" (1981) established them as a major force in the rock world. Def Leppard's ability to blend heavy metal with pop sensibilities helped to bridge the gap between the underground scene and mainstream success.
  • Saxon: Saxon delivered a more straightforward, hard-rocking sound with powerful riffs and anthemic choruses. They were known for their energetic live performances and their ability to connect with audiences on a visceral level. Albums like "Wheels of Steel" (1980) and "Strong Arm of the Law" (1980) cemented their status as one of the leading bands of the NWOBHM. Saxon's consistency and dedication to their craft have earned them a loyal following and a lasting legacy in the metal community.
  • Motörhead: Though formed before the NWOBHM explosion, Motörhead's raw, uncompromising sound and relentless touring ethic made them a significant influence on the movement. Lemmy Kilmister's gravelly vocals and thunderous bass playing became synonymous with the band's aggressive style. Albums like "Overkill" (1979) and "Ace of Spades" (1980) are considered cornerstones of heavy metal. Motörhead's influence can be heard in countless thrash, speed metal, and punk bands that followed.
  • Venom: Venom took the dark, Satanic imagery of Black Sabbath to an extreme, creating a raw, aggressive sound that bordered on proto-black metal. Their album "Welcome to Hell" (1981) is considered a landmark release, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in heavy metal. Venom's influence on the extreme metal scene is immense, paving the way for black metal, death metal, and other subgenres.
  • Diamond Head: Diamond Head were known for their complex song structures and the virtuoso guitar playing of Brian Tatler. Their album "Lightning to the Nations" (1980) became a cult classic, influencing bands like Metallica, who covered several of their songs. Diamond Head's blend of technical skill and raw energy made them one of the most respected bands of the NWOBHM.

These are just a few examples, guys, of the many talented bands that emerged from the NWOBHM scene. Other notable acts include Angel Witch, Raven, Tygers of Pan Tang, and Girlschool. Each band brought their unique sound and style to the movement, contributing to its diversity and lasting impact.

Musical Characteristics

The NWOBHM sound was characterized by several key elements that distinguished it from earlier heavy metal and contemporary punk rock:

  • Fast Tempos and Aggressive Rhythms: NWOBHM bands often played at a faster tempo than their predecessors, creating a sense of urgency and excitement. The rhythms were aggressive and driving, pushing the music forward with relentless energy. This emphasis on speed and aggression helped to differentiate NWOBHM from the more blues-based hard rock of the 1970s.
  • Blistering Guitar Riffs: Guitarists were at the forefront of the NWOBHM sound, delivering blistering riffs and intricate solos. Influenced by players like Ritchie Blackmore and Jimmy Page, NWOBHM guitarists pushed the boundaries of technical skill and creativity. The emphasis on guitar virtuosity became a hallmark of the genre, inspiring countless aspiring musicians to pick up the instrument.
  • Soaring Vocals: Vocalists in NWOBHM bands often possessed powerful, soaring voices that could cut through the wall of sound created by the guitars and drums. They drew inspiration from singers like Robert Plant and Ian Gillan, but added their own unique flair and personality. The emphasis on strong vocals helped to create memorable melodies and anthemic choruses.
  • DIY Ethos: Many NWOBHM bands embraced a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to recording and promotion. They often recorded their music in small, independent studios and promoted their gigs through fanzines and word-of-mouth. This DIY ethos gave the movement a sense of authenticity and independence, allowing bands to connect directly with their fans without the interference of major record labels.
  • Themes of Rebellion and Fantasy: Lyrically, NWOBHM bands often explored themes of rebellion, fantasy, and mythology. They drew inspiration from historical events, literature, and folklore, creating a sense of epic storytelling. The lyrics often reflected the social and economic anxieties of the time, resonating with a generation of fans who felt disenfranchised and ignored.

The Lasting Impact of the NWOBHM

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal had a profound and lasting impact on the heavy metal genre. Its influence can be seen in the many subgenres that followed, including thrash metal, speed metal, and black metal. NWOBHM bands paved the way for these subgenres by pushing the boundaries of speed, aggression, and technical skill.

One of the most significant contributions of the NWOBHM was its revitalization of the heavy metal scene. By injecting fresh energy and creativity into the genre, NWOBHM bands attracted a new generation of fans and inspired countless aspiring musicians. The movement helped to keep heavy metal relevant and vibrant during a time when other genres were dominating the music charts.

Many of the bands that emerged from the NWOBHM went on to achieve international success, selling millions of albums and touring the world. Iron Maiden and Def Leppard, in particular, became global superstars, proving that NWOBHM bands could compete with the biggest names in rock and pop. Their success helped to raise the profile of the movement and paved the way for other NWOBHM bands to achieve wider recognition.

The NWOBHM also had a significant impact on the music industry. The movement demonstrated the power of independent record labels and DIY promotion. Many NWOBHM bands got their start by releasing records on small, independent labels and promoting their gigs through fanzines and word-of-mouth. This DIY approach helped to create a vibrant underground scene that supported and promoted the new bands.

The legacy of the NWOBHM can still be heard in the music of many contemporary metal bands. Bands like Metallica, Megadeth, and Slayer have cited NWOBHM bands as major influences. These bands have carried the torch of NWOBHM, incorporating its speed, aggression, and technical skill into their own music. The NWOBHM remains an important and influential chapter in the history of heavy metal, inspiring generations of musicians and fans.

Conclusion

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal was a transformative movement that revitalized the heavy metal genre and paved the way for many subgenres that followed. Its raw energy, blistering guitar riffs, and DIY ethos captured the imagination of a generation of fans and inspired countless aspiring musicians. The NWOBHM bands not only created some of the most iconic and influential music of the era but also helped to shape the future of heavy metal. The legacy of the NWOBHM continues to resonate today, reminding us of the power of music to inspire, unite, and transform. So, crank up your favorite NWOBHM album and let the raw energy of this legendary movement wash over you!