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 article dives deep into the origins, key bands, musical characteristics, and lasting impact of this influential genre. If you're a metalhead or just curious about music history, buckle up!

Origins and Rise of NWOBHM

The late 1970s was a transitional period for rock music. Punk rock had exploded onto the scene, challenging the established norms and excesses of stadium rock. Heavy metal, while still popular, was perceived by some as becoming stagnant. Bands like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Deep Purple had set the stage, but a new generation was ready to take the reins.

The rise of NWOBHM was fueled by several factors. First, the DIY ethos of punk rock inspired many young musicians to form their own bands, often without major label support. Secondly, the economic recession in Britain created a sense of disillusionment and anger, which found expression in the raw and aggressive sound of NWOBHM. Bands started playing in local pubs and clubs, building a strong following through word of mouth and fanzines.

This burgeoning scene was also aided by a few key figures in the music press, most notably Geoff Barton of Sounds magazine, who championed these new bands and gave the movement its name. The term "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" wasn't just a label; it was a rallying cry, signaling a shift in the metal landscape. These bands were hungry, energetic, and ready to take on the world. They brought a raw, unfiltered energy that resonated with a generation eager for something new and authentic. The movement wasn't just about music; it was about a community, a shared passion, and a rejection of the status quo. This DIY spirit allowed bands to connect directly with their fans, building a loyal following that would prove crucial to their success. The energy and excitement surrounding NWOBHM were palpable, creating a sense of anticipation and possibility within the British metal scene. It was a time of innovation, experimentation, and a renewed sense of purpose for heavy metal music. The impact of this era continues to be felt today, influencing countless bands and shaping the sound of modern metal.

Key Bands of the NWOBHM

The NWOBHM scene was incredibly diverse, with bands exploring different sounds and styles within the heavy metal framework. Here are some of the most important and influential bands:

  • Iron Maiden: Arguably the most successful band to emerge from the NWOBHM, Iron Maiden combined intricate guitar harmonies, galloping rhythms, and operatic vocals to create a signature sound. Their early albums, such as Iron Maiden (1980) and The Number of the Beast (1982), are considered classics of the genre.
  • Def Leppard: While they later embraced a more commercial sound, Def Leppard started as a raw and energetic NWOBHM band. Their debut album, On Through the Night (1980), showcased their catchy songwriting and youthful energy.
  • Saxon: One of the leading bands of the NWOBHM, Saxon delivered powerful riffs, soaring vocals, and anthemic choruses. Albums like Wheels of Steel (1980) and Denim and Leather (1981) established them as a major force in the metal world.
  • Motörhead: Although formed before the NWOBHM, Motörhead's raw and aggressive sound heavily influenced the movement. Lemmy Kilmister's gravelly vocals and the band's relentless energy made them a favorite among NWOBHM fans.
  • Venom: Known for their dark and Satanic imagery, Venom pushed the boundaries of heavy metal into extreme territory. Their album Welcome to Hell (1981) is considered a landmark in the development of black metal.
  • Diamond Head: Diamond Head's complex and intricate guitar work influenced many later metal bands, including Metallica. Their song "Am I Evil?" became a metal standard after Metallica covered it.
  • Angel Witch: With their dark and atmospheric sound, Angel Witch brought a unique flavor to the NWOBHM scene. Their self-titled debut album is a cult classic.
  • Tygers of Pan Tang: Tygers of Pan Tang combined melody and aggression, creating a distinctive sound that set them apart from many of their contemporaries. Their early albums are highly regarded by NWOBHM fans.

These bands, along with many others, helped to define the sound and spirit of the NWOBHM. They brought a new level of energy, aggression, and creativity to heavy metal, paving the way for future generations of metal bands. The diversity within the scene was remarkable, with each band bringing their unique influences and perspectives to the table. From the intricate guitar harmonies of Iron Maiden to the raw aggression of Motörhead, the NWOBHM offered a wide range of sounds and styles for metal fans to enjoy. This diversity is one of the reasons why the movement remains so influential and beloved to this day. These bands didn't just create music; they created a community. They connected with their fans on a personal level, building a loyal following that would support them throughout their careers. This sense of community was a defining characteristic of the NWOBHM, and it helped to create a vibrant and exciting scene that would leave a lasting impact on the world of heavy metal. The legacy of these bands continues to inspire and influence metal musicians around the globe. Their music is still played and celebrated by fans of all ages, and their influence can be heard in the sound of countless modern metal bands. The NWOBHM was a truly special moment in music history, and these bands were at the forefront of it all.

Musical Characteristics

NWOBHM music is characterized by several key elements:

  • Aggressive Riffs: NWOBHM guitarists favored fast, aggressive riffs, often played with a raw and unpolished tone. This was a departure from the blues-based riffs of earlier heavy metal bands.
  • Melodic Harmonies: While aggression was a key element, NWOBHM bands also incorporated melodic harmonies into their music, adding a layer of complexity and sophistication.
  • Galloping Rhythms: Many NWOBHM bands used galloping rhythms, creating a sense of speed and urgency. This rhythmic style is particularly associated with Iron Maiden.
  • High-Pitched Vocals: High-pitched vocals were a common feature of NWOBHM, with singers like Bruce Dickinson and Rob Halford setting the standard for metal vocalists.
  • Dark and Occult Themes: Some NWOBHM bands, like Venom and Angel Witch, explored dark and occult themes in their lyrics and imagery.

These musical characteristics combined to create a distinctive sound that set NWOBHM apart from other metal genres. The raw energy and aggression of the music appealed to a generation of metal fans who were looking for something new and exciting. The combination of melody and aggression made the music both catchy and powerful, ensuring its lasting appeal. The guitar work was often intricate and technically demanding, showcasing the skills of the NWOBHM guitarists. The vocalists brought a new level of intensity and passion to the music, further enhancing its impact. The lyrics often dealt with themes of rebellion, alienation, and the struggles of everyday life, resonating with young people who were feeling disillusioned and frustrated. The NWOBHM sound was a reflection of the times, capturing the mood and spirit of a generation. It was a sound that was both innovative and traditional, building on the foundations of earlier heavy metal while pushing the boundaries of the genre. The impact of this sound can still be heard in modern metal music, demonstrating the lasting influence of the NWOBHM.

Lasting Impact and Legacy

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal had a profound and lasting impact on the world of heavy metal. It revitalized the genre, inspired countless bands, and helped to shape the sound of modern metal. Here are some of the key ways in which NWOBHM left its mark:

  • Inspiration for Thrash Metal: The fast, aggressive riffs and raw energy of NWOBHM were a major influence on the development of thrash metal in the early 1980s. Bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth all cited NWOBHM bands as key influences.
  • Global Metal Scene: NWOBHM helped to establish a global metal scene, with bands from all over the world drawing inspiration from the British movement. This led to the emergence of new metal scenes in countries like Germany, Sweden, and the United States.
  • DIY Ethos: The DIY ethos of NWOBHM encouraged bands to take control of their own careers, leading to the rise of independent labels and self-promotion. This spirit of independence continues to be a defining characteristic of the metal scene.
  • Influence on Modern Metal: The influence of NWOBHM can still be heard in modern metal music, with many contemporary bands drawing inspiration from the classic NWOBHM sound.

The legacy of NWOBHM is undeniable. It was a pivotal moment in metal history, a time of innovation, energy, and passion. The bands of the NWOBHM helped to create a vibrant and exciting scene that would leave a lasting impact on the world of music. Their music continues to be celebrated by fans of all ages, and their influence can be heard in the sound of countless modern metal bands. The NWOBHM was more than just a genre; it was a movement, a community, and a testament to the power of music to inspire and unite people. It proved that heavy metal was far from dead, and that a new generation of musicians was ready to carry the torch. The impact of this movement continues to be felt today, ensuring that the legacy of the NWOBHM will live on for many years to come. It was a time when raw talent, passion, and a DIY spirit converged to create something truly special, something that would change the course of heavy metal history forever. The NWOBHM showed the world that heavy metal was a force to be reckoned with, and that it was here to stay.

In conclusion, the New Wave of British Heavy Metal was a groundbreaking movement that revitalized heavy metal and paved the way for future generations of metal bands. Its impact on the genre is undeniable, and its legacy continues to be celebrated by metal fans around the world. So crank up your favorite NWOBHM album and let the riffs take you back to a time when metal was raw, energetic, and ready to conquer the world!