Top NWOBHM Bands: The Best Of British Heavy Metal
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was a movement that revitalized heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Arising from the UK, it injected raw energy and intensity into the genre, paving the way for future metal subgenres. This explosion of talent gave us some of the most iconic and influential bands in metal history. So, let's dive into some of the best NWOBHM bands that you absolutely need to know about!
Iron Maiden
No discussion about the New Wave of British Heavy Metal is complete without mentioning Iron Maiden. These guys are practically synonymous with the movement. Formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975, Iron Maiden epitomized the NWOBHM sound with their galloping rhythms, dual guitar harmonies, and operatic vocals, initially from Paul Di'Anno and later, the legendary Bruce Dickinson. Their self-titled debut album in 1980 was a raw, energetic statement that captured the essence of the burgeoning NWOBHM scene. Tracks like "Prowler" and "Running Free" became instant classics, showcasing the band's ability to blend punk-like energy with intricate musical arrangements. Iron Maiden's impact extends far beyond the NWOBHM era; they have become one of the most successful and influential metal bands of all time, selling millions of albums worldwide and inspiring countless musicians. Their mascot, Eddie, is a global icon, and their live shows are legendary for their theatricality and sheer energy. Albums like "The Number of the Beast," "Piece of Mind," and "Powerslave" are considered cornerstones of heavy metal, demonstrating Iron Maiden's evolution from their NWOBHM roots into a global metal powerhouse. Iron Maiden's success can be attributed to several factors, including their relentless touring schedule, their commitment to producing high-quality music, and their strong visual identity. The band's complex song structures and Dickinson's soaring vocals set them apart from many of their contemporaries, while their themes of history, mythology, and literature resonated with a wide audience. In addition, Iron Maiden's business acumen, particularly under the management of Rod Smallwood, helped them navigate the music industry and maintain creative control over their work. Iron Maiden continues to tour and record new music, remaining a vital force in the metal world. Their legacy as pioneers of the NWOBHM and as one of the greatest metal bands of all time is secure. They have influenced generations of musicians and fans, and their music continues to inspire and entertain. Whether you're a longtime metalhead or new to the genre, Iron Maiden is a band that you simply must experience.
Def Leppard
Def Leppard brought a different flavor to the NWOBHM scene. Hailing from Sheffield, they blended hard rock with a strong pop sensibility, creating a sound that was both heavy and incredibly catchy. Their early work, like the album "On Through the Night," had the raw energy of NWOBHM, but it was their later albums, particularly "Pyromania" and "Hysteria," that catapulted them to superstardom. Def Leppard's success can be attributed to their ability to craft memorable melodies and their innovative production techniques, particularly the layering of vocal harmonies. Their collaboration with producer Mutt Lange was crucial in shaping their signature sound, which combined heavy guitars with polished vocals and state-of-the-art studio effects. Songs like "Photograph," "Rock of Ages," and "Pour Some Sugar on Me" became massive hits, dominating the airwaves and MTV. While some critics argued that Def Leppard had moved away from their NWOBHM roots, their commercial success helped to broaden the appeal of heavy metal and paved the way for other bands to achieve mainstream recognition. The band's resilience in the face of adversity, including drummer Rick Allen's tragic accident, further endeared them to fans and cemented their status as rock legends. Def Leppard continues to tour and record, remaining one of the most popular and enduring rock bands in the world. Their influence can be heard in countless contemporary artists, and their albums continue to sell millions of copies. Def Leppard's story is one of musical innovation, commercial success, and personal triumph, making them a unique and important part of the NWOBHM legacy. For those looking for heavy music with a strong melodic hook, Def Leppard remains an essential band to explore.
Saxon
Saxon are one of the most consistent and enduring bands to emerge from the NWOBHM movement. Formed in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, in 1977, Saxon quickly established themselves as a formidable force with their powerful riffs, soaring vocals, and anthemic choruses. Their early albums, such as "Saxon," "Wheels of Steel," and "Strong Arm of the Law," are considered classics of the NWOBHM era, showcasing the band's ability to blend speed, aggression, and melody. Songs like "Wheels of Steel," "747 (Strangers in the Night)," and "Princess of the Night" became staples of their live shows and helped to define the sound of the NWOBHM movement. Saxon's success can be attributed to their relentless touring schedule and their commitment to delivering high-energy performances. The band's strong musicianship and Biff Byford's charismatic vocals set them apart from many of their contemporaries, while their themes of history, mythology, and working-class life resonated with a wide audience. Despite facing various challenges, including lineup changes and shifts in musical trends, Saxon has remained true to their NWOBHM roots, continuing to release albums and tour the world. Their longevity and dedication to their craft have earned them a loyal following and cemented their status as one of the most important bands in the history of heavy metal. Saxon's influence can be heard in countless contemporary artists, and their albums continue to inspire and entertain. For those looking for a band that embodies the spirit of the NWOBHM, Saxon remains an essential act to discover. Their music is a testament to the enduring power of heavy metal and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision.
Diamond Head
Diamond Head may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their NWOBHM contemporaries, but their influence on the genre is undeniable. Formed in Stourbridge, England, in 1976, Diamond Head's complex song structures and Brian Tatler's intricate guitar work set them apart from many of their peers. Their debut album, "Lightning to the Nations," was a raw, self-produced effort that showcased the band's unique blend of heavy metal, progressive rock, and blues. Songs like "Am I Evil?" and "Helpless" became underground classics, and their influence can be heard in the music of Metallica, who have covered several Diamond Head songs over the years. Diamond Head's impact on Metallica is particularly significant, as the thrash metal giants have credited Diamond Head as a major influence on their own sound. Metallica's covers of Diamond Head songs helped to introduce the band to a wider audience and cemented their status as one of the most important and influential bands in the NWOBHM movement. Despite facing various challenges, including lineup changes and a lack of mainstream success, Diamond Head has continued to release albums and tour the world, remaining true to their unique musical vision. Their legacy as pioneers of the NWOBHM and as a major influence on Metallica is secure. For those looking for a band that combines technical proficiency with raw energy and a touch of blues, Diamond Head remains an essential act to discover. Their music is a testament to the enduring power of the NWOBHM and the importance of artistic innovation.
Angel Witch
Angel Witch brought a darker, more occult-tinged sound to the NWOBHM scene. Formed in London in 1976, their self-titled debut album is a cult classic, filled with haunting melodies, eerie atmospheres, and Dan McCafferty's distinctive vocals. Songs like "Angel Witch" and "Atlantis" are prime examples of their unique sound, blending heavy metal with elements of doom and gothic rock. Angel Witch's influence can be heard in the music of countless bands across various metal subgenres, from doom metal to black metal. The band's dark and atmospheric soundscapes set them apart from many of their contemporaries, while their themes of witchcraft, mythology, and the occult resonated with a niche audience. Despite facing various challenges, including lineup changes and periods of inactivity, Angel Witch has continued to release albums and tour the world, remaining true to their unique musical vision. Their legacy as pioneers of the NWOBHM and as a major influence on the development of doom metal is secure. For those looking for a band that combines heavy metal with dark atmospheres and occult themes, Angel Witch remains an essential act to discover. Their music is a testament to the enduring power of the NWOBHM and the importance of artistic experimentation.
Conclusion
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal was a pivotal moment in the history of heavy metal, and these bands represent just a small fraction of the talent that emerged from that scene. Whether you're a longtime metalhead or new to the genre, exploring these bands is a great way to discover the roots of modern metal and appreciate the enduring legacy of the NWOBHM. So crank up the volume and get ready to headbang! You won't be disappointed.