NWOBHM: The Best Bands Of The New Wave Of British Heavy Metal

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NWOBHM: The Best Bands of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was a significant movement in the history of heavy metal music. Emerging in the late 1970s and early 1980s, it revitalized the genre, injecting fresh energy and raw talent into the scene. Bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Saxon rose to prominence during this era, laying the groundwork for the future of heavy metal. Let's dive into what made this movement so influential and explore some of the best bands that defined it.

What is the New Wave of British Heavy Metal?

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal, or NWOBHM as it’s commonly known, was a reaction to the decline of early heavy metal and hard rock bands in the mid-1970s. Bands like Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Led Zeppelin had set the stage, but by the late '70s, many felt the genre needed a jolt. NWOBHM provided that jolt, bringing a faster, more aggressive sound with influences from punk rock. This new wave was characterized by its raw energy, do-it-yourself ethic, and a return to the heavy, guitar-driven sound that had initially defined metal. The movement was largely Britain-centric, with bands emerging from industrial towns and cities across the UK, fueled by a desire to create music that was both powerful and relatable to working-class audiences.

Key Characteristics of NWOBHM

Several elements defined the NWOBHM sound:

  • High-Energy Performances: NWOBHM bands were known for their intense live shows, filled with headbanging, raw vocals, and blistering guitar solos.
  • Fast Tempos and Aggressive Riffs: The music was generally faster and more aggressive than earlier heavy metal, incorporating elements of punk rock’s speed and energy.
  • Dual Guitar Harmonies: Many bands featured twin guitar attacks, creating rich harmonies and intricate lead lines that became a signature sound.
  • DIY Ethic: With limited support from major labels, many bands self-produced their records and relied on independent labels and word-of-mouth to gain fans.
  • Mythical and Historical Themes: Lyrical themes often drew from mythology, history, and fantasy, adding a sense of epic scale to the music.

The Pioneers of NWOBHM

Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden is arguably the most successful band to emerge from the NWOBHM movement. Formed in the mid-1970s, the band honed their sound in London’s pub circuit before releasing their self-titled debut album in 1980. With their complex song structures, galloping rhythms, and soaring vocals of Bruce Dickinson (who joined in 1981), Iron Maiden set a new standard for heavy metal. Their mascot, Eddie, became an iconic symbol of the band and the genre itself. Albums like The Number of the Beast, Piece of Mind, and Powerslave are considered classics, showcasing their signature blend of melody and aggression. Iron Maiden’s influence on subsequent metal bands is undeniable, and they continue to tour and record to this day, maintaining a massive global fanbase.

Def Leppard

Def Leppard brought a more polished, arena-ready sound to the NWOBHM scene. Hailing from Sheffield, England, the band blended heavy riffs with catchy melodies and strong vocal harmonies, appealing to a wider audience. Their early albums, such as On Through the Night and High 'n' Dry, established them as a rising force, but it was 1983's Pyromania that catapulted them to international stardom. With hits like “Photograph” and “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop),” Def Leppard demonstrated the commercial potential of NWOBHM. They continued their success with the multi-platinum album Hysteria, solidifying their place as one of the biggest rock bands in the world. Def Leppard’s ability to fuse heavy metal with pop sensibilities helped pave the way for the glam metal explosion of the mid-1980s.

Saxon

Saxon is another cornerstone of the NWOBHM movement, known for their powerful, anthemic songs and relentless touring schedule. Formed in South Yorkshire, England, in the late 1970s, Saxon quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy live performances and their unwavering dedication to traditional heavy metal. Albums like Wheels of Steel, Strong Arm of the Law, and Denim and Leather are considered classics of the era, showcasing their hard-hitting sound and memorable choruses. Saxon’s influence can be heard in numerous power metal bands that followed, and they have maintained a loyal fanbase throughout their career. Biff Byford’s commanding vocals and the band's driving rhythms continue to resonate with metal fans worldwide.

Other Notable NWOBHM Bands

Motörhead

While Motörhead often defies easy categorization, their raw, aggressive sound and punk-infused energy made them an important part of the NWOBHM scene. Led by the inimitable Lemmy Kilmister, Motörhead's relentless touring and uncompromising attitude earned them a devoted following. Albums like Ace of Spades and Overkill are landmarks of hard rock and heavy metal, known for their speed, intensity, and Lemmy’s gravelly vocals. Motörhead’s influence extends beyond metal, impacting punk, thrash, and other genres.

Diamond Head

Diamond Head is revered for their sophisticated songwriting and intricate guitar work. Their debut album, Lightning to the Nations, is a cult classic, featuring songs that would later be covered by Metallica, including “Am I Evil?” and “The Prince.” Diamond Head’s blend of heavy riffs and progressive elements set them apart from many of their contemporaries, and their influence on the thrash metal scene is significant.

Angel Witch

Angel Witch brought a darker, more mystical sound to the NWOBHM movement. Their self-titled debut album is a gem of British heavy metal, featuring haunting melodies and lyrical themes of the occult. Angel Witch’s atmospheric approach and Tony Iommi-esque guitar riffs have earned them a devoted following among fans of doom and traditional metal.

Tygers of Pan Tang

Tygers of Pan Tang were known for their melodic approach and strong songwriting. Hailing from Whitley Bay, England, the band released several well-received albums in the early 1980s, including Spellbound and Crazy Nights. Their catchy choruses and high-energy performances made them a popular live act, and their influence can be heard in many melodic metal bands.

The Legacy of NWOBHM

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal left an indelible mark on the landscape of heavy metal. It revitalized the genre, giving rise to a new generation of bands who would go on to achieve global success. The DIY ethic and raw energy of the movement inspired countless musicians and helped shape the sound of metal for decades to come. NWOBHM bands demonstrated the importance of connecting with fans on a personal level, often playing smaller venues and interacting directly with their audience. This grassroots approach helped build a strong sense of community within the metal scene, which continues to this day.

Influence on Thrash Metal

The speed and aggression of NWOBHM bands like Motörhead, Iron Maiden, and Diamond Head were major influences on the development of thrash metal in the early 1980s. Bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth all cite NWOBHM as a key influence, and they often covered songs by NWOBHM bands in their early years. The fast tempos, intricate guitar work, and aggressive vocals that define thrash metal can be traced back to the innovations of the NWOBHM movement.

The Rise of Power Metal

The epic themes, soaring vocals, and dual guitar harmonies of bands like Iron Maiden and Saxon also laid the groundwork for the rise of power metal in the late 1980s and 1990s. Bands like Helloween, Blind Guardian, and HammerFall built upon the foundations of NWOBHM, adding elements of speed metal and fantasy to create a sound that is both powerful and melodic. Power metal owes a significant debt to the pioneers of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal.

Continued Relevance

Even today, the impact of NWOBHM can be felt in the music of many contemporary metal bands. The emphasis on strong songwriting, dynamic performances, and a DIY approach continues to resonate with musicians and fans alike. Many NWOBHM bands are still active, touring and recording new music, and their classic albums remain essential listening for anyone interested in the history of heavy metal.

Conclusion

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal was a pivotal moment in the history of music. It was a time of innovation, energy, and raw talent, producing some of the most iconic bands and albums in heavy metal. From the epic grandeur of Iron Maiden to the hard-hitting anthems of Saxon and the polished sound of Def Leppard, NWOBHM offered a diverse range of styles within a common framework of heavy, guitar-driven rock. The legacy of NWOBHM lives on in the music of countless bands and the hearts of metal fans around the world. Whether you’re a longtime metalhead or new to the genre, exploring the sounds of NWOBHM is an essential journey into the roots of heavy metal.