Top NWOBHM Bands: A Guide To British Heavy Metal

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Top NWOBHM Bands: A Guide to British Heavy Metal

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), guys, was like a total explosion of rock and metal that kicked off in the UK in the late 70s and early 80s. It was a reaction against the fading glam rock scene and the first wave of heavy metal bands, bringing in a raw, energetic sound that influenced pretty much everything that came after. If you're even remotely into metal, you've gotta know about these bands. So, let’s dive headfirst into some of the absolute best NWOBHM bands that shaped the genre and continue to inspire headbangers worldwide. Get ready to crank up the volume and discover some iconic sounds!

What is NWOBHM?

Before we dive into the best bands, let’s break down what NWOBHM actually means. The term was coined by Geoff Barton in Sounds magazine in 1979 to describe the surge of new British metal bands. Bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Saxon spearheaded this movement, bringing a fresh, aggressive sound that was faster and more energetic than their predecessors. These bands distinguished themselves with powerful riffs, soaring vocals, and a DIY ethic that resonated with a new generation of metalheads.

The NWOBHM movement was characterized by several key features:

  • Raw Energy and Aggression: NWOBHM bands injected a newfound energy into heavy metal, moving away from the blues-based sounds of earlier bands like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath. The music was faster, louder, and more aggressive, reflecting the socio-economic frustrations of the time.
  • Emphasis on Riffs and Melody: Guitar riffs were front and center, often complex and harmonically rich. Bands like Iron Maiden and Saxon crafted memorable riffs that became anthems for a generation. Vocal melodies were also important, with singers like Bruce Dickinson and Biff Byford possessing powerful, soaring voices.
  • DIY Ethic: Many NWOBHM bands started independently, recording and releasing their music on small, independent labels. This DIY ethic allowed them to maintain creative control and connect directly with their fans.
  • Influence on Later Metal Genres: The NWOBHM laid the groundwork for many subgenres of metal that followed, including thrash metal, speed metal, and power metal. Bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth have cited NWOBHM bands as major influences.

Iron Maiden: The Titans of NWOBHM

When you talk about the best of NWOBHM, you absolutely have to start with Iron Maiden. These guys didn't just define the genre; they became one of the biggest metal bands in the world. Formed in the mid-70s, they hit their stride with the release of their self-titled debut album in 1980. Tracks like "Prowler" and "Running Free" were instant classics, showcasing their signature galloping rhythms, dual guitar harmonies, and Paul Di'Anno's gritty vocals. But it was with the arrival of Bruce Dickinson and "The Number of the Beast" in 1982 that Iron Maiden truly ascended to legendary status. Songs like the title track, "Hallowed Be Thy Name," and "Run to the Hills" became metal anthems, solidifying their place at the top of the NWOBHM pantheon. Their influence on subsequent metal bands is immeasurable, and their energetic live shows continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Iron Maiden's impact extends beyond their music. Their mascot, Eddie, has become one of the most recognizable figures in metal, adorning album covers, t-shirts, and stage sets. The band's complex and often historically themed lyrics set them apart from many of their contemporaries, adding a layer of intellectual depth to their music. Moreover, Iron Maiden's relentless touring and dedication to their fans have earned them a loyal following that spans generations. They have consistently delivered high-quality albums and unforgettable live performances, making them a true force in the world of heavy metal. In summary:

  • Galloping Rhythms and Dual Guitar Harmonies: Iron Maiden's signature sound is built on galloping rhythms, created by Steve Harris's intricate bass lines and Clive Burr's powerful drumming. The dual guitar harmonies, pioneered by Dave Murray and Adrian Smith, add a layer of melodic complexity that is instantly recognizable.
  • Bruce Dickinson's Soaring Vocals: Bruce Dickinson's arrival in 1981 elevated Iron Maiden to new heights. His powerful, operatic vocals perfectly complemented the band's music, and his stage presence added an extra layer of excitement to their live shows.
  • Eddie the Head: Eddie, Iron Maiden's mascot, has become one of the most iconic figures in metal. His image adorns album covers, t-shirts, and stage sets, and he has become synonymous with the band's identity.

Def Leppard: The Melodic Rock Giants

Next up, we've got Def Leppard. While they might have evolved into a more polished, arena-rock sound later in their career, their roots are firmly planted in the NWOBHM scene. Their early albums, like "On Through the Night" (1980) and "High 'n' Dry" (1981), showcased their knack for catchy melodies, powerful riffs, and soaring vocals. Tracks like "Wasted" and "Let It Go" became instant hits, and their polished production set them apart from some of the rawer bands in the scene. Def Leppard's ability to blend hard rock with pop sensibilities helped them achieve massive commercial success, paving the way for other NWOBHM bands to break into the mainstream. Def Leppard's success story is one of perseverance and innovation.

Formed in Sheffield in 1977, the band quickly gained a following in the local scene. Their debut album, "On Through the Night," reached the UK Top 20 and earned them a spot on the bill at the Reading Festival. However, it was with the release of "High 'n' Dry" that Def Leppard began to develop their signature sound. Produced by Mutt Lange, the album featured a polished, radio-friendly sound that set them apart from many of their NWOBHM contemporaries. The band's breakthrough came with the release of "Pyromania" in 1983, which spawned the hit singles "Photograph" and "Rock of Ages." The album sold over 10 million copies in the US, making Def Leppard one of the biggest rock bands in the world. Their success continued throughout the 1980s, with the release of "Hysteria" in 1987, which featured the hit singles "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Love Bites." Def Leppard's ability to blend hard rock with pop sensibilities helped them achieve massive commercial success and solidify their place in rock history. Key aspects of Def Leppard include:

  • Catchy Melodies and Powerful Riffs: Def Leppard's music is characterized by catchy melodies, powerful riffs, and soaring vocals. The band's ability to blend hard rock with pop sensibilities helped them achieve massive commercial success.
  • Polished Production: Def Leppard's albums are known for their polished production, thanks in large part to their collaboration with producer Mutt Lange. The band's attention to detail in the studio helped them create a sound that was both powerful and radio-friendly.
  • Commercial Success: Def Leppard is one of the most commercially successful bands to emerge from the NWOBHM scene. Their albums have sold millions of copies worldwide, and they have consistently filled arenas and stadiums with their energetic live performances.

Saxon: The Undisputed Kings

No discussion of NWOBHM would be complete without mentioning Saxon. These guys are true legends of the genre, known for their blistering riffs, Biff Byford's powerful vocals, and their unrelenting commitment to classic heavy metal. Albums like "Wheels of Steel" (1980) and "Strong Arm of the Law" (1980) are essential listening, packed with anthems like "Wheels of Steel," "747 (Strangers in the Night)," and "Heavy Metal Thunder." Saxon's consistency and dedication to their craft have earned them a loyal following, and they continue to deliver high-energy performances to this day. Their influence on subsequent metal bands is undeniable, and their place in the NWOBHM pantheon is secure. Saxon's origins can be traced back to South Yorkshire, England, where the band was formed in 1977. Originally known as Son of a Bitch, the band changed its name to Saxon in 1978 and quickly began making a name for themselves in the burgeoning NWOBHM scene.

Saxon's early albums, including "Saxon" (1979) and "Wheels of Steel" (1980), established the band as a major force in the genre. "Wheels of Steel" reached the UK Top 5 and spawned several hit singles, including the title track and "747 (Strangers in the Night)." The album's success helped Saxon gain a wider audience and secure a spot on major tours alongside bands like Motörhead and Iron Maiden. Throughout the 1980s, Saxon continued to release a string of successful albums, including "Strong Arm of the Law" (1980), "Denim and Leather" (1981), and "Power & the Glory" (1983). These albums solidified Saxon's reputation as one of the most consistent and reliable bands in the NWOBHM scene. In the 1990s, Saxon faced a period of decline as the popularity of traditional heavy metal waned. However, the band persevered and continued to release albums and tour. In the 2000s, Saxon experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the renewed interest in the NWOBHM scene. The band has continued to release successful albums and tour extensively, earning a new generation of fans along the way. The trademarks of Saxon are:

  • Blistering Riffs and Powerful Vocals: Saxon's music is characterized by blistering riffs, courtesy of guitarists Graham Oliver and Paul Quinn, and Biff Byford's powerful, commanding vocals. The band's ability to blend speed, aggression, and melody has made them a favorite among metal fans.
  • Consistent Songwriting: Saxon has consistently delivered high-quality albums throughout their career, showcasing their songwriting prowess and dedication to their craft. The band's ability to write catchy, memorable anthems has earned them a loyal following.
  • Unrelenting Live Performances: Saxon is known for their high-energy live performances, which have earned them a reputation as one of the best live bands in the world. The band's dedication to their fans and their commitment to delivering a great show have made them a favorite among metalheads.

Other NWOBHM Bands to Check Out

Okay, so we've covered the big three, but the NWOBHM scene was so much more than just Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Saxon. Here are a few other bands that are totally worth checking out:

  • Diamond Head: These guys are hugely influential, especially on bands like Metallica. Their album "Lightning to the Nations" is a must-listen.
  • Angel Witch: With their dark, occult-themed lyrics and haunting melodies, Angel Witch brought a unique flavor to the NWOBHM scene. Their self-titled debut album is a stone-cold classic.
  • Raven: Known for their high-energy performances and raw, aggressive sound, Raven were one of the most exciting live bands in the NWOBHM scene.
  • Girlschool: An all-female band that could shred with the best of them, Girlschool brought a much-needed dose of girl power to the NWOBHM scene.
  • Tygers of Pan Tang: With their catchy melodies and twin-guitar harmonies, Tygers of Pan Tang were one of the more melodic bands in the NWOBHM scene.

Why NWOBHM Still Matters

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal wasn't just a flash in the pan; it was a cultural phenomenon that changed the landscape of rock and metal forever. It gave a voice to a new generation of musicians and fans, and its influence can still be heard in metal bands today. Whether you're a longtime metalhead or just getting into the genre, exploring the NWOBHM scene is essential for understanding the roots of modern heavy metal.

So, crank up the volume, raise your horns, and get ready to discover the best of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal! You won't be disappointed, guys! Rock on!