NWOBHM Bands: The Ultimate List Of British Metal!
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) is a movement that revitalized heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Emerging from the United Kingdom, it injected raw energy and intensity into the genre, setting the stage for future metal subgenres. Guys, if you're ready to dive into the heart of British metal history, you've come to the right place! This is the ultimate list of NWOBHM bands that defined a generation. We're talking about the bands that cranked the amps up to eleven and gave us anthems that still resonate today. So, grab your denim jacket, crank up the volume, and let's get started!
What is NWOBHM?
Before we get into the list, let's briefly discuss the significance of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was more than just a musical genre; it was a cultural reset that revitalized heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Saxon spearheaded this movement, injecting raw energy and intensity into a scene that many considered stagnant. This era was characterized by a return to metal's raw, unpolished roots, combining elements of punk rock's DIY ethos with the soaring guitar solos and thunderous rhythms of classic metal. The NWOBHM bands distinguished themselves with their aggressive sound, melodic hooks, and a relentless touring schedule that brought their music to the masses. This movement not only redefined British heavy metal but also paved the way for the global metal scene as we know it today. Its influence can be heard in countless bands that followed, making it a cornerstone of heavy metal history. The NWOBHM sound typically featured powerful guitar riffs, soaring vocals, and a driving rhythm section. Lyrics often explored themes of mythology, fantasy, and working-class life, resonating with a broad audience of young fans seeking an escape from the economic hardships of the time. Beyond the music, the NWOBHM scene was characterized by a strong sense of community. Bands supported each other, often sharing stages and resources, which helped to foster a vibrant and collaborative environment. This camaraderie extended to the fans, who were fiercely loyal and passionate about their favorite bands. This collective enthusiasm created a powerful force that propelled the NWOBHM movement forward, cementing its place in music history.
The Pioneers of NWOBHM
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden is arguably the most successful band to emerge from the NWOBHM movement. With their complex song structures, twin-guitar harmonies, and the theatrical vocals of Bruce Dickinson, they set a new standard for heavy metal. Iron Maiden is undeniably one of the titans of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) and, arguably, the most globally successful band to emerge from the movement. Founded in 1975 by bassist Steve Harris, Iron Maiden quickly rose through the ranks of the London metal scene, captivating audiences with their high-energy performances and distinctive sound. Their self-titled debut album in 1980 marked the arrival of a major force in heavy metal, showcasing their signature blend of intricate musicianship, powerful vocals, and epic storytelling. The addition of vocalist Bruce Dickinson in 1981 further solidified their lineup and ushered in a golden era for the band. Albums like "The Number of the Beast," "Piece of Mind," and "Powerslave" are considered classics of the genre, featuring complex song structures, twin-guitar harmonies, and Dickinson's operatic vocals. Iron Maiden's lyrics often draw inspiration from mythology, literature, and history, adding depth and substance to their music. Their mascot, Eddie, a ghoulish figure who appears on their album covers and stage shows, has become an iconic symbol of the band and heavy metal culture. Iron Maiden's impact on heavy metal is immeasurable. They have sold over 100 million albums worldwide, toured extensively, and influenced countless bands across various subgenres of metal. Their commitment to musical excellence, captivating live performances, and unwavering dedication to their fans have cemented their status as one of the greatest heavy metal bands of all time. They continue to record and tour, maintaining a loyal fanbase that spans generations, proving that their music is timeless and their legacy enduring. For many, Iron Maiden is not just a band; they are a cultural phenomenon that embodies the spirit and energy of heavy metal. Their influence extends beyond music, impacting art, literature, and popular culture. They remain a vital force in the music industry, constantly pushing boundaries and inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their talent, hard work, and the timeless appeal of their music. Iron Maiden's story is one of perseverance, innovation, and unwavering dedication to their craft, making them a true icon of heavy metal.
Def Leppard
Known for their polished production and catchy hooks, Def Leppard brought a pop sensibility to NWOBHM, achieving massive commercial success. Def Leppard stands out as one of the most commercially successful bands to emerge from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. Formed in Sheffield in 1977, the band quickly gained attention for their melodic sound, catchy hooks, and polished production. Unlike some of their NWOBHM contemporaries who favored a raw, aggressive sound, Def Leppard aimed for a more refined and accessible approach, blending hard rock with elements of pop. Their early albums, such as "On Through the Night" and "High 'n' Dry," established them as a rising force in the British metal scene, showcasing their tight musicianship and songwriting prowess. However, it was their third album, "Pyromania" (1983), that catapulted them to international stardom. The album's singles, including "Photograph" and "Rock of Ages," became massive hits, thanks to their infectious melodies, soaring vocals, and state-of-the-art production. "Pyromania" sold millions of copies and helped to define the sound of arena rock in the 1980s. Def Leppard's success continued with their follow-up album, "Hysteria" (1987), which featured even more polished production and catchy songs. The album spawned numerous hit singles, including "Pour Some Sugar on Me," "Love Bites," and "Hysteria," solidifying their status as one of the biggest bands in the world. Despite facing numerous challenges, including the loss of drummer Rick Allen's arm in a car accident, Def Leppard persevered and continued to release successful albums and tour extensively. Their ability to adapt to changing musical trends while staying true to their signature sound has helped them maintain a loyal fanbase for over four decades. Def Leppard's impact on the music industry is undeniable. They have sold over 100 million albums worldwide and have influenced countless bands with their melodic hard rock sound. Their success paved the way for other NWOBHM bands to achieve mainstream recognition and helped to popularize heavy metal music around the world. Def Leppard's story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to their craft. They have overcome adversity, embraced new technologies, and consistently delivered high-quality music that resonates with audiences of all ages. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their talent, hard work, and the timeless appeal of their songs.
Saxon
Saxon embodied the classic NWOBHM sound with their powerful riffs and anthemic choruses, becoming a staple of the British metal scene. Saxon, hailing from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, is a cornerstone of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, embodying the classic sound with their powerful riffs, anthemic choruses, and unwavering commitment to traditional heavy metal. Formed in 1977, Saxon quickly rose to prominence in the burgeoning British metal scene, captivating audiences with their high-energy performances and no-nonsense approach to music. Their self-titled debut album in 1979 established them as a force to be reckoned with, showcasing their raw energy and potential. However, it was their subsequent albums, such as "Wheels of Steel" (1980) and "Strong Arm of the Law" (1980), that cemented their status as NWOBHM legends. These albums featured some of their most iconic songs, including "Wheels of Steel," "747 (Strangers in the Night)," and "Motorcycle Man," which became anthems for a generation of metal fans. Saxon's music is characterized by its driving rhythms, twin-guitar harmonies, and Biff Byford's distinctive vocals. Their lyrics often explore themes of mythology, history, and working-class life, resonating with a broad audience of fans seeking an escape from the economic hardships of the time. Saxon's relentless touring schedule and energetic live shows helped them build a loyal fanbase around the world. They were one of the first NWOBHM bands to break through internationally, paving the way for other British metal bands to achieve global success. Despite facing numerous challenges, including lineup changes and shifts in musical trends, Saxon has remained true to their roots and continued to release high-quality albums and tour extensively. Their commitment to traditional heavy metal has earned them the respect of fans and critics alike. Saxon's impact on heavy metal is undeniable. They have sold millions of albums worldwide and have influenced countless bands with their signature sound. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their talent, hard work, and unwavering dedication to their craft. Saxon's story is one of perseverance, resilience, and a deep love for heavy metal. They have overcome adversity, adapted to changing times, and consistently delivered music that resonates with audiences of all ages. Their legacy as one of the greatest NWOBHM bands is secure, and their music continues to inspire new generations of metal fans around the world.
Other Notable NWOBHM Bands
Diamond Head
Diamond Head is known for their complex song structures and influential riffs, particularly their song "Am I Evil?", which was later covered by Metallica. Diamond Head, formed in 1976 in Stourbridge, England, is a highly influential band that emerged from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. Although they did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of their contemporaries, their impact on heavy metal, particularly thrash metal, is undeniable. Diamond Head's music is characterized by its complex song structures, intricate guitar work, and thought-provoking lyrics. Their early albums, such as "Lightning to the Nations" (1980), are considered classics of the NWOBHM era, showcasing their unique blend of heavy metal, progressive rock, and blues. One of Diamond Head's most famous songs is "Am I Evil?", which was later covered by Metallica and became a staple of their live shows. The song's dark and brooding atmosphere, combined with its powerful riffs and memorable chorus, made it a favorite among metal fans. Diamond Head's influence on Metallica is well-documented, with the thrash metal giants citing them as a major inspiration. Metallica has covered several other Diamond Head songs, including "Helpless," "The Prince," and "It's Electric," further cementing their legacy as one of the most influential bands of the NWOBHM movement. Despite facing numerous challenges, including lineup changes and shifts in musical trends, Diamond Head has continued to release albums and tour sporadically. Their commitment to their craft and their enduring influence on heavy metal have earned them a dedicated fanbase around the world. Diamond Head's story is one of perseverance, resilience, and a deep love for music. They have overcome adversity, adapted to changing times, and consistently delivered high-quality music that resonates with audiences of all ages. Their legacy as one of the most influential bands of the NWOBHM movement is secure, and their music continues to inspire new generations of metal musicians and fans alike. Diamond Head's impact extends beyond their own recordings, as their songs have been covered and sampled by numerous artists across various genres. Their influence can be heard in the music of countless bands, making them a true cornerstone of heavy metal history.
Angel Witch
Angel Witch brought a darker, more occult-themed sound to NWOBHM, influencing many doom metal bands. Angel Witch, formed in London in 1978, is a band that brought a darker, more occult-themed sound to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. While they did not achieve mainstream success, their influence on doom metal and other subgenres of heavy metal is significant. Angel Witch's music is characterized by its haunting melodies, eerie atmosphere, and occult-inspired lyrics. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1980, is considered a classic of the NWOBHM era, showcasing their unique blend of heavy metal, doom metal, and progressive rock. The album's dark and brooding atmosphere, combined with its memorable riffs and Kevin Heybourne's distinctive vocals, made it a favorite among metal fans. Angel Witch's lyrics often explore themes of witchcraft, mythology, and the occult, adding to their mystique and appeal. Their music has been praised for its originality and its ability to create a sense of atmosphere and dread. Angel Witch's influence can be heard in the music of numerous doom metal bands, including Electric Wizard, Cathedral, and Reverend Bizarre. Their dark and atmospheric sound paved the way for the development of doom metal as a distinct subgenre of heavy metal. Despite facing numerous challenges, including lineup changes and periods of inactivity, Angel Witch has continued to release albums and tour sporadically. Their commitment to their craft and their enduring influence on heavy metal have earned them a dedicated fanbase around the world. Angel Witch's story is one of perseverance, resilience, and a deep love for music. They have overcome adversity, adapted to changing times, and consistently delivered high-quality music that resonates with audiences of all ages. Their legacy as one of the most influential bands of the NWOBHM movement is secure, and their music continues to inspire new generations of metal musicians and fans alike. Angel Witch's impact extends beyond their own recordings, as their songs have been covered and sampled by numerous artists across various genres. Their influence can be heard in the music of countless bands, making them a true cornerstone of heavy metal history.
Venom
Venom took the raw energy of NWOBHM to an extreme, laying the groundwork for black metal and extreme metal genres. Venom, formed in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1978, is a band that took the raw energy of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) to an extreme, laying the groundwork for black metal and other extreme metal genres. While they were initially considered part of the NWOBHM movement, their aggressive and blasphemous sound set them apart from their contemporaries. Venom's music is characterized by its raw and chaotic energy, its distorted guitars, and Cronos's guttural vocals. Their lyrics often explore themes of Satanism, the occult, and violence, pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable in heavy metal at the time. Their albums, such as "Welcome to Hell" (1981) and "Black Metal" (1982), are considered classics of the early black metal scene, influencing countless bands with their aggressive sound and provocative imagery. Venom's impact on extreme metal is undeniable. They are considered one of the pioneers of black metal, along with bands like Bathory and Celtic Frost. Their influence can be heard in the music of numerous black metal bands, including Mayhem, Darkthrone, and Emperor. Despite facing criticism for their Satanic imagery and their often-crude musicianship, Venom has remained a highly influential band in the metal world. Their commitment to pushing boundaries and their willingness to challenge conventions have earned them a dedicated fanbase around the world. Venom's story is one of rebellion, innovation, and a deep love for extreme music. They have overcome adversity, adapted to changing times, and consistently delivered music that resonates with audiences who are looking for something darker and more aggressive. Their legacy as one of the most influential bands in the history of extreme metal is secure, and their music continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike. Venom's impact extends beyond their own recordings, as their songs have been covered and sampled by numerous artists across various genres. Their influence can be heard in the music of countless bands, making them a true cornerstone of heavy metal history.
The Legacy of NWOBHM
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal left an indelible mark on the music world. It not only revitalized heavy metal but also paved the way for countless subgenres and bands that followed. The energy, innovation, and DIY spirit of NWOBHM continue to inspire musicians today. The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) left an indelible mark on the music world, revitalizing heavy metal and paving the way for countless subgenres and bands that followed. Emerging from the United Kingdom in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the NWOBHM movement injected raw energy, intensity, and a DIY spirit into a scene that many considered stagnant. Bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, Saxon, Diamond Head, Angel Witch, and Venom spearheaded this movement, each contributing their unique sound and style to the burgeoning metal scene. The NWOBHM bands distinguished themselves with their aggressive sound, melodic hooks, and a relentless touring schedule that brought their music to the masses. They embraced the independent record labels and fanzines that sprung up in support of the movement, fostering a strong sense of community among bands and fans alike. The NWOBHM's impact on heavy metal is undeniable. It not only revitalized the genre but also laid the groundwork for the thrash metal, speed metal, and black metal subgenres that emerged in the 1980s. Many of the bands that rose to prominence in these subgenres, such as Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth, have cited NWOBHM bands as major influences. The NWOBHM also helped to break down barriers for heavy metal bands around the world. Its success demonstrated that heavy metal could be commercially viable and artistically innovative, inspiring bands in other countries to pursue their own visions of metal. Today, the NWOBHM is remembered as a golden age of heavy metal, a time when creativity and innovation flourished. Its legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike, and its influence can be heard in the music of countless bands across various subgenres of metal. The NWOBHM's story is one of passion, innovation, and a deep love for music. It is a testament to the power of community and the enduring appeal of heavy metal. As long as there are bands willing to push boundaries and fans eager to embrace new sounds, the spirit of the NWOBHM will continue to thrive. The NWOBHM's impact extends beyond the music itself, as it also influenced fashion, art, and popular culture. The denim and leather jackets, long hair, and band t-shirts that became synonymous with heavy metal culture can be traced back to the NWOBHM era. The movement also inspired a wave of metal-themed artwork and literature, further solidifying its place in popular culture. The NWOBHM's legacy is secure, and its influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. It is a reminder that heavy metal is more than just music; it is a cultural force that can unite people and inspire creativity.
So there you have it, folks! The New Wave of British Heavy Metal: a genre that not only redefined heavy metal but also gave us some of the most iconic bands in history. Whether you're a die-hard metalhead or just getting into the genre, these bands are essential listening. Crank up the volume and let the NWOBHM revolution take over!