Best New Wave Of British Heavy Metal Albums
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was a movement that revitalized heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Emerging from the United Kingdom, this genre injected raw energy, youthful rebellion, and a do-it-yourself ethos into a scene that had become somewhat stagnant. NWOBHM bands stripped away the excessive artifice of some earlier metal acts, delivering music that was fast, aggressive, and undeniably British. This article explores some of the best albums that defined this iconic era, showcasing the bands that spearheaded the movement and the records that continue to inspire metalheads today. From anthemic choruses to blistering guitar solos, these albums represent the pinnacle of the NWOBHM sound.
Iron Maiden - Iron Maiden (1980)
Iron Maiden's self-titled debut is more than just an album; it's a manifesto. Released in 1980, it captured the raw energy and ambition of a band poised for global domination. The album's production is deliberately raw, highlighting the band's aggressive sound. Tracks like "Prowler" and "Running Free" are quintessential NWOBHM anthems, characterized by Steve Harris's galloping basslines and Paul Di'Anno's gritty vocals. "Iron Maiden," the album's title track, remains a live staple and a testament to the band's enduring appeal. The album showcased the band's unique blend of punk energy and progressive ambition, setting them apart from their contemporaries. Di'Anno's streetwise vocals gave the band a distinct edge, while Harris's complex basslines provided a foundation for the band's signature sound. The album's artwork, featuring Eddie, the band's iconic mascot, further solidified Iron Maiden's identity. This debut album not only launched Iron Maiden's career but also helped to define the sound and aesthetic of the entire NWOBHM movement.
Def Leppard - On Through the Night (1980)
Def Leppard's On Through the Night marked the Sheffield band's arrival onto the global stage. While later albums would see them embrace a more polished, pop-rock sound, their debut showcased a rawer, more aggressive energy that firmly planted them within the NWOBHM scene. The album features tracks like "Rock Brigade" and "Wasted," which became instant classics, celebrated for their high-energy riffs and sing-along choruses. The production, handled by Tom Allom (known for his work with Judas Priest), gave the album a professional sheen without sacrificing its raw intensity. Joe Elliott's soaring vocals and the band's twin-guitar attack created a sound that was both powerful and melodic, appealing to a broad audience while staying true to their metal roots. Although the band would later evolve their sound, On Through the Night remains a crucial document of Def Leppard's early days and a significant contribution to the NWOBHM movement, demonstrating their potential for stadium-filling anthems.
Diamond Head - Lightning to the Nations (1980)
Diamond Head's Lightning to the Nations, often referred to as The White Album due to its initially unadorned cover, is a cornerstone of the NWOBHM movement. This album, recorded on a shoestring budget, is a testament to the band's raw talent and songwriting prowess. Tracks like "Am I Evil?" and "The Prince" have become legendary, covered by Metallica and other metal giants, cementing their status as classics. The album's strength lies in its complex arrangements, powerful riffs, and Brian Tatler's virtuosic guitar playing. Sean Harris's vocals are distinctive and powerful, adding to the band's unique sound. The lo-fi production only enhances the album's raw energy, giving it a sense of urgency and authenticity. Despite its humble origins, Lightning to the Nations has had a profound impact on the development of heavy metal, influencing countless bands and solidifying Diamond Head's place in metal history. Its enduring appeal lies in its combination of technical skill, songwriting brilliance, and sheer passion.
Saxon - Wheels of Steel (1980)
Saxon's Wheels of Steel is a quintessential NWOBHM album, capturing the energy and excitement of the era. Released in 1980, it propelled Saxon to the forefront of the movement with its anthemic choruses and powerful riffs. The title track, "Wheels of Steel," became an instant classic, celebrated for its driving rhythm and sing-along chorus. Other highlights include "Motorcycle Man" and "747 (Strangers in the Night)," which showcase the band's ability to blend melody and aggression. Biff Byford's commanding vocals are a defining feature of the band's sound, conveying a sense of power and authority. The album's production is clean and punchy, allowing the band's energy to shine through. Wheels of Steel not only solidified Saxon's status as one of the leading bands of the NWOBHM movement but also helped to define the sound of British heavy metal for years to come. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its influence on subsequent generations of metal bands.
Angel Witch - Angel Witch (1980)
Angel Witch's self-titled debut is a cult classic of the NWOBHM era, showcasing the band's unique blend of dark, melodic, and occult-tinged metal. Released in 1980, the album is characterized by its haunting atmosphere, memorable riffs, and Kevin Heybourne's distinctive vocals and guitar playing. The title track, "Angel Witch," is a standout, with its eerie intro, soaring chorus, and intricate guitar work. Other highlights include "Atlantis" and "White Witch," which further demonstrate the band's ability to create atmospheric and captivating metal. Heybourne's guitar playing is a defining feature of the band's sound, blending melody and aggression in a way that is both distinctive and influential. The album's lo-fi production adds to its mystique, giving it a raw and authentic feel. Angel Witch may not have achieved the commercial success of some of their contemporaries, but it remains a highly influential and respected album within the NWOBHM community, celebrated for its originality and its enduring appeal.
Venom - Welcome to Hell (1981)
Venom's Welcome to Hell is a landmark album in the history of extreme metal, pushing the boundaries of aggression and darkness. Released in 1981, it is considered one of the first black metal albums, laying the foundation for the genre's development. The album is characterized by its raw, lo-fi production, its Satanic themes, and its aggressive, over-the-top performances. Tracks like "Witching Hour" and "In League with Satan" are classics of the genre, celebrated for their dark atmosphere and their unrelenting intensity. Cronos's vocals are harsh and menacing, perfectly complementing the band's abrasive sound. Welcome to Hell may not be for the faint of heart, but it remains a highly influential and important album, paving the way for countless extreme metal bands to come. Its impact on the development of black metal is undeniable, and its legacy continues to inspire and provoke. While its production values are primitive, its impact on the extreme metal landscape is undeniable.
Raven - Rock Until You Drop (1981)
Raven's Rock Until You Drop is a high-energy, no-frills album that epitomizes the band's relentless approach to metal. Released in 1981, it captures the band's raw energy and enthusiasm, showcasing their unique blend of speed, aggression, and humor. Tracks like "Hard Ride" and "Hell Patrol" are classics of the genre, celebrated for their blistering tempos and their catchy choruses. The Gallagher brothers' energetic performances are a defining feature of the band's sound, with John Gallagher's high-pitched vocals and Mark Gallagher's frantic guitar playing creating a sense of controlled chaos. The album's production is raw and immediate, capturing the band's live energy. Rock Until You Drop is a testament to Raven's dedication to their craft and their unwavering commitment to delivering high-octane metal. Its enduring appeal lies in its infectious energy and its unapologetic enthusiasm.
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal left an indelible mark on the landscape of heavy metal. The albums discussed here represent just a small fraction of the incredible music that emerged from this vibrant scene. These albums continue to inspire and influence musicians and fans around the world, ensuring that the spirit of the NWOBHM lives on. From the raw energy of Iron Maiden's debut to the dark intensity of Venom's Welcome to Hell, these albums showcase the diversity and creativity of the movement. Whether you're a longtime metalhead or a newcomer to the genre, these albums are essential listening for anyone interested in the history of heavy metal.