Top NWOBHM Bands: The Best Of British Heavy Metal

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), guys, was like a total explosion of rock awesomeness in the late 70s and early 80s. It was a reaction against the softening sounds of some established rock acts and the rise of punk. Suddenly, young, hungry bands all over the UK were cranking up the amps, writing killer riffs, and belting out vocals that could shatter glass. This movement revitalized heavy metal and paved the way for so many subgenres we love today. So, let’s dive into some of the best bands that came out of this incredible era. We're talking about groups that didn't just play music; they defined a generation.

Iron Maiden: The Pioneers

When you talk about NWOBHM, you absolutely have to start with Iron Maiden. These guys weren't just part of the movement; they became its undisputed champions. Formed in the mid-70s, they honed their sound in the pubs and clubs of East London, building a die-hard fanbase before they even had a record deal. What set Iron Maiden apart was their incredible musicianship, their knack for writing epic, galloping songs, and their unforgettable imagery, thanks to the iconic Eddie the Head mascot.

Their self-titled debut album in 1980 was a shot of pure adrenaline to the metal scene. Tracks like "Prowler" and "Running Free" were raw, energetic, and undeniably catchy. But it was with subsequent albums like "Killers" and "The Number of the Beast" that Iron Maiden truly cemented their place in metal history. These albums were packed with complex arrangements, soaring vocals from Bruce Dickinson (who joined in 1981), and lyrics that drew from mythology, literature, and history. Songs like "Hallowed Be Thy Name," "The Trooper," and "Run to the Hills" became instant classics and are still staples of their live shows today.

Iron Maiden's impact extends far beyond their music. They proved that British heavy metal could compete with the best that America had to offer, and they inspired countless bands to pick up instruments and follow their dreams. Their DIY ethic, their relentless touring schedule, and their unwavering commitment to their fans set a new standard for heavy metal bands. They continue to tour and release new music to this day, remaining one of the most influential and beloved metal bands of all time.

Def Leppard: The Chart-Toppers

Def Leppard took the energy of NWOBHM and blended it with a pop sensibility that made them global superstars. Hailing from Sheffield, England, these guys were just teenagers when they formed in the late 70s, but they had a clear vision of what they wanted to achieve: to conquer the world with their brand of melodic hard rock. Def Leppard's early sound was definitely rooted in NWOBHM, with raw energy and plenty of guitar riffs, but they quickly evolved into something much bigger.

Their breakthrough came with the album "Pyromania" in 1983. Produced by Mutt Lange, the album was a masterpiece of polished production, catchy hooks, and anthemic choruses. Songs like "Photograph," "Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)," and "Foolin'" became massive hits, propelling Def Leppard to the top of the charts on both sides of the Atlantic. "Hysteria," released in 1987, was even more successful, spawning seven hit singles and selling millions of copies worldwide.

What made Def Leppard so successful? It was their ability to craft songs that were both heavy and accessible, appealing to a wide audience without sacrificing their rock credibility. They were also masters of marketing and promotion, and their music videos were a staple of MTV in its early days. Despite facing personal tragedies, including the loss of guitarist Steve Clark, Def Leppard persevered and continued to release hit albums and tour the world. They remain one of the biggest-selling rock bands of all time and a testament to the power of the NWOBHM movement.

Saxon: The Underrated Titans

While Iron Maiden and Def Leppard achieved massive mainstream success, Saxon remained true to their NWOBHM roots, delivering a consistent stream of hard-hitting albums and electrifying live performances. Formed in South Yorkshire, England, in the late 70s, Saxon quickly gained a reputation as one of the most powerful and reliable bands in the scene. Their music was characterized by its driving rhythms, twin-guitar harmonies, and Biff Byford's commanding vocals.

Albums like "Wheels of Steel" (1980), "Strong Arm of the Law" (1980), and "Denim and Leather" (1981) are considered classics of the NWOBHM era. These albums were packed with anthems like the title tracks, "Motorcycle Man," and "Princess of the Night," which became staples of Saxon's live shows. Saxon never compromised their sound or their image, and they remained fiercely independent throughout their career. They built a loyal following around the world through relentless touring and a commitment to delivering the goods on stage.

Although they may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their peers, Saxon's influence on heavy metal is undeniable. They helped to define the sound and the spirit of NWOBHM, and they paved the way for countless bands to follow. They continue to release new music and tour the world, proving that the spirit of NWOBHM is still alive and well.

Diamond Head: The Influential Innovators

Diamond Head might not be as widely known as some of the other bands on this list, but their influence on heavy metal is undeniable, especially to the thrash metal genre. Formed in Stourbridge, England, in the late 70s, Diamond Head blended the raw energy of NWOBHM with complex song structures and intricate guitar work, creating a sound that was both heavy and progressive. Their debut album, "Lightning to the Nations" (1980), is considered a classic of the era and is a major influence on bands like Metallica.

Metallica famously covered several Diamond Head songs early in their career, including "Am I Evil?," "The Prince," and "Helpless." These covers introduced Diamond Head's music to a whole new generation of metal fans and helped to cement their legacy as one of the most important bands of the NWOBHM era. Diamond Head's music was characterized by its complex arrangements, its dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, and its Brian Tatler's innovative guitar playing.

Despite facing numerous setbacks and lineup changes throughout their career, Diamond Head has continued to release new music and tour the world. They remain a cult favorite among metal fans and a testament to the enduring power of the NWOBHM movement. Their influence can be heard in the music of countless bands, and their legacy as innovators and pioneers is secure.

Angel Witch: The Cult Heroes

Rounding out our list is Angel Witch, a band that perfectly embodies the dark and mystical side of NWOBHM. Formed in London in the late 70s, Angel Witch created a sound that was both heavy and atmospheric, blending elements of doom metal, progressive rock, and occult rock. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1980, is considered a classic of the genre and is a major influence on bands like Candlemass and Cathedral.

Angel Witch's music was characterized by its slow, grinding riffs, its Paul Gillion's haunting vocals, and its dark, occult-themed lyrics. Songs like "Angel Witch," "Sweet Danger," and "Atlantis" are timeless classics that continue to resonate with metal fans around the world. Angel Witch never achieved mainstream success, but they built a dedicated cult following through their intense live performances and their commitment to their unique vision.

Despite facing numerous lineup changes and periods of inactivity, Angel Witch has continued to release new music and tour the world. They remain one of the most respected and influential bands of the NWOBHM era, and their music continues to inspire new generations of metal fans. Their dark, mystical sound and their unwavering commitment to their artistic vision make them true cult heroes of heavy metal.

The NWOBHM Legacy

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal wasn't just a musical movement; it was a cultural phenomenon. It represented a resurgence of British rock music, a rejection of the mainstream, and a celebration of the power of heavy metal. The bands that emerged from this era went on to shape the sound of metal for decades to come, and their influence can still be heard in the music of countless bands today. From the arena-rock anthems of Def Leppard to the complex arrangements of Iron Maiden and the cult heroics of Angel Witch, the NWOBHM was a diverse and influential movement that left an indelible mark on the history of rock music. So crank up the volume, raise your fists, and celebrate the best of British heavy metal!