Changing The Face of Metal

The NWOBHM recharged the heavy metal scene in the late 1970s through the early 80s.This was music made for true fans of heavy metal and didn’t try to gain huge audience appeal. Although it started as an underground movement, it grew into a worldwide phenomenon by the early 80s.

It was a huge change from the blues and Doom sound of bands like Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and Deep Purple. This new sound helped to create the thrash and Extreme metal genres. The songs of this new movement consisted of fast tempos, numerous guitar solos, and very clear vocals.

Numerous bands were in this new wave but never managed to reach the fame of Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Grim Reaper, Def Leppard, Diamond Head and Venom. Iron Maiden is considered by many in the music industry as the poster band of the NWOBHM as a lot of bands have cited their influence on their careers.

As long as metal exists, the NWOBHM will always serve as the biggest and most influential movement of the genre.