This Means War: The Sunset Years of NWOBHM

In the annals of heavy metal history, the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, or NWOBHM, holds a special place. Emerging in the late 1970s, it brought a fresh energy and vitality to the genre, challenging the established order and inspiring a legion of bands to follow in its wake. However, by the mid-1980s, the NWOBHM had entered its sunset years, with many of its pioneering bands fading from the spotlight and a new generation of metalheads embracing a more extreme and aggressive sound.

The Decline of the NWOBHM

Several factors contributed to the decline of the NWOBHM. One was the rise of MTV, which promoted a more polished and commercialized form of rock music. This shift in taste made it harder for NWOBHM bands, with their often raw and uncompromising sound, to gain mainstream attention.

This Means War: The Sunset Years of NWOBHM

by Martin Popoff

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1321 KB
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Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	162 pages
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Another factor was the emergence of thrash metal, a more extreme and technically proficient form of metal that appealed to a younger, more rebellious audience. The likes of Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth offered a more visceral and intense experience, which drew fans away from the more melodic and traditional NWOBHM bands.

Finally, the NWOBHM scene was plagued by internal divisions and conflicts. Many of the early bands had split up, and there was a lack of unity and cohesion among the remaining members. This made it difficult for the NWOBHM to maintain its momentum and compete with the new wave of metal bands.

The Sunset Years

Despite these challenges, many NWOBHM bands continued to release albums and tour throughout the 1980s. They may not have been achieving the same level of commercial success as they had in their heyday, but they remained committed to their craft and passionate about their music.

One of the most notable bands from this period was Saxon, who continued to release strong albums and tour extensively. Their 1984 LP "Crusader" was a critical and commercial success, and they remained a popular live act throughout the decade.

Another band that enjoyed some success in the sunset years of the NWOBHM was Diamond Head. Their 1980 album "Lightning to the Nations" is considered a classic of the genre, and they continued to release quality music throughout the 1980s.

Other notable bands from this period include:

* Raven * Tygers of Pan Tang * Blitzkrieg * Angel Witch * Atomkraft

Legacy of the NWOBHM

Although the NWOBHM may have faded from the mainstream spotlight, its legacy continues to inspire new generations of metalheads. The genre's raw energy, melodic hooks, and rebellious spirit have left an indelible mark on heavy metal music.

Many of the NWOBHM bands reunited in the 1990s and 2000s, and they continue to release new music and tour to this day. They serve as a reminder of the power and influence of the NWOBHM, and their music continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.

The sunset years of the NWOBHM were a bittersweet period for fans of the genre. Although the movement had lost its commercial momentum, many of its pioneering bands continued to release quality music and perform live. Their dedication and passion ensured that the NWOBHM would never be forgotten, and its legacy continues to influence heavy metal music to this day.

This Means War: The Sunset Years of NWOBHM

by Martin Popoff

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1321 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	162 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE