The Evolution of Heavy Metal: Unintentional Pioneers of the 70s
In the world of rock music, the 1970s was an era of giants, an era that laid the foundation for the heavy metal revolution of the 1980s. From the stadium-filling anthems to the experimental sounds, this decade was a breeding ground for what would become a defining genre. Today, we explore the classic rock albums that, unbeknownst to them, paved the way for the metalheads of the 80s.
The Unsung Heroes of Classic Rock
Uriah Heep's Demons and Wizards (1972)
This critically overlooked album showcases the seamless collaboration between David Byron's vocals and Mick Box's guitar riffs. The fantastical lyrics and heavy guitar work set the stage for the epic soundscapes of 80s metal. Little did they know, their drummer, Lee Kerslake, would go on to contribute to Ozzy Osbourne's iconic 80s album, ‘Blizzard of Ozz’.
Blue Öyster Cult: Tyranny and Mutation (1973)
Blue Öyster Cult's molten riffs and catchy hooks were a precursor to the 80s metal sound. With a nuanced lineup, including Eric Bloom and Buck Dharma, this album showcases the band's metal roots, which influenced many bands to come.
Nazareth: Hair of the Dog (1975)
With its powerful rhythms and monster vocals, this album is a crucial link between the 70s and 80s. Guns N' Roses' Axl Rose once credited Nazareth's influence, and the recent passing of Dan McCafferty and Manny Charlton serves as a reminder of this album's importance in the metal evolution.
Heaviness and Speed
Budgie: Never Turn Your Back on a Friend (1973)
Early Budgie albums brought a heaviness comparable to Black Sabbath, but this album took it a step further with prototype speed metal in ‘Breadfan’. Metallica's cover of this song is a testament to its influence, solidifying its place in metal history.
Led Zeppelin: Presence (1976)
While Led Zeppelin's first four albums get all the glory, Presence is often overlooked as a pivotal album for 80s metal. Tracks like ‘Achilles Last Stand’ showcase the band's classical influences, inspiring the ambitious sound of Judas Priest and Iron Maiden.
Glam and Hard Rock
Starz: Self-Titled Album (1976)
A blend of glam and hard rock, Starz's debut album influenced the 80s hair metal scene. Tracks like ‘Night Crawler’ and ‘Detroit Girls’ are gritty yet pop-oriented, and their influence on bands like Mötley Crüe and Poison is undeniable.
Kiss: Kiss (1973)
Kiss may not have been an instant hit, but their debut album and the subsequent ‘Alive!’ success set the standard for melodic hard rock. Their over-the-top stage shows also laid the foundation for the theatrics of 80s metal.
Aerosmith: Rocks (1976)
Aerosmith's early records hinted at their potential, but ‘Rocks’ took it to a heavier level. Tracks like ‘Back in the Saddle’ and ‘Rats in the Cellar’ laid the blueprint for sleaze-rock, influencing bands like Guns N' Roses and Skid Row.
Power and Influence
Rainbow: Rising (1976)
The collaboration between Ronnie James Dio and Richie Blackmore (formerly of Deep Purple) reset the 70s rock scene. Tracks like ‘Stargazer’ and ‘A Light in the Black’ pushed the boundaries, becoming harbingers of 80s power metal. This album is the blueprint for Dio's later classics.
Van Halen: Van Halen (1978)
The 80s metal scene was a melting pot of aggressive riffs and soaring choruses, and Van Halen's debut album was the catalyst. Tracks like ‘Jamie's Cryin'’ and ‘Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love’ set the stage for the 80s metal sound, with bands imitating their style endlessly.
These classic rock albums, with their unique blend of sounds and influences, unintentionally shaped the future of heavy metal. It's a fascinating journey to explore how these artists, without even realizing it, laid the groundwork for a genre that would dominate the 80s and beyond.
