Beyond ACDC and Judas Priest, the 1980s birthed a wealth of guitar-driven fire, including Van Halen, Dio-era Sabbath and the rise of hair metal. Here are six criminally overlooked bands—spanning NWOBHM to melodic hard rock—plus the essential tracks that prove they still rip today.
1. White Spirit
White Spirit may be known as the band where Janick Jers began his career, but when I saw them as support to Gillan at Middlesbrough Town Hall in 1980, they displayed an uncanny ability for fiery rock with a bit of prog and just happened to have a flamboyant guitar player. Their sole album (before Janick went first to join Gillan and then Maiden) was self-titled and, apart from the slightly overblown ‘Fool For The Gods’ held some great guitar/keyboard-led rock. Try ‘High Upon High’ for a hint at what could have been for this young Hartlepudlian band.
2. Handsome Beasts
Handsome Beasts are still going, however, back in 1981 when they released their debut Beastiality, they were classed as NWOBHM. This is only partially true though as they were more of an extension of 70s hard rock than pure new wave. The album is noted for its execrable cover (a very large man and very large pig in a pen) and some decidedly iffy lyrics by today’s politically correct standards. Take the track ‘Sweeties’ which is a brilliant, raw rock record that, if you listen closely is not condoning but warning of the man in the dirty raincoat carrying a bag of sweeties; either way, an album of damn good rock.
3. Red Rider
Red Rider were a Canadian band that should have enjoyed way more success than they did. They only appeared on my radar courtesy of the great Tommy Vance whose Rock Show on Radio 1 was the only real place to hear new music in those pre-Internet days. Their 1981 album, As Far As Siam was pure mature rock. Leadoff track ‘Lunatic Fringe’ was Tommy’s choice and remains my favourite to this day, although the country skiffle of ‘Thru The Curtain’ is still irresistible.
4. Picture
Picture were and indeed still are a Dutch band that promised much with their European heavy rock that, particularly on their third album from ‘82, Diamond Dreamer, hinted at a sort of refined NWOBHM. They toured with AC/DC but never quite hit the big time. That album and its title track, along with the rather tasty ‘Nighthunter’ are well worth seeking out.
5. Mammoth
Mammoth are another band that failed to hit the big time even with the inimitable John McCoy on bass and the dulcet tones of Nicky Moore. This album is high-quality melodic rock with a blueish tinge, although the track that played to the band name and girth of all the members, ‘Fatman’ is heavier and has a Bernie Torme guitar solo to boot.
6. Kingdom Come
Kingdom Come reached our ears in 1988 with their self-titled debut and they certainly generated a bit of controversy as they were accused of being a Led Zeppelin clone. Does that story ring any bells from recent times? This band (nothing to do with Arthur Brown) did indeed have some similarities, mainly the voice and phrasing of vocalist Lenny Wolf. However, a closer listen to the album reveals a band with very much their own identity and sound that renders persecution unjustified. Listen to the rousing ‘Get It On’ or the sublime ‘Living Out Of Touch’ to hear the evidence for yourself.
As always, there are many more I could have included (1,249 according to my iTunes) and it was difficult to choose just six. I hope these bring new artists to your playlists and you enjoy the little-heard side of an interesting decade.
FAQs
What does NWOBHM stand for?
NWOBHM means “New Wave of British Heavy Metal,” a late-70s/early-80s movement that rejuvenated metal with faster riffs and DIY energy.
Where can I stream these albums?
All six records are on major platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music). Physical reissues pop up on eBay and Discogs for collectors.
