Heavy Metal Thunder

It was you, that set the spirit free

Heavy Metal Thunder is nothing more than a compilation of tunes by bands that were breaking the surface back in the days of 1983. I discovered this in a recommended tab somewhere somehow, and ended up finding it on eBay for a measly four bucks (plus shipping). Seems promising, so why not?

Before this was discovered, I'd never listened to Brian Connoly or Heartbreak, and those two make up the poppier tracks on this release, but don't let that turn you away. This adds a flavor of '80s synth and cheesiness that could not be more fitting for a group of metal bands that are on the less aggressive side of the spectrum, adding some fun into the variety. Rage is definitely on the harder side, however not very abrasive, making for another fun discovery. Plus, let's not skip the fact that they can lay down some sick guitar licks, which is very present here.

Of course, there's three Saxon songs, as the title is taken from one of their songs. All three are classic tunes with a pumping overlay to them, yet a toned down sense of accessibility that is perfectly fitting for a Saturday morning ease into the weekend. Besides, can anyone really not dig "Denim And Leather"? Dokken make two appearances here from their earliest works, when their music was easily compared to the likes of Saxon or Accept. Not too many signs of the glam sound they would later adapt, but seeing that both styles are killer, this is quite a treat. Anyone familiar with Demon knows that they too fall on the the border of harder rock and heavy metal. Both of their tracks have a party-like vibe to them, driven by hard guitar riffing, but not so crushing delivery, which, again, is perfect for this.

So what we can really say is that this is a pretty friendly compilation of metal tunes and poppy rock songs from the early era of this style. No signs of anger or extreme heaviness is present, so it's more fitting for a tamer setting, or fans who dig metal without it needing to be fierce. I wouldn't say this is an essential purchase or anything, but if encountered for cheap, it's a neat little piece to own. As far as I'm concerned, it's only available in vinyl form. Happy shopping!