The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) is back with a bang! 🌊🤘
LORDS OF NWOBHM, a supergroup of legendary proportions, has kicked off 2026 with a thunderous performance in Tokyo, leaving fans in awe and the metal world buzzing. This epic ensemble features members from iconic bands like PRAYING MANTIS, DIAMOND HEAD, RAVEN, TANK, and PERSIAN RISK, among others.
But here's where it gets exciting: their setlists are a time capsule of NWOBHM anthems! From SAMSON's 'Riding With The Angels' to IRON MAIDEN's 'Phantom Of The Opera', the band pays homage to the genre's pioneers. And this is just the beginning...
The NWOBHM movement, spanning from 1979 to 1982, has left an indelible mark on rock music. 🌍🤘 It's a genre that has gained worldwide recognition and respect, and LORDS OF NWOBHM is here to celebrate its rich history. The supergroup's lineup includes:
- Tino Troy (PRAYING MANTIS) on guitar
- John Gallagher (RAVEN) on bass
- Karl Wilcox (DIAMOND HEAD) on drums
- Cliff Evans (TANK) on guitar
- Carl Sentance (PERSIAN RISK) on vocals
And the Tokyo setlist? A metalhead's dream come true! 🎸🔥
- SAMSON - "Riding With The Angels"
- PRAYING MANTIS - "Children Of The Earth", "Lovers To The Grave"
- DIAMOND HEAD - "Am I Evil?", "In The Heat Of The Night"
- TYGERS OF PAN TANG - "Hellbound"
- IRON MAIDEN - "Phantom Of The Opera"
- RAVEN - "Break The Chain", "Don't Need Your Money"
- SAXON - "Princess Of The Night"
- TANK - "Shellshock", "(He Fell In Love With A) Stormtrooper"
- DEF LEPPARD - "Getcha Rocks Off"
- PERSIAN RISK - "Women And Rock", "Riding High"
- ANGEL WITCH - "Angel Witch"
Tino Troy reflects on the impact of NWOBHM, saying it's a pleasure to perform these songs and relive the era's magic. And Cliff Evans adds a bold statement: this supergroup knows how to play these classics right, as they've been part of the movement's DNA from the start.
And now, a twist! Lars Ulrich of METALLICA reveals his deep connection to NWOBHM. 🦅🤘 In an interview, he confesses that the genre is a significant reason for METALLICA's existence and its enduring influence. But here's the controversial part: while some connect METALLICA's recent single 'Lux Æterna' to NWOBHM, Lars clarifies that it wasn't their initial intention. Yet, he proudly acknowledges the genre's impact on their music.
Lars Ulrich, a self-proclaimed NWOBHM fanatic, has a fascinating history with the genre. He spent the early '80s hunting down rare recordings of his favorite NWOBHM bands. And in 1992, he collaborated on a compilation, "'79 Revisited: New Wave Of British Heavy Metal", showcasing his dedication.
METALLICA's first concert in 1982 featured a whopping seven NWOBHM covers, including four DIAMOND HEAD tracks. And Lars credits NWOBHM for inspiring him to start a band, emphasizing its down-to-earth nature compared to the larger-than-life image of '70s rock bands.
So, what's your take on the NWOBHM revival? Are you a fan of this genre's raw power and influence? Let's discuss in the comments! 🤘🤩
