Rating:
Genre:
Rock
Release Date: 06/11/2002
Run Time: 40:50
The
New Wave of British Heavy Metal stripped away all the indulgence and meandering that encrusted the pure core of the
heavy metal genre. The massively influential
Metal for Muthas captures the burgeoning movement on two editions, and both rip mightily. Along with its companion, this remastered relic is essential for students of
metal shop. Lovingly preserved, the original liner notes demonstrate the genius of underground media, and a recent essay acknowledges the relevance of this compilation and its sequel sampler 20 years later, as
heavy metal continually thrives more than any other hybrid strain of the '70s. As for the tunes,
"Sanctuary" (now a major
metal label) from
Iron Maiden's debut could kick-start any record. Side two dishes out
"Wrathchild," another pre-
Dickinson Maiden burner, and
Bruce Bruce also haunts his pre-
Maiden project,
Samson, working the slow-fast hangover lament
"Tomorrow or Yesterday." Sledgehammer's eponymous barnstormer and the Swedish
E.F. Band (named for the founders) keep the standard high.
Toad the Wet Sprocket (not the same band -- what's up with that?) slides into
blues mode (thought the
NWOBHM wiped out this brand o' boredom, but it's not a bad number, and variety adds depth).
Praying Mantis spews a bit o'
prog into the brew with the fantastical
"Captured City" (where have all the good songs gone?). Perennial supporters
Nutz query who among us needs
"Bootliggers." Angelwitch has achieved
death legend status and
Ethel the Frog deserves to be preserved simply because of that
Monty Python moniker. These bands toured with
Budgie,
April Wine,
Def Leppard, and various others but, beyond the obvious exceptions, rarely broke from a regional following. Since many of the adjoining records lack consistent quality, these short shots are the best ways to knock back some great lost
rock. Again, this disc exemplifies reissuing done right, as
Metal for Muthas belongs in any head-banging collection.
~Doug Stone, All Music Guide
Cart 0 items
Listen
