First Wave Speed Metal vs. Second Wave Speed Metal

Attribute	First Wave Speed Metal	Second Wave Speed Metal
Origin	United States	Europe
Time Period	Late 1970s to early 1980s	Mid to late 1980s
Key Bands	Exciter, Anvil, Riot	Helloween, Blind Guardian, Running Wild
Sound	Raw, aggressive, punk-influenced	More polished, melodic, power metal influences
Influence	Paved the way for thrash metal	Transitioned into power metal

Origins

First Wave Speed Metal emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a subgenre of heavy metal. Bands like Motorhead, Venom, and Exciter are considered pioneers of this style. Their music was characterized by fast tempos, aggressive riffs, and raw production. Second Wave Speed Metal, on the other hand, developed in the mid-1980s with bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth leading the way. These bands incorporated more complex song structures, technical proficiency, and a cleaner production quality.

Instrumentation

In terms of instrumentation, First Wave Speed Metal bands typically used simpler setups with a focus on raw energy and aggression. Guitars were often distorted with fast palm-muted riffs, while drums maintained a relentless pace with double bass pedal work. Second Wave Speed Metal bands, on the other hand, introduced more intricate guitar solos, complex drum patterns, and a greater emphasis on musicianship. Bass guitar also played a more prominent role in the mix, providing a solid foundation for the music.

Vocals

First Wave Speed Metal vocalists often employed a rough, gritty style with aggressive delivery that complemented the intensity of the music. Lyrics focused on themes of rebellion, violence, and anti-establishment sentiments. In contrast, Second Wave Speed Metal vocalists showcased a wider range of vocal techniques, from melodic singing to aggressive shouting. Lyrically, bands in this wave explored more diverse topics, including social issues, personal struggles, and philosophical themes.

Songwriting

First Wave Speed Metal songs were typically shorter in length, with a focus on speed and intensity. The structures were often straightforward, with repetitive riffs and choruses that were easy to headbang along to. Second Wave Speed Metal bands introduced more complex songwriting techniques, incorporating elements of progressive rock and thrash metal. This led to longer songs with dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, showcasing the musicians' technical abilities and creativity.

Influence

First Wave Speed Metal had a significant impact on the development of thrash metal and extreme metal genres. Bands like Metallica and Slayer cited early speed metal bands as major influences on their sound and style. Second Wave Speed Metal, on the other hand, pushed the boundaries of metal music even further, paving the way for subgenres like progressive metal, groove metal, and even alternative metal. The technical proficiency and musical innovation of bands in this wave continue to inspire generations of metal musicians.