Thrash/Speed Metal

The intensity and speed of Metal bands such as Motorhead and the emergence of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal inspired musicians to take the sound even further. Provoked by the energy, attitude and politics of Punk, a new breed of musicians created something louder and faster. Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Exodus created Thrash in California, combined the guitar style of Punk with the blasting beats and fierce growl of Metal. They were incredible technicians who could play intricate and elaborate song structures at a tremendous speed. Like punks, however, they applied their complex and developed musicianship in a loose and sometimes deliberately sloppy manner. Thrash lyrics share the left-wing politics of Hardcore, and usually center on violence and brutality. Often it is unclear whether the band is for, against or just fascinated by these subjects.