The Ultimate Metal Anthem: A Symphony of Subjectivity
What makes a song the ultimate heavy metal anthem? Is it the thunderous riffs, the screaming vocals, or the raw, unfiltered emotion that resonates with fans across generations? Kerrang! recently posed this question to a diverse group of artists at the Download Festival, and the answers are as varied as the genre itself. But beyond the surface-level choices, this exercise reveals something deeper about the nature of metal, its evolution, and the personal connections we forge with its anthems.
The Classics Never Die
One thing that immediately stands out is the recurring presence of Black Sabbath and Metallica in the artists’ choices. Lzzy Hale’s pick of “Heaven and Hell” and Spencer Charnas’s selection of “Master of Puppets” aren’t just nods to the past—they’re testaments to the enduring power of these bands. Personally, I think what makes these tracks timeless is their ability to capture the essence of rebellion and existential angst. Black Sabbath’s “Heaven and Hell” isn’t just a song; it’s a manifesto for the genre, blending darkness with hope in a way that still feels revolutionary.
What many people don’t realize is that these classics aren’t just revered for their musicality—they’re cultural touchstones. They’ve shaped the DNA of metal, influencing countless bands and fans alike. When artists like Lzzy Hale choose these tracks, they’re not just paying homage; they’re acknowledging the foundation upon which their own careers are built.
The Modern Contenders
On the flip side, selections like Becca Bottomley’s “Psychosocial” by Slipknot and Harmony Cavelle’s “heavy metal” by Bring Me The Horizon highlight the genre’s evolution. These aren’t just modern tracks; they’re statements about where metal is headed. “Psychosocial”, with its chaotic energy and visceral lyrics, feels like a natural successor to the anthems of the past. It’s a reminder that metal isn’t static—it’s a living, breathing entity that adapts to the times.
From my perspective, what makes these modern tracks stand out is their ability to resonate with a new generation while still honoring the genre’s roots. Bring Me The Horizon’s “heavy metal” might not sound like traditional metal, but its raw intensity and unapologetic attitude are undeniably metal in spirit. This raises a deeper question: does a metal anthem need to sound like the classics to be considered ‘ultimate’? Or is it the emotion and impact that truly matter?
The Outliers and the Unexpected
Then there are the choices that defy expectations. RØRY’s pick of “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses and Jayant Bhadula’s selection of “Eyeless” by Slipknot are fascinating because they blur the lines between metal and adjacent genres. Guns N’ Roses, while not strictly metal, brought a level of aggression and attitude that influenced countless metal bands. Slipknot, meanwhile, pushed the boundaries of what metal could be with their experimental sound and theatrical presence.
A detail that I find especially interesting is Matt Heafy’s cheeky choice of Trivium’s own “Pull Harder on the Strings of Your Martyr”. On the surface, it might seem like a humblebrag, but it’s also a bold statement about self-belief and the impact of one’s own work. If you take a step back and think about it, isn’t that what metal is all about? Unapologetic self-expression, even if it means challenging the status quo.
The Subjectivity of ‘Ultimate’
What this poll really suggests is that the concept of the ‘ultimate’ metal anthem is deeply personal. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and that’s what makes the genre so rich. Metal is a tapestry woven from countless threads—each song, each band, each fan contributing to its ever-evolving story.
In my opinion, the beauty of this exercise lies in its subjectivity. It’s not about crowning a single winner but celebrating the diversity and depth of the genre. Whether it’s the raw power of Pantera’s “Walk” or the technical brilliance of Meshuggah’s “Bleed”, each choice reflects a unique perspective on what makes metal great.
The Future of Metal Anthems
As I reflect on these choices, I can’t help but wonder: what will the next generation of metal anthems look like? Will they be rooted in tradition, or will they push the boundaries even further? One thing is certain—metal will continue to evolve, and its anthems will remain a reflection of the times, the struggles, and the triumphs of those who create and consume it.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the role of artists in shaping the genre’s future. When bands like Trivium and Bring Me The Horizon dare to experiment, they’re not just creating music—they’re redefining what it means to be metal. And in doing so, they’re ensuring that the genre remains as vibrant and relevant as ever.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the ultimate metal anthem isn’t a single song—it’s the collective energy of a genre that refuses to be boxed in. It’s the riffs that make your heart race, the lyrics that speak to your soul, and the moments on the festival grounds when thousands of voices unite in a shared experience.
Personally, I think the real anthem is the one that resonates with you, the one that makes you feel alive. And in a genre as diverse and dynamic as metal, there’s no shortage of those. So, the next time someone asks you about the ultimate metal anthem, remember: the answer isn’t in the song—it’s in the way it makes you feel.
