Introduction: The Impact of NWOBHM on Marty Friedman
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was a transformative movement in the late 1970s and early 1980s that significantly influenced the development of heavy metal music. Among the throngs of guitarists who found inspiration in this era was Marty Friedman, renowned for his work with Cacophony and Megadeth. In this article, we delve into how a particular NWOBHM album shaped Friedman’s early guitar sound and set him on a path to become one of the most distinctive guitarists in metal history.
The Rise of NWOBHM
NWOBHM emerged in a time of musical evolution, characterized by a raw, energetic sound that fused the intensity of punk with the technical prowess of traditional metal. Bands like Iron Maiden, Saxon, and Def Leppard pioneered this movement, creating a new, heavier sound that resonated with a younger audience. This period marked a significant shift in metal music, setting the stage for future genres such as thrash and power metal.
For many musicians, NWOBHM was more than just a genre; it was a catalyst for creativity and innovation. Its emphasis on fast tempos, twin guitar harmonies, and powerful vocals inspired a generation of guitarists to push the boundaries of their instrument.
Marty Friedman’s Early Years
Marty Friedman was born on December 8, 1962, in Washington, D.C., and raised in the suburbs of Maryland. From a young age, he was drawn to music, picking up the guitar at the age of 14. As he honed his skills, he found himself captivated by the burgeoning metal scene, particularly the sounds emanating from the UK.
Friedman’s early influences included a mix of rock and metal, but it was the NWOBHM movement that truly captured his imagination. The intricate guitar work and melodic sensibilities of NWOBHM bands resonated deeply with him, laying the foundation for his distinctive playing style.
The Album That Changed Everything
In interviews, Friedman has often cited the influence of NWOBHM on his playing, but one album in particular stands out as a pivotal moment in his musical journey: “Stained Class” by Judas Priest. Released in 1978, “Stained Class” showcased the band’s innovative approach to heavy metal, featuring complex guitar solos and aggressive riffs that were groundbreaking at the time.
Friedman recalls being mesmerized by the guitar work of Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing, the dual lead guitarists of Judas Priest. “He was just playing mind-boggling guitar,” Friedman has said of Tipton’s performance on the album. The combination of technical skill and melodic phrasing had a profound effect on Friedman’s approach to guitar playing.
Key Tracks and Their Influence
“Stained Class” contains several tracks that epitomize the NWOBHM sound and left a lasting impression on Friedman:
- “Exciter”: This opening track is a high-octane assault of speed and precision. The intricate guitar solos demonstrated a level of proficiency that inspired Friedman to develop his own technical skills.
- “Beyond the Realms of Death”: Known for its emotive solos and dynamic shifts, this track highlighted the expressive potential of the electric guitar, something Friedman would later incorporate into his own playing.
- “Stained Class”: The title track features driving riffs and harmonized leads, illustrating the power of dual guitar harmonies that Friedman would explore in his collaborations with other musicians.
The Legacy of “Stained Class”
“Stained Class” is often regarded as one of Judas Priest’s finest works and a cornerstone of the NWOBHM movement. Its influence extended beyond its initial release, inspiring countless musicians around the world. For Friedman, the album was more than just a collection of songs; it was a blueprint for what metal guitar playing could achieve.
The album’s technical brilliance and innovative sound pushed Friedman to explore new techniques and approaches to the guitar. He began to experiment with complex scales, rapid picking, and harmonized leads, all hallmarks of his later work with Cacophony and Megadeth.
Marty Friedman’s Evolution as a Guitarist
Armed with the inspiration he drew from “Stained Class,” Friedman embarked on a musical journey that saw him evolve into one of the most respected guitarists in the metal genre. His early work with Cacophony, alongside fellow virtuoso Jason Becker, showcased his technical prowess and melodic sensibility. The duo’s intricate harmonies and lightning-fast solos echoed the dual guitar approach of Judas Priest, albeit with a neoclassical twist.
Friedman’s tenure with Megadeth further solidified his reputation as a guitar hero. Albums like “Rust in Peace” and “Countdown to Extinction” featured some of his most iconic solos, blending speed, precision, and emotion in a manner that drew heavily from his NWOBHM influences.
Conclusion: The Enduring Influence of NWOBHM
The impact of NWOBHM, and specifically “Stained Class,” on Marty Friedman’s development as a guitarist cannot be overstated. This seminal album not only shaped his early sound but also provided a foundation upon which he built a remarkable career. By blending the technical brilliance and melodic sensibilities of NWOBHM with his own unique style, Friedman has left an indelible mark on the world of metal music.
As we reflect on the legacy of NWOBHM and its influence on countless musicians, it is clear that the movement’s emphasis on innovation and technical excellence continues to inspire new generations of guitarists. For Marty Friedman, the journey that began with “Stained Class” is a testament to the enduring power of music to shape and transform artistic expression.