Australia is home to a thriving heavy metal scene, boasting a range of bands that have made their mark both locally and internationally. From the thunderous sounds of thrash metal to the crushing weight of doom and the high energy of classic metal, Australian heavy metal bands are known for their aggressive yet innovative approach to the genre. These bands have consistently pushed boundaries and brought something unique to the global metal stage. In this article, we will explore some of the most influential and exciting Australian heavy metal bands and their standout tracks, diving into the diversity and power of the Australian metal scene.
The 9 Best Australian Heavy Metal Bands Ever
1. Parkway Drive – “Vice Grip” (2015)
Parkway Drive is one of the biggest names in Australian metal, known for their powerful blend of metalcore and melodic death metal. “Vice Grip” from their album Ire is a prime example of their signature style. The track opens with a clean guitar riff that leads into a crushing breakdown. Vocalist Winston McCall’s harsh vocals blend seamlessly with the melodic elements, creating a dynamic contrast that keeps the listener engaged. The song’s themes of overcoming struggles and defiance resonate deeply, making it a track that embodies the power and aggression of Parkway Drive. The band’s high-energy performances and expertly crafted songs have earned them a global fanbase and recognition as one of Australia’s top metal acts.
2. Airbourne – “Runnin’ Wild” (2007)
Airbourne is an Australian rock band known for their high-octane, AC/DC-inspired heavy metal sound. “Runnin’ Wild,” the title track of their debut album, is a prime example of their straightforward and energetic approach to rock and metal. The song opens with a catchy guitar riff and maintains a fast-paced, hard-hitting tempo throughout. The vocals, delivered by Joel O’Keeffe, are raw and energetic, perfectly complementing the raucous instrumental sections. With its anthem-like chorus and hard-hitting riffs, “Runnin’ Wild” embodies the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll and sets the stage for Airbourne’s explosive career in the metal world. Their straightforward, no-nonsense approach to metal has earned them comparisons to classic rock titans.
3. Wizard Sleeve – “The Devil’s Own” (2009)
Wizard Sleeve is a lesser-known but no less exciting band from Australia that mixes elements of heavy metal with hard rock. “The Devil’s Own” from their Oblivion album is a track that demonstrates their ability to blend thrashy riffs with a groove-laden, bluesy undertone. The song opens with a powerful riff before the vocals kick in, accompanied by an infectious rhythm section that builds momentum throughout. The chorus is catchy and anthemic, with a heavy, almost sinister undertone that suits the title of the track. Wizard Sleeve’s ability to merge classic metal with a unique sense of melody makes them an interesting band in the Australian scene, standing out with their own blend of influences.
4. Twelve Foot Ninja – “Mother Sky” (2014)
Twelve Foot Ninja is known for their eclectic mix of heavy metal, funk, jazz, and electronic elements, which results in a distinctive sound that is hard to categorize. “Mother Sky” from their album Outlier is a prime example of the band’s genre-defying approach. The song starts with an atmospheric intro before diving into a heavy riff that transitions into a complex, jazzy breakdown. The vocals range from clean to aggressive, showcasing the band’s versatility. The track’s dynamic shifts keep the listener on their toes, as it effortlessly blends various genres while maintaining a heavy, powerful core. Twelve Foot Ninja’s experimental approach to metal has earned them a dedicated following and respect within the international metal community.
5. King Parrot – “Shit on the Liver” (2015)
King Parrot is an Australian thrash metal band known for their chaotic and aggressive sound, blending grindcore, thrash, and punk influences. “Shit on the Liver” from their album Dead Set is a short, fast, and in-your-face track that exemplifies their brutal style. The song is characterized by its high-speed tempo, relentless drumming, and raw, guttural vocals that create an intense atmosphere of anger and aggression. King Parrot’s music is unrelenting and uncompromising, and “Shit on the Liver” captures that spirit perfectly. This track is a punch to the gut, offering listeners an aggressive release of pent-up frustration, making it a standout in the Australian thrash scene.
6. Death Angel – “The Dream Calls for Blood” (2013)
While Death Angel is based in the United States, the band’s collaboration with Australian heavy metal labels has made them a notable part of the Australian metal scene. “The Dream Calls for Blood” from their album The Dream Calls for Blood is a thrash masterpiece with razor-sharp guitar riffs and aggressive vocals. The track is a high-energy assault that combines speed with precision, offering a perfect blend of melody and aggression. The thrash elements are complemented by some melodic leads, making the song a standout in the modern thrash metal genre. Death Angel’s ability to create technical and brutal music has made them a favorite among thrash fans worldwide, including in Australia.
7. Deströyer 666 – “I Am the Wargod (Ode to the Battle Slain)” (2002)
Deströyer 666 is one of the most respected bands in the Australian black metal scene, known for their fusion of black and thrash metal. “I Am the Wargod (Ode to the Battle Slain)” from their album Terror Abraxas is a ferocious track that embodies the band’s unapologetically aggressive sound. The song opens with a blistering riff that sets the tone for its fast-paced intensity. The vocals are fierce and commanding, perfectly matching the thrash-inspired instrumentation. The song’s themes of war, violence, and heroism are expressed with anthemic energy, making it a quintessential track for Deströyer 666. Their blend of black metal aesthetics with thrash elements has earned them a dedicated following in Australia and beyond.
8. Dreaming Dead – “The Apocalyptic Realm” (2009)
Dreaming Dead, while not as well-known as some of the other bands on this list, offers a unique take on death metal with their technical and melodic approach. “The Apocalyptic Realm” from their debut album The Apocalyptic Realm is a complex and intense track that showcases their proficiency in combining melody with brutality. The song opens with a technical guitar riff that leads into a dense, pummeling rhythm section. The growled vocals are deep and guttural, adding to the track’s menacing atmosphere. Dreaming Dead’s blend of technical death metal with melodic elements provides a refreshing take on the genre, making them a band to watch in the Australian metal scene.
9. Blood Duster – “Period. End of Story.” (2002)
Blood Duster is an Australian grindcore band that has made a name for themselves with their aggressive, no-holds-barred approach to extreme music. “Period. End of Story.” from their album Period is a vicious track that embodies the grindcore ethos with fast, chaotic riffs and growling, dissonant vocals. The song’s abrasive sound, coupled with its sharp, politically charged lyrics, creates an intense atmosphere of anger and frustration. Blood Duster’s uncompromising approach to grindcore has earned them a loyal following, and “Period. End of Story.” is a prime example of their chaotic and relentless style.
See Also: Top 9 Brutal Death Metal Hits of All the Time
Conclusion
Australia’s heavy metal scene is diverse, with bands that span multiple subgenres, each offering their unique sound and energy. From the high-octane thrash of Airbourne to the atmospheric complexity of Ne Obliviscaris, the Australian metal scene has something to offer every fan of the genre. The bands highlighted in this article are just a glimpse into the thriving metal culture in Australia, each contributing to the global recognition of the country’s heavy metal prowess. Whether you’re into classic thrash, deathcore, progressive metal, or experimental sounds, the Australian metal scene is rich with talent, and these bands are just the beginning of what the land down under has to offer.
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