Speed metal is a subgenre of heavy metal characterized by extremely fast tempo, aggressive rhythm, and shredding guitar solos. Emerging in the late 1970s and peaking in popularity during the 1980s, speed metal drew from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and punk's energy. Bands employed rapid-fire drumming, palm-muted guitars, and often, high-pitched vocals. This intense sound was fueled by the likes of Motörhead's pioneering work and later, thrash metal's aggression. Speed metal's cultural significance lies in its rebellion against mainstream music, embracing a DIY ethos and extreme sonic experimentation. Notable for its technical virtuosity and breakneck pace, speed metal influenced the development of thrash, power, and melodic death metal. Its distinct blend of aggression, melody, and neoclassical influences sets it apart from other metal subgenres, cementing its place in the metal pantheon.

Plays Buddy Holly - The Alternate Mixes

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Lemmy•

Danny B. Harvey

Single - Released May 15, 2026