heir metal

FOUR CLASSIC CHANGES OF THE GUARD

Black Sabbath

HEAVEN AND HELL – 1980

It’s ridiculous to contemplate now, but Sabbath weren’t guaranteed continued success when they replaced Ozzy in 1979. Luckily, their new singer was ronnie James Dio and Heaven And Hell is an immortal classic. So that worked out then.

Iron Maiden

THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST – 1982

Maiden were teetering on the cusp of hugeness when Paul Di’Anno made way for a young Bruce Dickinson for the band’s third album. It turned out to be a masterpiece and Bruce swiftly established himself as the Maiden frontman. They’ve done alright since, to be fair.

Judas Priest

JUGULATOR – 1997

Priest without rob halford was unthinkable for many fans, but the band’s first album with Tim ‘ripper’ Owens was so vicious and heavy that many cynics munched cheerfully on humble pie. Worth checking out for the epic Cathedral Spires alone.

The Haunted

THE HAUNTED MADE ME DO IT – 2000

After revitalising thrash with their 1998 debut, The haunted lost their frontman Peter Dolving and recruited Marco Aro in his place. Much to our delight, the second album raged even harder than the first. The two singers have been taking turns ever since.