Artist: Diamond Head Album: Canterbury

Year: 1983
Duration: 0:0-1

Rocking Out with Diamond Head's Canterbury

Diamond Head is a heavy metal band hailing from Stourbridge, England. The band was formed in 1976, but it wasn't until 1980 when they released their debut album, Lightning to the Nations, that they gained widespread recognition. Diamond Head is considered a pioneering force in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, alongside bands such as Iron Maiden and Saxon. One of Diamond Head's most recent albums is Canterbury, which was released in 2020. In this critical review, we'll take a close look at the album, explore the music genre, highlight the best songs, and delve into what makes Canterbury an innovative piece of work.

Canterbury is an album that represents Diamond Head's evolution from classic heavy metal to a more modern sound that incorporates elements of prog and hard rock. The album's opening track, Belly of the Beast, sets the tone for what's to come, with its soaring vocal harmonies, intricate guitar riffs, and fast-paced drumming. The track The Sleeper, a commentary on modern society's addiction to technology, features haunting acoustic guitar work and a powerful chorus that will stay with you long after the song ends.

One of the standout tracks on Canterbury is Death by Design, which features a galloping rhythm, driving bass lines, and blistering guitar solos that showcase the band's technical prowess. The track The Messenger is another highlight, with its soaring vocal melodies and epic instrumentation that combine to create a truly memorable listening experience.

Canterbury also features some innovative moments that show Diamond Head is not afraid to experiment with different sounds and textures. The track The Sleeper is a perfect example of this, with its use of acoustic guitars, atmospheric effects, and haunting vocals. The track Serrated Love features a jazzy interlude that adds an unexpected dimension to the song.

Overall, Canterbury is a solid offering from a band that has been a stalwart in the heavy metal scene for over four decades. While some fans of the band's earlier work may not embrace the more modern sound presented on the album, there is no denying the skill and craftsmanship that went into its creation.

In conclusion, Canterbury is an album that showcases Diamond Head's growth and evolution as a band. It combines elements of classic heavy metal, prog, and hard rock to create a sound that is uniquely their own. Some of the standout tracks include Belly of the Beast, The Sleeper, and Death by Design, while there are also innovative moments throughout the album that add unexpected textures and sounds. While Canterbury may not be for everyone, it is still an excellent addition to Diamond Head's discography and a testament to the band's enduring legacy in the heavy metal genre.