"Lightning to the Nations" is the debut album by the British heavy metal band Diamond Head, released in 1980. It is often regarded as a seminal work in the new wave of British heavy metal (NWOBHM) movement, which played a significant role in shaping the heavy metal genre in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

The album features a combination of powerful guitar riffs, melodic hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics. Notable tracks include "Am I Evil?", which has become one of Diamond Head's most famous songs and has been covered by various artists, including Metallica. The album's sound is characterized by its energetic performances and the dual guitar work of Brian Tatler and his bandmates.

"Lightning to the Nations" was initially released on the independent label Happy Face Records and has since gained a cult following. It has been reissued multiple times, often with bonus tracks and remastered audio. The album's influence can be seen in the music of many later heavy metal bands, and it is frequently cited as a classic of the genre.

Overall, "Lightning to the Nations" helped establish Diamond Head as one of the key bands of the NWOBHM movement and has left a lasting legacy in the heavy metal scene.

Music news for the week of August 5 through August 9, 2024