Collection: Hard Rock & Metal CDs ~ Albums For Sale - New and Used

Hard rock and heavy metal are two closely related genres of rock music that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. While they share some common roots, they have distinct characteristics and styles.

Hard Rock: Hard rock is a subgenre of rock music that typically features a heavier sound, prominent use of electric guitars, powerful vocals, and strong rhythms. It often incorporates elements of blues and has a blues-based structure. Some of the pioneering hard rock bands include Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and AC/DC.

Heavy Metal: Heavy metal is a more intense and aggressive sub-genre. It is characterised by its powerful, distorted guitar riffs, complex guitar solos, strong rhythms, and often operatic vocals. The lyrics in heavy metal often explore themes of fantasy, mythology, and social issues. Black Sabbath is widely regarded as one of the first heavy metal bands, and other influential bands in the genre include Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, and Metallica.

Differences: While hard rock and heavy metal share common elements, there are some key differences. Heavy metal tends to have a darker and more abrasive sound compared to hard rock. Heavy metal lyrics often delve into darker themes, while hard rock lyrics may cover a broader range of topics.

Sub-genres: of heavy metal include thrash metal, death metal, black metal, and many others. These subgenres often have their own distinct sounds and characteristics, catering to different tastes within the broader umbrella of rock and metal music.

Influence and Evolution: Hard rock and heavy metal have had a significant impact on the music industry and have influenced countless other genres. They continue to evolve, with new bands incorporating modern elements while still paying homage to the roots of the genres.