music
March 18, 2026
‘We built a castle on stage complete with battlements’: how 80s German thrash bands pushed metal to new extremes
As Metallica et al broke through, Kreator, Sodom and Destruction were forging an even harder sound. They recall gigs in coalmines, sessions in steelworks – and boozing with Slayer
TL;DR
- German thrash metal bands like Kreator, Sodom, and Destruction developed a sound that was faster and meaner than their American counterparts.
- These bands often played gigs in unconventional venues such as coalmines and steelworks.
- In 1986, Kreator and Destruction released sophomore albums, while Sodom released their debut LP.
- German thrash was influenced by bands like Venom, Judas Priest, and hardcore acts, and also by the looming presence of the Cold War.
- Formel 1, a prominent GDR metal band, released their live album in 1986, featuring elaborate stage productions.
- Despite a decline in the 90s due to grunge, these German thrash bands experienced a revival in the 00s, with contemporary bands acknowledging their influence.
- Today, these bands continue to tour and create music, with their lyrical themes often reflecting the ongoing issues in the world.