What makes Speed of Sound by Anvil notable?

'Speed of Sound' is notable for its critical rediscovery years later, particularly due to the 2008 documentary 'Anvil! The Story of Anvil', which highlighted the band's influence on heavy metal. The album features tracks that resonate with both long-time fans and newer listeners, showcasing Anvil’s signature sound that influenced many contemporary metal bands. Released in 1999, 'Speed of Sound' marked Anvil's return to the studio after a five-year hiatus following their album 'Plugged in Permanent'. At this point in their career, Anvil was striving to recapture the momentum they had in the early '80s while facing the challenges of a changing music landscape dominated by grunge and alternative rock.

Who is Speed of Sound for?

Speed of Sound works well if you're into steady mid-tempo headbangers, tongue-in-cheek lyrical humor and for road trips.

How many songs are on Speed of Sound?

Speed of Sound has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Speed of Sound

Anvil · 1999

39 min · 10 tracks · heavy metal

A high-octane blend of classic heavy metal riffs and tongue-in-cheek lyrics celebrating life’s absurdities.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo headbangers
tongue-in-cheek lyrical humor
for road trips
celebratory anthems for gatherings

Maybe skip if you want

seekers of slow introspection
prefer complex, lengthy compositions

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1999, 'Speed of Sound' marked Anvil's return to the studio after a five-year hiatus following their album 'Plugged in Permanent'. At this point in their career, Anvil was striving to recapture the momentum they had in the early '80s while facing the challenges of a changing music landscape dominated by grunge and alternative rock.
Stylistic neighbors: Accept· Judas Priest· Motörhead