There's a certain magic that happens when you blend the raw power of modern metal with the timeless swagger of classic rock and roll. It's a sonic alchemy that Danish band Volbeat has been perfecting since their formation in Copenhagen back in 2001. Born from the ashes of frontman Michael Poulsen's departure from death metal, Volbeat carved out a unique niche, their name itself a nod to the third album of his previous band, Dominus. After a promising demo tape, 'Beat the Meat,' found an audience, they inked a deal and set out to make their mark.
Their debut, 'The Strength/The Sound/The Songs,' landed in 2005, making a respectable showing in Denmark. But it was with 'Rock the Rebel/Metal the Devil' in 2007 that they truly hit their stride, topping the Danish charts. The years that followed saw them sharing stages with giants like Metallica, honing their craft and building a devoted following. Albums like 'Guitar Gangsters and Cadillac Blood' (2008) and 'Beyond Hell/Above Heaven' (2010) solidified their sound, while extensive touring, including stints opening for the Big Four of Thrash, propelled them onto the global stage. The addition of former Anthrax guitarist Rob Caggiano for 'Outlaw Gentlemen and Shady Ladies' in 2013 only amplified their already potent sound.
Volbeat's appeal lies in this fearless fusion. They pull from the heavy riffs of AC/DC and Metallica, the soulful croon of Elvis Presley, the storytelling grit of Johnny Cash, and even the rebellious spirit of punk bands like Social Distortion. It's a cocktail that shouldn't work on paper, but somehow, it absolutely does. They've managed to create something entirely their own, a sound that's both familiar and refreshingly new.
So, let's dive into some of their most iconic tracks:
The Devil's Bleeding Crown
Kicking things off at number ten is a track that truly embodies their signature sound. "The Devil's Bleeding Crown," from the 2016 album 'Seal the Deal and Let's Boogie,' was their fifth number one single on the US Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart. You can hear that classic, galloping Iron Maiden-esque guitar work here, a perfect example of their metal roots shining through.
The Garden's Tale
Moving on to number nine, we have "The Garden's Tale" from their second album, 'Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil.' What makes this one particularly special is that it's one of the few Volbeat songs sung entirely in Danish. It's a beautifully melodic and emotive piece, further enhanced by guest vocals from Johan Olsen, the frontman of fellow Danish rock band Magtens Korridor.
Maybelline I Hefteholder
At number eight, we find "Maybelline I Hefteholder" from 'Guitar Gangsters and Cadillac Blood.' This track tells a rather intriguing story about a stalker's infatuation with a stripper named Maybelline. Interestingly, while the title is Danish (Hefteholder meaning 'girdle'), the lyrics are sung in English, a testament to their international appeal. A live video of this song was released in 2015, showcasing its enduring popularity.
Lola Montez
Coming in at number seven is "Lola Montez," a standout from the 2013 album 'Outlaw Gentlemen and Shady Ladies.' This song pays homage to the famous historical figure, Eliza Rosanna Gilbert, a renowned dancer and Countess. It was a massive hit, reaching number one on the US Mainstream Rock Charts and proving their knack for crafting catchy, narrative-driven anthems.
Rebound
Halfway through our list at number six is a surprising, yet brilliant, cover. "Rebound" is a rendition of a song by the American pop-punk band Teenage Bottlerocket, featured on 'Seal The Deal & Let’s Boogie.' Volbeat had toured with Teenage Bottlerocket, and this cover served as a heartfelt tribute to their drummer, Brandon Carlisle, who passed away a couple of years later.
For Evigt
Rounding out the first half at number five is "For Evigt" (meaning 'forever' in Danish), another gem from 'Seal The Deal and Let's Boogie.' This track also features Johan Olsen on guest vocals and holds a special place in the band's homeland, being their biggest hit to date in Denmark, reaching number three on the national charts. The album itself marked a slightly more melodic, less heavy direction for the band, and this song perfectly encapsulates that evolution.
