Exploring the Progressive Side of Hair Metal: Five Bands' Unexpected Gems
Explore the unexpected side of hair metal with our list of the best progressive songs by five hair metal bands. Despite the genre's reputation for simplistic anthems, some bands pushed the boundaries and embraced complexity in their music. These songs were released in the early '90s, as the glam metal era was fading, and bands were evolving their sound to stay relevant.
Bon Jovi's "Dry County" from the album "Keep the Faith" showcases their mature songwriting with a nine-minute epic about the decline of the oil industry. Extreme's "Cupid's Dead" from "III Sides to Every Story" blends funk and metal in a prog-funk masterpiece. W.A.S.P.'s "Chainsaw Charlie (Murders in the New Morgue)" from "The Crimson Idol" is a power-packed rock opera that transcends glam metal conventions.
Warrant's "April 2031" from "Dog Eat Dog" is a post-apocalyptic power ballad that delves into the consequences of nuclear fallout. Winger's "Rainbow in the Rose" from "In the Heart of the Young" showcases their musical virtuosity with a nuanced hard rock anthem. These songs may not fit the traditional prog mold, but they offer a refreshing take on the hair metal genre.
If you're ready to discover a new side of hair metal, dive into these progressive tracks that defy expectations and showcase the diverse talents of these bands.