Music has the power to shape our identities, inspire change, and evoke deep emotions. For Tommy Meehan, guitarist of the legendary metal band GWAR, certain albums have left an indelible mark on his life and career. Whether you’re a metalhead, a music collector, or simply someone looking for albums that have stood the test of time, this list offers insight into the records that truly matter.
1. Black Sabbath – Paranoid (1970)
Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid” is often regarded as the blueprint for heavy metal. Its dark riffs and ominous lyrics laid the groundwork for countless bands. For Tommy, hearing “Iron Man” and “War Pigs” for the first time was a revelation that defined his approach to heavy music and performance.
2. Slayer – Reign in Blood (1986)
Reign in Blood is notorious for its relentless speed and aggression. Slayer pushed boundaries with its ferocity, and tracks like “Angel of Death” challenged Tommy to embrace intensity and precision. This album’s raw power inspired him to bring that same energy to GWAR’s theatrical chaos.
3. Metallica – Master of Puppets (1986)
Master of Puppets is a masterclass in songwriting and complexity within thrash metal. Its themes of control and manipulation resonated with Tommy, who admired how Metallica combined technical skill with emotional depth. The album taught him the importance of musicianship amidst the chaos.
4. The Beatles – Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967)
This psychedelic masterpiece expanded Tommy’s musical horizon beyond metal. Its experimental approach and studio innovations influenced GWAR’s theatricality and storytelling. “Sgt. Pepper” showed him that music could be a form of art and spectacle.
5. Nine Inch Nails – The Downward Spiral (1994)
Trent Reznor’s dark and visceral album pushed Tommy to explore emotional vulnerability in his music. The gritty industrial sounds and themes of despair helped shape GWAR’s darker stage personas. It proved that aggressive music could also be deeply introspective.
6. Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon (1973)
Pink Floyd’s iconic concept album demonstrated how music could tell a compelling story. Its sonic experimentation and philosophical themes inspired Tommy to craft more immersive live experiences. The album remains a benchmark for atmospheric depth.
7. Motörhead – Ace of Spades (1980)
With its unrelenting speed and attitude, Ace of Spades became a rallying cry for rebellious energy. Tommy admired Lemmy’s raw power and straightforwardness, which influenced GWAR’s no-holds-barred approach to live shows. It’s a reminder that simplicity can be incredibly effective.
8. Queen – A Night at the Opera (1975)
Queen’s theatricality and musical diversity broadened Tommy’s understanding of performance art. Tracks like “Bohemian Rhapsody” taught him that combining genres and pushing creative boundaries could elevate a band’s impact. This album encouraged GWAR’s own elaborate stage productions.
9. Dead Kennedys – Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables (1980)
This punk album’s satirical edge and political critique influenced Tommy’s approach to incorporating social commentary into GWAR’s satire. Its raw energy and provocative lyrics showed that music could challenge societal norms and provoke thought.
10. David Bowie – The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (1972)
Bowie’s groundbreaking persona and genre-blending album inspired Tommy to embrace theatricality and character in his performances. Ziggy Stardust’s alter ego proved that music and persona could be inseparable, a lesson that permeates GWAR’s identity.
How to Choose
When selecting albums that influence you, focus on what resonates emotionally and creatively. Consider how the music challenges you, expands your perspective, or inspires your artistic expression. Technical mastery, lyrical depth, and the ability to evoke a response are key factors. Ultimately, the right album is the one that pushes your boundaries or comforts you in a meaningful way.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How did these albums influence GWAR’s music? Each album contributed to Tommy’s understanding of musical complexity, theatricality, and emotional expression, shaping GWAR’s unique style.
- Are these albums suitable for new listeners? Yes, they are considered classics across various genres and serve as essential listening for understanding modern metal and rock.
- Can I find all these albums on streaming platforms? Most are available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, making them accessible for new audiences.
- Which album should I start with if I want to explore these influences? It depends on your taste, but starting with Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid” or Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” offers a solid foundation in heavy metal.
- How do these albums relate to GWAR’s live shows? They inspire the theatricality, energy, and storytelling that GWAR brings to the stage, emphasizing spectacle and emotional impact.
Final Thoughts
Music is a deeply personal journey, and the albums that change our lives often do so by challenging, inspiring, or comforting us. For Tommy Meehan, these records represent milestones that shaped his approach to performance, songwriting, and artistic expression. Whether you’re a dedicated metal fan or a casual listener, exploring these albums can broaden your musical horizons and deepen your appreciation for the art form.
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