Watch Inside Metal: The LA Metal Scene Explodes

Inside Metal: The LA Metal Scene Explodes is a documentary film that explores the rise and evolution of the heavy metal music scene in Los Angeles during the 1980s. The film is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on the early years of the scene, and the second part covering its explosive growth in the mid-1980s. The film features interviews with some of the most influential figures in the LA metal scene, including John Bush (Armored Saint, Anthrax), Ac Alexander (Lizzy Borden), and Al Bane (Scanner). These musicians share their personal experiences, insights and thoughts on how the LA metal scene blossomed into a cultural phenomenon.

Through a series of interviews, concert footage and archival material, the documentary captures the raw energy and spirit of the LA metal scene, from the dark and dingy clubs where bands first started playing, to the larger venues that quickly became packed to capacity with metal fans.

The film covers a range of topics, including the role of radio stations such as KMET and KLOS in promoting the scene, the influence of bands such as Van Halen and Motley Crue, and the rise of influential record labels like Metal Blade Records.

One notable aspect of the documentary is its focus on the community aspect of the scene, with musicians and fans alike reminiscing about the tight-knit community that formed around the music. They share stories of coming together to support each other’s dreams and aspirations, to create a new and exciting subculture together.

In addition to the music itself, the film addresses the controversies and challenges that the LA metal scene faced. One of the most notable challenges was the backlash from conservative groups, who saw heavy metal music as a negative influence on young people. The parents of some metal fans even went so far as to organize protests against record stores and concerts.

Overall, Inside Metal: The LA Metal Scene Explodes is an insightful and entertaining look at a pivotal moment in music history. The film does an excellent job of capturing the excitement, energy and raw power of the LA metal scene in the 1980s, while also providing thoughtful commentary on the social and cultural forces that shaped it. Fans of heavy metal music, and anyone interested in the history of popular music in America, will find this documentary to be a fascinating and informative exploration of a unique and influential moment in music history.

Inside Metal: The LA Metal Scene Explodes is a documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.