Metal covers that beat the original: the ultimate debate

Metal covers that beat the original: the ultimate debate

Does a metal cover that improves on the original song actually exist? The seemingly simple question has sparked a fierce debate among fans of the genre. The premise is clear: only covers of songs that were already metal count, not pop, bachata or pasodoble. And the canonical example cited is the version Cannibal Corpse recorded over 30 years ago of Black Sabbath's "Zero The Hero". According to defenders of this version, the rawer production and atmosphere draw the listener better into the concept of the lyrics, with heavier riffs and rhythm section and vocals that perfectly express what the protagonist feels.

Sepultura and Motorhead: improvement or sacrilege?

One of the most repeated points of contention is Sepultura's version of Motorhead's "Orgasmatron". Some argue the Brazilians improve on the original, while others consider it sacrilege. The argument heats up when "Arise" is mentioned as the greatest thrash album in history, a claim that, according to some, is irrelevant to deciding whether a cover beats the original. Subjective taste prevails: what for some is an improvement is, for others, heresy.

Aborted and the modern sound that divides opinion

Aborted's version of a thrash classic has drawn mixed opinions. Some criticize the "modern" guitar sound, which they say sounds like metalcore, and are not convinced by the vocals. However, they concede that the drums are superb. This kind of nuance shows that the perception of improvement is not unanimous and depends on factors such as production or vocal performance.

Other candidates: Nazareth, Queen and System of a Down

The debate widens with other names. Artillery's version of Nazareth's "Razamanaz" is mentioned, though it is admitted the original is not strictly metal but rather psychedelic hard rock. Blind Guardian and their version of Queen's "Spread Your Wings" are also cited, with the caveat that the original is not metal, but the argument is made that the German band kicks it so hard it deserves consideration. Separately, System of a Down's "Toxicity" is proposed, but it is clarified that the original is already metal, so it does not fit the premise of a cover improving a non-metal song. Confusion over what is and is not metal hangs over the whole discussion.

The golden rule: the original must be metal

The creator of the debate insists on one condition: the original has to be metal. This rules out covers of pop, bachata or pasodoble, as well as chamber music. The clarification came after several attempts to sneak in songs that did not meet the requirement. The demand for metal purity becomes a filter that shrinks the list of candidates and fuels the controversy over which bands and songs deserve a place on the list.

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In the end, the question remains without a unanimous answer. Some argue that certain covers surpass the original through production, aggression or performance; others consider it an outrage. What is clear is that metal, as a genre, keeps stirring up conflicting passions and endless debates.