Holocaust

Holocaust is a heavy metal band from Edinburgh, United Kingdom, active from 1977 to the present. It is associated with heavy metal, metal, NWOBHM and progressive metal, and is described as a UK heavy/progressive metal band.

History and style

The band is regarded as one of the more influential and pioneering acts in metal. Its work spans several styles within the genre, and its influence is reflected in later cover versions by Metallica, Six Feet Under and Gamma Ray, among others. The group’s songwriting is led by founding member and principal songwriter John Mortimer, who plays guitar and vocals.

Line-up

John Mortimer is joined by lead guitarist John McCullim, who is also from Edinburgh and joins the band in 2000 after being a longtime friend and supporter. The line-up also includes Bryan Bartley on bass and Ron Levine on drums. Other members associated with the group include Robin James Begg, Ed Dudley, Gary Lettice, Raymond Marciano, Nicky Arkless, Paul Collins and John McCullim.

Notable work and collaborations

Holocaust’s songs inspire tributes and reinterpretations from other metal artists, including Metallica’s version of “The Small Hours,” Six Feet Under’s “Death or Glory” and Gamma Ray’s “Heavy Metal Mania.” Mortimer’s writing is noted for its range and for pairing technical playing with lyrical themes. The band’s 1997 concept album Covenant is based on Stephen R. Donaldson’s The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever.

Personality of the music

The band’s material is associated with intelligent, unusual songwriting within heavy metal, and with a style that combines musicianship and thought-out lyrics. John McCullim’s guitar playing is described as smooth and fluid, adding another layer to the group’s sound.