Warrant

Warrant (Germany) is a foundational yet cult-status entity within the Teutonic speed metal movement of the early 1980s. Formed in Dusseldorf in 1983, they are often overshadowed by their American glam-metal namesakes, yet they occupy a distinct space in the lineage of European extreme metal.

Their sound is characterized by high-tempo 'galloping' riffs, raw production values, and a lyrical focus on typical metal tropes of power and conflict. Their 1985 debut 'The Enforcer' remains a touchstone for collectors of the era, showcasing a transition from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal toward the faster, more aggressive thrash style. After a long hiatus following their initial mid-80s run, the band returned in the 2010s, maintaining their commitment to a traditional speed metal aesthetic. They are highly regarded by 'crate-digging' metal purists and fans of the early Noise Records era sound.