REVIEW: BUDGIE - Never Turn Your Back On A Friend

 

BUDGIE - Never Turn Your Back On A Friend

MCA Records

When discussing the origins of heavy metal, Budgie often flies under the radar compared to giants like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin. However, this Welsh trio, led by Burke Shelley, was pivotal in shaping the genre. Their 1973 album, *Never Turn Your Back On A Friend*, is a masterclass in early heavy metal, blending raw power with intricate melodies. Budgie's influence extended to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) and even inspired Metallica, who famously covered "Breadfan."

Track by Track Analysis

1. **Breadfan**

 - The album opens with "Breadfan," a quintessential heavy metal track. With its galloping riff and dynamic shifts, it perfectly captures Budgie's ability to combine aggression with melody. This song's legacy was cemented when Metallica covered it, highlighting its enduring influence on metal.

2. **Baby Please Don't Go**

   - A hard-rocking cover of Big Joe Williams' blues standard, Budgie injects this track with a gritty energy that transforms the classic into a powerhouse rocker. Shelley’s raw vocals and Bourge’s fierce guitar work make it uniquely their own.

3. **You Know I'll Always Love You**

   - A brief acoustic interlude, this track offers a moment of tenderness amid the album’s heaviness. At under two minutes, it showcases Budgie’s versatility, proving they could deliver emotional depth alongside powerful riffs.

4. **You're The Biggest Thing Since Powdered Milk**

- Returning to a heavier sound, this track features a chunky, groove-laden riff and playful lyrics. It’s a prime example of Budgie's ability to blend humor with serious musicianship, with Bourge’s guitar work shining throughout.

5. **In The Grip Of A Tyre Fitter's Hand**

- One of the album’s highlights, this track combines a brooding intro with explosive sections, showcasing the band’s skill in creating complex, dynamic compositions. The dark, introspective lyrics add to its impact, with Bourge delivering an urgent and desperate guitar solo.

6. **Riding My Nightmare**

- This brief interlude is more experimental, featuring ethereal guitar lines and echoing vocals that create a haunting atmosphere. It serves as a bridge between the album’s heavier tracks, highlighting Budgie’s willingness to explore different sonic landscapes.

7. **Parents**

- The album closes with "Parents," an epic nearly eleven-minute track. This song blends a gentle acoustic intro with powerful, emotionally charged passages. The reflective lyrics on generational conflict, paired with Bourge’s delicate yet fiery guitar work, make it a fitting conclusion to the album.

Never Turn Your Back On A Friend* is a foundational album for heavy metal, showcasing Budgie's innovative blend of crushing riffs and melodic intricacies. Though often overlooked, Budgie’s influence on the NWOBHM and bands like Metallica is undeniable. This album stands as a testament to their lasting impact, proving that Budgie was a pioneer deserving of greater recognition in the pantheon of heavy metal.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης