Hell Bent For Metal highlights a simple show of solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community – and the bi community in particular – shown by Ireland's foremost thrash metallers Gama Bomb. And while that gesture may be simple, sometimes simple gestures can mean a huge amount.
Tom and (especially) Matt talk about how the recognition of the bi community is one that's particularly important, given the lack of recognition they can sometimes get, and the difficulties they can face from within the LGBTQ+ community.
The hosts also discuss the reasons what they saw meant more than it could have under different circumstances, and if it came from a different group. They also dig into why Gama Bomb's own history and statements of where they stand give it extra impact and credibility – something highlighted with them raising money for Unicef's special appeal in Ukraine.
In lighter matter (and seldom in HBFM history has the seriousness of tone swung so far in an episode), this week's Camp Classic is provided by Swedish triple-vocalist pop metallers Amaranthe, with "Drop Dead Cynical" from the band's 2014 album 'Massive Addictive' up for discussion.
After some fairly heavy issues raised in recent Camp Classics, this one is firmly lighter in tone. After a chat about how Tom got over himself and realised he loved Amaranthe, the discussion of why the song speaks to the hosts' queer sides starts off with comparisons between this song and work by genuine pop goddesses… and somehow manages to descend/plummet into NSFW territory faster than you can say "whoa there, Nelly". As you would expect from HBFM.
Plus this week's visit to the Hate Crew Gaybar sees two releases go into the jukebox. First up is 'Let There Be Witchery' by Ohio black/speed metallers Midnight, who Tom reckons may possibly maybe perhaps be fans of a certain band from North-East England, but can't quite understand how Matt "Mr. Avant-Garde" Rushton is so nuts for it.
And finally, Tom's pick is 'The War To End All Wars' by last week's guests Sabaton (quelle surprise). Of course he's nuts about the World War I-focused album from the Swedish power metallers, but will Matt agree? Is he going to fall in love with this like he did with Powerwolf, or is this going to be his Møl moment?
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