Inside Metal: The LA Metal Scene Explodes 2

Inside Metal: The LA Metal Scene Explodes 2 is an engrossing, pithy, and insightful exploration into the origins and metamorphosis of the LA metal music scene of the mid 1970s through the early 1990s. Released in 2017, this sequel walks viewers through the thrilling and chaotic chapters of a uniquely pioneering music scene that triggered a global phenomenon.

Director Bob Nalbandian pitches us headfirst into this frenetic world of rock and roll that vigorously shone with the likes of Megadeth, Armored Saint, and Dokken, amongst others. Known names like John Bush of Armored Saint and Anthrax, Carlos Cavazo of Quiet Riot, Don Dokken of Dokken, and David Ellefson of Megadeth provide testimony from the frontlines. Their first-hand accounts reflect on the scrappy genesis and the potent cultural tsunami the LA metal scene unleashed upon the world.

The story traces how a group of revolutionary metal bands rampaged against the mainstream music establishment and reflexive sociopolitical scenarios of the time, starting a groundswell of metal subculture that was to become an enduring voice for a disenchanted generation. The main narrative spine focuses less on individual achievement, but rather the collective effort of all these artists - their confrontational struggle against the homogenization of culture and how it echoed in the rebellious self-expression through their music.

John Bush’s articulate reminiscences provide pivotal glue to the narrative - perspectives on the trials, tribulations, and triumphs within the burgeoning LA metal scene. Carlos Cavazo offers poignant insights into the formidable bonds between band members and the infectious electricity of riling up crowds in hard-packed venues.

Unable to be overlooked is Don Dokken’s no-nonsense discussion about the unhinged creativity catalyzed through the passion and sheer audacity of countless metal bands. While many would focus on the wild personal tales and spiraling excess, Dokken invites us to consider the ingenuity and resilience - tasks like working around shoestring budgets, managing interpersonal dynamics, dealing with unexpected hurdles while staging mind-blowing performances.

David Ellefson offers a recap of the competitive intensity of the LA metal scene where bands were not just sharing the same sonic airspace, but pushing the boundaries of their craft by drawing inspiration from their rivals. His recounting of how bands carved their distinct identities and how they were ultimately embraced on a global scale is a striking reflection on grassroots artistry.

What comes across is an understanding of how this seemingly outre scene embedded itself in the socio-cultural fabric and shaped a generation’s worldview; whether it was through anti-establishment anthems, forceful politics, or simply the promise of a cathartic good time.

Nalbandian does not shy away from outlining the darker aspects intertwined with the scene’s journey. This include the negative stereo-typification, and the hard toll the music’s brazen lifestyle inflicted on those involved. Dense input from the interviewed personas lay bare the dueling egos, the inevitable burn-outs, and the desperate moments of falling into oblivion.

Overall, however, Nalbandian assembles a film that is more celebratory than elegiac. The biggest victory of 'Inside Metal: The LA Metal Scene Explodes 2' doesn't just lie in its effort to encapsulate the maddeningly brilliant history of the LA metal scene within a two-hour watch, but rather the film’s ability to keep the audience emotionally engaged by bringing out the human behind the spectacle.

Rich with archival footage and driven by passionate talking heads, Nalbandian creates an exhilarating time machine back to the flame-tinged glory days. Packing in a raucous soundtrack that feels like a 'best of' the LA metal era, no fan of rock and roll and its historical significance should miss this intense chapter of unabashedly loud and relentless love for music.