Venom- At War with Satan (heavy metal)

Unleash the darkness with Venom’s ferocious 1984 opus, At War with Satan — a groundbreaking album that helped shape the sound and attitude of extreme metal. Released on Neat Records, this third studio album from the pioneers of black metal sees the band pushing their sonic and thematic boundaries, delivering an ambitious, apocalyptic concept rooted in hellish fantasy and anti-religious rebellion.

The album’s iconic 20-minute title track occupies the entire A-side, telling an epic story of a war between Heaven and Hell, delivered with Venom’s signature raw aggression, chaotic riffing, and unrelenting speed. It’s a bold and theatrical centerpiece that cemented their influence on the emerging thrash and black metal scenes.

Label: Neat Records
Originally Released: 1984

Track Highlights:
Side A:

• “At War with Satan” – A 20-minute conceptual epic filled with tempo shifts, occult themes, and fiery guitar solos. It’s Venom’s most ambitious recording—part narrative, part sonic onslaught.

Side B:

• “Rip Ride” – A fast, punk-fueled track with a killer riff and classic Venom attitude.

• “Genocide” – Aggressive and chaotic, a pure shot of early extreme metal fury.

• “Cry Wolf” – A slower, ominous cut with a creeping menace.

• “Stand Up (And Be Counted)” – A rebellious anthem with raw hooks and defiant lyrics.

• “Women, Leather and Hell” – A classic Venom closer filled with sleaze, speed, and satanic swagger.