Heavys are the world’s first headphones designed specifically for hard rock and heavy metal. Featuring eight drivers with patented speaker placement, these state-of-the-art cans cover multiple frequency ranges for superior clarity and impact. Created and tuned by Alex Grell, the “Godfather of German Sound,” Heavys deliver thunderous low end that also satisfies fans of hip-hop, EDM, punk, and any bass-driven genre. Built for power, precision, and depth, Heavys make even the loudest music sound rich and alive.
The HIH model headphones don’t just sound fantastic, they look awesome, thanks to partnerships with hard music powerhouses. Dream Theater, Currents, Motionless in White, and Heavy Metal Magazine are only some of the groups that have teamed up with Heavys on interchangeable, limited-quantity artist-designed shells that snap on the ear cup.
We put them to the test with ten of the fiercest rock songs ever recorded — and they did not disappoint.
1. “Communication Breakdown” – Led Zeppelin (1969)
There’s no definitive “first” heavy metal song, but this aggressive Led Zeppelin anthem is a strong contender. It’s also a perfect benchmark for testing new headphones. The track’s impact is undeniable: Jimmy Page’s explosive riffs, John Paul Jones’ rumbling bass, John Bonham’s thunderous drums, and Robert Plant’s electrifying vocals combine to create a sound that helped define hard rock and punk. Heard through Heavys, “Communication Breakdown” is as ferocious as ever.
2. “Paranoid” – Black Sabbath (1970)
It’s almost funny to think that Black Sabbath’s most iconic song was written in under 20 minutes because the band needed more material for its second album. With bleak lyrics by Geezer Butler about depression and alienation, and Tony Iommi’s machine-gun guitar riffs, “Paranoid” helped shape the DNA of heavy metal. Ozzy Osbourne’s distinct vocals perfected the formula, making this accidental masterpiece a timeless classic — and it sounds massive through Heavys.
3. “Jailbreak” – Thin Lizzy (1976)
Thin Lizzy’s hard-hitting tale of a daring prison escape inspired generations of bands, from Metallica to Iron Maiden. Driven by the band’s signature twin-guitar attack and Phil Lynott’s commanding vocals, “Jailbreak” explodes with attitude. Through Heavys, every crunch, siren, and soaring solo feels newly alive.
4. “Living After Midnight” – Judas Priest (1980)
Judas Priest already have their own limited-edition Heavys headphones. So, it makes perfect sense to see how this riff-roaring ‘British Steel’ standout performs. “Living After Midnight” has always been pure heavy metal joy — equal parts rebellion, rhythm, and leather-clad cool. Crank it up, close your eyes, and let Heavys transport you to a mid-’80s parking lot party where the bikes gleam, the beer flows, and everyone looks as effortlessly cool as Rob Halford.
5. “Institutionalized” – Suicidal Tendencies (1983)
The ultimate California thrash anthem, “Institutionalized,” captures Mike Muir’s teenage frustration like lightning in a bottle. His rant about overbearing parents (“All I wanted was a Pepsi!”) still hits hard decades later. Played through Heavys, the song’s chaotic guitars and careening drums sound sharper and more explosive than ever.
A towering masterpiece, “Master of Puppets” remains one of metal’s greatest achievements. The eight-minute epic blends James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett’s blistering guitar work, Cliff Burton’s melodic bass lines, and Lars Ulrich’s relentless drumming into a perfectly balanced assault. Switching between thrash fury and haunting melody, this song was practically built for headphone listening — and Heavys capture every detail in stunning clarity.
7. “Mr. Brownstone” – Guns N’ Roses (1987)
Pure swagger. “Mr. Brownstone” channels the sleazy, swinging energy of ’70s Rolling Stones and Aerosmith with a hard rock edge that defined the late ’80s. From Steven Adler’s stellar drumming and Slash’s sharp riffs to Axl Rose’s snarling vocals, it’s a gritty, autobiographical anthem of excess. Through Heavys, every note oozes attitude.
8. “My Wave” – Soundgarden (1994)
Equal parts brutal and beautiful, “My Wave” is Soundgarden at their most daring. Pulled from ‘Superunknown,’ it surges with heavy, off-kilter riffs and Chris Cornell’s defiant vocals, all built around an unconventional 5/4 rhythm. The song’s message — about individuality and rejecting conformity — hits just as hard as its guitars. And no, Cornell wasn’t a surfer; “My Wave” is about doing things your own way.
9. “Bulls on Parade” – Rage Against the Machine (1996)
“Bulls on Parade” is a perfect storm of metal, funk, and fury. Tom Morello’s scratching, wah-fueled guitar riffs sound like turntables on fire, while Zack de la Rocha’s politically charged delivery remains as sharp as ever. Through Heavys, the song’s tight rhythm section and explosive energy practically leap out of the speakers. It’s a sonic riot that still feels revolutionary.
10. “Hail to the King” – Avenged Sevenfold (2013)
“Hail to the King” is a modern metal anthem with the soul of a classic. Built around a thunderous groove and M. Shadows’ commanding vocals, it channels the spirit of Metallica and Black Sabbath while standing tall on its own. With its massive riffs, clean production, and larger-than-life energy, this track sounds tailor-made for Heavys — powerful, precise, and unapologetically loud.
Final Thoughts
From Zeppelin’s primal roar to Avenged Sevenfold’s modern majesty, these ten songs trace the evolution of hard rock and heavy metal — and Heavys bring every riff, scream, and snare hit to life. Whether you’re rediscovering old favorites or testing the limits of your gear, one thing’s for sure: rock has never sounded this good.
