I Am a Rebel – Music Magazine

‘Accept: The Origins of a Metal Legend’
Released on June 2, 1980 under Brain/Logo/Passport Records, Accept’s second album ‘I’m A Rebel’ marked a pivotal moment in their journey to global recognition. Preceding their breakthrough with the iconic ‘Balls To The Wall’ in 1983, the band was already making waves with their distinctive blend of heavy metal and melodic hard rock. Rooted in the vibrant rock scene of late ’70s and early ’80s Germany, Accept’s early sound mirrored influences like Deep Purple, Uriah Heep, and the Scorpions, while vocalist Udo Dirkschneider’s sharp delivery added a unique edge.
Despite a push towards radio-friendly hits, Accept remained true to their roots on ‘I’m A Rebel’, exploring a more commercial sound while retaining their signature style. Guitarist Wolf Hoffmann acknowledged external pressures to conform to mainstream trends, which led to the band’s decision to cover an older track from Alex Young, brother of AC/DC’s Malcolm and Angus Young. This unexpected collaboration injected a new flavor into Accept’s repertoire, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.
‘I’m A Rebel’ not only demonstrated Accept’s evolving musicality but also highlighted the band’s ability to adapt and grow. Tracks like ‘No Time To Lose’ and ‘The King’ showcased bassist Peter Baltes’ melodic vocals, adding depth and diversity to the album. While Baltes’ departure from the traditional metal aesthetic raised eyebrows, his contribution to the softer, more emotive tracks on the album added a layer of complexity that set Accept apart from their peers.
Balancing these melodic interludes were gritty, hard-hitting tracks like ‘Do It’ and ‘China Lady’, which exemplified Accept’s transition towards a heavier, more aggressive sound. The intricate guitar work and driving rhythms on these tracks hinted at the band’s future evolution, paving the way for their later success. Despite initial skepticism from American audiences, Accept’s early albums laid the groundwork for their eventual rise to metal stardom, setting the stage for their later masterpieces.
In retrospect, ‘I’m A Rebel’ remains a pivotal chapter in Accept’s illustrious career, showcasing the band’s willingness to push boundaries and experiment with diverse musical styles. While their sound may have evolved over the years, their roots in the vibrant rock scene of 1980s Germany remain a defining feature of their legacy. As Accept continues to inspire generations of metal fans worldwide, ‘I’m A Rebel’ stands as a testament to their enduring impact on the heavy metal genre.