One of my favorite songs by Accept is “Fast as a Shark.” Released in 1982 on their album Restless and Wild, it’s often credited as one of the very first speed metal songs, a true trailblazer that helped define the genre. From the moment the needle drops on the misleading German folk intro, only to be shredded away by that iconic scream and Udo Dirkschneider’s raw vocals, you know you’re in for a wild ride.
“Fast as a Shark” is relentless. The tempo, the precision of the riffing, and the intensity of the drums create a sense of urgency and chaos that still feels fresh decades later. Wolf Hoffmann’s guitar work is razor-sharp—fast, melodic, and unapologetically aggressive. It captures that early ’80s metal energy where boundaries were being pushed, and bands weren’t afraid to get loud, fast, and intense. The song is only about three minutes long, but it doesn’t waste a single second.
Lyrically, it’s not overly complicated, and that’s part of its charm. It’s more about attitude and delivery than poetic depth, and Udo delivers it with his signature snarl that sounds like a mix between a banshee and a punk frontman. His voice might be polarizing to some, but it’s impossible to deny its uniqueness and impact on the song’s identity.
What really makes “Fast as a Shark” stand out as a favorite is its influence. It came out before thrash metal exploded with bands like Metallica, Slayer, or Anthrax, yet it carries the DNA of those genres. Many metal musicians have cited it as a direct influence, not just for its speed but also for its unapologetic aggression and raw power.
Beyond its historical significance, it’s just a blast to listen to. Whether you’re working out, driving, or just need a shot of adrenaline, it hits the spot. It’s one of those tracks that makes you want to crank the volume up and throw horns in the air without thinking twice.
In a discography full of great songs—from “Balls to the Wall” to “Metal Heart”—”Fast as a Shark” remains a standout for its audacity, speed, and pure metal spirit. It’s not just a favorite Accept song; it’s a piece of heavy metal history.
