Babylon A.D. is a hard rock and heavy metal band that emerged onto the scene in the late 1980s. Hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area, the band quickly gained a following with their high-energy performances and powerful, melodic sound. With their catchy hooks and memorable riffs, Babylon A.D. became a staple of the glam metal era, standing out among their peers with their unique blend of hard rock and metal influences.
Formed in 1987, Babylon A.D. was comprised of lead vocalist Derek Davis, guitarists Dan De La Rosa and Ron Freschi, bassist Robb Reid, and drummer Jamey Pacheco. The band wasted no time in making a name for themselves in the competitive rock scene of the late ’80s. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1989, was a commercial success, spawning hits like “Bang Go The Bells” and “The Kid Goes Wild,” which was featured in the cult classic film “RoboCop 2.”
Babylon A.D.’s sound was characterized by its anthemic choruses, blistering guitar solos, and Davis’ powerful vocals. The band’s music was a perfect blend of hard rock and metal, with influences ranging from classic bands like Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple to contemporary acts like Guns N’ Roses and Skid Row. Their ability to write memorable songs with infectious melodies set them apart from many of their glam metal peers, earning them a dedicated fan base that remains loyal to this day.
Following the success of their debut album, Babylon A.D. continued to tour extensively, sharing the stage with iconic bands like Aerosmith, Scorpions, and Cheap Trick. Their live shows were a force to be reckoned with, showcasing the band’s raw energy and tight musicianship. In 1992, Babylon A.D. released their sophomore album, “Nothing Sacred,” which featured tracks like “Bad Blood” and “So Savage the Heart.” While the album received positive reviews from critics, changing musical trends and the rise of grunge in the early ’90s led to a decline in popularity for many glam metal bands, including Babylon A.D.
Despite the challenges faced by the band, Babylon A.D. continued to release new music and tour throughout the ’90s and 2000s. Their third album, “American Blitzkrieg,” was released in 2002 and showcased a more modern and mature sound while still staying true to their hard rock roots. The band’s resilience and dedication to their craft have endeared them to fans old and new, keeping the spirit of ’80s metal alive and well.
In recent years, Babylon A.D. has continued to perform live, captivating audiences with their electrifying stage presence and timeless music. Their legacy as one of the standout bands of the glam metal era is secure, with their songs still resonating with fans around the world. With a career spanning over three decades, Babylon A.D. remains a testament to the enduring power of hard rock and heavy metal music.