Riffs of Rebellion
Revolution of Metal!
Shattering EardrumsTitle: Unleashing Havoc: The Explosive History of Artillery
Formed in Taastrup, Denmark, in 1982, Artillery has solidified their place as one of the most influential and enduring thrash metal bands in the scene. The band’s explosive combination of speed, technical prowess, and melodic sensibility has captivated metal fans around the globe for nearly four decades.
Artillery’s inception marked a pivotal moment in the Danish metal scene. Brothers Michael and Morten Stützer, along with Carsten Nielsen and Jørgen Sandau, laid the foundation for the band’s sound, drawing inspiration from the burgeoning thrash metal movement that was sweeping through Europe and the United States at the time.
In 1985, Artillery unleashed their debut album, “Fear of Tomorrow,” which showcased their signature blend of blistering riffs, intricate solos, and relentless energy. Tracks like “The Almighty” and “Don’t Believe” established the band as a force to be reckoned with in the thrash metal underground.
The release of their sophomore effort, “Terror Squad,” in 1987 further solidified Artillery’s place in the metal pantheon. The album’s title track remains a fan favorite, with its breakneck tempo and aggressive riffing showcasing the band’s technical proficiency and songwriting prowess. “Terror Squad” propelled Artillery to new heights of recognition within the metal community and garnered critical acclaim for its boundary-pushing approach to thrash metal.
Despite facing lineup changes and internal strife, Artillery persevered and continued to push the boundaries of their sound. The release of “By Inheritance” in 1990 marked a new chapter for the band, as they incorporated elements of traditional heavy metal and progressive rock into their thrash metal foundation. Tracks like “Khomaniac” and “7:00 from Tashkent” showcased Artillery’s evolution as a band and solidified their reputation as innovators within the genre.
Following a period of hiatus, Artillery returned to the scene in the early 2000s with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The release of “When Death Comes” in 2009 marked a triumphant comeback for the band, with tracks like “Upon My Cross I Crawl” and “10,000 Devils” reaffirming Artillery’s status as one of the premier thrash metal acts in the world.
Since their resurgence, Artillery has continued to release a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “Legions” in 2013 and “The Face of Fear” in 2018. The band’s relentless touring schedule and unwavering dedication to their craft have endeared them to legions of fans worldwide, cementing their legacy as pioneers of the thrash metal genre.
As they approach their fifth decade in the metal scene, Artillery shows no signs of slowing down. With their trademark blend of aggression, melody, and technical precision, the band remains a formidable force in the world of heavy metal, inspiring a new generation of musicians and fans to embrace the power of true, uncompromising metal music.
Dark Symphony