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Shred Heaven, Drum HellEvildead: Unearthing the Thrash Metal Titans
Formed in 1987 in Los Angeles, Evildead emerged from the thriving thrash metal scene of the late 80s, quickly establishing themselves as one of the most ferocious and technically proficient bands in the genre. Comprised of members who cut their teeth in various local metal bands, Evildead brought together a wealth of experience and a shared passion for creating intense, high-energy music that would push the boundaries of what thrash metal could be.
The band’s lineup featured Albert Gonzales and Juan Garcia on guitars, Mel Sanchez on bass, Rob Alaniz on drums, and the charismatic Phil Flores on vocals. With their blistering riffs, breakneck rhythms, and aggressive vocals, Evildead wasted no time in garnering attention within the metal community. Their raw energy and unrelenting intensity set them apart from their peers, earning them a dedicated following and a reputation as one of the most exciting live acts on the circuit.
In 1989, Evildead released their debut album, “Annihilation of Civilization,” via Steamhammer Records. Produced by the legendary Bill Metoyer, known for his work with bands like Slayer and Sacred Reich, the album was a devastating display of thrash metal prowess. Tracks like “The Awakening,” “Future Shock,” and the title track showcased the band’s technical skill and unbridled aggression, earning critical acclaim and solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with in the metal world.
Following the success of their debut, Evildead hit the road, touring relentlessly and sharing stages with metal titans like Sepultura, Sacred Reich, and Death Angel. Their explosive live shows further cemented their reputation as a band not to be missed, with their tight musicianship and high-octane energy leaving audiences in awe.
In 1991, Evildead released their sophomore effort, “The Underworld,” which saw the band further honing their sound and pushing the boundaries of their musicality. Tracks like “Welcome to Kuwait,” “Living Good,” and “Global Warming” showcased the band’s evolution, incorporating elements of groove and melody into their signature thrash attack. The album was met with praise from fans and critics alike, solidifying Evildead’s place as one of the leading lights of the thrash metal scene.
Despite their growing success, internal tensions within the band led to lineup changes and eventually, a hiatus in the mid-90s. However, the legacy of Evildead continued to endure, with their music influencing a new generation of metal bands and their albums becoming sought-after classics among collectors and metal aficionados.
In recent years, Evildead have made a triumphant return to the stage, reuniting with a revamped lineup and bringing their blistering brand of thrash metal to a whole new audience. With their unrelenting energy, technical prowess, and uncompromising dedication to their craft, Evildead continue to prove that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of metal.
As we look back on the storied history of Evildead, it is clear that this band has left an indelible mark on the metal landscape. From their early days as pioneers of the thrash metal scene to their triumphant return to the stage, Evildead remain a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and unwavering dedication to the music they love. The legacy of Evildead lives on, a reminder that true metal never dies.
Revolution of Metal!