Metal Church
Metal Church: A Heavy Metal Odyssey
Emerging from the vibrant metal scene of Spokane, Washington, Metal Church has left an enduring mark on the annals of heavy music. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1984, catapulted them into the limelight, establishing their signature blend of crushing riffs, soaring vocals, and intricate melodies.
The Early Years and Challenges
The band's origins can be traced back to the late 1970s when vocalist David Wayne and guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof formed Shrapnel. After undergoing several lineup changes, they settled on the name Metal Church in 1980. The band's early years were marked by relentless gigging and the pursuit of a record deal.
Their perseverance paid off when they signed with Epic Records in 1984. However, the band faced challenges in the wake of their debut album's success. Wayne's departure in 1985 cast a shadow over the group, and they struggled to maintain their momentum.
Renewed Success and Controversies
Despite these setbacks, Metal Church persevered, recruiting Mike Howe as their new frontman. The 1989 album "Blessing in Disguise" showcased Howe's exceptional vocal range and helped the band regain critical acclaim.
However, controversy erupted in 1992 when Howe was fired and replaced by John Marshall. Fans were divided over the change, and the band's reputation suffered. Marshall departed in 1995, and Howe returned for a second stint, which lasted until 2001.
Continued Evolution and Hiatuses
The band continued to release albums throughout the 2000s, exploring different musical directions while maintaining their heavy metal roots. In 2015, they embarked on the "XI" tour, marking the return of Vanderhoof and the addition of vocalist Chuck Billy from Testament.
Metal Church went on hiatus in 2018 but reunited in 2020 with Billy still at the helm. Their latest album, "Damned to the Ground," released in 2022, received widespread praise for its powerful performances and timeless songwriting.
Discography
* Metal Church (1984)
* The Dark (1986)
* Blessing in Disguise (1989)
* The Human Factor (1991)
* Hanging in the Balance (1993)
* Masterpeace (1999)
* The Weight of the World (2004)
* A Light in the Dark (2006)
* This Present Wasteland (2008)
* XI (2016)
* Damned to the Ground (2022)
Members
Throughout their long and storied career, Metal Church has featured numerous talented musicians, including:
* David Wayne: Vocals (1980-1985)
* Mike Howe: Vocals (1985-1992, 1995-2001)
* John Marshall: Vocals (1992-1995)
* Chuck Billy: Vocals (2015-present)
* Kurdt Vanderhoof: Guitar (1980-present)
* Craig Wells: Guitar (1988-1996, 2015-present)
* Duke Erickson: Bass (1980-1992)
* Steve Unger: Bass (1992-1996, 2015-present)
* Kirk Arrington: Drums (1980-1992, 1995-2000, 2015-present)
Emerging from the vibrant metal scene of Spokane, Washington, Metal Church has left an enduring mark on the annals of heavy music. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1984, catapulted them into the limelight, establishing their signature blend of crushing riffs, soaring vocals, and intricate melodies.
The Early Years and Challenges
The band's origins can be traced back to the late 1970s when vocalist David Wayne and guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof formed Shrapnel. After undergoing several lineup changes, they settled on the name Metal Church in 1980. The band's early years were marked by relentless gigging and the pursuit of a record deal.
Their perseverance paid off when they signed with Epic Records in 1984. However, the band faced challenges in the wake of their debut album's success. Wayne's departure in 1985 cast a shadow over the group, and they struggled to maintain their momentum.
Renewed Success and Controversies
Despite these setbacks, Metal Church persevered, recruiting Mike Howe as their new frontman. The 1989 album "Blessing in Disguise" showcased Howe's exceptional vocal range and helped the band regain critical acclaim.
However, controversy erupted in 1992 when Howe was fired and replaced by John Marshall. Fans were divided over the change, and the band's reputation suffered. Marshall departed in 1995, and Howe returned for a second stint, which lasted until 2001.
Continued Evolution and Hiatuses
The band continued to release albums throughout the 2000s, exploring different musical directions while maintaining their heavy metal roots. In 2015, they embarked on the "XI" tour, marking the return of Vanderhoof and the addition of vocalist Chuck Billy from Testament.
Metal Church went on hiatus in 2018 but reunited in 2020 with Billy still at the helm. Their latest album, "Damned to the Ground," released in 2022, received widespread praise for its powerful performances and timeless songwriting.
Discography
* Metal Church (1984)
* The Dark (1986)
* Blessing in Disguise (1989)
* The Human Factor (1991)
* Hanging in the Balance (1993)
* Masterpeace (1999)
* The Weight of the World (2004)
* A Light in the Dark (2006)
* This Present Wasteland (2008)
* XI (2016)
* Damned to the Ground (2022)
Members
Throughout their long and storied career, Metal Church has featured numerous talented musicians, including:
* David Wayne: Vocals (1980-1985)
* Mike Howe: Vocals (1985-1992, 1995-2001)
* John Marshall: Vocals (1992-1995)
* Chuck Billy: Vocals (2015-present)
* Kurdt Vanderhoof: Guitar (1980-present)
* Craig Wells: Guitar (1988-1996, 2015-present)
* Duke Erickson: Bass (1980-1992)
* Steve Unger: Bass (1992-1996, 2015-present)
* Kirk Arrington: Drums (1980-1992, 1995-2000, 2015-present)