Metal Church
Formed in the USA in 1984, this group consisted of David Wayne (vocals), Kurt Vanderhoof (guitar), Craig Wells (guitar), Duke Erickson (bass) and Kirk Arrington (drums). Their first album was a phenomenal work, brimming with energy and promise. The style was the then-evolving thrash metal sound, and Metal Church executed their own brand with awesome precision and power. THE DARK was a strong follow-up, but failed to top the debut, and Wayne left at this point to be replaced by Mike Howe for the recording of BLESSING IN DISGUISE, which was a commendable album. Kurt Vanderhoof left, owing to his dislike of touring, and was replaced by John Marshall, previously guitar technician for Metallica. Metal Church have proved to be a consistently excellent band, but have failed to rise to the level of success suggested by their first album.