Nasty Savage
This heavy metal/thrash quintet was formed in Brandigan, Florida, USA, during 1983 by vocalist and professional wrestler Nasty Ronnie and guitarist Ben Meyer. Assisted by David Austin (guitar), Fred Dregischan (bass) and Curtis Beeson (drums), they made their debut via demo tracks which subsequently appeared on the METAL MASSACRE IV and IRON TYRANTS compilations in 1984. This led to a contract with Metal Blade Records, producing four albums over the ensuing five years. From an initial hard rock base of Iron Maiden and Judas Priest-styles, they gradually incorporated thrash elements into their music, drawing inspiration and ideas from Metallica, Anthrax and Slayer. They have been through four bass players in as many years, with the current guitarist Richard Bateman having taken up four string duties in 1988. Rob Proctor replaced Beeson on drums the following year. When they eventually sundered at the close of the decade they were chiefly lamented for a spectacular live show which featured their wild vocalist smashing television sets on stage and performing crude gymnastics.