Metal Church

Metal Church is an American heavy metal band. They originally formed in San Francisco, California in 1980 before relocating to Aberdeen, Washington the following year and briefly using the name Shrapnel.
Metal Church and their Contribution to Heavy Metal Music
From the late 70s and early 80s, Metal Church has been a significant contributor to the development of heavy metal music. This band has melted heavy riffs, melodies, and political messages into what we know today as heavy metal. Their music is revered as a foundational element of the genre. In this blog post, we will dive into Metal Church's biography, their best songs, music style, iconic concerts, and critical acclaim.
Metal Church, founded in Seattle, Washington, in 1980, prides itself on kickstarting thrash metal music. It gained recognition in the early 80s and maintained its enthusiastic fan base ever since. Initially, the band comprised Kurdt Vanderhoof (guitarist), Craig Wells (guitarist), Duke Erickson (bassist), Tom Weber (drummer), and Mike Howe (vocalist). Mike left the band in the late 80s but made a comeback in the early 2010s. However, he departed from the band in 2015, and at the moment, Metal Church has Mike Howe on vocals, Kurdt Vanderhoof and Rick van Zandt on guitars, Steve Unger on bass, and Stet Howland on drums.
Metal Church's music epitomizes genuine, pure, and fast heavy metal sound. Lyrics range from political issues to social commentary, such as war, corruption, and human rights. Some of their most popular songs include Gods of Wrath, Watch the Children Pray, Beyond the Black, and Metal Church. These songs proved to be band's most iconic and influential to many new metal bands starting out and they are said to have defined the genre of heavy metal for the early 80's.
Their music falls under various subgenres, such as thrash metal, speed metal, and power metal. Metal Church has managed to combine heavy hooks, aggression, and melody to their music. It's fast-paced, aggressive music that's defiant, bold, and full of character. Their ability to mix melody and aggression proves to be what makes them unique among their contemporaries.
Despite a hiatus, the band has caught up and enticed fans with their performances, like in 2017 at Wacken Open Air. Those in attendance ranked Metal Church's acoustic show as one of the best acts of the entire festival. It is relatively easy to imagine why as they put their heart and soul into their live performances and deliver an unforgettable experience with their charisma and showmanship.
The band's work has gained critical acclaim over the years; The classic metal band brings it, and their fans often rave about their authenticity, especially in a time when the genre is dominated by younger bands. Their music represents what many would call a pure and unapologetic form of metal music. One of the most controversial albums, The Human Factor, launched in 1991, talks about war and its devastating effects on humanity.
Heavy metal and its sub-genres affirm our individuality and identity. Metal Church's music is undisputedly essential for a heavy metal enthusiast, bringing a mix of aggressive and melodic tunes with inspiring, thought-provoking lyrics. Howe's straightforward and unapologetic delivery style is captivating and makes it easy for fans to identify with the themes present in the lyrics. Metal Church has developed a sound that is uniquely theirs and continues to make a lasting impression on people who appreciate good music with a message. They remain a crucial band in the development of heavy metal and a fan favorite.
Heavy metal and its sub-genres affirm our individuality and identity. Metal Church's music is undisputedly essential for a heavy metal enthusiast, bringing a mix of aggressive and melodic tunes with inspiring, thought-provoking lyrics. Howe's straightforward and unapologetic delivery style is captivating and makes it easy for fans to identify with the themes present in the lyrics. Metal Church has developed a sound that is uniquely theirs and continues to make a lasting impression on people who appreciate good music with a message. They remain a crucial band in the development of heavy metal and a fan favorite.