Stormzone

Stormzone is a Northern Irish heavy metal and hard rock band, active since 2004. It forms around vocalist John “Harv” Harbinson and drummer Davy Bates, both formerly of Sweet Savage. Sweet Savage is also notable for being the band from which guitarist Vivian Campbell later joins Ronnie James Dio, and for having its song “Killing Time” recorded by Metallica as the B-side to “The Unforgiven”.

Early releases and label work

Stormzone signs to UK label Escape Music and releases its debut album, Caught in the Act, in 2007. The album also appears in Japan through Marquee/Avalon and features cover artwork by Rodney Matthews, whose other album sleeves include work for Thin Lizzy, Diamond Head, Magnum and Praying Mantis.

Touring and festival appearances

In March 2008 the band is invited to support Dokken guitarist George Lynch on his European tour, performing as support and then returning as headliners each night. It builds a strong following in Spain and returns there several times, touring with Cinderella, Stryper, L.A. Guns and Y&T. Stormzone also plays Lorca Rock, Spain’s largest rock festival, and later appears at Sweden Rock Festival on the Zeppelin stage just after Sabaton.

Later albums and style

After the Sweden Rock appearance, Stormzone signs with German label SPV through Olly Hahn’s company. The band releases Death Dealer, a second album that takes a heavier approach to songwriting and is co-produced by Neal Kay, a key figure in the development of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. The album receives positive reviews across Europe and helps establish the band as part of the NWOBHM revival. Stormzone later releases Zero To Rage, which continues its NWOBHM-influenced sound.

Influences and comparisons

The band draws on classic heavy metal and hard rock influences, including Saxon, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest and Queensrÿche. Reviews of Death Dealer and Zero To Rage also compare the band to HammerFall and Helloween.

Further activity

Stormzone tours the UK with Tesla, then plays shows with White Lion and Winger. It also appears at Raismesfest in France, Headbangers Open Air in Germany and Wacken Open Air. The band works with MVT Concerts in Germany and Gabriel Management, and it is linked with a planned Irish-American film production based on the warrior Cuchulainn.