Warbringer

Warbringer are a US thrash metal band from Ventura, United States, active since 2004. The group plays metal and thrash metal, and is associated with speed metal and the wider thrash revival sound.

Line-up

The band’s current line-up includes John Kevill on vocals, John Laux and Andrew Bennett on guitar, Andy Laux on bass, and Carlos Cruz on drums. Earlier members listed in the band’s history include Ryan Bates, Adam Carrol, Ben Bennet, Nic Ritter, Jeff Potts, Ben Mottsman, Chase Becker and Jessie Sanchez.

Style and themes

Warbringer’s music draws on 1980s thrash metal and is known for its aggressive approach. Their lyrics often deal with war, violence and death, and their live performances are described as highly energetic.

Releases and activity

The band releases full-length studio albums and has issued six in total. Their latest studio album is Weapons of Tomorrow. Earlier releases include War Without End, which appears in 2008, Waking into Nightmares, and Worlds Torn Asunder.

Touring and collaborations

Warbringer build their reputation through extensive touring, with appearances alongside Exodus, Kreator, Soilwork, Napalm Death, Suffocation, Nile, Overkill, Megadeth, Suicide Silence, All Shall Perish, Hatebreed, Testament, Obituary, Halford and Nevermore. On Waking into Nightmares, they work with Gary Holt of Exodus, who produces the album at Sharkbite Studios in Oakland, California. The record is mixed and mastered by Zack Ohren, and its cover artwork is by Dan Seagrave.

Development of the band

After War Without End, Warbringer establish a large underground following through constant touring and continue to develop their sound with later albums. Worlds Torn Asunder shows a broader lyrical range, with John Kevill writing about subjects including technological singularity, the natural order, Soviet Gulag prison camps, the modern soldier and free will, alongside heavier metal themes.