Whiplash

Whiplash is a US thrash metal band from Passaic, United States, active from 1984 to the present. The group plays heavy metal, speed metal and thrash metal, and is known for combining speed metal with New York-style thrash. Its sound is built around fast guitars, strong hooks, forceful drumming and rapid vocals.

Formation and early line-up

The band forms in summer 1984 when Tony Portaro and Tony Scaglione join forces. They recruit Tony Bono on bass. Whiplash releases its first CD, Power and Pain, in 1985 on Roadrunner Records. The debut is followed by the band’s first live performance at Ruthie’s in Berkeley, California, alongside Possessed and Death Angel.

Line-up changes and Roadrunner releases

Scaglione leaves for a short tour with Slayer and recommends Joe Cangelosi as his replacement; Cangelosi becomes a full-time member in 1986. Whiplash then records Ticket to Mayhem for Roadrunner Records in October 1987. Later, Glenn Hansen takes over lead vocals, allowing Portaro to concentrate on guitar.

Albums and stylistic changes

The band releases Insult to Injury in 1990. This record is followed by extensive touring in Europe and America with thrash bands including Artillery and Agent Steel. In 1996 Whiplash releases Cult of One on Massacre Records and shifts to a more groove-oriented style. The 1997 album Sit Stand Kneel Prey returns to the band’s 1980s roots. In 1998 the band issues Thrashback, which includes guest appearances by Michael Romeo and Michael Pinnella on various tracks.

Later activity

Whiplash tours again in 2002 before leaving music, then reforms in early 2008. The later line-up changes significantly, with Rich Day taking over bass after Tony Bono’s death and Joe Cangelosi returning on drums after a long absence. Portaro’s guitar work and vocals remain central to the band’s return to its original sound. The group is also associated with the planned album Unborn Again.

Members

Members associated with Whiplash include Tony Scaglione, Tony Portaro, Tony Bono, Joe Cangelosi, Glenn Hansen, Warren Conditi, Rob Gonzo, James Preziosa, Dan Foord, Dank DeLong, Charlie Zeleny, Tom Tierney, Ron Lipnicki and Rider Johnson.