White Wizzard

White Wizzard is a heavy metal band from Los Angeles, United States, formed by bass player Jon Leon in 2007. The group is associated with traditional heavy metal and is part of the wider American heavy metal scene.

History

The band forms in response to what Leon sees as a lack of melody and classic songwriting in contemporary metal and rock. White Wizzard’s aim is to restore those elements while keeping the energy of heavy metal. The group becomes linked with the underground New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal movement and tours widely, including support slots for major heavy metal acts.

Its early releases include the debut EP High Speed GTO in 2007, followed by the full-length albums Over the Top in 2010 and Flying Tigers in 2011. The line-up changes frequently during this period, making it difficult for the band to maintain momentum. Jon Leon remains the only original member throughout these changes, while drummer Giovanni Dürst joins in 2009 and becomes an important part of the band’s sound.

Line-up changes and later development

By the end of 2011, White Wizzard is again searching for a lead guitarist. Jake Dreyer joins after auditioning while studying at Musicians Institute in Hollywood, and soon begins touring with the band. In early 2012, British guitarist Will Wallner joins and the group adopts a dual lead guitar approach. Wallner’s more blues-based melodic style contrasts with Dreyer’s more advanced shred technique, giving the band a broader guitar sound.

The band then records the track “Torpedo Of Truth”, which places greater emphasis on guitar solos than earlier material. After a tour of Japan, White Wizzard searches for a vocalist and recruits Joseph Michael, whose voice and stage presence help complete the line-up. The group tours the United States and Canada in 2012 and begins work on a third full-length album, The Devil’s Cut, recorded with producer Ralph Patlan. The album is released through Century Media and Earache Records.

Musical line-up and style

Across different periods the band includes Jon Leon on bass and guitars, Dylan Marks on drums, James J. La Rue on guitars, and Wyatt “Screaming Demon” Anderson on vocals. Earlier members mentioned in the band’s history include Giovanni Dürst, Jake Dreyer, Will Wallner and Joseph Michael. White Wizzard’s sound draws on traditional heavy metal, with thrash influence in the drumming and a focus on melody, dual guitars and classic metal songwriting.