LEATHERWOLF Heavy Metal / Hard Rock USA

  Leatherwolf is a heavy metal band that formed in the early 1980s in Orange County, California. They are known for their powerful and melodic sound, combining elements of traditional heavy metal with progressive and neoclassical influences. With their technically proficient musicianship and catchy songwriting, Leatherwolf has earned a loyal following over the years and remains an important presence in the metal scene.

 History

 Leatherwolf was formed in 1981 by lead vocalist/guitarist Michael Olivieri and drummer Dean Roberts. The original lineup also included bassist Carey Howe and guitarist Geoff Gayer. They quickly gained a following in the local metal scene with their high-energy live shows and unique sound. In 1984, they signed with the independent record label Tropical Records and released their self-titled debut album, which received critical acclaim and helped establish the band as a rising force in metal.

 In 1986, Leatherwolf signed with the major label Island Records and released their second album, "Leatherwolf", which featured the hit single "The Calling". The album showcased the band's technical prowess and strong songwriting skills, and solidified their place in the metal world. However, the band experienced some internal tensions and lineup changes over the next few years, leading to a hiatus in the early 1990s.

 In 1999, Olivieri and Roberts reunited with guitarist Carey Howe to record a new album, "Wide Open", which featured a revamped lineup and a more modern sound. The album received positive reviews and helped re-establish the band's presence in the metal scene. Leatherwolf continued to tour and release new music throughout the 2000s and 2010s, with Olivieri and Roberts remaining the core members of the band.

 Musical Style

 Leatherwolf's music is characterized by its powerful, melodic riffs, soaring vocals, and intricate guitar solos. The band's early sound drew heavily from traditional heavy metal and NWOBHM bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest, but they also incorporated neoclassical and progressive elements into their music, adding a unique flavor to their sound. Leatherwolf's musicianship is highly technical, with the band members showcasing their virtuosity through complex solos and arrangements.

 Lyrically, Leatherwolf often explores themes of personal struggle and perseverance, with many songs touching on topics like loneliness, addiction, and self-doubt. The band's lyrics often have a relatable quality, and are delivered with an emotive and powerful vocal performance from Olivieri.

 Legacy

 Leatherwolf has been cited as an influence by many metal bands over the years, and has inspired a dedicated fanbase of metal enthusiasts. Their technical musicianship and catchy songwriting have earned them a place in the pantheon of metal legends, and their influence can be heard in the work of many bands in the genre today.

 Despite some lineup changes and challenges over the years, Leatherwolf has remained a vital force in the metal scene, and continues to tour and release new music. Their legacy is one of dedication to their craft, perseverance through adversity, and a commitment to delivering powerful and memorable metal music to their fans.

This is the 1984 debut official full-length album by the American Heavy Metal band "Leatherwolf". This album is also known as "Endangered Species", NOT to be confused with the "Leatherwolf" album released in 1987.

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This is the first "Leatherwolf" album released on Island Records

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"Street Ready" is the third full length album by the American Heavy Metal "Leatherwolf", the album was released in 1989 and was their last album before their split in 1991.

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