RAVEN is a British Heavy Metal Band (NWOBHM - New Wave of British Heavy Metal) originating from Newcastle, England. It was formed in the Year 1974 by John Gallagher, Mark Gallagher and Paul Bowden. Their first single was "Don't Need Your Money" and released in the year 1980.
RAVEN is a British heavy metal band that emerged in the late 1970s during the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. The band consists of brothers John Gallagher (bass, lead vocals) and Mark Gallagher (guitar), as well as Joe Hasselvander (drums). Raven is known for their energetic live performances and their unique blend of heavy metal and punk rock influences.
History:
Raven was formed in Newcastle, England in 1974 by brothers John and Mark Gallagher. Originally called "Copperhead," the band changed their name to Raven in 1976 after the release of the classic horror film of the same name. In the late 1970s, Raven began to gain a following in the UK thanks to their high-energy live performances and their unique blend of heavy metal and punk rock influences.
Raven released their debut album "Rock Until You Drop" in 1981, which featured the hit single "Don't Need Your Money." The album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish Raven as one of the leading bands in the NWOBHM movement. Raven followed up with a string of successful albums in the early to mid-1980s, including "Wiped Out" (1982), "All for One" (1983), and "Stay Hard" (1985).
Despite their success, Raven was never able to break through to mainstream success in the US. The band continued to tour and record throughout the 1990s and 2000s, releasing a number of albums on independent labels. Raven continues to tour and record to this day, and is considered one of the pioneers of the NWOBHM movement.
Musical Style:
Raven's musical style is characterized by a unique blend of heavy metal and punk rock influences. The band's early material was heavily influenced by bands like Judas Priest and AC/DC, as well as punk rock bands like The Ramones and The Sex Pistols. Raven's music is characterized by fast, aggressive guitar riffs, thunderous bass lines, and hard-hitting drumming.
Raven's music also incorporates elements of humor and satire, with songs like "Faster Than the Speed of Light" and "Crash Bang Wallop" featuring tongue-in-cheek lyrics and playful instrumentation. Despite this, Raven's music is also known for its powerful and anthemic choruses, with songs like "Rock Until You Drop" and "Break the Chain" featuring sing-along choruses that have become fan favorites.
Impact:
Raven is considered one of the most influential bands of the NWOBHM movement. The band's unique blend of heavy metal and punk rock influences helped to define the sound of the movement, and influenced countless other bands in the genre. Raven's energetic live performances and powerful, anthemic music also helped to establish the band as one of the leading acts of the movement.
Raven's influence can be heard in the music of countless other bands, including Metallica, Anthrax, and Slayer. Metallica's Lars Ulrich has cited Raven as one of his favorite bands, and the influence of Raven's music can be heard in Metallica's early material. Anthrax's Scott Ian has also cited Raven as a major influence, and the band has covered Raven's song "Live at the Inferno" on several occasions.
Around 1983/1984 Raven moved from Newcastle to New York City.
RAVEN has released the following full-length albums during the period 1980-1991:
Born and raised in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, John Gallagher is the lead vocalist, bassist, and founding member of the iconic NWOBHM band Raven. A self-taught musician, John's passion for heavy metal was ignited at a young age, inspired by bands like Judas Priest, Kiss, and Deep Purple. He formed Raven with his younger brother Mark in 1974, and together they honed their skills in the local music scene, playing countless gigs and developing their signature sound.
John's musical style is characterized by his aggressive vocals, melodic basslines, and energetic stage presence. His songwriting contributions to Raven are numerous, penning many of the band's most beloved anthems, including "Crash Bang Wallop," "Don't Need Your Money," and "On and On." As the band's frontman, John's charismatic personality and infectious enthusiasm have made him a beloved figure in the heavy metal community.
Beyond his work with Raven, John has also collaborated with other musicians and bands, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to the craft. He is a respected figure in the metal scene, known for his passion, talent, and unwavering commitment to his music.
Hailing from Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Mark Gallagher is the lead guitarist and founding member of Raven. As John's younger brother, Mark shared his passion for heavy metal from a young age. Inspired by guitar legends like Ritchie Blackmore and Michael Schenker, Mark developed a unique style that blended classic metal with elements of punk and thrash.
Mark's guitar playing is characterized by its speed, precision, and melodic sensibility. His intricate solos and harmonized riffs are a hallmark of Raven's sound, and his songwriting contributions have been essential to the band's success. Tracks like "Faster Than the Speed of Light" and "Star War" showcase his technical prowess and his ability to craft memorable heavy metal anthems.
Beyond his work with Raven, Mark has also collaborated with other musicians and bands, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to the craft. He is a highly respected figure in the metal community, known for his innovative guitar playing, energetic live performances, and unwavering commitment to his music.
Rob "Wacko" Hunter, born in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, is a renowned drummer best known for his tenure with the NWOBHM band Raven. His energetic and athletic drumming style, combined with his wild stage persona, earned him the nickname "Wacko" and made him a fan favorite.
Hunter joined Raven in 1979, replacing original drummer Paul Bowden. His powerful drumming and stage antics quickly became an integral part of the band's live shows, adding an extra layer of intensity and excitement to their performances. Hunter's contributions were crucial to Raven's early albums, including "Rock Until You Drop" (1981), "Wiped Out" (1982), and "All for One" (1983), helping to define the band's signature sound.
Known for his athleticism, Hunter often performed wearing a hockey goalie mask and padding, jumping and diving around the stage while delivering thunderous beats. His energetic style not only captivated audiences but also influenced a generation of drummers, including Lars Ulrich of Metallica, who cited Hunter as a major inspiration.
After leaving Raven in 1987, Hunter continued to pursue his musical career, working as a session drummer and producer for various artists. He also collaborated with his brother, bassist/vocalist John Gallagher, on several projects.
Hunter's drumming style is characterized by its speed, power, and precision. His unique approach to the drumkit, incorporating elements of punk and hard rock, helped to define the NWOBHM sound and continues to influence drummers today.
While his time with Raven may be his most well-known contribution to music, Rob "Wacko" Hunter's career is a testament to his enduring passion for music and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of drumming. His influence on the heavy metal genre is undeniable, and his legacy as one of the most exciting drummers of his generation remains secure.
Raven's "All For One," released on the French label Bernett Records in 1983, is a high-octane explosion of New Wave of British Heavy Metal. This album, the band's third, showcases their signature blend of speed, aggression, and melody
- All For One (Italian Release) - All For One (French Release)
Raven's "Live at the Inferno," released in 1984, is a raw and electrifying document of the band's energetic live shows during the height of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. This double LP captures the band's signature blend of speed, aggression, and melody, showcasing fan favorites
Live at the Inferno ( 1984, Netherlands ) 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1986, Raven's "The Pack Is Back" marked a shift in the band's sound, embracing a more polished production while retaining their signature energy. Produced by Eddie Kramer (Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin), this NWOBHM album features the anthemic title track and "Gimme Some Lovin',"
The Pack is Back 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1985, Raven's "Stay Hard" marked a turning point, showcasing a more polished sound while maintaining their aggressive energy. Produced by Michael Wagener, this NWOBHM album features the anthemic title track, "On and On," and "Hard Ride," highlighting the band's evolution
Stay Hard ( 1985, Germany ) 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1987, Raven's "Life's a Bitch" showcases a matured yet unrelenting NWOBHM sound. Produced by Roy Thomas Baker, this album features a mix of hard-hitting anthems like "Lock and Load" and melodic tracks like "Playing with Fire," demonstrating the band's versatility and solidifying their NWOBHM legacy.
Life's a Bitch ( 1987 ) 12" Vinyl LP
Raven's "Wiped Out" LP, a rare Italian pressing on NEAT Records, signifies the band's evolution and transition from the label. This pivotal album blends speed metal and NWOBHM influences, encapsulating Raven's signature style.
Wiped Out ( 1982, Italy ) 12" L