Sacred Reich is an American thrash metal band that was formed in 1985 in Phoenix, Arizona. The band is known for their political and social commentary lyrics, as well as their aggressive and heavy music style. With four studio albums, several EPs and live recordings, Sacred Reich has become a cult favorite among the metal community.
The band was founded by Phil Rind on bass and vocals, Wiley Arnett on guitar, and Greg Hall on drums. They were later joined by Jason Rainey on guitar. The band's early years were marked by the typical struggles of a struggling band trying to make it in the competitive metal scene of the mid-1980s. However, Sacred Reich's talent and dedication paid off when they signed with Metal Blade Records in 1987, which led to the release of their debut album, "Ignorance."
"Ignorance" was a critical success, and Sacred Reich quickly gained a reputation for their powerful, politically charged lyrics and their energetic live performances. The album's title track, "Ignorance," deals with the dangers of blind obedience and the need for people to think for themselves. Another standout track is "Death Squad," which addresses the brutality of war and the senseless loss of life that results from it.
The band's second album, "The American Way," was released in 1990 and was another critical success. The album's title track is a scathing indictment of the greed and materialism that permeates American society. The song urges listeners to resist the pressure to conform and to fight for their individuality. The album also includes the track "Who's to Blame," which deals with the issue of environmental destruction and the need for people to take responsibility for their actions.
Sacred Reich continued to tour and release albums throughout the 1990s, but the band faced numerous challenges, including lineup changes and declining interest in thrash metal. Despite these challenges, the band remained committed to their music and their message, and their influence continued to be felt in the metal community.
In 1996, Sacred Reich released their fourth studio album, "Heal." The album marked a departure from their thrash metal roots and featured a more melodic and introspective sound. The album's title track deals with the issue of mental health and the need for people to seek help when they are struggling. Another standout track is "Blue Suit, Brown Shirt," which addresses the issue of racism and the dangers of extremist ideologies.
Sacred Reich went on hiatus in 2000, and the band members pursued other projects. However, they reunited in 2006 for a series of live shows, and in 2019, they released their fifth studio album, "Awakening." The album marked a return to their thrash metal roots and featured the same powerful political and social commentary that has defined their music for decades.
Sacred Reich has been an influential band in the thrash metal genre, and their legacy continues to be felt in the metal community today. They are known for their powerful lyrics, their energetic live performances, and their unwavering commitment to their music and their message. The band has inspired countless fans and other musicians, and their impact on the metal scene cannot be overstated.
