Dark Angel with Sacred Reich, Midnight, and more

Cleveland's cult band Midnight, led by multi-instrumentalist Athenar, fuses speed metal, black metal, and punk rock, gaining a devoted following since 2002.

Formed in the Bay Area in 1985, VIO-LENCE, known for their thrash metal sound, released the acclaimed album "Eternal Nightmare" in 1988. They toured with Testament and others, signed with Megaforce, and released "Oppressing the Masses" in 1990. After disbanding in 1993, they reunited in 2019.

Hirax, from Buena Park, CA, formed in 1984, is a notable thrash metal band led by Katon W. DePena. Known for high-pitched vocals and short, hardcore-influenced songs, they released key albums like *Raging Violence* and *Hate, Fear and Power*. Despite early struggles, their cult following grew. Collaborations include Scott Owen, Ron McGovney, and former D.R.I. drummer Eric Brecht. Revived in 2000, they released *The New Age of Terror* in 2004, solidifying their place in speed and thrash metal history.