Alcatraz Line up: 2010, 2017, 2021, 2024

Formed in 1974, Raven hit a nerve with their energetic style they themselves like to call ‘athletic rock’. They were one of the driving forces behind the NWOBHM and their speed and power were a heavy influence on the emerging thrash genre. After making a name for themselves with such albums as ‘Rock until You Drop’ (1981) and ‘Wiped Out’ (1982) they tried in vain to break into the mainstream with Stay Hard’ (1985) and ‘The Pack Is Back’ (1986) but they soon returned to form with the ‘Mad’ EP and a new full-length, ‘Life’s a Bitch’ (1987). They also gave Anthrax and Metallica a leg up by taking them out on tour in the early 80s. The advent of grunge hit the metal scene like a ton of bricks but Raven kept the recording/touring cycle going. Still, it wasn’t until the critically acclaimed ‘Walk through Fire’ (2009) that they recaptured the kind of attention they deserve. Incredibly they’re still going strong after nearly half a century. Just give the aptly titled ‘All Hell’s Breaking Loose’ (2023) a listen!