Photos by Sharon Steele – Avenged Sevenfold is an American heavy metal band formed in 1999 in Huntington Beach, California. The band consists of lead vocalist M. Shadows, lead guitarist Synyster Gates, rhythm guitarist Zacky Vengeance, bassist Johnny Christ, and drummer Brooks Wackerman.
Avenged Sevenfold gained popularity in the early 2000s with their debut album “Sounding the Seventh Trumpet” and their sophomore album “Waking the Fallen”. However, it was their third studio album, “City of Evil”, released in 2005, that brought them mainstream success. The album featured hit singles like “Bat Country” and “Beast and the Harlot”.
Known for their melodic vocals, intricate guitar solos, and heavy sound influenced by classic heavy metal bands, Avenged Sevenfold has established themselves as one of the leading bands in the modern metal scene. They have released several successful albums, including “Avenged Sevenfold” (2007), “Nightmare” (2010), and “The Stage” (2016).
Tragedy struck the band in 2009 when their drummer, Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan, passed away. Despite this devastating loss, Avenged Sevenfold continued on and released their fifth studio album, “Nightmare”, with the help of drummer Mike Portnoy. The album was a commercial success and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart.
Over the years, the band has won numerous awards and accolades, including Best New Artist at the MTV Video Music Awards and several Revolver Golden Gods Awards. They have toured extensively and performed at major music festivals around the world.
Avenged Sevenfold’s music often addresses themes of death, love, and existentialism, exploring deep and thought-provoking lyrical content. With their unique blend of heavy metal and hard rock, the band has amassed a dedicated fanbase and remains a prominent force in the metal genre.
ALEXIS ON FIRE
KIM DRACULA
