The Birth of Exodus in Richmond, California
Exodus was formed in 1979 in Richmond, California, a city located in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. The original lineup consisted of guitarist Gary Holt, drummer Tom Hunting, bassist Carlton Melson, and vocalist Keith Stewart and of course guitar player Kirk Hammett
Like many early metal bands of the era, Exodus drew heavily from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), citing influences such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Diamond Head, and Motörhead. These bands provided the foundation for a faster, more aggressive style that would eventually evolve into thrash metal.
Early Lineup Changes and the Arrival of Paul Baloff
Exodus underwent several early lineup changes that significantly impacted their sound. Keith Stewart departed the band, and after a brief transitional period, Exodus recruited vocalist Paul Baloff.
Baloff’s raw, unpolished vocal delivery and wild stage presence became defining characteristics of early Exodus. His aggressive approach perfectly matched the band’s increasingly fast and confrontational music.
Kirk Hammett and the Development of the Exodus Sound
Hammett’s technical ability and melodic sensibility elevated the band’s songwriting and musicianship. Alongside Gary Holt, he helped craft the sharp, riff-driven style that would become a cornerstone of thrash metal.
The Holt–Hammett partnership produced many early Exodus compositions that circulated through the underground tape-trading scene, earning the band a growing reputation throughout the Bay Area.
The Bay Area Thrash Scene and Underground Recognition
By the early 1980s, Exodus had become a major presence in the emerging Bay Area thrash metal scene. They regularly performed alongside bands such as Metallica, Legacy (later known as Testament), and Death Angel.
In 1982, Exodus recorded the demo “Whipping Queen”, which showcased their aggressive riffing, high-speed rhythms, and rebellious lyrical themes. The demo circulated widely and helped cement their status as one of the scene’s most promising bands.
Kirk Hammett’s Departure and Continued Struggles
Despite their momentum, Exodus struggled with management issues and delays in securing a record deal. In 1983, Kirk Hammett left Exodus to join Metallica, replacing Dave Mustaine. His departure was a significant setback for the band.
Exodus quickly rebounded by recruiting guitarist Rick Hunolt, whose aggressive playing style complemented Gary Holt and helped preserve the band’s intensity.
Bonded by Blood and the End of the Original Era
After years of delays, Exodus finally recorded their debut album Bonded by Blood, released in 1985 via Torrid Records and Combat Records. The album is now regarded as one of the most important thrash metal releases of all time.
Songs such as “Bonded by Blood,” “A Lesson in Violence,” “Strike of the Beast,” and “Metal Command” captured the raw aggression of Exodus at their peak. Although Paul Baloff was fired shortly before the album’s release and replaced by Steve “Zetro” Souza, the record remains a defining statement of early thrash metal.
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For a more detailed review of Exodus’s first album click on the album cover |
Legacy of Early Exodus
The early years of Exodus were marked by innovation, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to heavy music. While they may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of their peers, their influence on thrash metal is immense.
Exodus helped establish the blueprint for the genre, inspiring countless bands worldwide and earning their place as true pioneers of Bay Area thrash metal.
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