Avenged Sevenfold
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Band Timeline
1999
Formation and Early Days
Avenged Sevenfold was formed in Huntington Beach, California in 1999 by vocalist M. Shadows (Matt Sanders), drummer The Rev (James Sullivan), rhythm guitarist Zacky Vengeance (Zachary Baker), and bassist Matt Wendt. They chose their name referencing the biblical story of Cain and Abel, symbolizing a significant and dark narrative tone that would influence their music. Their style initially was rooted in metalcore, combining aggressive elements with melodic undertones. Early performances and demos helped establish a growing local fanbase.
2001
Debut Album Release: Sounding the Seventh Trumpet
In 2001, Avenged Sevenfold released their debut album, Sounding the Seventh Trumpet. This album showcased their original metalcore sound and was a critical foundation for the band’s identity. It was notable for its raw intensity and the youthful energy of the band, earning the band recognition in the underground metal scene. The album's themes and aggressive style helped set them apart and laid the groundwork for their next phase of evolution in sound.
2003
Waking the Fallen and Growing Popularity
Avenged Sevenfold released their second album Waking the Fallen in 2003, which continued their metalcore style but incorporated more melodic and complex compositions. This album marked a significant step forward in musicianship and songwriting, which attracted a wider audience and critical attention. The success of Waking the Fallen enabled the band to tour more extensively and build a stronger presence in the heavy metal community. It was crucial in setting the stage for their mainstream breakthrough.
2005
Mainstream Breakthrough with City of Evil
In 2005, Avenged Sevenfold released City of Evil, their third album and first on a major label. This album marked a stylistic shift towards traditional heavy metal and hard rock, incorporating more melodic leads and intricate guitar work, especially by lead guitarist Synyster Gates who had joined the band by this time. City of Evil was a commercial success, earning significant airplay and solidifying their position in the metal world. Hit singles like "Bat Country" and "Beast and the Harlot" became anthems for metal fans worldwide, increasing their global fanbase.
2007
Self-titled Album and Continued Success
Their fourth album, self-titled Avenged Sevenfold, was released in 2007 and showcased further musical experimentation blending heavy metal with other rock styles. The album received positive reviews and maintained the band's commercial momentum. This period was marked by extensive touring and solidifying their reputation as a versatile and powerful live act. The band began integrating different influences, which demonstrated their growth beyond their initial metalcore roots.
2009
Death of The Rev and Transitional Period
In 2009, the band faced a tragic setback when their founding drummer, Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, died unexpectedly. This loss deeply affected the band both personally and professionally. Despite this, Avenged Sevenfold decided to continue, engaging Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy to record drums for their upcoming album. This period was challenging as they navigated grief while maintaining their creative momentum, leading to the band's reinvention and resilience.
2010
Release of Nightmare and First Number One Album
Avenged Sevenfold released Nightmare in 2010, the first album following The Rev’s death, featuring Mike Portnoy on drums. The album was a critical and commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 — the band's first number one debut. Nightmare combined dark, emotional themes with complex musicianship, showcasing the band's ability to grow and evolve through adversity. The album helped Avenged Sevenfold maintain their status in the heavy metal scene and was celebrated for its heartfelt tribute to The Rev.
2011
Arin Ilejay Joins as Drummer
In 2011, Avenged Sevenfold welcomed Arin Ilejay as their new drummer for touring and recording. This lineup change marked a new chapter for the band, as they continued to evolve their sound. Ilejay contributed to their upcoming projects and was part of the band during the release of their sixth album. His entry helped stabilize the band’s live performances and studio recordings during this transitional phase.
2013
Hail to the King and Chart-Topping Success
The band released their sixth studio album, Hail to the King, in 2013. This album featured Arin Ilejay on drums and displayed a tribute to classic heavy metal and hard rock influences, with a more straightforward, powerful sound. Hail to the King achieved significant chart success, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 as well as top charts in the UK, Finland, Brazil, Canada, and Ireland. The album strengthened their mainstream appeal and demonstrated their ability to craft music honoring their influences while appealing to contemporary audiences.
2014
Drummer Change: Brooks Wackerman Joins
Late in 2014, Arin Ilejay left the band and was replaced by Brooks Wackerman, formerly of Bad Religion. This change was not publicly announced until 2015 but marked a fresh dynamic for Avenged Sevenfold. Wackerman's versatile drumming style supported the band's evolving musical direction, including their move toward progressive metal. His presence helped the band continue their creative exploration and maintain strong live performances.
2016
Surprise Release of The Stage and Progressive Metal Shift
In October 2016, Avenged Sevenfold surprised fans by releasing their seventh studio album, The Stage. This album marked a major artistic shift toward progressive metal and was their first conceptual album. The Stage was critically hailed for its ambitious themes and musical complexity, debuting at number 4 on the Billboard 200. It demonstrated the band’s willingness to push boundaries and innovate within the metal genre, blending technical proficiency with thought-provoking lyrical content.
2018
Black Reign EP and Video Game Collaborations
In 2018, Avenged Sevenfold released the EP Black Reign, which compiled four original songs created for the Call of Duty: Black Ops video game series. This collaboration expanded their cultural impact beyond traditional music channels, engaging the gaming community and showcasing their versatility. The EP highlighted their ability to create music that works in multimedia contexts and introduced their sound to new audiences, further solidifying their relevance in modern pop culture.
2023
Life Is But a Dream... and Experimental Directions
Avenged Sevenfold released their eighth studio album, Life Is But a Dream..., in June 2023. This highly experimental record marked another stylistic evolution for the band, exploring new sounds and complex musical structures. The album demonstrated the band's continued commitment to innovation and artistic growth more than two decades after their formation. It reflects their status as one of the most dynamic and adaptive bands in contemporary heavy metal, continually challenging their creative boundaries.
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Members
Current
Name
Begin
Occupation
M. Shadows
1999
Lead vocals
Synyster Gates
2000
Guitar
Zacky Vengeance
1999
Guitar
Brooks Wackerman
2016
Drums (drum set)
Johnny Christ
2002
Bass guitar
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
The Rev
1999
2009
Drums (drum set)
Justin Sane
N/A
N/A
Electric bass guitar
Arin Ilejay
2011
2016
Drums (drum set)
Story of Avenged Sevenfold
Avenged Sevenfold (A7X), the Huntington Beach, California heavy metal titans, exploded onto the scene in 1999. Their current lineup—M. Shadows (vocals), Zacky Vengeance (rhythm guitar), Synyster Gates (lead guitar), Johnny Christ (bass), and Brooks Wackerman (drums)—continues to deliver their signature blend of hard-hitting riffs and dramatic flair.
Initially emerging with a metalcore edge on their debut, Sounding the Seventh Trumpet, and solidifying that sound on Waking the Fallen, A7X dramatically shifted gears with their major label breakthrough, City of Evil. This album marked a transition to a more classic heavy metal style, a path they further explored on their self-titled release. Their ascent to mainstream success was tragically interrupted by the death of founding drummer Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan in 2009. Undeterred, the band, with the assistance of Dream Theater`s Mike Portnoy, delivered the emotionally charged Nightmare in 2010, their first #1 debut on the Billboard 200.
Arin Ilejay took over drumming duties in 2011, contributing to Hail to the King (2013). This album, Ilejays only with the band, showcased a powerful blend of heavy metal and hard rock, reflecting A7X’s deep respect for their musical influences. From metalcore beginnings to their current mastery of a more traditional, yet undeniably unique heavy metal sound, Avenged Sevenfolds journey is a testament to their resilience and artistic evolution.
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