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Exodus

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Band Timeline

1979

Formation of Exodus and Initial Lineup

Exodus was formed in 1979 in Richmond, California, by guitarists Kirk Hammett and Tim Agnello, drummer and vocalist Tom Hunting, and vocalist Keith Stewart while they were in high school. Initially playing covers influenced by 1970s hard rock and the NWOBHM, they quickly began developing original material. Early lineup changes saw the replacement of bass guitarist Carlton Melson with Jeff Andrews and eventually the addition of Gary Holt as guitarist, who would become a mainstay member.
1982

Early Demos and Establishment of Thrash Metal Style

In 1982, Exodus recorded a three-track demo tape featuring songs like 'Whipping Queen,' 'Death and Domination,' and 'Warlord.' At this time, Paul Baloff joined as lead vocalist, bringing a raw and aggressive style that helped cement Exodus as pioneers of the Bay Area thrash metal scene. The band combined elements of hardcore punk with NWOBHM to create a distinct and influential thrash sound, gaining a loyal local following with their intense live shows.
1985

Release of Debut Album 'Bonded by Blood'

Exodus released their debut studio album 'Bonded by Blood' in 1985, which would become a landmark in thrash metal history. Although initially delayed in release, the album's high energy and aggressive riffs were influential and established Exodus as a leading force in thrash metal. This album showcased the band's early lineup and set the foundation for their growing reputation in the metal underground.
1987

Second Album 'Pleasures of the Flesh' and Lineup Changes

The band released their second album, 'Pleasures of the Flesh,' in 1987. This album marked a shift with new vocalist Steve "Zetro" Souza replacing Paul Baloff due to internal tensions. 'Pleasures of the Flesh' continued the band's thrash legacy, though it received mixed reviews compared to their debut. The album further developed the band’s signature sound while demonstrating Exodus' ability to adapt to lineup changes.
1989

Breakthrough with 'Fabulous Disaster' and Signing with Capitol Records

In 1989, Exodus released 'Fabulous Disaster,' widely acclaimed among fans and critics. This success drew the attention of major label Capitol Records, with whom they signed later that year. The album’s critical praise and refining of thrash metal styles helped the band reach greater commercial visibility. Additionally, founding guitarist Kirk Hammett had left earlier to join Metallica, making Gary Holt the primary constant member.
1990-1992

Releases of 'Impact Is Imminent' and 'Force of Habit' Under Capitol Records

Between 1990 and 1992, Exodus released 'Impact Is Imminent' (1990) and 'Force of Habit' (1992) on Capitol Records. These albums displayed musical growth with more technical precision and experimentation, including slower tempos on 'Force of Habit.' Despite some fan pushback for changes in style, the band remained active in the thrash metal scene. However, internal strife and diverging interests led to difficulties, setting the stage for their initial breakup.
1993

First Breakup and Hiatus

In 1993, Exodus disbanded for the first time after years of lineup turmoil, record label conflicts, and reduced commercial success. This hiatus lasted several years, during which members pursued other projects, reflecting the challenges thrash metal bands faced amid the changing musical landscape of the early 1990s dominated by alternative rock and grunge.
1997-1998

Short-Lived Reunion

Exodus briefly reunited between 1997 and 1998 for some performances and attempted to regain momentum. However, this reunion was short-lived and ended without fully revitalizing the band's career, leading to another period of inactivity.
2001

Permanent Reunion and Revival of Thrash Metal Popularity

Exodus reunited permanently in 2001, with key members returning, including drummer Tom Hunting and guitarist Gary Holt. This marked the beginning of their comeback and active participation in the early-to-mid-2000s thrash metal revival movement. The reunion was fueled by renewed interest in classic thrash bands and the growing metal community supporting them.
2004

Release of 'Tempo of the Damned' and Reignition of Popularity

The 2004 album 'Tempo of the Damned' was Exodus' first studio album in over a decade and is credited with reigniting the band's popularity. The album received positive reception, reaffirming Exodus' position among thrash metal pioneers. This release marked a new era of creativity and touring for the band, reconnecting them with fans old and new.
2007

Return of Drummer Tom Hunting

Tom Hunting, founding drummer and the only original member still active, rejoined Exodus in 2007 after two previous departures in 1989 and 2004. His return solidified the band's lineup and contributed to the stability necessary for further albums and tours. Hunting's drumming style is integral to the band's sound and identity.
2010s

Continued Releases and Touring

Throughout the 2010s, Exodus released several more studio albums, continuing to evolve within the thrash metal genre. The band maintained a consistent touring schedule, performing worldwide and solidifying their reputation as one of thrash metal's enduring acts. Key releases during this decade further established them within the metal community and ensured their legacy.
2021

Release of Eleventh Studio Album 'Persona Non Grata'

In 2021, Exodus released 'Persona Non Grata,' their eleventh studio album. The album was well received and demonstrated the band's sustained creative energy over four decades. This release showed that Exodus remained relevant in the metal scene, balancing their classic thrash elements with contemporary production and songwriting.
2023-2026

Work on Upcoming Album and Future Plans

As of 2023, Exodus is actively working on new material for their next studio album, anticipated for release in 2026. This ongoing creative process signifies the band's commitment to their music and fans. Their place as pioneers of the Bay Area thrash metal scene and members of the 'Big Eight' thrash metal bands underscores their lasting influence and importance in metal history.

Albums

exodus_1st_album
Bonded by Blood
9 tracks
1985
📷
No Image
Pleasures of the Flesh
10 tracks
1987
exodus_3rd_album
Fabulous Disaster
10 tracks
1989
exodus_4th_album
Impact Is Imminent
10 tracks
1990
exodus_5th_album
Force of Habit
15 tracks
1992
exodus_6th_album
Tempo of the Damned
11 tracks
2004
exodus_7th_album
Shovel Headed Kill Machine
10 tracks
2005
exodus_8th_album
The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A
10 tracks
2007
exodus_9th_album
Let There Be Blood
10 tracks
2008
exodus_10th_album
Exhibit B: The Human Condition
13 tracks
2010
exodus_11th_album
Blood In Blood Out
11 tracks
2014
exodus_12th_album
Persona Non Grata
12 tracks
2021
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Tom Hunting

2007

Gary Holt

2001

Jack Gibson

2001

Bass guitar

Steve Souza

2014

Lead vocals

Lee Altus

2005

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Rob Dukes

2005
2014

Lead vocals

Gary Holt

1981
1993

Paul Baloff

1997
2002

Rob McKillop

1983
1990

Paul Bostaph

2005
2007

Rick Hunolt

2001
2005

Jack Gibson

1997
1998

Bass guitar

Steve Souza

1986
1992

Lead vocals

Tom Hunting

1997
2005

Gary Holt

1997
1998

Rick Hunolt

1983
1990

Steve Souza

2002
2004

Lead vocals

Paul Baloff

1983
1986

Tom Hunting

1979
1989

Membranophone

Rick Hunolt

1996
1998

Kirk Hammett

1979
1983

Guitar

Tom Hunting

1996
1998

Story of Exodus

Exodus: A Thrash Metal Legacy

Hailing from Richmond, California, Exodus is a pioneering force in the American thrash metal scene, formed in 1979. Though the lineup has shifted over the years, they've remained a powerful entity, currently featuring guitarists Gary Holt and Lee Altus, bassist Jack Gibson, drummer Tom Hunting, and vocalist Steve "Zetro" Souza.

Exodus boasts a unique history, with Tom Hunting being the only original member remaining. Hunting has weathered two departures from the band, first in 1989, then again in 2004, ultimately rejoining in 2007. The band also served as a launchpad for the legendary Kirk Hammett, who held the lead guitarist position from Exodus' inception until 1983, when he joined Metallica as Dave Mustaine's replacement.

Gary Holt, who replaced original guitarist Tim Agnello in 1981, has been a stalwart through various lineup changes and breakups, becoming the most consistent member and the only one to appear on every Exodus recording. Despite facing a turbulent history marked by band member feuds, record label conflicts, extended hiatuses, the loss of former members, and struggles with drug addiction, Exodus has persevered.

Their legacy speaks volumes. With eleven studio albums, three live albums, a compilation album, and a re-recording of their debut album, they've solidified their place as a cornerstone of the Bay Area thrash metal scene. Alongside Metallica, they're often recognized as pioneers of the genre, earning a place among the region's "Big Six" alongside Testament, Death Angel, Lȧȧz Rockit, Forbidden, and Vio-lence.

Exodus' influence extends beyond their regional scene. They're considered one of thrash metal's "Big Eight" alongside Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax, Testament, Overkill, and Death Angel. Their first three studio albums, Bonded by Blood (1985), Pleasures of the Flesh (1987), and Fabulous Disaster (1989), propelled them to success during the mid-to-late 1980s, solidifying their place in metal history. With over five million albums sold worldwide, Exodus continues to inspire and influence generations of metal fans.

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