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Band Timeline
2004
Formation of Havok and Early Beginnings
Havok was formed in Denver, Colorado, in 2004 by David Sanchez and drummer Haakon Sjoegren, initially as a trio with guitarist Shawn Chavez and bassist Marcus Corich. They quickly entered the local thrash metal scene with their first demo 'Thrash Can', establishing their presence in the underground metal community. Their music drew heavily from 1980s thrash and the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, blending these influences with more modern metal elements to shape their sound.
2005
First EP Released, Building Local Momentum
In 2005, Havok self-released the EP 'Murder by Metal', further solidifying their growing reputation. This early work helped them attract a dedicated local fanbase and laid the foundation for their aggressive thrash metal style characterized by fast-paced riffs and socially aware lyrics. The band's DIY approach to recording and distribution exemplified the grassroots nature of the thrash revival scene they were beginning to impact.
2007
Lineup Changes and 'Pwn 'Em All' EP
By 2007, Havok underwent important lineup changes with Tyler Cantrell joining on bass and Rich Tice on drums. On September 19, 2007, they released their self-produced EP 'Pwn 'Em All'. This marked a step forward in their professional development leading to wider recognition beyond Denver. They also gained experience touring, which helped them refine their performance and songwriting.
2008
Signing with Candlelight Records and New Bassist
In 2008, Havok caught the attention of the UK-based extreme metal label Candlelight Records after sending out their EP and press kits. This led to a record deal that would facilitate wider distribution and production quality improvements. The band also added bassist Jesse De Los Santos, injecting fresh energy as they prepared to enter a new phase in their career leading up to their first full album.
2009
Debut Album 'Burn' and Drummer Changes
June 2, 2009, saw the release of Havok's debut full-length album 'Burn'. Although drummer Ryan Bloom left shortly before the release, the band stabilized their lineup by bringing in Pete Webber. The album received positive acclaim within the metal community for its raw thrash energy and technicality but had not yet broken into the international scene. Havok's rigorous touring schedule began around this time, gaining them valuable experience and exposure.
2010
Guitarist Resignation and Trio Touring; Reece Scruggs Joins
In May 2010, guitarist Shawn Chavez unexpectedly departed, leaving Sanchez to learn all lead guitar parts to keep the band touring as a trio. Their resilience during this period showcased their dedication and musicianship. By September 2010, the band welcomed Reece Scruggs as the new lead guitarist, returning the group to a fuller lineup and setting the stage for their next album recording.
2011
'Time Is Up' Released and Thrash Metal Revival Recognition
March 29, 2011, marked the release of Havok's sophomore album 'Time Is Up', a breakthrough that earned critical acclaim and solidified their status in the New Wave of Thrash Metal movement. The album's success opened doors for major tours supporting legendary thrash acts and further expanded their international fan base. Their aggressive yet intricate style helped define the thrash metal revival of the early 2010s.
2012
Extensive Touring and Festival Appearances
In 2012, Havok engaged in heavy touring including participation in the 'Barge to Hell' cruise, featuring prominent extreme metal bands like At the Gates and Exodus. Their energetic live shows attracted widespread attention, reinforcing their reputation as one of the leading bands in the thrash metal resurgence. The continued exposure helped them maintain momentum between their major album releases.
2013
'Unnatural Selection' and Ongoing Changes
Havok released their third studio album 'Unnatural Selection' in 2013. This period also saw lineup changes such as the departure of bassist Jesse De Los Santos, replaced by Mike Leon. The album showcased their evolving sound with progressive touches while staying true to their thrash roots. Through relentless touring and recording activity, they strengthened their foothold in the metal scene.
2017
'Conformicide' Album Released
In 2017 Havok released their fourth album 'Conformicide', continuing to refine their sound with sharper songwriting and diverse influences. The album maintained their critical acclaim and fanbase enthusiasm amidst shifts in the metal landscape. Havok's persistence as a thrash revival leader was evident as they navigated the competitive music world with consistency and artistic growth.
2020
'V' Album Release and Current Lineup
Their fifth studio album 'V' was released in 2020, further marking Havok's evolution and staying power in the thrash metal genre. By this time, the lineup had stabilized to include frontman David Sanchez, drummer Pete Webber, and bassist Nick Schendzielos. 'V' demonstrated a mature band sound with modern production that respected their aggressive roots and cemented their legacy.
2024
Ongoing Work and Future Prospects
As of 2024, Havok remains active and is reportedly working on new music, continuing their role as a leading band in thrash metal's ongoing revival. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, founding member David Sanchez's vision keeps the band relevant and influential within metal circles worldwide. Fans anticipate future releases and tours, solidifying Havok's place in contemporary metal history.
Albums
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Members
Current
Name
Begin
Occupation
David Sanchez
2004
Lead vocals
Reece Scruggs
2010
Guitar
Pete Webber
2010
Membranophone
Reece Scruggs
2010
Background vocals
David Sanchez
2004
Guitar
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
Mike Leon
2013
2015
Electric bass guitar
Scott Fuller
2009
2010
Membranophone
Tyler Cantrell
2006
2007
Electric bass guitar
Jesse de los Santos
2009
2012
Background vocals
Haakon Sjoegren
2004
2005
Membranophone
Ryan Alexander Bloom
2007
2009
Membranophone
Shawn Chavez
2004
2010
Guitar
Justin Cantrell
2007
2008
Electric bass guitar
Jesse de los Santos
2009
2012
Electric bass guitar
Brandon Bruce
2020
2021
Electric bass guitar
Marcus Corich
2004
2005
Electric bass guitar
Nick Schendzielos
2015
2019
Electric bass guitar
Richie Tice
2005
2007
Membranophone
Justin Cantrell
2007
2008
Background vocals
Story of Havok
Havok, the Denver, Colorado thrash metal powerhouse, ignited the scene in 2004. While the band's lineup has undergone significant evolution – with frontman David Sanchez the sole original member remaining – their impact remains undeniable. Their blistering sound, forged from a potent blend of 80s thrash, NWOBHM, death metal, hardcore punk, and progressive elements, has solidified their place as a key player in the late 2000s/early 2010s thrash metal revival, alongside bands like Bonded by Blood, Evile, Hatchet, Municipal Waste, and Warbringer.
Havok's discography boasts five studio albums: Burn (2009), Time Is Up (2011), Unnatural Selection (2013), Conformicide (2017), and V (2020). Currently, the band features Sanchez on vocals, Pete Webber on drums, and Nick Schendzielos on bass. They continue to craft new music, promising more high-octane thrash to come.
Early Days: The band's origins trace back to David Sanchez and drummer Haakon Sjoegren. Their quest for a guitarist led to the recruitment of Shawn Chavez via flyers plastered across Denver. Rounding out their initial lineup with bassist Marcus Corich, Havok unleashed their debut demo, "Thrash Can," in 2004, followed by the self-released Murder by Metal EP in 2005. By 2007, Tyler Cantrell had taken over bass duties, and Rich Tice became the drummer.
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