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Mudvayne

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Band Timeline

1996

Formation and Early Lineup

Mudvayne was formed in Peoria, Illinois by guitarist Greg Tribbett, drummer Matthew McDonough, and bassist Shawn Barclay. Shortly after formation, Chad Gray joined as lead vocalist, finalizing the early lineup. The band took root in the late-1990s Peoria underground music scene, setting the foundation for their experimental heavy metal style.
1997

Debut EP and Lineup Change

Mudvayne self-financed and released their debut EP 'Kill, I Oughtta.' During its recording, bassist Shawn Barclay was replaced by Ryan Martinie, who brought new influences from his previous progressive rock experience. The band also adopted stage names and performance elements like face paint which became a trademark.
2000

Debut Album L.D. 50 and Rising Popularity

Mudvayne released their full-length debut album 'L.D. 50,' which showcased a ragged, dissonant sound with innovative interludes. Produced alongside Garth Richardson, and with executive production by Slipknot's Shawn Crahan, 'L.D. 50' peaked at number 1 on Billboard's Top Heatseekers chart. Singles such as 'Dig' and 'Death Blooms' gained radio success. The band supported the album with the Tattoo the Earth tour, playing alongside notable metal acts, boosting their profile nationally.
2002

Second Album The End of All Things to Come

Mudvayne released their second album, widely considered their 'black album,' featuring a darker tone and more versatile sound including jazz and progressive metal elements. Written in isolation under time constraints, the album received critical acclaim and was certified Gold by the RIAA. The single 'Not Falling' marked a transformation in the band's visual and sonic presentation, emphasizing their evolving artistry.
2005

Release of Most Commercially Successful Album Lost and Found

'Lost and Found,' Mudvayne's third album, debuted at number 2 on the Billboard 200 and was certified Gold. Demonstrating a raw and refined balance, the band continued their sonic experimentation with elements of thrash and hard rock. Recorded with producer Dave Fortman, tracks like 'Determined' and 'Happy?' were supported by music videos and extensive touring, cementing Mudvayne's place in mainstream metal.
2008

Fourth Album The New Game and Continued Evolution

'The New Game' was released as Mudvayne's fourth studio album, debuting at No. 15 on the Billboard 200. The album was noted for incorporating a heavier rock and roll influence alongside their metal roots, with singles like 'Do What You Do.' Though receiving mixed reviews, the album reflected the band's continued willingness to evolve their style and production techniques during a period impacted by other members' side projects.
2010

Hiatus Begins

After nearly a decade of continual touring and releasing five albums, Mudvayne went on hiatus in 2010. This break followed a period of exhaustive work and allowed band members to pursue other musical interests, notably the side project Hellyeah involving Chad Gray and Greg Tribbett. The hiatus paused Mudvayne's active presence in the metal scene.
2021

Reunion and Resumption of Live Performances

After more than a decade of inactivity, Mudvayne reunited in 2021, returning to live performances with their full classic lineup plus live rhythm guitarist Marcus Rafferty. The reunion was met with enthusiasm from fans and marked a significant moment in the band's enduring impact on American heavy metal, continuing their legacy of sonic experimentation and theatrical stage presence.

Albums

mudvayne_1st_album
L.D. 50
17 tracks
2000
mudvayne_2nd_album
The End of All Things to Come
13 tracks
2002
mudvayne_3rd_album
Lost and Found
12 tracks
2005
mudvayne_4th_album
The New Game
21 tracks
2008
mudvayne_5th_album
Mudvayne
11 tracks
2009
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Ryan Martinie

N/A

Bass guitar

Matthew McDonough

N/A

Membranophone

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Chad Gray

1996
2010

Lead vocals

Greg Tribbett

1996
2010

Background vocals

Guitar

Story of Mudvayne

Mudvayne: A Sonic Revolution from the Heart of Illinois

Mudvayne, the heavy metal titans hailing from Peoria, Illinois, burst onto the scene in 1996, ready to redefine the genre. Known for their audacious sonic experimentation, theatrical face and body paint, and iconic masks and uniforms, Mudvayne became a force to be reckoned with, selling over five million records worldwide.

The band's core consists of Greg Tribbett (lead guitar), Matthew McDonough (drums), Chad Gray (lead vocals), and Ryan Martinie (bass). They were joined on stage by live rhythm guitarist Marcus Rafferty.

Mudvayne's journey began in the vibrant Peoria underground music scene, where they quickly gained notoriety. Their breakthrough came with the release of their debut album, L.D. 50, in 2000. The album's lead single, "Dig," became a heavy metal anthem, propelling the band into the spotlight.

After releasing four more critically acclaimed albums and touring relentlessly for nearly a decade, Mudvayne took a hiatus in 2010. However, their legion of fans never forgot them. In 2021, they triumphantly returned to the stage, proving that their sonic power remained as potent as ever.

The Early Days: Kill, I Oughtta, and L.D. 50 (1996-2001)

Mudvayne's roots can be traced back to 1996 when the band formed in Peoria. The original lineup featured Greg Tribbett, Matthew McDonough, Chad Gray, and bassist Shawn Barclay. It was Gray's unwavering dedication to the band that cemented their future. He quit his factory job, where he was earning $40,000 a year, to fully commit to becoming Mudvayne's lead singer.

In 1997, the band financed their debut EP, Kill, I Oughtta, a raw display of their emerging musical identity. During the recording process, Barclay departed and was replaced by Ryan Martinie, a seasoned musician formerly with the progressive rock band Broken Altar. This lineup solidified the band's sound and set the stage for their monumental rise to fame.

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