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Band Timeline

2000

Formation of Municipal Waste and Initial Performances

Municipal Waste was formed in Richmond, Virginia in 2000, originating in the American crossover thrash scene. Their first show was at a Richmond New Year's Eve keg party spanning 2000 to 2001. Drawing musical influence from bands like D.R.I., Suicidal Tendencies, and Nuclear Assault, Municipal Waste quickly began touring and establishing their presence in the thrash metal community.
2001-2002

Early Tours and First Releases

In the early years after formation, Municipal Waste toured the US and Mexico extensively throughout 2001 and 2002. During this period, the band released two split albums: a 7" with Bad Acid Trip and a 12" with Crucial Unit. These releases, coupled with their compilation appearances, helped them gain traction within the crossover thrash community. In 2002, the band underwent lineup changes, with Brendan Trache departing and Brandon Ferrell joining.
2002

Debut Album Waste 'Em All and Lineup Changes

In 2002, Municipal Waste released their debut album Waste 'Em All on Six Weeks Records. Shortly after this release, both Andy Harris and Brandon Ferrell left the band. They were replaced by bassist Philip "LandPhil" Hall and drummer Dave Witte respectively. These changes solidified a lineup that would contribute to the band's evolving sound and increased notoriety.
2005

Signing to Earache Records and Hazardous Mutation

Municipal Waste signed to Earache Records in 2005 and recorded their album Hazardous Mutation. This period saw the band gaining a stronger foothold in the metal scene. They also produced a music video for "Unleash the Bastards" with both censored and uncensored versions, showcasing their commitment to combining thrash energy with visual impact.
2007

Release of The Art of Partying and Touring Success

In 2007, Municipal Waste recorded The Art of Partying with producer Zeuss, known for his work with Hatebreed and Shadows Fall. They toured extensively including a US tour with Destruction and European headline tours. The band appeared at major metal festivals like Wacken Open Air and Reading and Leeds. Their music video for "Headbanger Face Rip," filmed by Troma Entertainment, further amplified their cultural presence. The album received high acclaim, appearing in top album lists and securing covers and features in metal media.
2008

Festival Appearances and Support Tours

Municipal Waste performed at the UK's Download Festival in June 2008, a notable event in their touring calendar. They also supported At the Gates on their "Suicidal Final Tour" alongside other prominent bands such as Darkest Hour, Toxic Holocaust, and Repulsion. These opportunities positioned Municipal Waste firmly within the global thrash metal touring circuit.
2009

Release of Fourth Album, Massive Aggressive

Municipal Waste released their fourth studio album, Massive Aggressive, in 2009. This album continued to deliver the band's signature crossover thrash sound, maintaining their reputation for high-energy, party-themed thrash metal. The release further cemented their status among contemporary thrash bands.
2010

Soundtrack Feature and Continued Activity

In 2010, Municipal Waste's music was included in the soundtrack for Namco Bandai Games' remake of Splatterhouse. This inclusion marked the band's expanding influence into popular culture beyond music albums and live performances, reaching fans through gaming media as well.
2012

Release of The Fatal Feast

The band released their fifth studio album, The Fatal Feast, in 2012. The release marked another significant moment in their career with continued exploration of crossover thrash themes and styles, sustaining their popularity among metal fans worldwide.
2017

Release of Slime and Punishment

In 2017, Municipal Waste released their sixth studio album, Slime and Punishment. This album came five years after the previous release, showcasing the band's lasting presence and commitment to their thrash metal roots amid the evolving landscape of metal music.
2019

Release of The Last Rager EP

Municipal Waste released the EP The Last Rager on October 11, 2019. This release added to their discography of high-energy thrash metal, giving fans new material between their full studio albums and sustaining momentum into the late 2010s.
2022

Release of Seventh Studio Album Electrified Brain

The band released their seventh studio album, Electrified Brain, on July 1, 2022. This album represents the latest in Municipal Waste's extensive career, continuing their tradition of blending thrash metal intensity with party-themed and often humorous lyrical content. The release highlights their enduring influence and longevity in the crossover thrash genre.
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Morbikon

N/A

Dave Witte

2004

Membranophone

Philip “Landphil” Hall

2004

Bass guitar

Tony Foresta

2001

Lead vocals

Ryan Waste

2001

Guitar

Philip “Landphil” Hall

2004

Background vocals

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Brandon Ferrell

2002
2004

Membranophone

Story of Municipal Waste

Municipal Waste: Richmond's Crossover Thrash Titans

Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Municipal Waste exploded onto the scene in 2000, igniting a firestorm of crossover thrash fury. Since their inaugural gig at a New Year's Eve keg party (a fittingly chaotic start!), the band has carved a legendary path. Their sound, a potent blend of D.R.I., Suicidal Tendencies, Corrosion of Conformity (Animosity era), Nuclear Assault, and Attitude Adjustment, has cemented their place as crossover thrash royalty.

Over their career, Municipal Waste have unleashed seven studio albums, three EPs, and four splits, consistently delivering high-octane energy and infectious riffs. While the lineup has seen some changes, vocalist Tony Foresta and rhythm guitarist Ryan Waste remain the steadfast core, providing unwavering consistency to the band's chaotic brilliance. Currently, they're joined by bassist Philip "Land Phil" Hall, drummer Dave Witte, and lead guitarist Nick "Nikropolis" Poulos, forming a formidable unit. Their early years included extensive touring throughout the US and Mexico, and the release of multiple split albums (notably a 7" with Bad Acid Trip and a 12" with Crucial Unit), as well as contributions to various compilations, solidifying their presence in the underground. Municipal Waste aren't just a band; they're a testament to the enduring power of crossover thrash.

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