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Battlecross
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Battlecross was an American extreme metal band formed in Canton, Michigan in 2003. The band has described their sound as "Blue Collar Thrash Metal".[3] They released four albums through Metal Blade Records and toured extensively before announcing a hiatus in 2022.
Key Information
History
[edit]The band was founded in 2003 by childhood best friends and neighbors Tony Asta and Hiran Deraniyagala in Canton, MI while attending Salem High School. In 2006, vocalist Marshall Wood was hired, and in 2007, drummer Mike Kreger was hired.[1] In 2008, bassist Don Slater joined the band. Together, they played local shows around Detroit and in the Midwest and opened for such acts as Dying Fetus, Gwar, DevilDriver, The Absence, Vital Remains, and The Faceless.[4]
Pursuit of Honor (2011)
[edit]In 2010, Battlecross self-released their debut album Push Pull Destroy.[2] In late 2010, the band caught the eye of Metal Blade Records while members were replacing vocalist Marshall Wood, who left for family reasons. The band tapped Kyle "Gumby" Gunther of the Flint, MI-area band and management roster mate, I Decay, to front the band. Gunther stepped in to re-record the album and rewrote the track Aiden, renaming it Kaleb after his newborn son. The re-recorded album, Pursuit of Honor, was released in August 2011 by Metal Blade Records[5] and was recorded at Random Awesome Recording Studio in Bay City, Michigan and produced by Josh Schroeder.[6]
Pursuit of Honor produced three singles: "Push Pull Destroy", "Man of Stone" and "Breaking You", which combined spent 50 weeks on SiriusXM Liquid Metal 'Devil's Dozen' list of most requested songs,[7] with 'Push Pull Destroy' at the #1 spot for five weeks in Spring 2012.[8] The accompanying video received more than 1.8 million views on YouTube and was the break-out track for the band.[9]
Valkyrian Music described it as "perhaps one of the best albums on the modern thrash metal scene" and claimed they could easily replace the Big Four of thrash metal if they kept making albums like Pursuit of Honor.[3] The debut also drew comparisons to groove metal bands such as Pantera and Lamb of God, with Metal Assault naming the record "one of the most 'complete' heavy metal albums in recent times" and "bristling with fist-pumping, face-melting heavy metal at its finest."[10] Blabbermouth reviewed the album as "easily one of the better metal debuts of 2011", stating that "Pursuit of Honor will leave you breathless, maybe even skinless" and giving the album an '8' rating. The website described the album as "traditional thrash metal, but not in a retro wannabe sense, and is delivered in a package that is modern, yet avoids being too cookie-cutter; melodic, yet not 'pretty' or cleanly sung. Death metal heaviness with compositional skill, 'Pursuit of Honor' is above all else inanely energized."[11]
War of Will (2013)
[edit]In early 2013, the band announced that they would enter the studio in March to record their follow-up to Pursuit of Honor. The band would begin tracking immediately after the "Another Year, Another Tour" with In Flames, Demon Hunter and All Shall Perish for 27 North American dates. Eyal Levi was to handle engineering duties on the record and Armored Saint’s Joey Vera, who mastered the band's cover version of Pantera’s "Fucking Hostile", would master.
Lewis, responsible for the production and/or engineering for bands such as The Black Dahlia Murder, Trivium, DevilDriver and Deicide, said: "I can't wait to be a part of BATTLECROSS' next record. From the moment I heard the band I knew I wanted to be a part of their development. Hearing the new music has only solidified that feeling. Working with our good friends at Metal Blade and bringing great new music to the masses is what it's all about."
According to statements made in the press, Metal Blade Records President Michael Faley stated that the record would be released in time for the band's appearance on the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival in July 2013.
In April 2013, the band's label issued a press release announcing that drummer Shannon Lucas, formerly of All That Remains and The Black Dahlia Murder, served as the session drummer on the newest Battlecross album, to be released in summer of 2013.[12]
The new album's first single "Force Fed Lies" was released and made available for digital download on May 29, 2013.
Drummer changes (2014)
[edit]
In 2013, it was reported that drummer Michael Kreger had left the band to attend to personal business. Kevin Talley of Six Feet Under was announced as the touring drummer for the band for their New England Metal and Hardcore Festival and Orion Music + More appearances.[13]
Talley, who has also played with Dååth, Chimaira, Misery Index, Nothnegal and Dying Fetus, said: "I'm stoked to play these shows with such an energetic and impressive band like BATTLECROSS. I had a chance to see them play on Trespass America and at the Scion A/V Metal Blade anniversary show and was blown away! New England Metal and Hardcore Festival and Orion Music + More are huge opportunities for the band and I'm honored to fill in behind the kit; they are definitely one of my favorite new bands!"[14]
Following the departure of Michael Kreger, the band went through a cycle of touring drummers. Kevin Talley, formerly of Chimaira, filled in for the 2013 Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival.[15] Following the tour and a show at GWARBQ 2014, Talley stepped down. When the band joined Hatebreed, Shadows Fall, and The Acacia Strain for a fall 2013 tour, Adam Pierce of All Shall Perish stepped in as drummer for the band.
In 2014, Adam stepped down as the band's drummer, replaced by Shannon Lucas, session drummer from "War of Will". Lucas, already familiar with the material, stuck with the band up until summer 2014.
During 2014, Battlecross saw a rise in popularity, hitting many tours along the way, including a slot on the Download Festival held in Donington Park. While in Europe, the band hit many smaller venues with fellow Mayhem Festival tour mates Huntress. Battlecross continued to tour across America in direct support of Protest the Hero. Lucas withdrew from the band after the tour, replaced by Alex Bent. Bent completed Battlecross' first headlining tour with support from Ikillya. Crimson Shadows were also supposed to be on the tour, but encountered problems getting access to the States. The tour also included a stop at Dirt Fest 2014.[16]
On August 20, Battlecross performed in Mexico City, their first concert in the country, in support of Black Label Society. Following the show, they set off on a small South American tour in support of Killswitch Engage and Memphis May Fire.[17] They then returned to the States for a fall tour opening for Machine Head, Children of Bodom, and Epica.[18] The tour also included a stop at Fillmageddon in Silver Spring, MD.
The band also looked to close 2014 by entering the studio to start the recording of their third studio album.
Rise to Power, departure of Alex Bent, and indefinite hiatus (2015–2022)
[edit]On May 27, 2015, the band released a new single entitled "Not Your Slave" and revealed the title of their upcoming studio album as Rise to Power.[19][20][21][22]
Alex Bent left the band in 2015 and was replaced with Brian Zink.
In April 2016, the ensemble toured with Soulfly, Abnormality, Suffocation and Lody Kong.[23]
From October to November 2016, Battlecross went on tour with Soilwork and Unearth and announced a headlining tour with Allegaeon in support.[24]
In January 2019, the ensemble indicated that they were working on new material.[25]
In 2022, the band announced their annual “Battle Christmas” show would take place on December 9. They revealed the show would be their last "for the foreseeable future" and the band would then go on indefinite hiatus.[26]
Touring
[edit]Members
[edit]
Final lineup[edit]
|
Former[edit]
|
Live[edit]
|
Timeline
[edit]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Title | Album details | Peak chart positions | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heatseekers Albums [29] |
Billboard 200 [30] | ||||
| Push Pull Destroy |
|
— | — | ||
| Pursuit of Honor |
|
— | — | ||
| War of Will |
|
2 | 134 | ||
| Rise to Power |
|
4 | 137 | ||
| "—" denotes a recording that did not chart or was not released in that territory. | |||||
Demos
[edit]| Title | EP details |
|---|---|
| Demo |
|
Singles
[edit]| Title | Year | Album |
|---|---|---|
| "Hostile" | 2012 | Released through iTunes only |
| "Force Fed Lies"[31] | 2013 | War of Will |
Videos
[edit]| Title | Year |
|---|---|
| "Push Pull Destroy" | 2011 |
| "Kaleb" | |
| "Flesh & Bone" | 2013 |
| "Never Coming Back" | |
| "My Vaccine" | 2014 |
| "Absence" | 2015 |
References
[edit]- ^ a b "Questions with...Hiran Deraniyagala of Battlecross! | Popblerd & Friends". Popblerd.com. August 30, 2012. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ a b "Battlecross Discography". Metal Kingdom. Archived from the original on November 10, 2013. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ a b "Battlecross – Pursuit Of Honor (2011)". Valkyrian Music. September 1, 2011. Archived from the original on November 17, 2015. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ Kritik von Michael Edele. "Battlecross – laut.de – Band". Laut.de. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ Rivadavia, Eduardo. "Pursuit of Honor – Battlecross". Allmusic. Retrieved January 17, 2013.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS: Pursuit Of Honor | CD-Review @". Vampster.com. July 25, 2011. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS to enter the studio next month! | Metal Blade Records". Metalblade.com. Retrieved August 15, 2013.
- ^ "Battlecross Invades the States with Five Finger Death Punch, Killswitch Engage and More". Music News Nashville. June 19, 2012. Archived from the original on December 5, 2013. Retrieved August 15, 2013.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS Parts Ways With Drummer, Recruits SIX FEET UNDER's KEVIN TALLEY". Blabbermouth.Net. March 28, 2013. Retrieved June 5, 2013.
- ^ "Battlecross: Pursuit Of Honor (Album Review)". Metalassault.com. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ "CD Reviews – Pursuit Of Honor Battlecross". Blabbermouth.net. April 17, 2013. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS unveil Shannon Lucas as session drummer for new album". Retrieved April 30, 2013.
- ^ "Battlecross Announces Fill-in Drummer". Metal Gauntlet. Retrieved April 7, 2013.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS Parts Ways With Drummer, Recruits SIX FEET UNDER's KEVIN TALLEY -". Blabbermouth.net. March 28, 2013. Retrieved April 7, 2013.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS Parts Ways With Drummer, Recruits SIX FEET UNDER's KEVIN TALLEY". March 28, 2013. Retrieved August 6, 2017.
- ^ "Dirt Fest 2014 Local Band Lineup Featuring Battlecross Announced". Flint's Rock Radio. Retrieved August 6, 2017.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS confirm South American tour dates with Killswitch Engage!". Retrieved August 6, 2017.
- ^ "Machine Head, Children of Bodom + More to Tour North America". Loudwire. Retrieved August 6, 2017.
- ^ "Battlecross Unveil New Album Details, Unleash New Single". Loudwire.com. Retrieved May 28, 2015.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS Streaming Track From Upcoming Rise To Power Album; Artwork Revealed". Bravewords.com. May 20, 2015. Retrieved May 28, 2015.
- ^ "Battlecross Announce New Album "Rise To Power", Debut "Not Your Slave" | Theprp.com – Metal And Hardcore News Plus Reviews And More". Theprp.com. May 27, 2015. Retrieved May 28, 2015.
- ^ "BATTLECROSS: Nέος δίσκος τον Αύγουστο - Ακούστε το πρώτο single – Metal Hammer". Metalhammer.gr. January 18, 2014. Retrieved May 28, 2015.
- ^ "SOULFLY To Tour U.S. With SUFFOCATION, BATTLECROSS". blabbermouth.net. March 2, 2016. Retrieved January 2, 2017.
- ^ "Battlecross Announce Tour with Allegaeon and Necromancing the Stone". MetalSucks. September 20, 2016. Retrieved August 6, 2017.
- ^ "We are truly humbled and honored we made this list on REVOLVER Magazine!". Facebook. Retrieved January 4, 2019.
- ^ "Battlecross Books Their Annual Christmas Show, Hiatus To Follow". Ghost Cult Magazine. November 2, 2022. Retrieved December 20, 2022.
- ^ "Albuquerque's The Jam Spot wreaks Havok and more". axs.com. Retrieved January 2, 2017.
- ^ "Battlecross". Facebook. Retrieved July 26, 2014.
- ^ "Heatseekers Albums: Up and Coming Musicians Chart". Billboard. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ "Top 200 Albums". Billboard. Retrieved September 5, 2015.
- ^ "Battlecross "War of Will" | Metal Blade Records". Metalblade.com. Retrieved June 12, 2013.
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Battlecross.
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| National | |
| Artists | |
| Other | |
Battlecross
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
History
Formation and early years (2003–2010)
Battlecross was formed in 2003 in Canton, Michigan, by guitarists Tony Asta and Hiran Deraniyagala, childhood friends who sought to blend thrash metal with melodic elements rooted in the local Detroit scene. The band initially struggled with lineup instability, particularly in the rhythm section, as early members came and went amid efforts to establish a consistent sound.[8] By 2005, they recorded and released an independent demo featuring tracks like "Betrayal," "Gain," and "Heavens Fall," which helped them gain traction in Michigan's underground metal community.[9] The group's core lineup solidified around 2007 when drummer Mike Kreger joined in response to a want ad, followed by bassist Don Slater and vocalist Kyle "Gumby" Gunther, enabling more focused performances and songwriting.[8] During these years, Battlecross immersed themselves in the Detroit metal scene, known for its gritty, working-class ethos, and self-identified as "Blue Collar Thrash Metal" to reflect the relentless, blue-collar attitude of Motor City residents.[8] They built a regional following through local gigs and won MySpace's 2008 "Best Unsigned Metal Band" contest, showcasing their high-energy live presence alongside acts like Dying Fetus.[8] In 2010, Battlecross self-released their debut full-length album, Push Pull Destroy, on August 17, which captured their groove-infused thrash style and drew attention from major labels.[10] The album's success in the underground circuit led to their signing with Metal Blade Records later that year, marking the end of their independent phase and setting the stage for broader recognition.[11] Despite ongoing challenges with member retention in the rhythm section, these early efforts established the band's reputation for technical precision and unyielding drive within the Midwest metal landscape.Pursuit of Honor and rising prominence (2011–2012)
Battlecross released their debut full-length album, Pursuit of Honor, on August 2, 2011, via Metal Blade Records.[12] The record was produced, engineered, mixed, and mastered by Josh Schroeder at Random Awesome Recording in Bay City, Michigan, capturing the band's high-energy thrash metal sound with sharp riffs and relentless drumming.[13] It included a re-recorded version of "Push Pull Destroy," originally from their 2010 self-released album Push Pull Destroy, alongside new tracks like "Flesh & Bone," which highlighted the group's groove-heavy aggression and anthemic choruses.[5] To promote the album, Battlecross launched their first major U.S. tour in late 2011, supporting deathcore act Rose Funeral alongside thrash band Diamond Plate, marking a significant step in building their live presence.[14] In early 2012, they joined the Growing Pains Tour, replacing Fallujah and sharing stages with established acts like Hate Eternal, which helped expand their fanbase through intense, high-octane performances across the country.[15] The album generated positive early media buzz, with Blabbermouth.net praising it as "easily one of the better metal debuts of the year" for its mosh-ready intensity and lack of filler.[16] It also earned recognition in fan-driven year-end compilations, receiving 10 votes in Metal Injection's Junkie's Top Albums of 2011 poll.[17] During this period, vocalist Kyle Gunther cemented his position with his versatile, guttural delivery that balanced aggression and melody, while rhythm guitarist Hiran Deraniyagala's riff contributions added depth to the band's dual-guitar attack.[1] Battlecross further gained prominence with their initial major festival appearance on the Jägermeister Stage's rotating slot at the 2012 Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, sharing the bill with thrash legends like Anthrax and Slayer.[18] This momentum set the stage for their follow-up album, War of Will.War of Will era and initial lineup shifts (2013–2014)
In early 2013, Battlecross experienced a significant lineup change when longtime drummer Mike Kreger departed the band to pursue new opportunities and attend to personal matters.[19] To fill the gap during select performances, the band enlisted session drummer Kevin Talley for two East Coast shows in March.[20] Shortly thereafter, former Black Dahlia Murder drummer Shannon Lucas was recruited as the session drummer for their sophomore album, War of Will, bringing a precise and aggressive style that enhanced the record's rhythmic drive.[21] War of Will was recorded at Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, Florida, and co-produced by Mark Lewis and Eyal Levi, resulting in a polished yet ferocious sound that built on the band's groove-thrash foundation.[22] Released on July 9, 2013, via Metal Blade Records, the album debuted at No. 134 on the Billboard 200 and No. 2 on the Heatseekers Albums chart, marking a commercial breakthrough for the Michigan-based group.[23] Tracks like "Flesh & Bone" and "Force Fed Lies" exemplified the album's blend of melodic hooks and relentless aggression, earning praise for its energy and technical prowess in metal circles.[24] Lucas transitioned from session work to full-time touring duties starting in late 2013, performing with Battlecross on major outings such as the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival and support slots for In Flames alongside Demon Hunter and All Shall Perish.[25] His tenure extended into mid-2014, during which the band headlined North American tours and appeared at events like Download Festival in the UK.[26] However, Lucas departed by summer 2014, prompting another shift as Bay Area drummer Alex Bent joined the lineup, debuting on two U.S. headlining runs and a South American tour that fall.[27] Bent's arrival stabilized the rhythm section amid the band's growing international profile.Rise to Power, further changes, and hiatus (2015–present)
Battlecross released their third studio album, Rise to Power, on August 21, 2015, through Metal Blade Records. Produced by Jason Suecof at Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, Florida, the album marked the recording debut of drummer Alex Bent, who had joined the band in late 2014 following the departure of previous drummer Shannon Lucas earlier that year. The record featured ten tracks, including "Blood & Lies" and "Not Your Slave," emphasizing the band's aggressive thrash and groove metal sound with themes of resilience and defiance.[28][29] Following the album's release, Battlecross supported it with extensive touring, including the Winter Warriors Tour alongside Havok, Nekrogoblikon, and Black Fast in late 2015, as well as appearances at festivals like Knotfest. However, the band faced ongoing lineup instability, with Alex Bent departing in 2016 to join Trivium full-time; he was replaced by Brian Zink, who has since handled drumming duties for live performances. Additional interim drummers filled in for select shows during this period of flux.[30][31] The relentless touring schedule and repeated personnel shifts contributed to growing fatigue among members, leading to a slowdown in activity after 2016. Battlecross maintained a presence through annual holiday shows, culminating in the 7th Annual Battle Christmas gig in December 2022, after which the band announced an indefinite hiatus. In 2024, Metal Blade Records reissued their three albums on vinyl: Pursuit of Honor (Blood Moon edition), War of Will (Amber Wave edition), and Rise to Power (Silver Bullet Power edition). No new music has been released as of November 2025, though core members have channeled their energies into side projects, including the formation of Finality by guitarists Tony Asta and Hiran Deraniyagala in 2023.[2][32][33]Musical style and influences
Core style and evolution
Battlecross has self-described their music as "Blue Collar Thrash Metal," a style that fuses the high-speed aggression of traditional thrash metal with the heavy, rhythmic grooves of groove metal and the intense breakdowns characteristic of metalcore.[1][34] This blend emphasizes straightforward, working-class intensity without veering into more theatrical or experimental territories.[35] The band's guitar work, led by Tony Asta and Hiran Deraniyagala, centers on aggressive riffing that incorporates dual harmonies for melodic leads alongside palm-muted chugs that drive the songs' mid-tempo heaviness.[36][37] Asta's shredding solos often evoke classic heavy metal flair, while Deraniyagala's rhythm parts provide intricate, interlocking support to maintain momentum.[36] This dual-guitar approach creates a layered texture that balances speed and groove, making the music both technically demanding and accessible for live energy.[38] Vocalist Kyle Gunther delivers versatile performances, seamlessly shifting between guttural growls, high-pitched screams, and occasional clean shouts to convey raw emotion and adapt to the track's dynamics.[36][39] His range draws comparisons to thrash icons while adding a modern edge, ensuring the vocals propel the aggression without overpowering the instrumentation.[40] Gunther's style enhances the band's mosh-friendly choruses, which incorporate hardcore elements like anthemic, crowd-participation hooks while avoiding full nu-metal conventions such as rapping or downtuned djent.[41][42] The percussion, particularly from drummers like Alex Bent, highlights double-kick blasts and intricate fills that underscore tempo shifts and amplify the thrash foundation.[43] These elements create driving propulsion, with rapid footwork supporting the guitars' speed and providing dynamic transitions between blistering sections and heavier grooves.[44] Over time, Battlecross's sound evolved from the raw, unpolished aggression of their early 2005 demo[45] to a more refined production in their Metal Blade Records albums from 2010 onward.[46] The debut full-length Pursuit of Honor (2011) marked a step up in clarity, but it was War of Will (2013) and Rise to Power (2015) that showcased tighter compositions, darker tones, and professional mixing that heightened the overall impact without sacrificing intensity.[47][1] This progression reflected growing studio experience and lineup stability, resulting in albums that were more aggressive and cohesive while retaining the core thrash ethos.[48]Influences and lyrical themes
Battlecross drew primary influences from thrash metal pioneers such as Slayer, Metallica, and Testament, which shaped their aggressive riffing and high-energy song structures.[34] Guitarist Hiran Deraniyagala has cited these bands as foundational, noting how they introduced him to extreme metal elements including death and grind influences.[34] Additionally, the band incorporated groove-oriented elements from Pantera, emphasizing breakdown structures that added a hardcore edge to their sound.[34] Other inspirations include Exodus and Overkill for riff intensity, as well as broader heavy metal acts like Black Sabbath, Megadeth, Judas Priest, and Meshuggah, reflecting a blend of old-school thrash and technical complexity.[34] The band's self-described "blue-collar thrash" style also stems from the gritty, working-class ethos of Detroit's local metal scene, where influences like Summer Dying and Enkephalin contributed to their authentic, no-frills approach.[34][1] Lyrically, Battlecross focused on themes of perseverance and "positive aggressiveness," transforming everyday struggles into messages of resilience and empowerment.[49] Guitarist Hiran Deraniyagala described this as "the strife that everyone goes through, just spin it as positive as you can and still be as aggressive as possible in the music and the lyrics."[49] Their songs often addressed anti-authority sentiments and blue-collar hardships, reflecting the band's Detroit roots and the industrial city's tough environment, with an emphasis on hard work and overcoming adversity.[1][50] Personal narratives appeared frequently, such as in "Kaleb," inspired by vocalist Kyle "Gumby" Gunther's experiences with his son, allowing for broad interpretations of familial and individual trials.[49] In later works like the album War of Will, lyrics delved into mental health challenges and addiction, portraying inner conflicts as battles to be fought through willpower.[51] Tracks such as "My Vaccine" explore mental turmoil with lines like "Mind’s a war, can’t find peace," while "Ghost Alive" references personal demons and substance haze as obstacles to overcome.[51] Songs like "Force Fed Lies" and "Never Coming Back" reinforce perseverance and rebellion against oppression, with imagery of standing tall against deceit and breaking free from chains.[51] Overall, Battlecross grounded their themes in real-life grit, avoiding fantastical elements in favor of raw, relatable depictions of human endurance.[49]Critical reception
Album reviews
Battlecross's early independent release, the 2007 EP Push Pull Destroy, garnered underground acclaim for its aggressive thrash riffs and debut potential, though it received scant mainstream attention due to limited distribution.[52] The band's 2011 debut full-length Pursuit of Honor earned generally positive reviews for its high-energy thrash assault and cohesive songwriting, with critics highlighting the album's ability to blend fast-paced guitars, melodic hooks, and powerful vocals into an engaging listen. Blabbermouth.net praised it as "dud-devoid" and one of the stronger metal debuts of the era, emphasizing its mosh-pit-ready aggression.[16] Metal Assault described it as one of the most "complete" heavy metal albums in recent years, commending its technical precision and relentless drive.[53] War of Will (2013) marked a critical peak for Battlecross, with reviewers lauding its matured songcraft, infectious hooks, and expanded sonic palette that incorporated progressive and melodic elements without sacrificing intensity. Sea of Tranquility noted the album's "strong metal attack" from start to finish, attributing its success to refined riffs and dynamic arrangements.[54] Bloody Good Horror highlighted its variability and maturity as a step up from the debut, calling it exceptionally engaging.[55] Publications like Metal Storm deemed it a potential classic, praising the technical proficiency across drums, bass, and guitars.[56] Reviews for 2015's Rise to Power were more mixed, with praise for its razor-sharp riffs and consistent thrash fury tempered by observations of a formulaic structure that echoed prior efforts. Metal Injection called it the band's most consistent release yet, spotlighting beautifully phrased solos integrated seamlessly into the tracks.[57] Louder Sound (formerly Metal Hammer) appreciated its modern twist on classic metal and thrash, awarding it 4 out of 5 stars for dragging old-school influences into the contemporary era.[58] Conversely, MetalSucks noted its strength in avoiding overproduction but critiqued a lack of authoritative charisma, suggesting it felt potent yet familiar.[59] Punknews.org rated it 7 out of 10, valuing the real-life lyrical focus but acknowledging its straightforward heavy metal approach.[40] Across their discography, reviewers consistently awarded high marks to Battlecross's live-translatable aggression and riff-driven energy, which fueled headbanging anthems suited for festivals and tours. Critiques more often targeted vocal variety and occasional production rawness, though these rarely detracted from the overall enthusiasm for the band's blue-collar metal ethos.[16][57]Overall reception and legacy
Battlecross garnered a dedicated cult following within the U.S. thrash revival scene, particularly among fans appreciating their high-energy blend of melodic thrash and groove elements during their active years.[60][61] The band earned recognition for their DIY ethos and relentless touring schedule, which built a grassroots reputation despite financial and logistical challenges, even as they maintained a rigorous performance pace through the mid-2010s.[1][62] Following the release of their 2015 album Rise to Power, Battlecross experienced a decline in mainstream visibility amid lineup changes and reduced major tours, culminating in an indefinite hiatus announced after their 2022 "7th Annual Battle Christmas" show; however, interest persists through archival streams on platforms like Spotify, where they maintain approximately 6,400 monthly listeners as of November 2025.[2][62][63] During their peak in 2013–2014, Battlecross received notable coverage in Revolver magazine, including features on their music and fan polls highlighting their potential, alongside spotlights tied to albums like War of Will.[64][65][66] Their legacy endures as a "blue collar thrash" or "working man's metal" act, bridging old-school thrash aggression with modern metalcore breakdowns and emphasizing perseverance through hard work and authenticity.[1][8][67] As of 2025, no reunion discussions have surfaced, with core members pursuing other projects, such as new bands featuring former personnel, while their catalog continues to resonate in niche metal communities.[68][2]Touring and live performances
Early tours and festival appearances
Battlecross honed their live presence through numerous local gigs in the Detroit area and Midwest club tours from 2005 to 2010, often supporting bills featuring independent metal acts in small venues where crowds ranged from a handful of attendees to around 200. These early performances allowed the band to refine their high-energy style amid the challenges of building a regional fanbase, including sparse audiences that gradually evolved into enthusiastic mosh pits as word spread within the local scene.[69] Following the August 2011 release of their debut album Pursuit of Honor, Battlecross launched their first national tour in late 2011, opening for Rose Funeral alongside Diamond Plate after Full Blown Chaos dropped from the bill. This run marked a significant step in expanding beyond the Midwest, with the band performing tracks from their self-released 2005 demo alongside new material to test audience reactions. In early 2012, they stepped in as replacements for Fallujah on a U.S. tour with Hate Eternal and Goatwhore after the latter band's van accident in Wyoming, navigating the rigors of extended road travel including logistical hurdles common to emerging acts.[70] The band's momentum carried into March 2012 with the Occupation Domination Tour, where they opened for Origin alongside Cattle Decapitation, Decrepit Birth, and Rings of Saturn, further solidifying their reputation for relentless performances. Their debut festival appearance came later that summer at Heavy MTL in Montreal, Quebec, where they headlined the Apocalypse stage during the Trespass America Festival routing opposite major acts like System of a Down. These outings helped develop Battlecross's signature stage dynamics, particularly frontman Kyle "Gumby" Gunther's engaging crowd interactions that encouraged participation and turned casual viewers into dedicated supporters. By the end of 2012, the band had logged extensive mileage across multiple national packages, including their first headlining Growing Pains Tour in December with Abiotic, sharpening setlists centered on demo cuts, Pursuit of Honor staples like "Push Pull Destroy," and emerging fan favorites.[71][60]Major tours and international expansion
Following the release of their 2013 album War of Will, Battlecross embarked on high-profile tours to promote the record, including a major U.S. package run supporting Killswitch Engage and Trivium from March to April 2014, which showcased their rising prominence in the metal scene.[72] Earlier that year, the band expanded internationally with a UK and Ireland tour alongside Killswitch Engage, Trivium, and Miss May I, marking a significant step in their European presence starting in Dublin on January 29, 2014.[73] They followed this with additional continental European dates supporting Trivium in early 2014 (February 2014), further solidifying their overseas momentum.[74][75] In 2014, Battlecross continued their international push with the European Summer Tour, featuring headline shows and festival appearances such as Download Festival in the UK on June 14, where they delivered a high-energy set on the Zippo Encore Stage.[76] The band also made their South American debut that August, joining Killswitch Engage and Memphis May Fire for three shows in Brazil, including stops in Curitiba, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, which highlighted their growing global reach despite logistical challenges.[77][78] These tours coincided with lineup adjustments, as original drummer Mike Kreger departed in late 2013; the band adapted by bringing in session drummer Shannon Lucas for recording Rise to Power and select live dates, ensuring continuity during the 2014 legs.[79] The 2015 release of Rise to Power was supported primarily through U.S.-focused tours, such as the Summer of Doom with Crowbar and Lord Dying from May to June, and the Winter Warriors Tour with Havok, Nekrogoblikon, and Black Fast starting in December, where new permanent drummer Alex Bent made his debut after joining post-recording.[80][30] Bent's integration helped maintain the band's intense live dynamic amid the transitions. International activity tapered off after 2014, with no full overseas runs during this cycle, though their earlier expansions had established a dedicated following abroad.[81] After entering an indefinite hiatus following the Rise to Power era, Battlecross made rare appearances, including a one-off U.S. festival performance in 2022 at the Token Lounge in Westland, Michigan, on December 9, which served as their final show before officially confirming the break.[68] The band's live reputation, built on chaotic, sweat-drenched performances that blended thrash aggression with crowd interaction, earned them acclaim in fan circles and media as one of metal's premier live acts during their active years.[82]Band members
Final touring lineup
The final touring lineup of Battlecross, stable from 2015 until the band's last performance on December 9, 2022, at the 7th Annual Battle Christmas event in Detroit, consisted of five core members who delivered the group's signature groove-thrash metal sound during their international tours and festival appearances. This configuration marked the end of nearly two decades of activity before the indefinite hiatus, with no subsequent changes announced as of 2025.[83][84]| Role | Member | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Vocals | Kyle "Gumby" Gunther | Joined in 2010; provided primary harsh vocals with occasional clean singing to add melodic contrast in songs like those on Rise to Power.[49][85] |
| Lead/Rhythm Guitar | Tony Asta | Founding member since 2003; handled lead solos and rhythm riffs, contributing to the band's riff-heavy, mosh-inducing style.[47][83] |
| Rhythm Guitar | Hiran Deraniyagala | Founding member since 2003; focused on rhythm guitar and harmonies, supporting the dual-guitar attack central to Battlecross's thrash influences.[47][83] |
| Bass | Don Slater | Joined in 2008; delivered prominent bass lines that drove the groove elements, evident in live sets emphasizing low-end aggression.[49][83] |
| Drums | Brian Zink | Joined in 2015; provided high-energy drumming that powered the band's fast-paced, breakdown-heavy performances through their final tour dates.[86][84][87] |
Former members
Battlecross experienced significant lineup changes throughout its history, particularly in the rhythm section, with multiple drummers and bassists contributing during different phases. The band, formed in 2003 by guitarists Tony Asta and Hiran Deraniyagala, initially featured vocalist and bassist Jay Saling from 2003 to 2006, providing early foundational elements to their groove/thrash metal sound. Saling's dual role helped shape the band's initial demos before he departed, though specific reasons for his exit remain undocumented in available records.[3][88] Bassist Mike Heugel served from 2007 to 2008, providing support during the early rhythm section development before Don Slater's arrival.[88] In 2006, Marshall Wood joined as vocalist, introducing a more aggressive style that influenced the band's vocal direction and appeared on their 2010 EP Push Pull Destroy. Wood left shortly after the EP's release in 2010, allowing Kyle "Gumby" Gunther to take over and stabilize the frontman position. His departure marked a pivotal shift toward the band's more melodic yet intense vocal approach in subsequent albums.[89][90] The percussion lineup saw the highest turnover, reflecting the band's evolving demands during recording and touring. Jason Leone served as the original drummer from 2003 to 2007, contributing to the band's formative years and early live performances. Mike Kreger then handled drums from 2007 to 2013, playing on the debut album Pursuit of Honor (2011) and War of Will (2013); he left in 2013 to pursue new opportunities and attend to personal matters. Shannon Lucas joined as session drummer for War of Will and handled touring duties from late 2013 to mid-2014.[88][3][91][92] By 2014, Alex Bent joined on drums, tracking the Rise to Power album and handling tours including South America before departing in 2015 to pursue other projects, including roles in bands like Trivium. Post-departure, Kreger remained active in local Michigan music scenes, collaborating on various endeavors. This frequent rotation in the drum and bass positions contrasted with the relative stability of the guitar duo and later vocalist, ultimately contributing to the band's dynamic evolution before its 2022 hiatus.[93][94][95]Timeline of lineup changes
The lineup of Battlecross underwent several changes from its formation through its indefinite hiatus, reflecting the challenges of maintaining stability in the metal scene while touring extensively. Key shifts occurred in the rhythm section and vocals, with the core guitar duo of Tony Asta and Hiran Deraniyagala remaining constant throughout.[96]| Year | Lineup Change | Details/Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Formation of core lineup | Tony Asta (guitar) and Hiran Deraniyagala (guitar) founded the band in Canton, Michigan. Various early members cycled through before stabilization.[96][47] |
| 2006 | Vocalist addition | Marshall Wood joined on vocals, introducing a more aggressive style.[1] (Note: Official bio implies early vocal shifts; cross-referenced with release credits on Pursuit of Honor.) |
| 2007 | Drummer addition | Mike Kreger joined on drums, solidifying the rhythm section for initial recordings and local performances.[8][96] |
| 2008 | Bassist addition | Don Slater joined on bass, completing the quintet for the Push Pull Destroy demo.[49][97] |
| 2010 | Vocalist replacement | Kyle "Gumby" Gunther replaced Marshall Wood on vocals ahead of the Pursuit of Honor re-release.[49][85] |
| 2013 | Drummer departure and replacement | Mike Kreger departed in March; Shannon Lucas (ex-The Black Dahlia Murder) joined for War of Will recording and subsequent tours. Kevin Talley filled in for initial 2013 dates.[98] (Encyclopaedia Metallum lists periods; cross-verified with album credits.) |
| 2014 | Drummer replacement | Shannon Lucas departed; Alex Bent joined on drums, performing on 2014 tours including South America.[98][81] |
| 2015 | Drummer departure and replacement; further shifts | Alex Bent departed after Rise to Power; Brian Zink replaced him on drums, providing stability through remaining tours. The band used occasional touring fill-ins (e.g., Josean Orta in 2015-2016) during the transition. Don Slater remained through this period.[99][100] |
| 2015–2022 | Touring and hiatus | Brian Zink served as the primary drummer supporting tours until the band's indefinite hiatus following a 2022 performance. Core members Asta, Deraniyagala, Gunther, and Slater persisted.[2][87] (Note: Hiatus confirmed via label announcements; Metal Archives.) |
Discography
Studio albums
Battlecross has released four studio albums, all through Metal Blade Records except their debut, which was self-released before the band signed with the label. These full-length records showcase the band's evolution in groove and thrash metal, with production handled at notable studios and featuring consistent track lengths around 35-40 minutes. All albums have been issued in CD and digital formats, with vinyl reissues available for later titles as of 2024.[1][6]| Album | Release year | Label | Number of tracks | Producer(s) | Notable chart performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Push Pull Destroy | 2010 | Independent | 10 | Battlecross | None |
| Pursuit of Honor | 2011 | Metal Blade Records | 11 | Josh Schroeder | None |
| War of Will | 2013 | Metal Blade Records | 10 | Mark Lewis, Eyal Levi (with Jason Suecof on additional vocals) | No. 134 on Billboard 200; No. 2 on Heatseekers Albums[23] |
| Rise to Power | 2015 | Metal Blade Records | 10 | Jason Suecof | No. 137 on Billboard 200; No. 4 on Heatseekers Albums[101] |