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==History==
==History==
===The beginning (1986-1987)===
===The beginning (1986-1987)===
On July 14, [[1986]], Samhain performed what was to be their final show, at The Ritz in New York City. In attendance was [[Rick Rubin]], who was scouting for potential bands to sign to his record label, [[Def Jam]]. Upon viewing Samhain's performance, Rubin was impressed with Glenn Danzig's powerful stage persona and vocal abilities. He approached him after the show and propositioned him. At first, he wished only to sign Danzig, with the intent of making him the vocalist for a heavy metal [[supergroup (bands)|supergroup]] that Rubin envisioned. However, Danzig refused to sign to Rubin's label without Samhain's bassist, [[Eerie Von]], whom Glenn had become great friends with. Rubin agreed to sign Samhain, and he began making suggestions for the new direction he felt the band should take. Rubin felt the music should be stripped down, and that Glenn's vocal talents should become the focal point for the band.
On July 14, [[1986]], Samhain performed what was to be their final show, at The Ritz in New York City. In attendance was [[Rick Rubin]], who was scouting for potential bands to sign to his record label, [[Def Jam]]. Upon viewing Samhain's performance, Rubin was impressed with Glenn Danzig's powerful stage persona and vocal abilities. He approached him after the show and propositioned him. At first, he wished only to sign Danzig, with the intent of making him the vocalist for a heavy metal [[supergroup (bands)|supergroup]] that Rubin envisioned. However, Danzig refused to sign to Rubin's label without Samhain's bassist, [[Eerie Von]], with whom Danzig had become great friends. Rubin agreed to sign Samhain, and he began making suggestions for the new direction he felt the band should take. Rubin felt the music should be stripped down, and that Danzig's vocal talents should become the focal point for the band.


In 1987, the band evolved into a solid heavy metal act, with the addition of John Christ on guitar and Chuck Biscuits (ex-[[Black Flag (band)|Black Flag]]) on drums. In order to avoid a potential lawsuit over royalties from past Samhain members, and also due to the change in musical direction, Glenn decided to change the name of the band to Danzig.
In 1987, the band evolved into a solid heavy metal act, with the addition of John Christ on guitar and Chuck Biscuits (ex-[[Black Flag (band)|Black Flag]]) on drums. To reflect the change in musical direction, and to avoid having to ever start anew in the event of future lienup changes, Danzig decided to change the name of Samhain to his own surname, Danzig.


===Original lineup (1987-1994)===
===Original lineup (1987-1994)===
Having formed and begun recording as Danzig the previous year, in 1988 the band released its first album, simply titled "[[Danzig (album)|Danzig]]", on Rick Rubin's newly formed label [[Def American]] (later renamed to [[American Recordings]]). The album featured polished production by Rick Rubin, with heavy, blues-based guitar riffs and Glenn's powerful and melodic vocal performance--a harsh contrast to the gritty, raw-sounding production of Samhain's albums. The album was released to lukewarm reviews, but is now considered by many heavy metal publications to be among the best hard rock albums of all time.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}
Having formed and begun recording as Danzig the previous year, in 1988 the band released its epnoymous [[Danzig (album)|first album]] on Rick Rubin's newly formed label [[Def American]] (later renamed to [[American Recordings]]). The album featured polished production by Rubin, with heavy, blues-based guitar riffs and Danzig's powerful and melodic vocal performance -- a harsh contrast to the gritty, raw-sounding production of Samhain's albums. The album is now considered by many heavy metal publications to be among the best hard rock albums of all time.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}


{{Sound sample box align left|Music sample:}}
{{Sound sample box align left|Music sample:}}
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|description=Sample of Danzig's "Girl" from ''[[Danzig II: Lucifuge]]''.
|description=Sample of Danzig's "Girl" from ''[[Danzig II: Lucifuge]]''.
|format=[[Ogg]]}}
|format=[[Ogg]]}}
{{sample box end}}In 1990, Danzig released their second album, [[Danzig II: Lucifuge]], the band's most diverse LP. Here the music continued to blur the lines between classic blues and hard rock, and it featured some of the best vocal performances of Glenn's career.
{{sample box end}}In 1990, Danzig released their second album, [[Danzig II: Lucifuge]], the band's most diverse LP. Here the music continued to blur the lines between classic blues and hard rock, and it featured some of the best vocal performances of the singer's career.


By 1992, Rick Rubin's involvement with the band had waned and Glenn Danzig took credit for producing the third album, [[Danzig III: How the Gods Kill]], which many fans see as the pinnacle of the Danzig catalog. The album continued the unique sound established with the first two, but the music and lyrics had become darker, containing [[gothic rock|gothic]] overtones. During this time, Glenn became fond of singing in a throaty bellow, which he says was inspired by classic blues singers. Fans jokingly named this singing style Glenn's "cookie monster" voice, due to its resemblance to the gruff voice of the [[Cookie Monster]] from [[Sesame Street]]. This vocal style can be heard prominently on the [[Thrall: Demonsweatlive]] EP, which contained several live tracks from the band's 1992 Halloween show, as well as three new studio tracks. The "Thrall" EP contained a surprise hit for the band, when the live version of "Mother" (originally recorded on the first Danzig album) became popular on hard rock radio stations. A new version of the "Mother" music video was created using live footage, and the video became an instant hit on [[MTV]], pushing Danzig into the mainstream.
By 1992, Rubin's involvement with the band had waned and Danzig himself took credit for co-producing the third album, [[Danzig III: How the Gods Kill]], which many fans see as the pinnacle of the band's catalog <citation needed>. The following year the band released the [[Thrall: Demonsweatlive]] EP, which contained several live tracks from the band's 1992 Halloween show, as well as three new studio tracks. The EP provided a surprise hit for the band when the live version of "Mother" (a song from the first Danzig album) became popular on hard rock radio stations. A new version of the "Mother" music video was created using live footage, and the video became an instant hit on [[MTV]], pushing Danzig into the mainstream.


[[Image:Samhain Skull.JPG|225px|thumb|right|The skull logo used by both [[Samhain (band)|Samhain]] and Danzig]]
With Danzig in the mainstream spotlight, controversy surrounding the nature of Glenn Danzig's lyrics and imagery increased. Conservative Christian groups accused Danzig of being a [[Satanist]] with obvious intentions to persuade impressionable youths over to the "left hand path". Danzig shrugged off the controversy as a humorous annoyance and often made light of it. Glenn has repeatedly denied accusations of being a Satanist, saying that he is fascinated by the nature of evil and merely finds [[Satan]] to be an interesting figure in [[Christian Theology]].
[[image:Crystar, Crystal Warrior 8.jpg|thumb|Crystar Crystal Warrior #8 (July 1984)]]
With Danzig in the mainstream spotlight, controversy surrounding the nature of Glenn Danzig's lyrics and imagery increased. Conservative Christian groups accused Danzig of being a [[Satanist]]; Danzig mocked their characterization in his official response through his publicist: "We welcome their disdain". Danzig has repeatedly denied accusations of being a Satanist, saying that he is rejects all religions, especially organized religion, but is fascinated by the nature of evil and merely finds [[Satan]] to be an interesting figure in [[Christian Theology]].


In October 1993, the band entered the studio to record their fourth studio album. Glenn received pressure from the record executives to write songs in the same vein as "Mother," but he was determined not to backtrack his musical progression. Rick Rubin had become increasingly distant from the band and had little involvement in the recording of the fourth album. In 1994, [[Danzig 4]]P was released. The album was darker, much more atmospheric than the band's previous releases, and more experimental as well. While it sold well, it did not contain a hit on par with the "Mother" single. The album's second single, "Can't Speak", was also a staple in MTV's rotation (even making the Buzz Bin), and it charted on the rock charts, although (unlike "Mother") it failed to appear on the Hot 100. "Can't Speak" is the band's only single other than "Mother" to chart on Billboard, thus making the band a two-hit wonder of the mainstream scene. Danzig's relationship with Rick Rubin deteriorated and Danzig was dropped from the label.
In October 1993, the band entered the studio to record their fourth studio album. Danzig says that he was pressured by executives at his record label to record songs with the commercial appeal of "another 'Mother'", but that he was determined not to backtrack in his musical progression. He also says that Rick Rubin had become increasingly distant from the band and had little involvement in the recording of the fourth album, which Glenn Danzig alone is credited as having produced. On 4 October 1994 [[Danzig 4|Danzig 4P]] was released, a more atmospheric and experimental album than the band's previous releases, reintroducing elements of production that Danzig had not much used since the Samhain era.


While the album sold well, it did not contain a hit on par with the "Mother" single. The album's second single, "Cantspeak", was also a staple in MTV's rotation (even making the Buzz Bin), and it charted on the rock charts, although (unlike "Mother") it failed to appear on the Hot 100. "Cantspeak" is the band's only single other than "Mother" to chart on Billboard, thus making the band a two-hit wonder of the mainstream scene. Amid accusations of unpaid royalties and broken promises, Danzig's relationship with Rubin deteriorated, and the band left the record label.
Around this time, the band's lineup began to dissolve as well. First, Chuck Biscuits left due to royalty disagreements with Glenn, leaving the band part way through the Danzig 4 tour. He was quickly replaced by [[Joey Castillo]]. In 1995, John Christ left after learning that Glenn was actively seeking a replacement guitarist. At the same time, Eerie Von left of his own accord, ending what most fans consider the classic era of the band. Glenn Danzig has said that it was always his intention to have a revolving line-up, but it just so happened that the original lineup remained intact for much longer than he had expected. Since the end of the classic era, each Danzig album has featured a different band lineup.

Around this time, the band's lineup began to dissolve as well. First, Chuck Biscuits left the band in the summer of 1994 due to royalty disagreements. After he was rejected upon asking to return, he was replaced by [[Joey Castillo]], who made his first public appearance as a member of Danzig at an in-store signing the day of the fourth album's release. Though the band had toured successfully with its new drummer during the fall and winter of 1994-95, by the spring of 1995 Danzig was actively seeking a new guitarist. John Christ learned of this, and, never content with his role and relative lack of input in the band, resigned his position on 5 July 1995, all offices having been closed the previous day for the [[Independence Day]] holiday. Coincidentally, Eerie Von resigned the very same day, ending what is often called the "classic era" of the band. Glenn Danzig has since contended that it was always his intention to have a revolving line-up, but it just so happened that the original lineup worked well and remained intact for much longer than he had expected. Since the end of the classic era, each Danzig album has featured a different band lineup.


===Rotating lineups (1995-1999)===
===Rotating lineups (1995-1999)===
In 1996, Danzig 5: [[Blackacidevil]] (a play on the phrase "Black as a Devil"), was released, surprising many with its heavy emphasis on [[industrial rock]]. Glenn has stated that Rick Rubin had been keeping him from experimenting with electronics on earlier Danzig releases, and so with the fifth album, Glenn was eager to indulge in industrial sounds unimpeded. The album was mostly a solo effort by Glenn, although [[Jerry Cantrell]] of [[Alice in Chains]] played lead guitar on three of the album's tracks, while drum duties were handled by [[Joey Castillo]], the sole member still in the band from the 4p Tour (Joey would go on to record on two more Danzig albums, making him the longest standing member outside of the classic lineup). Most Danzig fans were disappointed with the album, presumably due to the drastic departure from the sound of the first four releases. Additionally, many fans viewed Glenn's vocals as the highlight of the band--and throughout most of Blackacidevil, Glenn's voice is buried under layers of effects. Other fans embraced the album, and saw it as Glenn returning to the more experimental style of Samhain. The album is the most controversial of the bands back catalogue and the music therein is often referred to as being "Techno Danzig".
In 1996, Danzig 5: [[Blackacidevil]] was released, surprising many with its heavy emphasis on [[industrial rock]]. Danzig has stated that Rick Rubin had been keeping him from experimenting with electronics on earlier Danzig releases, and so with the fifth album, he was eager to indulge in industrial sounds unimpeded. The album was mostly a solo effort by Danzig, although [[Jerry Cantrell]] of [[Alice in Chains]] played lead guitar on three of the album's tracks, and drum duties were handled by [[Joey Castillo]], the sole member still in the band from the 4P Tour (Joey would go on to record on two more Danzig albums, making him the longest-standing member outside of the original lineup). In online polls the album is often listed as fans' least favorite by Danzig, presumably due to the drastic departure from the sound of the first four releases. Additionally, while Danzig's vocals had always been a highlight of the band, on most songs on ''Blackacidevil'' his voice is heavily distorted or buried under layers of effects. Other fans embraced the album, and saw it as Danzig returning to the more experimental style of Samhain.


The next couple years saw Danzig tied up in a legal battle with Rick Rubin over the rights to the unreleased material the band produced under [[American Recordings]].
The next couple years saw Danzig tied up in a legal battle with Rick Rubin over the rights to the unreleased material the band produced under [[American Recordings]]. After winning back the rights, Danzig entered the studio to record the sixth full-length album. In November 1999, Danzig [[6:66 Satan's Child]] was released, with mixed reactions from fans and critics. It featured dark and heavy [[doom metal]] accented by mild electronics, with Danzig singing in an uncharacteristic, harsh, whispery tone on many songs. Some critics and fans have described the sound the album as being similar to [[nu metal]], a genre of heavy music that Danzig is well known to detest. This comparison is often attributed to its production by [[Jay Gordon]] and [[Amir Derakh]] of the [[electropop]]/[[nu metal]] band, [[Orgy (band)|Orgy]].
After winning back the rights, Danzig entered the studio to record the sixth full length album. In November 1999, Danzig [[6:66 Satan's Child]] was released, with mixed reactions from fans and critics. It featured dark and heavy [[doom metal]] accented by mild electronics, with Danzig singing in an uncharacteristic harsh whispery tone for most of the album. Some critics and fans have described the sound the album as being similar to [[nu metal]], a genre of heavy music that Glenn Danzig is well known to detest. This comparison is often linked to the fact that much of the album was produced by [[Jay Gordon]] and [[Amir Derakh]] of the [[electropop]]/[[nu metal]] band, [[Orgy (band)|Orgy]].


===Recent events (2000-present)===
===Recent events (2000-present)===
By 2000, Danzig's line up had stabilized with the addition of guitarist [[Todd Youth]] and bassist [[Howie Pyro]], both veterans of the New York City punk scene. In 2002, this line up released the album ''Danzig 777: [[I Luciferi]]''. The album was devoid of electronics and contained some of the darkest and heaviest songs of Danzig's career. Some of the later tracks on ''I Luciferi'' harkened back to the classic sound of the band, and many fans heralded it as a return to form, although some were disappointed with the album's production quality.
[[Image:Samhain Skull.JPG|225px|thumb|right|The skull logo used by both [[Samhain (band)|Samhain]] and Danzig]]
[[image:Crystar, Crystal Warrior 8.jpg|thumb|Crystar Crystal Warrior #8 (July 1984)]]
By 2000, Danzig's line up had stabilized with the addition of guitarist [[Todd Youth]] and bassist [[Howie Pyro]], both veterans of the New York City punk scene. In 2002, this line up released the album Danzig 777: [[I Luciferi]]. The album was devoid of electronics and contained some of the darkest and heaviest songs of Danzig's career. Some of the later tracks on I Luciferi harkened back to the classic sound of the band, and many fans heralded it as a return to form, although some were disappointed with the album's production quality.

In 2004, Danzig released their eighth studio album, ''[[Circle of Snakes]]'', which, along with the previous album, many fans view as Glenn's best work since the classic era of the band. On Circle of Snakes the line up was again re-written and now featured [[Tommy Victor]] from [[Prong]] on guitar. The sound evolved again, and here Tommy Victor’s guitar seemed to be the dominant force on each song. Some critics had a problem with the mixing of the album, citing that the vocals and drums often seemed to be buried under the multiple layered guitar tracks.


In 2004, Danzig released their eighth studio album, ''[[Circle of Snakes]]'', which, along with the previous album, many fans view as the singer's best work since the classic era of the band. On ''Circle of Snakes'' the line up was again re-written and now featured [[Tommy Victor]] of [[Prong]] on guitar; Victor had toured as a member of Danzig years earlier, but had never before recorded an album with the band. The sound evolved again, and here Tommy Victor’s guitar seemed to be the dominant force on each song. Some critics had a problem with the mixing of the album, citing that the vocals and drums were too quiet, and often seemed to be buried under the multiple layers of guitar tracks.
Danzig then set out headlining the Blackest of the Black tour across the United States, replacing Circle of Snakes drummer Bevan Davies with Johnny Kelly (of [[Type O Negative]]). "The Blackest of the Black" was meant to be a yearly package set up by Glenn Danzig as a way to help some of his favorite dark underground bands gain more exposure, while providing fans of heavy music an alternative to [[Ozzfest]], which Glenn felt had become oversaturated with commercialized nu metal acts. During the 2005 Blackest of the Black dates, halfway through the Danzig set, the band was joined by [[Doyle (guitarist)|Doyle Wolfgang Von Frankenstein]], the Misfits' most iconic guitarist, for a set of classic Misfits songs. These shows were the first time Glenn had played with Doyle in over twenty years, and many of these shows were sold out.


Soon after the album's release, Danzig then set out headlining the Blackest of the Black tour across the United States, replacing ''Circle of Snakes'' drummer Bevan Davies with Johnny Kelly (of [[Type O Negative]]). "The Blackest of the Black" was meant to be a yearly package set up by Glenn Danzig as a way to help some of his favorite dark underground bands gain more exposure, while providing fans of heavy music an alternative to [[Ozzfest]], which Danzig felt had become oversaturated with commercialized nu metal acts. During the 2005 Blackest of the Black dates, halfway through the Danzig set, the band was joined by [[Doyle (guitarist)|Doyle]], the Misfits' last and most memorable guitarist, for a set of classic Misfits songs. These shows were the first time Danzig had played with Doyle in over twenty years, and many of these shows were sold out.
Throughout 2006, Glenn Danzig stated in several interviews that he had grown tired of the touring cycle, and did not expect to partake in any more large scale tours. Instead, Danzig would go on small, localized tours, such as the ten west coast dates they played for the 2006 Blackest of the Black tour. This tour debuted [[Kenny Hickey]] (of [[Type O Negative]]) as the band's new guitarists, while the East Coast dates saw the addition of former [[Samhain (band)|Samhain]] member, [[Steve Zing]] on bass. Glenn said he would use his downtime from touring to complete his various unfinished projects, and focus more attention on his other interests, such as writing and directing films.


Throughout 2006, Glenn Danzig stated in several interviews that he had grown tired of the touring cycle, and did not expect to partake in any more large scale tours. Instead, Danzig would go on small, localized tours, such as the ten west coast dates they played for the 2006 Blackest of the Black tour. This tour debuted [[Kenny Hickey]] (of [[Type O Negative]]) as the band's new guitarists, while the East Coast dates saw the addition of former [[Samhain (band)|Samhain]] member, [[Steve Zing]] on bass. Danzig said he would use his downtime from touring to complete his various unfinished projects, and focus more attention on his other interests, such as writing and directing films.
In October of 2006, Glenn released ''[[Black Aria II]]'', the long delayed follow-up to his solo classical album, ''[[Black Aria]]''. He is currently putting the finishing touches on ''[[The Lost Tracks of Danzig]]'', a double CD containing twenty-six unreleased songs that span the entire Danzig catalog, which will be released on [[June 12th]], 2007. Glenn has also stated that he plans to record a dark blues album with either [[Jerry Cantrell]] or [[Hank Williams III]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}}


In October of 2006, he released ''[[Black Aria II]]'', the long delayed follow-up to his solo classical album, ''[[Black Aria]]''. He spent the rest of the year completing the production and packagin of ''[[The Lost Tracks of Danzig]]'', a double CD containing twenty-six unreleased songs that span the entire Danzig catalog, which will be released on [[July 10th]], 2007. Danzig has also stated that he plans to record a dark blues album with either [[Jerry Cantrell]] or [[Hank Williams III]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}} In May 2007, Evilive re-released Danzig's original classical effort ''[[Black Aria]]''.
In May 2007, Evilive will be re-releasing Danzig's original classical effort;''[[Black Aria]]''. On July 10th, 2007, the album [[The Lost Tracks of Danzig]] will be released.


Glenn has mentioned that there will be a ninth Danzig album, but as of May 2007, nothing has been announced.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}
Danzig has mentioned that there will be a ninth Danzig album, but as of July 2007, nothing definite has been announced.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}


==Group members==
==Group members==

Revision as of 02:48, 3 July 2007

Danzig

Danzig is an American band that fuses dark lyrics and imagery with blues-inspired heavy metal music. The band serves as a musical outlet for singer/composer Glenn Danzig. The band can be seen as the third stage in Glenn Danzig's musical career, preceded by the horror punk band The Misfits and the band Samhain.

History

The beginning (1986-1987)

On July 14, 1986, Samhain performed what was to be their final show, at The Ritz in New York City. In attendance was Rick Rubin, who was scouting for potential bands to sign to his record label, Def Jam. Upon viewing Samhain's performance, Rubin was impressed with Glenn Danzig's powerful stage persona and vocal abilities. He approached him after the show and propositioned him. At first, he wished only to sign Danzig, with the intent of making him the vocalist for a heavy metal supergroup that Rubin envisioned. However, Danzig refused to sign to Rubin's label without Samhain's bassist, Eerie Von, with whom Danzig had become great friends. Rubin agreed to sign Samhain, and he began making suggestions for the new direction he felt the band should take. Rubin felt the music should be stripped down, and that Danzig's vocal talents should become the focal point for the band.

In 1987, the band evolved into a solid heavy metal act, with the addition of John Christ on guitar and Chuck Biscuits (ex-Black Flag) on drums. To reflect the change in musical direction, and to avoid having to ever start anew in the event of future lienup changes, Danzig decided to change the name of Samhain to his own surname, Danzig.

Original lineup (1987-1994)

Having formed and begun recording as Danzig the previous year, in 1988 the band released its epnoymous first album on Rick Rubin's newly formed label Def American (later renamed to American Recordings). The album featured polished production by Rubin, with heavy, blues-based guitar riffs and Danzig's powerful and melodic vocal performance -- a harsh contrast to the gritty, raw-sounding production of Samhain's albums. The album is now considered by many heavy metal publications to be among the best hard rock albums of all time.[citation needed]

Template:Sound sample box align left Template:Sample box endIn 1990, Danzig released their second album, Danzig II: Lucifuge, the band's most diverse LP. Here the music continued to blur the lines between classic blues and hard rock, and it featured some of the best vocal performances of the singer's career.

By 1992, Rubin's involvement with the band had waned and Danzig himself took credit for co-producing the third album, Danzig III: How the Gods Kill, which many fans see as the pinnacle of the band's catalog <citation needed>. The following year the band released the Thrall: Demonsweatlive EP, which contained several live tracks from the band's 1992 Halloween show, as well as three new studio tracks. The EP provided a surprise hit for the band when the live version of "Mother" (a song from the first Danzig album) became popular on hard rock radio stations. A new version of the "Mother" music video was created using live footage, and the video became an instant hit on MTV, pushing Danzig into the mainstream.

File:Samhain Skull.JPG
The skull logo used by both Samhain and Danzig
File:Crystar, Crystal Warrior 8.jpg
Crystar Crystal Warrior #8 (July 1984)

With Danzig in the mainstream spotlight, controversy surrounding the nature of Glenn Danzig's lyrics and imagery increased. Conservative Christian groups accused Danzig of being a Satanist; Danzig mocked their characterization in his official response through his publicist: "We welcome their disdain". Danzig has repeatedly denied accusations of being a Satanist, saying that he is rejects all religions, especially organized religion, but is fascinated by the nature of evil and merely finds Satan to be an interesting figure in Christian Theology.

In October 1993, the band entered the studio to record their fourth studio album. Danzig says that he was pressured by executives at his record label to record songs with the commercial appeal of "another 'Mother'", but that he was determined not to backtrack in his musical progression. He also says that Rick Rubin had become increasingly distant from the band and had little involvement in the recording of the fourth album, which Glenn Danzig alone is credited as having produced. On 4 October 1994 Danzig 4P was released, a more atmospheric and experimental album than the band's previous releases, reintroducing elements of production that Danzig had not much used since the Samhain era.

While the album sold well, it did not contain a hit on par with the "Mother" single. The album's second single, "Cantspeak", was also a staple in MTV's rotation (even making the Buzz Bin), and it charted on the rock charts, although (unlike "Mother") it failed to appear on the Hot 100. "Cantspeak" is the band's only single other than "Mother" to chart on Billboard, thus making the band a two-hit wonder of the mainstream scene. Amid accusations of unpaid royalties and broken promises, Danzig's relationship with Rubin deteriorated, and the band left the record label.

Around this time, the band's lineup began to dissolve as well. First, Chuck Biscuits left the band in the summer of 1994 due to royalty disagreements. After he was rejected upon asking to return, he was replaced by Joey Castillo, who made his first public appearance as a member of Danzig at an in-store signing the day of the fourth album's release. Though the band had toured successfully with its new drummer during the fall and winter of 1994-95, by the spring of 1995 Danzig was actively seeking a new guitarist. John Christ learned of this, and, never content with his role and relative lack of input in the band, resigned his position on 5 July 1995, all offices having been closed the previous day for the Independence Day holiday. Coincidentally, Eerie Von resigned the very same day, ending what is often called the "classic era" of the band. Glenn Danzig has since contended that it was always his intention to have a revolving line-up, but it just so happened that the original lineup worked well and remained intact for much longer than he had expected. Since the end of the classic era, each Danzig album has featured a different band lineup.

Rotating lineups (1995-1999)

In 1996, Danzig 5: Blackacidevil was released, surprising many with its heavy emphasis on industrial rock. Danzig has stated that Rick Rubin had been keeping him from experimenting with electronics on earlier Danzig releases, and so with the fifth album, he was eager to indulge in industrial sounds unimpeded. The album was mostly a solo effort by Danzig, although Jerry Cantrell of Alice in Chains played lead guitar on three of the album's tracks, and drum duties were handled by Joey Castillo, the sole member still in the band from the 4P Tour (Joey would go on to record on two more Danzig albums, making him the longest-standing member outside of the original lineup). In online polls the album is often listed as fans' least favorite by Danzig, presumably due to the drastic departure from the sound of the first four releases. Additionally, while Danzig's vocals had always been a highlight of the band, on most songs on Blackacidevil his voice is heavily distorted or buried under layers of effects. Other fans embraced the album, and saw it as Danzig returning to the more experimental style of Samhain.

The next couple years saw Danzig tied up in a legal battle with Rick Rubin over the rights to the unreleased material the band produced under American Recordings. After winning back the rights, Danzig entered the studio to record the sixth full-length album. In November 1999, Danzig 6:66 Satan's Child was released, with mixed reactions from fans and critics. It featured dark and heavy doom metal accented by mild electronics, with Danzig singing in an uncharacteristic, harsh, whispery tone on many songs. Some critics and fans have described the sound the album as being similar to nu metal, a genre of heavy music that Danzig is well known to detest. This comparison is often attributed to its production by Jay Gordon and Amir Derakh of the electropop/nu metal band, Orgy.

Recent events (2000-present)

By 2000, Danzig's line up had stabilized with the addition of guitarist Todd Youth and bassist Howie Pyro, both veterans of the New York City punk scene. In 2002, this line up released the album Danzig 777: I Luciferi. The album was devoid of electronics and contained some of the darkest and heaviest songs of Danzig's career. Some of the later tracks on I Luciferi harkened back to the classic sound of the band, and many fans heralded it as a return to form, although some were disappointed with the album's production quality.

In 2004, Danzig released their eighth studio album, Circle of Snakes, which, along with the previous album, many fans view as the singer's best work since the classic era of the band. On Circle of Snakes the line up was again re-written and now featured Tommy Victor of Prong on guitar; Victor had toured as a member of Danzig years earlier, but had never before recorded an album with the band. The sound evolved again, and here Tommy Victor’s guitar seemed to be the dominant force on each song. Some critics had a problem with the mixing of the album, citing that the vocals and drums were too quiet, and often seemed to be buried under the multiple layers of guitar tracks.

Soon after the album's release, Danzig then set out headlining the Blackest of the Black tour across the United States, replacing Circle of Snakes drummer Bevan Davies with Johnny Kelly (of Type O Negative). "The Blackest of the Black" was meant to be a yearly package set up by Glenn Danzig as a way to help some of his favorite dark underground bands gain more exposure, while providing fans of heavy music an alternative to Ozzfest, which Danzig felt had become oversaturated with commercialized nu metal acts. During the 2005 Blackest of the Black dates, halfway through the Danzig set, the band was joined by Doyle, the Misfits' last and most memorable guitarist, for a set of classic Misfits songs. These shows were the first time Danzig had played with Doyle in over twenty years, and many of these shows were sold out.

Throughout 2006, Glenn Danzig stated in several interviews that he had grown tired of the touring cycle, and did not expect to partake in any more large scale tours. Instead, Danzig would go on small, localized tours, such as the ten west coast dates they played for the 2006 Blackest of the Black tour. This tour debuted Kenny Hickey (of Type O Negative) as the band's new guitarists, while the East Coast dates saw the addition of former Samhain member, Steve Zing on bass. Danzig said he would use his downtime from touring to complete his various unfinished projects, and focus more attention on his other interests, such as writing and directing films.

In October of 2006, he released Black Aria II, the long delayed follow-up to his solo classical album, Black Aria. He spent the rest of the year completing the production and packagin of The Lost Tracks of Danzig, a double CD containing twenty-six unreleased songs that span the entire Danzig catalog, which will be released on July 10th, 2007. Danzig has also stated that he plans to record a dark blues album with either Jerry Cantrell or Hank Williams III.[citation needed] In May 2007, Evilive re-released Danzig's original classical effort Black Aria.

Danzig has mentioned that there will be a ninth Danzig album, but as of July 2007, nothing definite has been announced.[citation needed]

Group members

Former members

Discography

Albums

Album Cover Year Title Label US Billboard Peak[1] Format Other information
1988 Danzig Def American #125 CD/LP Debut release.

1990 Lucifuge Def American #74 CD/LP There were two separate covers issued. The one shown above is the original version and the one show below is printed on later versions of the album.
1992 How the Gods Kill Def American #24 CD/LP
1994 4 American #29 CD/LP
  • Final album recorded with the original line-up.
  • Last release on American Recordings.
  • This album is usually referred to as either IV, Danzig IV, Danzig 4p or Danzig 4.
1996 Blackacidevil Hollywood #41 CD
1999 Satan's Child E-Magine #149 CD
2002 I Luciferi Spitfire #158 CD This album is usually referred to as either Danzig 777: I Luciferi or 777: I Luciferi.
2004 Circle of Snakes Evilive #183 CD This is the only album not to be numbered, so it is not Danzig 8.

Other releases

Album Cover Year Title Label US Billboard Peak[1] Format Other information
1993 Thrall: Demonsweatlive 54 CD EP; plus live tracks.
File:Danzig Sacrifice.jpg
1996 Sacrifice Uncharted CD EP; Re-issued with 3 bonus tracks in 2000.
File:LOTBHS.jpg
2001 Live on the Black Hand Side Uncharted CD Live double album.
2007 The Lost Tracks of Danzig Uncharted CD Double-CD; will include unreleased tracks from 1988-2004.

Singles

Year[2] Title Chart positions Album
US Hot 100[3] US Modern Rock[3] US Mainstream Rock[3] UK
1988 "Mother" 43 - 17 - Danzig
1988 "Am I Demon" - - - - Danzig
1989 "Twist of Cain" - - - - Danzig
1989 "She Rides" - - - - Danzig
1990 "Her Black Wings" - - - - Lucifuge
1990 "Killer Wolf" - - - - Lucifuge
1990 "Devil's Plaything" - - - - Lucifuge
1991 "I'm the One" - - - - Lucifuge
1992 "Dirty Black Summer" - - - - How the Gods Kill
1992 "How the Gods Kill" - - - - How the Gods Kill
1993 "Sistinas" - - - - How the Gods Kill
1993 "It's Coming Down" - - - - Thrall: Demonsweatlive
1993 "Mother '93" - - - - Thrall: Demonsweatlive
1994 "Until You Call on the Dark" - - - - 4
1994 "Can't Speak" - 40 - - 4
1994 "Brand New God" - - - - 4
1995 "I Don't Mind the Pain" - - - - 4
1996 "7th House" - - - - Blackacidevil
1996 "Sacrifice" - - - - Blackacidevil
1997 "Serpentia" - - - - Blackacidevil
2000 "Unspeakable" - - - - Satan's Child
2002 "Wicked Pussycat" - - - - I Luciferi

Trivia

  • In November 2006, Mother was featured in the popular videogame Guitar Hero 2.
  • During the 2004 Major League Baseball season, Boston Closer Keith Foulke used "Mother" as his entrance music, in much the same way that Mariano Rivera uses "Enter Sandman."
  • Glenn Danzig was approached to play Wolverine in Ad Hoc Committee archives.org X-Men film, because he bore an uncanny resemblance to the character.[[1]].

References

  1. ^ a b "Artist Chart History - Danzig" (HTML). Billboard.com. Retrieved March 20. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help); Unknown parameter |accessyear= ignored (|access-date= suggested) (help)
  2. ^ "Discography of Official Danzig Releases" (HTML). MisfitsCentral.com. Retrieved March 20. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help); Unknown parameter |accessyear= ignored (|access-date= suggested) (help)
  3. ^ a b c "Artist Chart History - Danzig" (HTML). Billboard.com. Retrieved March 20. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help); Unknown parameter |accessyear= ignored (|access-date= suggested) (help)