Exciter (CA)

About

Named after a Judas Priest track, Exciter helped define what speed metal could sound like long before the genre had a name. The Ottawa trio formed in 1978, and by 1983 their debut Heavy Metal Maniac was out on Shrapnel Records, followed quickly by Violence and Force on Megaforce. Those first two records are considered foundational texts for the thrash metal scene that exploded shortly after, with bands across the genre citing Exciter as a key influence. Their story is one of constant reinvention through revolving lineups and multiple breakups. They shared stages with Motörhead, Megadeth, Exodus, Manowar and Anvil across tours in Europe and North America, and guitarist John Ricci remained the one constant thread through most of it. Vocalist and drummer Dan Beehler defined the classic sound, while later eras brought in singers like Jacques Bélanger who helped push the band toward heavier territory on albums like Blood of Tyrants. Few acts from that early speed metal wave have shown as much stubborn staying power.