Table of Contents

Destruction

Formation

Destruction is a German thrash metal band formed in 1982.1)

Previous Name

The band was initially called Knight of Demon but changed their name to Destruction in 1983.2)

Founding Members

The founding members of Destruction were Schmier (Marcel Schirmer), Mike Sifringer, and Tommy Sandmann.3)

German Big Four

Destruction is considered one of the “Big Four” of German thrash metal, alongside Kreator, Sodom, and Tankard.4)

Infernal Overkill

Their debut album, “Infernal Overkill,” was released in 1985 and is considered a classic in the thrash metal genre.5)

Remaining Original Member

Schmier is the only remaining original member still active in the band.6)

Style

Destruction's music is known for its aggressive guitar riffs, fast-paced drumming, and intense vocals.7)

Lyrics

The band's lyrics often focus on social and political issues, war, and destruction.8)

Studio Albums

Destruction has released over 15 studio albums throughout their career.9)

Many Other Albums

In addition to their studio albums, Destruction has released numerous live albums, compilations, and EPs.10)

Schmier Leaving

Schmier briefly left the band in 1989 but rejoined in 1999, marking his return to Destruction.11)

Eternal Devastation

Destruction's second album, “Eternal Devastation,” is highly regarded as a landmark in thrash metal.12)

Lineup Changes

The band went through various lineup changes in the late 1980s and early 1990s.13)

Current Lineup

The current lineup of Destruction consists of Schmier on vocals and bass, Mike Sifringer on guitars, and Randy Black on drums.14)

Live Performance

Destruction's live performances are known for their high energy and aggression.15)

Tours

The band has toured extensively around the world, playing in numerous countries and festivals.16)

Influence

Destruction has influenced many bands in the thrash metal genre and beyond.17)

Release From Agony

The band's third album, “Release from Agony,” showcased a more progressive and technical side of their music.18)

Religion And Corruption

Destruction's lyrics often criticize religion and corruption in society.19)

All Hell Breaks Loose

In 2000, Destruction released a compilation album titled “All Hell Breaks Loose” featuring re-recorded versions of their classic songs.20)

Distinctive Voice

Schmier is known for his distinctive raspy vocal style and stage presence.21)

Cracked Brain

Destruction's fourth album, “Cracked Brain,” featured a more melodic and experimental sound.22)

Drummers

The band has had several drummers throughout their career, including Oliver “Olly” Kaiser, Marc Reign, and Vaaver.23)

The Big Teutonic 4

Destruction has collaborated with other bands and artists, including the German thrash metal band Kreator on the album “The Big Teutonic 4.”24)

The Antichrist

The band's album “The Antichrist” was released in 2001 and received positive reviews from critics.25)

Metal Discharge

Destruction's album “Metal Discharge” was released in 2003 and marked a return to their classic thrash metal sound.26)

Inventor of Evil

Destruction's album “Inventor of Evil” was released in 2005 and featured guest appearances by members of bands such as Motörhead and Tankard.27)

Thrash Anthems

The band's album “Thrash Anthems” was released in 2007 and included re-recorded versions of their classic songs.28)

Day of Reckoning

Destruction's album “Day of Reckoning” was released in 2011 and received critical acclaim for its aggressive and intense thrash metal sound.29)

Spiritual Genocide

The band's album “Spiritual Genocide” was released in 2012 and continued their tradition of delivering high-quality thrash metal.30)