Trauma (American band)

Trauma is an American heavy metal band known for its energetic performances, complex guitar work, and powerful vocals. The band was formed in the early 1980s in San Francisco, California, during a time when the heavy metal scene was burgeoning, both in the United States and globally. Trauma is often remembered for being the band where Cliff Burton, who would later become the bassist for Metallica, played before joining one of the biggest names in the metal genre.

History

Trauma's inception dates back to 1981, when the band was formed amidst the thriving Bay Area metal scene. Their music quickly gained attention for its aggressive style and technical proficiency. In 1982, Trauma recorded a demo that caught the attention of the metal community, including the members of Metallica, who were in the process of searching for a new bassist. Cliff Burton's performance with Trauma was a significant factor in his being invited to join Metallica, a move that would elevate his status to that of a metal icon before his tragic death in 1986.

Following Burton's departure, Trauma underwent several lineup changes and struggled to maintain the momentum they had built. Despite these challenges, the band released its debut album, Scratch and Scream, in 1984. The album showcased a blend of traditional heavy metal elements with the speed and aggression that would come to define the thrash metal subgenre. However, despite its critical acclaim, the band failed to achieve significant commercial success and eventually disbanded in 1985.

After a hiatus of nearly three decades, Trauma announced their reunion in 2013. The band's return was marked by a renewed energy and dedication to their music, leading to the release of their second album, Rapture and Wrath, in 2015. This comeback album was followed by As the World Dies in 2018, demonstrating the band's ability to adapt to the evolving metal landscape while staying true to their roots.

Musical Style and Influence

Trauma's music is characterized by its fast-paced rhythms, intricate guitar solos, and powerful vocal delivery. The band's sound is a blend of traditional heavy metal with elements of thrash, showcasing their technical skill and musical versatility. Trauma has cited influences from a wide range of metal bands, from early pioneers like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest to thrash icons such as Metallica and Slayer.

Despite their early association with the thrash movement, Trauma's music also incorporates elements of power metal and progressive metal, setting them apart from their contemporaries. Their complex compositions and thematic lyrics have earned them a place among the more innovative bands within the heavy metal genre.

Legacy

While Trauma may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their peers, their impact on the metal scene, particularly in the Bay Area, is undeniable. The band's early work contributed to the development of the thrash metal subgenre, and their perseverance and dedication to their craft have earned them respect within the metal community.

The story of Trauma is also intertwined with the history of Metallica, one of the most influential bands in heavy metal. Cliff Burton's tenure with Trauma and his subsequent move to Metallica is a significant part of both bands' histories, highlighting the interconnected nature of the metal scene during the 1980s.

Discography

• Scratch and Scream (1984)
• Rapture and Wrath (2015)
• As the World Dies (2018)

Current Members

• Donny Hillier – Vocals
• Kris Gustofson – Drums
• Steve Robello – Guitar
• Joe Fraulob – Guitar
• Greg Christian – Bass

See Also

• Heavy metal music
• Thrash metal
• Cliff Burton
• Metallica