US power metal band Overlorde, from central New Jersey, was formed in 1985 by John "Kong" Bunucci (Bass / & Lead Vocals) and Mark "M.E." Edwards (Guitar & Backing Vocals). Dave Wrenn (Drums & Backing Vocals) joined shortly thereafter. The band concentrated on originals from the start, with John handling the Lead Vocals along with Bass guitar. The band was joined by vocalist Pat O'Donnell in early 1986. Overlorde recorded and released a 5 song vinyl EP in 1987 on their own label, Strike Zone Records. The EP received praise overall in publications, and received airplay on metal radio. However, Pat and the band parted ways around the end of 1987, and Rod Tyler Loiza took over the vocal duties in 1988. A new demo was begun, and members of the band attended the 1988 CMJ convention in NYC. But the group disbanded late that year after only a few shows with Rod, and before the demo could be fully completed. The 1990's saw each of the original members continue music in one form or another. John reformed his previous band Final Plea, and was involved with other local projects. Mark formed Breaker M.E., then went the solo instrumental route up until he developed his voice to the point of singing lead. Dave went on to various original and cover bands including Persia and Ichabod Crane. John, Mark, and Dave remained in touch, and both John and Dave have worked with Mark on musical projects in one form or another. Overlorde experienced a revival of sorts in Europe, specifically in Greece and Germany. This was brought to the band's attention in December 1999. The EP appeared on collector want lists, and the band was contacted about releasing more material. While some confusion existed with similarly named bands, this Overlorde acquired the U.S. trademark, and it was clear that the demand was for the original EP. M.E., Kong, and Dave (the original three founding members) met in February 2000 to discuss a possible reunion. It was decided to launch www.overlorde.com and start Force Recon (a metal community/fan club) to see if there was interest in an Overlorde reunion. There certainly was, so the band reunited in July 2000. The three founding members then set about its search for the perfect singer to fill the vocal spot. It found that person in Bobby "Leather Lungs" Lucas, the former Seven Witches frontman. The band recorded a demo titled 'Overlorde 2000' (released Nov/Dec 2000). In 2004, the band's reunion achieved its goal when Overlorde signed a record deal with Greece's premier metal label, Cult Metal Classics Records. Beginning July 2004, the band entered Trax East Recording Studios in NJ to begin recording its debut release entitled 'Return Of The Snow Giant'. Meanwhile, Cult Metal Classics became part of Sonic Age Records and the CD was set to be released under the Sonic Age label on December 17, 2004.

RETURN OF THE SNOW GIANT (2004) SONIC AGE

The metal underground is alive and well, much thanks to the internet, and places like MySpace. That is where I discovered Overlorde. They sent out a bulletin about their cover of the Queensrÿche classic, "Queen of the Ryche", and I clicked to listen. And while the cover floored me in itself, I was also overwhelmed by the bands original stuff as well! Apparently this band had been around since 1985, but never gotten around to record more than 1 EP and some demos. Now a full fledged reunion was on the steps, and the band was about to record their first full-length CD. Another thing that peaked my interest in this band was one Bobby Lucas. Now, I'd always wondered what he was up to after his demise from Seven Witches, as I always considered his time in that band their prime. With Overlorde he once again delivers his powerhouse style, which is just made for metal! He comes across as a mix of Bruce Dickinson and David Wayne. And what could be more fitting for a band who's roots are in the traditional 80's metal movement? Overlorde is pure US heavy metal, and they are doin' one hell of a job keeping the legacy of the 80's alive! Thundering drums, blazing guitars, and Mr. "leather lungs" himself wailing on top! This is the kind of music that time and time again is showing me why I love heavy metal, and why my passion for it will never die! Long live true metal!

Killer tracks: Hell Hath No Fury, When He Comes, Blackness, Mark Of The Wolf

Seven Witches