DevilDriver Family Tree

Metal Family Tree

This is a project aimed at making it easy to see who inspired the bands you love or even hate. For this I try not to use any influences that the band don’t claim themselves. There will be a focus on predecessors but successors will be added as they site the band. These trees become more and more interactive as new bands are added, allowing you to click any band that has a tree and jump to it.

We want our lists to be better. If you know something that belongs on this list, let us know. When in doubt we will leave it out, so we need reliable sources.

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DevilDriver blend groove metal and melodic death to create something fairly unique. Vocalist Dez Fafara has been the only member in the band since the beginning. Guitarist Jeff Kendrick and drummer John Boecklin were with the band from the beginning till 2014, doing the first six albums. They were replaced with guitarist Neal Tiemann and drummer Austin D'Amond, who are still with the band. Original bassist Jonathan Miller was on the first five albums. Session bassist Chris Towning was on one album before current bassist Diego Ibarra joined. The original lead guitarst Evan Pitts was only on the first ablum before being replaced by Mike Spreitzer who is still with the band making him the most constant member besides Dez.

 

Hank Williams

Hank Williams was one of the original country legends.  Dez lists him as one of the country guys he is a huge fan of.

Hank Williams was one of the original country legends. Dez lists him as one of the country guys he is a huge fan of.

Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash is an iconic country player.  Dez named him as a big influence as a kid and still listens to.

Johnny Cash is an iconic country player. Dez named him as a big influence as a kid and still listens to.

Waylon Jennings

Waylon Jennings is one of the pioneers of outlaw country.  Dez is a big fan of him and outlaw country.

Waylon Jennings is one of the pioneers of outlaw country. Dez is a big fan of him and outlaw country.

Pink Floyd are one of the most influential progressive rock bands.  Neil named the Dark Side of the Moon album as one that had the biggest influence on him.

Pink Floyd are one of the most influential progressive rock bands. Neil named the Dark Side of the Moon album as one that had the biggest influence on him.

Deep Purple are a hugely important hard rock band. Dez said they are one of his favorite bands.

Deep Purple are a hugely important hard rock band. Dez said they are one of his favorite bands.

 

Iggy Pop

Iggy Pop was punk before there was punk.  He was the singer of The Stooges before a long solo career.  Dez named him as an influence.

Iggy Pop was punk before there was punk. He was the singer of The Stooges before a long solo career. Dez named him as an influence.

 
Black Sabbath are the Fathers of metal. Dez named them and Ozzy as an influence. Mike named them as a big early influence.

Black Sabbath are the Fathers of metal. Dez named them and Ozzy as an influence. Mike named them as a big early influence.

Motorhead are a hugely important hard rock / heavy metal band. Dez said when he first heard them he thought they were the most bad ass punk band he ever heard before he realized they were something beyond punk.

Motorhead are a hugely important hard rock / heavy metal band. Dez said when he first heard them he thought they were the most bad ass punk band he ever heard before he realized they were something beyond punk.

AC/DC are the quintessential hard rock band. Dez said they were a huge influence on him when he was younger, especially Black in Black.

AC/DC are the quintessential hard rock band. Dez said they were a huge influence on him when he was younger, especially Black in Black.

Germs were a short lived but influential punk band. Dez named them as an influence.

Germs were a short lived but influential punk band. Dez named them as an influence.

X were an early LA punk band.  Dez named them as a big influence.

X were an early LA punk band. Dez named them as a big influence.

Fear were an LA punk band considered important in developing hardcore punk.  Dez is named them as important to him.

Fear were an LA punk band considered important in developing hardcore punk. Dez is named them as important to him.

Dead Kennedys were a punk/hardcore band.  Dez named them as one of the punk bands he loves.

Dead Kennedys were a punk/hardcore band. Dez named them as one of the punk bands he loves.

The Cure were goth pioneers.  Dez is a fan.

The Cure were goth pioneers. Dez is a fan.

Bauhaus wee goth pioneers.  Dez names singer Peter Murphy as an influence.

Bauhaus wee goth pioneers. Dez names singer Peter Murphy as an influence.

Black Flag were pioneers of hardcore punk.  Dez named them as a big influence and are the reason he got into punk

Black Flag were pioneers of hardcore punk. Dez named them as a big influence and are the reason he got into punk

Circle Jerks were another hardcore punk band from Cali.  Dez named them as one of the punk bands he loves.

Circle Jerks were another hardcore punk band from Cali. Dez named them as one of the punk bands he loves.

GBH were another early hardcore band.  Dez named them as an influence.

GBH were another early hardcore band. Dez named them as an influence.

The Partisans were British punk band. Dez named them as an influence.

The Partisans were British punk band. Dez named them as an influence.

Ozzy has been blessed with incredible and influential guitar players. Dez names Ozzy as an influence. Neil names Diary of a Madman as one the most influential albums on him.

Ozzy has been blessed with incredible and influential guitar players. Dez names Ozzy as an influence. Neil names Diary of a Madman as one the most influential albums on him.

Motley Crue are perhaps the most important glam metal band.  Dez first heard them the same day he first heard Black Flags and they were influential.

Motley Crue are perhaps the most important glam metal band. Dez first heard them the same day he first heard Black Flags and they were influential.

Depeche Mode were a new wave band.  Dez is a fan.

Depeche Mode were a new wave band. Dez is a fan.

Ministry are pioneers of industrial metal. John names them as an influence.

Ministry are pioneers of industrial metal. John names them as an influence.

Metallica are the fathers of thrash. Dez became a huge fan after hearing Ride the Lightning. Metallica were a huge influence on Jeff who was obsessed with them and James in particular. Mike also names them as a huge influence and learned a ton of th…

Metallica are the fathers of thrash. Dez became a huge fan after hearing Ride the Lightning. Metallica were a huge influence on Jeff who was obsessed with them and James in particular. Mike also names them as a huge influence and learned a ton of their songs through tab books when he was learning guitar. John named Lars as a main influence on him and Metallica on guitar playing.

Slayer were early on one of the most aggressive thrash bands. John named them as an early influence.

Slayer were early on one of the most aggressive thrash bands. John named them as an early influence.

Megadeth are very influential with Dave Mustaine often being considered the inventor of thrash metal. Mike named them as one of his main influences.  John also named Megadeth as an early influence.

Megadeth are very influential with Dave Mustaine often being considered the inventor of thrash metal. Mike named them as one of his main influences. John also named Megadeth as an early influence.

Love and Rockets formed with members of Bauhaus after they split up.  Dez named them as an influence.

Love and Rockets formed with members of Bauhaus after they split up. Dez named them as an influence.

Zodiac Mindwarp And The Love Reaction are a British hard rock band from the late 80’s.  Dez is a huge fan.

Zodiac Mindwarp And The Love Reaction are a British hard rock band from the late 80’s. Dez is a huge fan.

Gene Hoglan

Gene Hoglan is considered one of the best metal drummers.  He has played in a ton of bands notably Dark Angle, Death, Testament, Devin Townsend/Strapping Young Lad, Dethklok and a bunch of others.  John named Gene as a main influence.

Gene Hoglan is considered one of the best metal drummers. He has played in a ton of bands notably Dark Angle, Death, Testament, Devin Townsend/Strapping Young Lad, Dethklok and a bunch of others. John named Gene as a main influence.

Danzig started out as singer in the Misfits before creating a solo band.  Dez named him as an influence.

Danzig started out as singer in the Misfits before creating a solo band. Dez named him as an influence.

Alice in Chains were grunge pioneers and one of the biggest of the genre.  Mike names Jerry Cantrell as a huge influence on him.

Alice in Chains were grunge pioneers and one of the biggest of the genre. Mike names Jerry Cantrell as a huge influence on him.

Circus of Power were another late 80’s hard rock band.  Dez was a big fan.

Circus of Power were another late 80’s hard rock band. Dez was a big fan.

Primus was an experimental funk metal band.  John names drummer Tim Alexander as a major influence.

Primus was an experimental funk metal band. John names drummer Tim Alexander as a major influence.

Pantera are a band that completely changed the world of metal with the creation of groove metal. Mike named them as one of his main influences. Neil named Cowboys From Hell as on of the albums that has influenced him the most.

Pantera are a band that completely changed the world of metal with the creation of groove metal. Mike named them as one of his main influences. Neil named Cowboys From Hell as on of the albums that has influenced him the most.

Fear Factor started as a death metal band and moved into an industrial metal direction. John named Raymond Herrera as an influence.

Fear Factor started as a death metal band and moved into an industrial metal direction. John named Raymond Herrera as an influence.

Machine head is a band rooted in groove metal.  John named them as an influence.

Machine head is a band rooted in groove metal. John named them as an influence.

Korn are pioneers of Nu-metal.  John named David Silvera as a major influence.

Korn are pioneers of Nu-metal. John named David Silvera as a major influence.

Hank Williams III

Hank Williams III, grandson of Hank Williams, plays a mix of country, punk, and metal.  Dez is a big fan.

Hank Williams III, grandson of Hank Williams, plays a mix of country, punk, and metal. Dez is a big fan.

Gojira are a progressive groove/death band. Mike named them as a newer influence.  John Mario Duplantier as a big influence.

Gojira are a progressive groove/death band. Mike named them as a newer influence. John Mario Duplantier as a big influence.

Mateus Asato

Mateus Asato is a guitarist who has gained fame through his Instagram videos.  Neil named him as his only new influence.

Mateus Asato is a guitarist who has gained fame through his Instagram videos. Neil named him as his only new influence.

Dez talks about some of the stuff he grew up with from his parents music collection such as: Steppenwolf, The Doors, Three Dog Night, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Iron Butterfly. He said he then bought a Kiss record before getting into punk and then Motrohead. He says he listens to everything from Satyricon and Emperor to Billie Holiday and is a big fan of outlaw country. He also mentions being a fan of Behemoth and Nile. The only instrument he says he plays is Native American flute and listens to Carlos Nakai.

Evan Pitts played guitar on the first album but I’m unsure of his influences. According to Mike, Evan wrote most of the first album and albums after that became more collaborative.

Mike Def Leppard was the band that made him first want to play guitar but they aren’t a main influence. He said Antichrist Superstar by Marilyn Manson is his favorite album but isn’t an influence on his guitar playing.

Neil started playing guitar after hearing Nirvana on the radio although he says he’s not a big fan anymore.

Bassist Jonathan Miller played on the first 5 albums but I’m unsure of his influences.

Chris Towning played on one album but is a session player, I’m uncertain if he contributed to writing.

Diego Ibarra is the current bassist and played on the two most recent albums but hasn’t contributed to writing as of yet. (Dealing With Demons I is not out at the time of writing this.)

John mentioned “Outside of the metal realm I still listen to a lot of my childhood music: Michael Jackson, Paul Simon, Huey Lewis, and a huge pop 80's catalog to boot. I am a big fan of Mumford and Kings of Leon, Dave Matthews, and that is just the beginning of my outside influences on a major level. Everything from old DJ Shadow to a new band Twisted Tounges, the acts I listed are pretty major, but I keep my ear to the ground.”

Austin has been the drummer since 2015 but I’m unsure of his influences.

Sources:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=12&v=eOvyuYW4-c0&feature=emb_logo
https://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/devildrivers-dez-fafara-the-10-records-that-changed-my-life-637256
https://www.loudersound.com/features/devildrivers-dez-fafara-answers-your-questions
https://lacrossetribune.com/entertainment/devildriver-singer-dez-fafara-is-one-driven-dude/article_927e2232-ab95-55e0-838c-36640efd49c5.html
https://crypticrock.com/interview-dez-fafara-of-devildriver-coal-chamber/
https://www.metal-rules.com/2007/09/27/devildriver-vocalist-dez-fafara/
http://bravewords.com/news/devildriver-guitarist-jeff-kendrick-i-dabbled-a-little-bit-on-piano-but-nothing-compared-to-guitar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Slzp5yskkTo
https://www.guitarworld.com/artists/10-questions-devildrivers-mike-spreitzer-and-neal-tiemann
https://wgrd.com/devildriver-mike-spreitzer-favorite-guitar-riffs/
https://www.antiheromagazine.com/interview-with-mike-spreitzer-from-devildriver/
https://sickdrummermagazine.com/the-drummers/metal-hardcore/john-boecklin-of-devildriver-updates-interview-november-2013/
http://www.metalunderground.com/interviews/details.cfm?newsid=19725
https://www.rocksins.com/2013/03/interview-with-john-boecklin-of-devildriver-16671/
https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/sound-vapors-podcast/e/65724912

Pantera Family Tree

Metal Family Tree

This is a project aimed at making it easy to see who inspired the bands you love or even hate. For this I try not to use any influences that the band don’t claim themselves. There will be a focus on predecessors but successors will be added as they site the band. These trees become more and more interactive as new bands are added, allowing you to click any band that has a tree and jump to it.

We want our lists to be better. If you know something that belongs on this list, let us know. When in doubt we will leave it out, so we need reliable sources.

pantera.jpg

Pantera, love them or hate the, they were one of the most game changing bands in metal. With their album Cowboys from Hell in 1990 they reinvented the steel with groove metal. Metal has never been the same since. Prior to that they did several albums that are considered glam by many although musically it wasn’t far off from traditional metal most of the time. Writing has been credited as as a collaborative effort, so we will like at the influences of all members. That won’t be so hard since Pantera kept a consistent line up with the exception of their early years featuring Terry Glaze on vocals before Phil Anselmo which most people are familiar with. At the heart of Pantera were brothers, guitarist Dimebag Darrell and drummer Vinnie Paul. Rex Brown joined early on before the release of the first “glam” album.

 

Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder was huge for several popular genres.  Rex is a big fan.

Stevie Wonder was huge for several popular genres. Rex is a big fan.

The Beatles were and still are hugely influential to many. Rex named them as an influence particularly their album Revolution. He says he prefers the grit of the stones but The Beatles for their song writing. He say Paul McCartney was an inspiration…

The Beatles were and still are hugely influential to many. Rex named them as an influence particularly their album Revolution. He says he prefers the grit of the stones but The Beatles for their song writing. He say Paul McCartney was an inspiration for melodic bass playing. Phil also names them as an influence and said they was a band he listened to as a kid.

Merle Haggard

Merle Haggard was country player.  Besides metal, Dime also loved Merle Haggard.

Merle Haggard was country player. Besides metal, Dime also loved Merle Haggard.

The Rolling Stones were a blues based rock band.  As mentioned before, Rex named them as an influence.  He says he loves any of their stuff from the late 60’s and early 70’s.

The Rolling Stones were a blues based rock band. As mentioned before, Rex named them as an influence. He says he loves any of their stuff from the late 60’s and early 70’s.

Deep Purple have been a huge influence on many. “Smoke on the Water” was the first song Dime learned and he said it taught him that simple can be awesome.

Deep Purple have been a huge influence on many. “Smoke on the Water” was the first song Dime learned and he said it taught him that simple can be awesome.

Led Zeppelin are one of the most important bands in rock history. Vinnie said that Bonham was the greatest drummer. Rex is a huge Zeppelin fan and named John Paul Jones as a huge influence. Phil named Robert Plant as an influence.

Led Zeppelin are one of the most important bands in rock history. Vinnie said that Bonham was the greatest drummer. Rex is a huge Zeppelin fan and named John Paul Jones as a huge influence. Phil named Robert Plant as an influence.

Humble Pie were a blues rock / hard rock band.  Rex is a big fan.

Humble Pie were a blues rock / hard rock band. Rex is a big fan.

Black Sabbath are the fathers of metal. Tony was a big influence on Dime and Sabbath is one of the reasons he waned to play in the first place. Rex also names them as an influence and actually is a big fan of the Never Say Die! album. He said when i…

Black Sabbath are the fathers of metal. Tony was a big influence on Dime and Sabbath is one of the reasons he waned to play in the first place. Rex also names them as an influence and actually is a big fan of the Never Say Die! album. He said when it comes to metal bass playing Geezer was is influence. Phil named them as an influence as well huge influence on him, both with Ozzy and Dio.

David Allen Coe

David Allen Coe was another country outlaw. Dime said he loved his stuff and they even collaborated for the Rebel Meets Rebel album.

David Allen Coe was another country outlaw. Dime said he loved his stuff and they even collaborated for the Rebel Meets Rebel album.

UFO was a huge influence on many bands with Michael Shenker on guitar. Dime named them as an influence.

UFO was a huge influence on many bands with Michael Shenker on guitar. Dime named them as an influence.

ZZ top were a three piece Texas Blues Rock band. Dime said he was never a bluesy player but was exposed to ZZ Top growing up and they had an influence on him. Rex also names them as a big influence.

ZZ top were a three piece Texas Blues Rock band. Dime said he was never a bluesy player but was exposed to ZZ Top growing up and they had an influence on him. Rex also names them as a big influence.

Aerosmith a blues based American Hard Rock band.  Rex named them as an influence.

Aerosmith a blues based American Hard Rock band. Rex named them as an influence.

Kiss were one of the biggest American hard rock bands. They were a huge influence on Dime and Ace was one of the reasons Dime wanted to play guitar. They were also huge for Vinnie and the band that made him want to play. Alive was the first album he…

Kiss were one of the biggest American hard rock bands. They were a huge influence on Dime and Ace was one of the reasons Dime wanted to play guitar. They were also huge for Vinnie and the band that made him want to play. Alive was the first album he bought. Rex also names them as an influence but isn’t a fan of their more radio songs.

The metal gods, Judas Priest. They are one of Dime’s influences he said not only were Glenn and K.K. great lead players but knew how to be band oriented musicians which is something he strived to be in Pantera. Vinnie named Painkiller and British St…

The metal gods, Judas Priest. They are one of Dime’s influences he said not only were Glenn and K.K. great lead players but knew how to be band oriented musicians which is something he strived to be in Pantera. Vinnie named Painkiller and British Steel as the most metal albums. Phil said in high school he practiced along to Halford on Unleashed in the East every day. He he dropped that style of singing because he thought it had been done to death and wanted to incorporate other influences.

Rush were a progressive hard rock band.  Vinnie said despite it not showing in his playing, he is a huge Neil Peart fan.

Rush were a progressive hard rock band. Vinnie said despite it not showing in his playing, he is a huge Neil Peart fan.

AC/DC are the quintessential hard rock band. Angus was a big influence on Dime.

AC/DC are the quintessential hard rock band. Angus was a big influence on Dime.

Pat Travers Bad was blues rock band. Vinnie said that Dime would wear out their live album.  Vinnie said he flipped after hearing Tommy Aldridge with Pat Travers.

Pat Travers Bad was blues rock band. Vinnie said that Dime would wear out their live album. Vinnie said he flipped after hearing Tommy Aldridge with Pat Travers.

Motorhead were a hugely influential hard rock / heavy metal band. Phil named Lemmy as an influence.

Motorhead were a hugely influential hard rock / heavy metal band. Phil named Lemmy as an influence.

Van Halen were a hugely important band. Eddie was a big influence on Dime and likewise Alex was a huge influence on Vinnie. Phil named David Lee Roth as an influence.

Van Halen were a hugely important band. Eddie was a big influence on Dime and likewise Alex was a huge influence on Vinnie. Phil named David Lee Roth as an influence.

The most influential NWOBHM band, Iron Maiden. Dime was a huge fan of Dave and Adrian. Phil names Paul Di’Anno as an influence as well.

The most influential NWOBHM band, Iron Maiden. Dime was a huge fan of Dave and Adrian. Phil names Paul Di’Anno as an influence as well.

Before Def Leppard went on to play terrible pop metal they were killer NWOBHM band. Dime was influenced by their original guitarist Pete WIllis.  Rex was also a fan.

Before Def Leppard went on to play terrible pop metal they were killer NWOBHM band. Dime was influenced by their original guitarist Pete WIllis. Rex was also a fan.

Ozzy was blessed with some incredible guitar players. Randy was a big influence on Dime. One of the things he picked up from him was how to double track the leads. Vinnie was also influenced by Ozzy’s band naming Tommy Aldrige as one of his favorite…

Ozzy was blessed with some incredible guitar players. Randy was a big influence on Dime. One of the things he picked up from him was how to double track the leads. Vinnie was also influenced by Ozzy’s band naming Tommy Aldrige as one of his favorite drummers.

Black Flag were hardcore punk pioneers and one of the biggest of the scene.  Phil named them as an influence.

Black Flag were hardcore punk pioneers and one of the biggest of the scene. Phil named them as an influence.

Venom were a huge influence on death, black, and even thrash metal. Phil said first hearing Venom had a big impact on him.

Venom were a huge influence on death, black, and even thrash metal. Phil said first hearing Venom had a big impact on him.

Mercyful Fate had a big impact on many bands.  Phil was a huge fan both for their complex songs and King Diamond’s unique vocals.

Mercyful Fate had a big impact on many bands. Phil was a huge fan both for their complex songs and King Diamond’s unique vocals.

Metallica are the fathers of Thrash Metal. They were a big influence on Dime and Vinnie. He loved Kirk’s leads and said that James was the god of chugging riffs. Phil names them as an influence.

Metallica are the fathers of Thrash Metal. They were a big influence on Dime and Vinnie. He loved Kirk’s leads and said that James was the god of chugging riffs. Phil names them as an influence.

Slayer are one of the most aggressive thrash bands of their time. Slayer were and influence on both Dime and Vinnie. Dime said they taught him how to play with guts and aggression. Phil says Slayer was very important to Pantera. He said at one time …

Slayer are one of the most aggressive thrash bands of their time. Slayer were and influence on both Dime and Vinnie. Dime said they taught him how to play with guts and aggression. Phil says Slayer was very important to Pantera. He said at one time Kerry King came down to jam with Pantera and showed dime how he was riffing. Phil said this had a big impact and Pantera wouldn’t have been the same without that moment.

Agnostic Front were a hoardcore punk / cross over thrash band.  Phil say they had a huge impact on him after seeing them open for Motorhead.

Agnostic Front were a hoardcore punk / cross over thrash band. Phil say they had a huge impact on him after seeing them open for Motorhead.

Hell Hammer were an influential band for extreme styles of metal. Phil is a huge fan.

Hell Hammer were an influential band for extreme styles of metal. Phil is a huge fan.

Carnivore are best known as the band Peter Steel was in before Type 0.  They sounded very much like Venom.  Phil named them as an influence.

Carnivore are best known as the band Peter Steel was in before Type 0. They sounded very much like Venom. Phil named them as an influence.

Celtic Frost formed after the disbandment of Hell Hammer. They are also very important for extreme metal styles. Phil is a huge fan.

Celtic Frost formed after the disbandment of Hell Hammer. They are also very important for extreme metal styles. Phil is a huge fan.

Cryptic Slaughter were a  crossover thrash band.  Phil named them as an influence.

Cryptic Slaughter were a crossover thrash band. Phil named them as an influence.

Sheer Terror were a hardcore punk / cross over band that were important for pushing hardcore into a heavier sound.  Phil named them as an influence.

Sheer Terror were a hardcore punk / cross over band that were important for pushing hardcore into a heavier sound. Phil named them as an influence.

Soundgarden were pioneers of grunge. Rex is a big fan… I think he’s also thankful that the grunge scene came along so he didn’t have to dress glam anymore.  Vinnie also said that Chris Cornell was one of Dime’s favorite singers.

Soundgarden were pioneers of grunge. Rex is a big fan… I think he’s also thankful that the grunge scene came along so he didn’t have to dress glam anymore. Vinnie also said that Chris Cornell was one of Dime’s favorite singers.

Another pioneer of grunge, Alice in Chains.  Phil named Layne Staley as an influence.

Another pioneer of grunge, Alice in Chains. Phil named Layne Staley as an influence.

Righteous Pigs were a death/grind band.  Phil named them as an influence.

Righteous Pigs were a death/grind band. Phil named them as an influence.

King’s X were a hard rock / progressive metal band.  Dime said he loved King’s X

King’s X were a hard rock / progressive metal band. Dime said he loved King’s X

Anal Cunt area  grindcore band (no surprise there).  Phil named Seth Putnam as an influence.

Anal Cunt area grindcore band (no surprise there). Phil named Seth Putnam as an influence.

Eyehategod are one of the biggest Sludge metal bands. Phil named Mike Williams as an influence.

Eyehategod are one of the biggest Sludge metal bands. Phil named Mike Williams as an influence.

Suffocation are an important death metal band being how they are seen as the pioneers of brutal death.  Phil named Frank Mullen as an influence.

Suffocation are an important death metal band being how they are seen as the pioneers of brutal death. Phil named Frank Mullen as an influence.

Dime said he was listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd as a kid before discovering Van Halen and Black Sabbath.

Dime would have his dad show him how to play songs when he was young. His dad would show him multiple ways to play songs.

Vinnie got his drumming star in school and loved playing on the drum line.

Vinnie said Appetite For Destruction was a great album but didn’t name Guns ‘n’ Roses as an influence. He says he’s a huge fan of Enigma and that after touring and listening to slayer, they are good to relax to. Vinnie said he was blown away by Tommy Lee’s double bass drumming on “Live Wire” but he gives more credit to Tommy Aldrige for him wanting to play double bass himself. On another note, I’ve seen it stated Vinnie was influenced by Mikkey Dee, but I have dug for conformations and can’t find any. Nothing I could find supports this.

Vinnie and Rex met in high school jazz band. Vinnie said neither of them was that interested in jazz and would jam to “2112” together.

Rex said he listens to “all kids of crazy shit, from Sinatra to Slayer. His older sister gave him all her Beatles and Rolling Stones records, his parents listened to swing and his grandmother played piano for movies which he said he got boogie from. Rex played the tuba in school and said it wasn’t a big leap to bass but was already playing guitar since he was 9.

Phil talks about some bands he listened to as a kid such as: The Beatles, Kiss, Peter Frampton, Jethro Tull, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin. When asked about asked to name greatest singers he names Halford and Dio.

Phil is a big fan of early black metal bands such as Dark Throne, early Immortal and Emperor. Hell Hammer and Celtic Frost are his favorites though.

Terry Glaze was the original vocalist on most of the early Pantera albums. and contributed to the writing. I’m uncertain of his influences.

Bands influenced by Pantera!

As this project advances, bands will be added here… there are many!

The Metal Gods themselves inspired Pantera who later inspired them to play in a more modern style.

The Metal Gods themselves inspired Pantera who later inspired them to play in a more modern style.

Venom are the original extreme metal band.  Later drummer Antton would be influenced by Pantera.

Venom are the original extreme metal band. Later drummer Antton would be influenced by Pantera.

Bay Area heavy metal who would later be influenced by Dime.

Bay Area heavy metal who would later be influenced by Dime.

Kerry named Dime as one of his more modern influences.

Kerry named Dime as one of his more modern influences.

Canadian Melodic Death

Canadian Melodic Death

The most popular Symphonic metal band.

The most popular Symphonic metal band.

Standout Melodic Death

Standout Melodic Death

Alternative Metal

Alternative Metal

Progressive Groove

Progressive Groove

Symphonic Metal

Symphonic Metal

Versatile metal-core.

Versatile metal-core.

Melodic Death Groove

Melodic Death Groove

Forerunners of New Wave Thrash

Forerunners of New Wave Thrash

Finnish metal blending melodic death with other influences like that of Pantera.

Finnish metal blending melodic death with other influences like that of Pantera.

One of the most popular New Wave Thrash bands.

One of the most popular New Wave Thrash bands.

Sources:

https://www.guitarworld.com/gw-archive/dimebag-darrell-discusses-his-roots-gear-and-pantera-1994-guitar-world-interview
https://www.guitarworld.com/magazine/prime-cuts-dimebag-darrell-chooses-his-12-favorite-tunes-1993-guitar-world-feature
https://www.loudersound.com/features/dimeradio-dimebag-darrells-top-tracks-as-chosen-by-vinnie-paul
https://www.revolvermag.com/music/dimebag-darrell-final-interview-pantera-and-damageplans-guitar-hero
https://www.loudersound.com/features/vinnie-paul-the-10-records-that-changed-my-life
http://www.drumlessons.com/drummers/vinnie-paul/
https://www.moderndrummer.com/2018/06/vinnie-paul-the-king-of-thrash-metal-drumming/
http://blabbermouth.herokuapp.com/news/vinnie-paul-a-lot-of-newer-metal-drummers-play-too-much/
https://www.musicradar.com/news/rex-brown-the-10-records-that-changed-my-life
https://www.guitarworld.com/features/interview-former-pantera-and-down-bassist-rex-brown-talks-gear-influences-and-kill-devil-hill
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIHIQSZHy0Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=363&v=6X1zH9rNEYM&feature=emb_logo
https://web.archive.org/web/20130725031555/http://www.metalhammer.co.uk/news/phil-anselmo-only-a-fool-would-leave-out-black-sabbath/
https://ultimateclassicrock.com/pantera-phil-anselmo-beatles-kiss-influences/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_4nKosG0ZM
https://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/phil-anselmo-picks-five-essential-metal-albums-580808
http://rockandrollgarage.com/phil-anselmo-says-who-is-the-best-vocalist-of-all-time-in-his-opinion/
https://performermag.com/new-music-and-video/interviews-and-features/exclusive-interview-with-phil-anselmo-and-jimmy-bower-of-down/
https://search.blabbermouth.net/news/philip-anselmo-sometimes-it-feels-good-to-be-miserable/

Lamb of God Family Tree

Metal Family Tree

This is a project aimed at making it easy to see who inspired the bands you love or even hate. For this I try not to use any influences that the band don’t claim themselves. There will be a focus on predecessors but successors will be added as they site the band. These trees become more and more interactive as new bands are added, allowing you to click any band that has a tree and jump to it.

We want our lists to be better. If you know something that belongs on this list, let us know. When in doubt we will leave it out, so we need reliable sources.

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Lamb of God has become the band carrying groove metal forward. Although LOG got big during the same time as the metal-core movement they don’t sound much like those bands. LOG started as Burn The Priest in 94 and released their first demo in 95. LOG never got recognized widely until the early 2000’s but are not a band derivative of other groove bands. Their groove sound comes from Mark’s blues influence combined with the thrash of the other players of the band. With that said LOG actually combines a lot of the grindcore sound which came from hardcore and is where Randy’s influences are most obvious. LOG music is credited as written by the band; all members contribute to writing.

Mark, Willie, and Chris are all big fans of the thrash bands listed below.

The Rolling Stones are one of the biggest rock bands to come out of the 60’s and have kept at it all these years. Mark is a big fan of the stones.

The Rolling Stones are one of the biggest rock bands to come out of the 60’s and have kept at it all these years. Mark is a big fan of the stones.

Jimi Hendrix might not be expected on this list, but it hard to find guitar players who aren’t influenced by him. Mark says Hendrix was a huge influence on him early on.

Jimi Hendrix might not be expected on this list, but it hard to find guitar players who aren’t influenced by him. Mark says Hendrix was a huge influence on him early on.

Cream was heavy before there was metal with their blues/acid rock sound. Mark is a big fan of Eric Clapton especially with Cream and Blind Faith.

Cream was heavy before there was metal with their blues/acid rock sound. Mark is a big fan of Eric Clapton especially with Cream and Blind Faith.

Led-Zeppelin became on of the biggest and most influential bands. Mark considers Jimmy Page his favorite guitar player and biggest influence.

Led-Zeppelin became on of the biggest and most influential bands. Mark considers Jimmy Page his favorite guitar player and biggest influence.

The classic southern rock/blues rock band The Allman Brothers band. Mark is a huge fan and spent a lot of time playing along to their At Fillmore East album.

The classic southern rock/blues rock band The Allman Brothers band. Mark is a huge fan and spent a lot of time playing along to their At Fillmore East album.

Billy Cobham was a drummer who has played in many many groups. He’s primarily a jazz / jazz fusion player. Chris said he’s one of his big influences and names Mahavishnu Orchestra’s album Intermounting Flame as being a big influence on his playing.

Billy Cobham was a drummer who has played in many many groups. He’s primarily a jazz / jazz fusion player. Chris said he’s one of his big influences and names Mahavishnu Orchestra’s album Intermounting Flame as being a big influence on his playing.

ZZ Top, the blues/boogie/hard rock Texans. Mark is a huge fan of Billy Gibbons and especially ZZ Top’s early albums.

ZZ Top, the blues/boogie/hard rock Texans. Mark is a huge fan of Billy Gibbons and especially ZZ Top’s early albums.

The classic Aerosmith might seem odd on this list. When Chris first began learning to drum he was playing the first three Aerosmith albums. He says that he still finds him self doing things he picked up from then.

The classic Aerosmith might seem odd on this list. When Chris first began learning to drum he was playing the first three Aerosmith albums. He says that he still finds him self doing things he picked up from then.

Stevie Ray Vaughan is one of the all time great blues players. Mark is a big fan.

Stevie Ray Vaughan is one of the all time great blues players. Mark is a big fan.

For sure the most unique thing on this list, Prince Far I was a Reggae guy. Randy is a big fan of his vocals and this compilation album, Black Man Land. He said his voice really carried weight.

For sure the most unique thing on this list, Prince Far I was a Reggae guy. Randy is a big fan of his vocals and this compilation album, Black Man Land. He said his voice really carried weight.

Bauhaus were early goth rock pioneers. Randy is a fan.

Bauhaus were early goth rock pioneers. Randy is a fan.

Ozzy has had very talented guitar players over the years. Mark is a fan of both Randy Rhoads and Zakk Wylde.

Ozzy has had very talented guitar players over the years. Mark is a fan of both Randy Rhoads and Zakk Wylde.

Sisters of Mercy are an influential goth rock band. Randy is a big fan.

Sisters of Mercy are an influential goth rock band. Randy is a big fan.

The Accused were a early crossover band. They had a huge influence on Randy.

The Accused were a early crossover band. They had a huge influence on Randy.

The Fathers of Thrash, Metallica.

The Fathers of Thrash, Metallica.

Corrosion of Conformity may be more well known for their modern southern/stoner metal sound but they started as a hardcore punk/crossover band. Randy said they had an influence on him and said Animosity was one of his first records.

Corrosion of Conformity may be more well known for their modern southern/stoner metal sound but they started as a hardcore punk/crossover band. Randy said they had an influence on him and said Animosity was one of his first records.

Napalm Death are the pioneers of grindcore and later went into more of a death sound. They are one of Randy’s influences. He said he listened to their first two albums a lot.

Napalm Death are the pioneers of grindcore and later went into more of a death sound. They are one of Randy’s influences. He said he listened to their first two albums a lot.

Tones on Tail was a goth rock band that Randy is a fan of.

Tones on Tail was a goth rock band that Randy is a fan of.

The Faction were pioneers of skater punk and a band Randy listened to.

The Faction were pioneers of skater punk and a band Randy listened to.

The band that really brought an evil and aggressive sound to thrash.

The band that really brought an evil and aggressive sound to thrash.

D.R.I. are early pioneers of crossover which combined thrash and hardcore punk. Randy said their album Dealing With It! was one of his favorites in high school.

D.R.I. are early pioneers of crossover which combined thrash and hardcore punk. Randy said their album Dealing With It! was one of his favorites in high school.

Wrathchild America was an underground heavy/thrash band. After seeing them live Chris decided he wanted to play drums. At the time he was a bass player.

Wrathchild America was an underground heavy/thrash band. After seeing them live Chris decided he wanted to play drums. At the time he was a bass player.

Drunk Injuns was an old school skater punk band. They are one of Randy’s influences.

Drunk Injuns was an old school skater punk band. They are one of Randy’s influences.

One of the big 4 of thrash, Megadeth. Chris is heavily inspired Megadeth’s first drummer Gar Samuels. He says that Gar was the guy he wanted to emulate and the one ho made him want to play fast. Peace Sells is a huge influence on Mark.

The sometimes under appreciated thrash legends, Testament.

The sometimes under appreciated thrash legends, Testament.

Septic Death were a thrashcore band which is basically hardcore punk on speed. They were one of Randy’s influences.

Septic Death were a thrashcore band which is basically hardcore punk on speed. They were one of Randy’s influences.

Obituary are death metal legends and unlike many death metal bands they have often had a slower more groove driven sound. They are one of Randy’s death metal influences.

Obituary are death metal legends and unlike many death metal bands they have often had a slower more groove driven sound. They are one of Randy’s death metal influences.

Where a lot of the classic death metal bands are American, Bolt Thrower hail from England. They are one of Randy’s death metal influences.

Where a lot of the classic death metal bands are American, Bolt Thrower hail from England. They are one of Randy’s death metal influences.

Zakk Wylde got his start being Ozzy’s third guitar player but has since had solo albums as well as having a lot of success with Black Label Society. Mark names him as an influence.

Zakk Wylde got his start being Ozzy’s third guitar player but has since had solo albums as well as having a lot of success with Black Label Society. Mark names him as an influence.

Assück were a death/grind band. They are one of the band that inspired Randy. He was a fan of their singers “gnarly” deep voice.

Assück were a death/grind band. They are one of the band that inspired Randy. He was a fan of their singers “gnarly” deep voice.

The Jesus Lizard was a noise rock band in the 90’s It’s one of the 90’s punk bands Mark was into. Randy says their Liar album was a big influence on him as a front man.

The Jesus Lizard was a noise rock band in the 90’s It’s one of the 90’s punk bands Mark was into. Randy says their Liar album was a big influence on him as a front man.

Eyehategod are among the most prominent Sludge bands. They were a big influence on Randy.

Eyehategod are among the most prominent Sludge bands. They were a big influence on Randy.

Brutal Truth were a death / grind band. Randy said their vocalist was a big influence on him in the early days and listened to the album Need to Control a ton.

Brutal Truth were a death / grind band. Randy said their vocalist was a big influence on him in the early days and listened to the album Need to Control a ton.

The Black Crows are blues/southern rock band who got big in the 90’s. Mark says that Marc Ford is one of his favorite players.

The Black Crows are blues/southern rock band who got big in the 90’s. Mark says that Marc Ford is one of his favorite players.

Logical Nonsense were a underground hardcore/crust band. Randy named them as an influence being a big fan of Expand The Hive Randy’s style is very similar to their vocalists.

Logical Nonsense were a underground hardcore/crust band. Randy named them as an influence being a big fan of Expand The Hive Randy’s style is very similar to their vocalists.

Shellac is another noise rock band from the 90’s that Mark was into. Shellac was also a big inspiration on Randy

Shellac is another noise rock band from the 90’s that Mark was into. Shellac was also a big inspiration on Randy

Kepone was an indie rock side project of Michael Bishop better known for being in Gwar. Randy was a fan and use to see them a lot when they were a local act.

Kepone was an indie rock side project of Michael Bishop better known for being in Gwar. Randy was a fan and use to see them a lot when they were a local act.

Randy says he is not a metal head and has always been a punk. Most of his early influences are punk. He said he didn’t get into death metal until his 20’s. He said he liked some Black Sabbath, Metallica, and Slayer but mostly listened to Punk. During his time in prison he said that songs by The Misfits, Black Flag, and Bad Brains really helped him get through it. He was into some grindcore and considered it closely related to punk. He also was really into the band Breadwinner for their listenable complexity however they were instrumental so had no vocal influence. He said he’s also a fan of band Jawbreaker for their lyric but that their sound wasn’t as influential. Randy is also a fan of goth/new wave bands named above. They wouldn’t had made the list but Randy has been using clean vocal more in recent years and I’m betting some of those influences shine through there.

Willie says early he was inspired by Kirk Hammett, Alex Skolnick, and Dave Mustaine.

Before Mark was into metal he was into a lot of punk bands including Black Flag, Bad Religion, JFA, Suicidal Tendencies, G.B.H., and the Sex Pistols Mark was also into some 90’s punk from the Touch and Go and Dischord labels.

John grew up with the D.C. hardcore scene. He was first introduced to metal when Chris showed him …And Justice For All. He then got into Megadeth and Slayer but he says he primarliy listens to rock and roll and old school punk.

Bands influenced by Lamb of God!

As this project advances, bands will be added here… there are many!

Symphonic Metal

Symphonic Metal

Progressive Death

Progressive Death

Sources:

https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2016/05/21/cbs-sf-talks-to-lamb-of-god-singer-randy-blythe/
https://ink19.com/2007/09/magazine/interviews/lamb-of-god
http://www.vh1.com/video-clips/6atyu3/that-metal-show-lamb-of-god-on-their-influences
https://www.guitarworld.com/gw-archive/interview-lamb-gods-mark-morton-and-willie-adler-discuss
https://allaxess.com/video-interview-with-lamb-of-gods-willie-adler/
https://www.loudersound.com/features/under-the-influence-mark-morton
https://www.guitarworld.com/gw-archive/record-changed-my-life-mark-morton-lamb-god-discusses-megadeths-peace-sellsbut-whos-buying
https://loudwire.com/lamb-of-god-mark-morton-top-5-guitar-albums/
https://www.ranker.com/list/randy-blythe-lamb-of-god-influences/jon-wiederhorn
https://www.ghostcultmag.com/interview-randy-blythe-of-lamb-of-god-on-punk-rock/
https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2017/08/06/cbs-sf-talks-to-lamb-of-god-bassist-john-campbell/