Barren Cross
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| Barren Cross | ||
|---|---|---|
| Background information | ||
| Origin |  Los Angeles, California |
|
| Genre(s) | Christian Rock Hard Rock Christian metal |
|
| Years active | 1984 - 1994; Present | |
| Label(s) | Star Song, Enigma Records, Medusa Records, Rugged Records | |
| Former members | ||
| Mike Lee Jim LeVerde Steve Whittaker Ray Parris |
||
Barren Cross is a Christian Rock and Heavy Metal band that was formed in Los Angeles, California in 1983 by high school pals Ray Parris (guitar) and Steve whitaker(drums). The band released six albums from 1986 to 1994 and has been quiet ever since. They have reunited for some shows in recent years but there are no plans for a new album.
By 1984, bassist Jim LaVerde and vocalist Mike Lee were added. A steady stream of club dates helped Barren Cross hone it's skills. In 1989 the band appeared on The Morton Downey Show alongside members of KISS and Anthrax.[1]
In 1990 Mike Lee left and joined the explicitally secular band the Bare Bones, but would appear on the bands later releases.[1]
Musically, the band is known as the Christian equivalent to Iron Maiden.[2] Lyrically, the band is noted for it's uncompromising stance on a number of social issues. Their songs addresed personal and societal ills such as suicide, abortion, terrorism, and prejudice from a Christian worldview.[1]
Contents |
[edit] Band Members
- Mike Lee - vocals
- Jim LaVerde - bass guitars
- Ray Parris - guitars
- Steve Whittaker - drums
[edit] Discography
- 1985: Believe (EP)
- 1986: Rock For The King (Star Song)
- 1988: Atomic Arena (Enigma Records)
- 1989: State Of Control (Enigma)
- 1990: Hotter Than Hell Live! (Medusa Records}
- 1990: Rock For The King (reissue)
- 1994: Rattle Your Cage (Rugged Records)
[edit] References
- ^ a b c Powell, Mark Allan (2002). Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music, First printing, Peabody, Massachusetts: Hendrickson Publishers, 67-68. ISBN 1-56563-679-1.
- ^ Hale, Mark (1993). "0270", Headbangers, First edition, second printing, Ann Arbor, Michigan: Popular Culture, Ink., 32-33. ISBN 1-56075-029-4.
