Formed in 1979, and featuring Steve Grimmett (vocals), Nick Bowcott (guitars), Dave Wanklin (bass) and Lee Hams (drums), Grim Reaper are a typical example of the bands that formed the UK heavy metal revival of the early 80s known as the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal.
They epitomized most of the movement's strengths (a fresh, down-to-earth approach, enthusiasm, and powerful but melodic guitar riffs).
In 1994 one of their videos was dragged out of the crates in the MTV cartoon Beavis And Butthead, and was introduced with an incredulous 'Is this Spinal Tap?'.
While they flirted with infernal imagery, Grim Reaper were never a Satanic band, as was claimed by some critics (including fundamentalist Christian preachers).
Their debut, See You In Hell, was probably Grim Reaper's finest moment.
Read about the Grim Reaper in:
Incarnations of Immortality books by Piers Anthony (On A Pale Horse)
Discworld books by Terry Pratchett
The Sandman comic by Neil Gaiman
See the Grim Reaper in:
- The B-movie, Six-String Samurai, Death is portrayed at a heavy metal guitar-playing samurai who has ambitions of taking the vacated throne of Lost Vegas for himself. Death's costume resembles the outfit of Guns 'N Roses and Velvet Revolver guitarist Slash.
"When the last living thing dies, my job is finished. I'll put the chairs on tables, turn out the lights and lock the universe behind me when I leave."
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