Lee Rausch


Lee Rausch is a former drummer who played with several thrash metal bands based in California from 1983 to 1987. He is currently the drummer at a church in Indian Lake, Ohio.

Career

Megadeth

Lee's career began in 1983 when former Metallica guitarist Dave Mustaine formed his own band called Megadeth. After trying several drummers, Rausch was finally hired and Megadeth got its first real lineup, which consisted of Rausch, Mustaine, David Ellefson, and Kerry King. In 1984, Megadeth recorded its first demo, Last Rites, consisting of three titles. In the same year, Lee left the group due to internal conflict and was replaced by Gar Samuelson. In 1985, the group recorded its first album.

Dark Angel and Wargod

After leaving Megadeth in 1984, Rausch played for another band in the region, Dark Angel. Gene Hoglan played for Megadeth during this time.
In 1986, Rausch joined the group of guitarist Michelle Meldrum, Wargod, replacing Gene Hoglan's part in Dark Angel. With Wargod, Rausch recorded a demo that year, but the group split in 1987. Rausch was no longer part of a band, but continues to play from time to time locally in northwestern Ohio.