Znowhite


Znowhite or Znöwhite were an American thrash/speed metal band who have been credited for helping to pioneer thrash metal in Chicago, Illinois, United States.

History

Formation

In 1982, the heavy metal band Znowhite was founded by two African American brothers, guitarist Ian Tafoya and drummer Sparks Tafoya along with cousin Nicky Tafoya on bass. Nicole Lee joined the group soon after as lead vocalist. The band originally performed under the title Snowhite, but later replaced the S with a Z. They independently released their three song flexi-disc which featured the song "Hellbent". This caught the attention of Metal Blade Records founder Brian Slagel. On the strength of the recording Znowhite landed a spot on volume three of the Metal Massacre compilation, which helped give them some exposure.

Lineup changes and disbandment

After Znowhite's initial success, Nicole, Ian and Sparks decided to replace then bassist Amp Dawg. In 1985, Scott Schafer joined Znowhite taking over the bass duties. Four years of grueling back-to-back tours of America and Canada produced the independently released live album Live Suicide. Back in their hometown of Chicago the band started work on what would be the last Znowhite release, their magnum opus, Act of God. Toward the end of the recording sessions Nicole Lee made the decision to leave Znowhite. Act of God was released in 1988 through Roadrunner Records. An extensive American tour followed the album's release and featured Sentinel Beast vocalist Debbie Gunn and drummer John Slattery - formerly of the band Tools Of Ignorance. Gunn left after the tours due to health issues. Fulton, Schafer and Slattery went on to form Cyclone Temple When Cyclone Temple disbanded Fulton, Schafer and Fulton's brother, former Znowhite drummer, Tony Heath formed a new group Rebels Without Applause. Gunn went on to sing for the group Ice Age and, later, reform Sentinel Beast.

Discography

Studio albums
Compilation albums