Griffin

Griffin emerged from San Francisco with roots in the regional thrash circuit, yet its sound also absorbed the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, especially Iron Maiden, together with frequent odd time signatures that anticipated later eccentrics such as Lord Weird Slough Feg and Hammers of Misfortune. During the mid-'80s the group released two independent albums that later turned into prized cult collector's items. Formed in 1982, Griffin refined its flamboyant approach across two demos before securing a contract with the Shrapnel label, which issued Flight of the Griffin in 1984. The record presented William McKay on vocals, Rick Cooper on guitar, Rick Wagner on drums, Thomas Sprayberry on bass, and Mike Jastremski on guitar. By the arrival of 1986's Protectors of the Lair both Thomas Sprayberry and Mike Jastremski had left the lineup, the latter having joined thrashers Heathen, and that album became Griffin's final statement.