Hellfield

Originating in Canada during 1977, the pop/rock ensemble Hellfield came into being chiefly through the initiative of lead vocalist Mitchell Field, who performed under the name Mitch Hellfield. Founding members included guitarist Dave Hovey, keyboardist Rick Lamb, bassist Jamie Larsen, and drummer Steve Coombs. Over the group’s five-year run, Hovey and Coombs departed, replaced by guitarist Paul Royes and drummer Billy Smith, while Rob Blacker and Charlie Mitchell each occupied the drum chair at different stages. The band completed two albums before dissolving in 1982.

Hellfield arose after Mitch Hellfield approached CBS Records with a solo proposal and received the response that no interest existed in such an act at the time. Rather than abandon the effort, Mitch assembled musicians under the band name Hellfield, securing a two-album deal and the services of producer Bob Gallo. The self-titled debut appeared in 1978 on the Epic label, containing tracks such as “All Night Party,” “Magic Mistress,” “No Son of Mine,” and the most widely recalled numbers “Tell Me Are You Listening” and “Too Long.”

Night Music, the follow-up, reached stores in 1979. Although the album earned favorable critical notices, CBS extended minimal backing amid its own corporate restructuring, which removed both producers previously assigned to the group. The contract lapsed despite Hellfield’s extensive Canadian touring and its shift toward a harder sound intended to sustain audience interest. Absent label support, the members persisted for two additional years until disbanding in 1982, after which several joined other acts including Play Doctor, the Mustangs, and Desperado.