Sound Barrier

Sound Barrier is a groundbreaking American heavy metal band formed in 1980 in Los Angeles, notable for being one of the first all-African American bands in a genre largely dominated by white musicians. The original lineup featured vocalist Bernie K., guitarist Spacey T., bassist Stanley E., and drummer Dave Brown. Their debut album, *Total Control* (1982), was released on MCA Records, making them the first African American band signed to a major label in metal, though it sold modestly. They followed up with a self-released EP, *Born to Rock* (1984), which included a cover of Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild.” After bassist Stanley E. was replaced by Emil Lech, the band signed with Metal Blade Records and released *Speed of Light* in 1986, featuring a cover of Thin Lizzy’s “Hollywood (Down on Your Luck).” Despite their pioneering status and energetic sound influenced by Judas Priest and Iron Maiden, Sound Barrier disbanded shortly afterward in 1987. Members went on to collaborate with other notable acts in the rock and metal scenes.

Genres