Powermad

**Powermad** was a thrash/power metal band hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota, that cranked out high-energy riffs in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Formed in the mid-’80s, these guys blended the speed and aggression of thrash with the melodic hooks and epic vibes of power metal, creating a sound that stood out in the underground scene. Their debut album, *Absolute Power* (1989), became a cult favorite with tracks like "Slaughterhouse" and the title track showcasing their knack for combining razor-sharp guitar work and anthemic choruses. They even snagged opening slots for heavyweights like Testament and Forbidden, earning respect for their tight live shows.

Despite their momentum, Powermad’s run was short-lived. After their second release, *The Madness Begins...* (1992), an EP that doubled down on their thrash roots, the band called it quits. They reunited briefly in the 2000s for festival appearances, reminding fans why their riff-driven chaos still slaps. While they never hit mainstream fame, Powermad remains a hidden gem for fans of ’80s metal’s raw, unpolished edge.