Heir Apparent is an American heavy metal band that was formed in 1983 in Seattle, Washington. Throughout their career, they have been known for their intricate musicianship and the melding of melodic metal with progressive elements. Initially making waves with their 1986 debut album, "Graceful Inheritance," the band quickly gained recognition in the metal underground. Though they originally disbanded in the early 1990s, the enduring appeal of their music and a loyal fan base has seen them reunite multiple times.

Despite changes in the lineup and extended periods of inactivity, Heir Apparent’s legacy has been punctuated by a series of releases that showcase their evolution and commitment to their genre. Their sophomore album, "One Small Voice," released in 1989, demonstrated a shift towards more technical proficiency and complex arrangements, solidifying their position in the metal community. After a hiatus, Heir Apparent returned with "Triad," a compilation album released in 1999, which served to bridge fans to their more contemporary work. Critically acclaimed for their musical prowess, Heir Apparent’s comeback album "The View from Below," which came out in 2018, was well received and marked a triumphant return, reaffirming their legacy and influence in the progressive metal scene.