Philadelphia (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1982 |
| Headquarters | Shreveport , United States |
Key people | Brian Martini, Phil Scholling, Brian Clark, Ronn Flowers |
| Products | Christian metal music albums |
Philadelphia was a Christian metal group originating from Shreveport, Louisiana. According to the Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music, they encountered opposition from fundamentalist factions due to their musical approach and lyrical content.[1] Their band name is derived from the church of Philadelphia mentioned in Revelation 3:7-10.[2]
In terms of sound, they were characterized as "heavier than Rez and exhibiting greater intensity than Daniel Band and Barnabas."[3]
Background
The group initially performed under the name Survivor targeting the general market, but following their breakup in 1981, the members embraced Christianity.[2] They regrouped in 1982 as a Christian ensemble and released their first album, Tell The Truth, in 1984. Their metal genre sparked debate within Christian circles,[2] with some commending their straightforward, ministry-driven lyrics,[4] while others viewed them as excessively explicit and condemning.[2]
In 1985, Philadelphia appeared at the Cornerstone Festival and launched their sophomore album, Search and Destroy. This record tackled societal problems such as child abuse, drug abuse, and runaways through a narrative centered on a character named Bobby.[2] The album’s grave themes elicited varied responses,[3] yet bassist and vocalist Brian Clark highlighted its significance by presenting Jesus as authentic and relevant to these challenges.[2]
Their third production, Warlord, was recorded but not immediately released. Several songs from this project were later included in a 2000 reissue by M8 Records alongside their previous studio albums.[1]
In 2016, the band’s label Philly Music officially issued Warlord. The lineup consisted of founding members Brian Martini (drums), Phil Scholling (guitars), and Brian 'Wulfie' Clark (bass/vocals). The title track, composed three decades earlier, received its first studio recording, accompanied by fresh compositions from Scholling and Clark.
Members
- Brian Martini – drums
- Brian Clark – bass, vocals
- Ronn Flowers – guitar
- Phil Scholling – guitar
Discography
- 1984: Tell The Truth (Patmos)
- 1985: Search and Destroy
- 2016: Warlord (Philly Music)
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