Stress Factor 9
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2005 |
| Defunct | 2007 |
| Headquarters | Vancouver , Canada |
| Products | Music albums |
| Website | www |
Stress Factor 9 was a thrash metal ensemble originating from Vancouver, Canada, established in 2005. The lineup prominently featured lead vocalist Randy Rampage, known for founding the hardcore outfit D.O.A. and his tenure with Annihilator, alongside drummer Ray Hartmann, also affiliated with Annihilator. Guitarist Kick, formerly of Vertical After, completed the core trio. Subsequent formations incorporated Frank Frightful from Singapore's punk group Opposition Party and Duane Chaos of 22nd Century.
Their sole release, Brainwarp Mindspin, came out before their final live appearance in January 2007. The band's last tour was abruptly ended after Rampage and Hartmann were refused entry into the United States, resulting in the cancellation of six concerts, including sold-out performances supporting Overkill in Virginia. Since then, Stress Factor 9 has remained inactive as Kick shifted focus toward political organizing within the U.S.
History
Randy Rampage and Ray Hartmann first collaborated on Annihilator’s critically acclaimed debut album Alice in Hell, which achieved significant sales and extensive touring throughout Europe. Both musicians exited following later releases but reunited for the 1999 album Criteria for a Black Widow before departing once more.
In 2005, guitarist Kick from indie band Vertical After initiated Stress Factor 9 by joining forces with Rampage and Hartmann. Their sound fused thrash metal with punk elements that echoed Rampage’s roots with D.O.A. Initial demo recordings featured bassist Stuart Carruthers of Grip Inc. and Ash Blue, formerly associated with Strapping Young Lad. For the album production and subsequent tours, Markus McCallum (ex-Vertical After and recently with Mechanism) replaced Stuart on bass, while Frank Frightful took over guitar duties.
The album Brainwarp Mindspin was produced by Shaun Thingvold—known for his work with Fear Factory, Strapping Young Lad, Lamb of God, and Bif Naked—at Greenhouse Studios, a facility recognized for Nickelback recordings. Contributions to the project included lyricist Big John Bates and guitarist Anthony Greenham, both linked to Annihilator’s Alice in Hell. Distribution was managed by Century Media in the United States and CM Distro across Europe.
Following their North American shows, Stress Factor 9 embarked on a European tour supporting Armored Saint.
Discography
2006: Brainwarp Mindspin
External links
- Official website
- Stress Factor 9 on Myspace
- Stress Factor 9 at Encyclopaedia Metallum