Alcatrazz

Formed 1983, U.S.A.

Albums:
1983 No Parole For Rock'N'Roll
1984 Live Sentence
1985 Disturbing The Peace
1986 Dangerous Games
1998 The Best Of Alcatrazz


History:
A traditional heavy metal band that infused a classical and intricate guitar style to their sound, and helped launch the career of two of the most accomplished guitarists in rock.
Formed in Los Angeles, California by former Rainbow and MSG vocalist Graham Bonnet. He completed the band with former Steeler guitar virtuoso Yngwie Malmsteen, Gary Shea (bass, ex-New England), Jan Uvena (ex-Alice Cooper on drums) and Jimmy Waldo (keyboards, also an ex member of New England). The debut was a scorching metal classic, but after the tour and accompanying live album Malmsteen jumped ship to pursue a successful solo career. He was replaced by another up and coming axe-slinger in Steve Vai, who had worked with Frank Zappa.

Disturbing The Peace was a commercial disappointment, and Vai left shortly after to reach superstardom with David Lee Roth. Former Rick Derringer and Alice Cooper guitarist Danny Johnson was recruited for the bands final album that was panned by critics and fans alike for its commercialism and lack of direction. Upon the demise of the band in 1987, Bonnet began a successful career performing with Impelliteri and Michael Schenker among others while Waldo was found on Quiet Riot's self-titled album.