On this day, February 7, 1989, Metal Church released their third studio album, Blessing in Disguise, marking a new chapter for the band with a shift in lineup and sound. This was the first album to feature vocalist Mike Howe, replacing David Wayne, and also introduced guitarist John Marshall. The result was a heavier, more polished sound that helped solidify Metal Church’s place in the late 80s metal scene.
The album featured some of the band’s most well-known tracks, including Badlands, a fan-favorite with an anthemic chorus and powerful riffs, as well as Fake Healer and Anthem to the Estranged, both of which showcased Metal Church’s ability to blend melody with aggression. Blessing in Disguise helped expand their fan base and gained them recognition beyond the underground metal scene.
Though it didn’t achieve massive commercial success, the album remains a defining release for Metal Church and a favorite among heavy metal fans who appreciate its raw energy and strong songwriting.
Fun fact: Guitarist John Marshall, who played on Blessing in Disguise, was previously a guitar tech for Metallica’s Kirk Hammett and even filled in for James Hetfield on rhythm guitar when Hetfield injured his arm in 1986.
Trivia question: Which song from Blessing in Disguise became one of Metal Church’s most well-known tracks and is still a staple in their live performances?
The album featured some of the band’s most well-known tracks, including Badlands, a fan-favorite with an anthemic chorus and powerful riffs, as well as Fake Healer and Anthem to the Estranged, both of which showcased Metal Church’s ability to blend melody with aggression. Blessing in Disguise helped expand their fan base and gained them recognition beyond the underground metal scene.
Though it didn’t achieve massive commercial success, the album remains a defining release for Metal Church and a favorite among heavy metal fans who appreciate its raw energy and strong songwriting.
Fun fact: Guitarist John Marshall, who played on Blessing in Disguise, was previously a guitar tech for Metallica’s Kirk Hammett and even filled in for James Hetfield on rhythm guitar when Hetfield injured his arm in 1986.
Trivia question: Which song from Blessing in Disguise became one of Metal Church’s most well-known tracks and is still a staple in their live performances?
