Metal Church is a prominent American heavy metal band founded in 1980, initially in San Francisco before relocating to Aberdeen, Washington. Spearheaded by guitarist and songwriter Kurdt Vanderhoof, the band became a key force in the Seattle heavy metal scene and is known as one of the pioneers of thrash, speed, and power metal. Throughout their career, Metal Church has released thirteen studio albums, gaining early fame with records like Metal Church and The Dark, both of which saw Billboard chart success. Their sound has evolved from raw, intense themes to broader social and political commentary. Despite frequent lineup changes, Vanderhoof has remained the driving creative force of the group. After several hiatuses and reformations, the band continues to record and perform, most recently introducing vocalist Marc Lopes on their 2023 album Congregation of Annihilation.