Fist (band)

Fist was a British heavy metal band, formed in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, in 1978. They are considered part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement.

The band was initially known as Axis, but changed their name to Fist in 1979. The original lineup consisted of Glenn "Geordie" Young (vocals, guitar), Dave Irwin (guitar), Norman "Snatch" Barrett (bass), and Harry "Hiroshima" Hill (drums).

Fist gained early recognition through local gigs and appearances on compilation albums showcasing emerging NWOBHM bands. They signed to MCA Records and released their debut album, Turn the Hell On, in 1980. The album featured energetic performances and gained them a following within the NWOBHM scene.

Following Turn the Hell On, Barrett was replaced by Derek Riley. They then released their second album, Back With a Vengeance, in 1982. This album featured a slightly more polished and commercial sound. However, it did not achieve the commercial success they had hoped for.

Internal tensions and creative differences within the band contributed to their eventual breakup in the early 1980s.

In later years, various members of Fist participated in reunion shows and re-recordings of their earlier material. While Fist did not achieve mainstream success, they remain a respected and remembered band within the NWOBHM community. Their albums are still sought after by collectors and fans of the genre. The band's energetic live performances and contribution to the NWOBHM sound cemented their place in the history of British heavy metal.