Riot V

Riot V is an American metal band formed in Brooklyn, New York City, in 1975. Initially known as Riot, they changed their name to Riot V following the death of founding guitarist Mark Reale in 2012, as a tribute to his legacy and to signify a continuation of the band under a new chapter.

History:

Riot's early sound was characterized by a hard rock and heavy metal blend, drawing influences from British metal bands. They gained attention with their debut album, Rock City (1977), and followed up with Narita (1979), which further established their reputation within the burgeoning heavy metal scene.

The band experienced several lineup changes throughout their career, with guitarist Mark Reale remaining the consistent driving force and songwriter. Despite these changes, they continued to release albums, exploring different facets of heavy metal. Albums such as Fire Down Under (1981) are considered landmarks in the genre.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Riot experimented with a more melodic hard rock sound, reflecting the musical trends of the time. They later returned to a heavier, more power metal-oriented style.

Mark Reale's Death and Riot V:

Mark Reale's passing in 2012 from complications related to Crohn's disease marked a significant turning point for the band. Rather than disbanding, the remaining members chose to continue Riot's legacy under the name Riot V, with the "V" representing the Roman numeral five, signifying a new era while honoring the band's history.

Post-Reale Era:

Riot V has continued to tour and release albums, including Unleash the Fire (2014) and Armor of Light (2018), striving to maintain the sound and spirit of Riot while incorporating new elements. They remain active in the heavy metal scene, performing at festivals and venues worldwide.

Musical Style and Influences:

Riot's musical style is generally classified as heavy metal, with elements of hard rock and power metal. Their sound has evolved over time, but they are consistently known for their melodic vocals, twin guitar harmonies, and energetic performances. The band has cited influences such as Judas Priest, Thin Lizzy, and UFO.