Watchtower

Often considered the ultimate progressive technical thrash band, Watchtower ushered in a new era of extreme metal with their debut album, Energetic Disassembly, released in 1985. Featuring an array of chaotic time changes, aggressive vocals, and possibly one of the most accomplished rhythm sections in metal, this was one of the highlights of metal in the 80s. By 1989 Watchtower's lineup had changed when they released their sophomore effort, Control And Resistance. The album's quality did not diminish, although the overall atmosphere was a bit more reined in compared with the wildness of their debut. While Watchtower never received much popular fame, they are often considered the fathers of the progressive/technical metal movement and have been cited as influences on popular progressive bands such as Dream Theater.

Since the release of Control the band has been on hold while the various members pursued other projects, amongst them Ron Jarzombek's solo project Spastic Ink and Doug and Rick's venture called Retarted Elf. At various times work had been in progress on a third album, tentatively titled Mathematics, but the chances of a new release appeared slim until the summer of 2000, when the band (McMaster, Jarzombek, Keyser, and Colaluca) reunited to play a few festivals in Germany and some local gigs. The band is still alive, playing the occasional gig/festival, and a November 2004 report stated that actual recording for Mathematics had begun, so perhaps the album may yet be completed.


WatchTower- 2023/2024 - the band re unite to play Houston, Tx. 9th year long running Hells Heroes festival March of 2024 sharing the bill with Queensryche and Solitude Aeturnus...... Also , in Oct. 2023, the band play Keep it True festival in Germany, sharing the stage with Metal Church and Udo Dirkschneider.


Update- High Roller records re issue the heavily influential debut release, ENERGETIC DISASSEMBLY, from prog thrash metal pioneers, Watchtower. The double cd( includes original mix, and 2nd disc with re mix and bonus material) and special edition vinyl re issues, feature two separate releases. The original mixes ,re mastered, but keeping true to the first mix) as well as the full record remixed ( by Jared Tuten) along with first ever heard bonus material, discovered, long forgotten gems on the original master tapes included on the re mix version only. Vinyl sold separately, old mix, and then new mix.
Available for pre order now, and in stores worldwide by May 30, 2025

Members

Jason McMaster - vocals
Ron Jarzombek - guitars
Doug Keyser - bass
Rick Colaluca - drums

Former members

Alan Tecchio - vocals
Billy White - guitars
Mike Soliz - vocals