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.

Members

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

Former members

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