Biography

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New lineup, new life ...

After releasing Unfinished Business, a collection of B-Sides and reworked studio releases, Nichols set out to lead MELIAH RAGE into the new millennium. Jesse Johnson, an original member, was brought back on bass, while Barry Spillberg, of Wargasm fame, took over drumming duties. Munro declined an offer to rejoin the band, opting to spend more time with his family. Known for his imposing stature, searing performances, and dark lyrics, replacing Munro would be a daunting task. As luck would have it, Nichols knew the man for the job Paul Souza, his partner from Cactus Land. In 2003, the new lineup recorded Barely Human, an album that combined the elements of classic MELIAH RAGE with a lean, modern sound. Distributed by Screaming Ferret Wreckords, Barely Human was a huge critical success, landing on many top ten lists, and yielded a music video for the title track.

For their next project, Dowie was brought back into the drumming fold to record The Deep and Dreamless Sleep in 2005. In addition to Stuart returning, the band has added new bassist Darren Lourie to replace Jesse Johnson, who has retired from touring.

Nearly twenty years after their formation, MELIAH RAGE continues as the standard bearers for the thunderous tradition of metal and the harbingers of a new, dynamic sound.