DISASTER AREA was formed in 1988 by long time friends Harvey Lewis and Laurence Langley in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia,Canada. The addition of Teague Purtell and Montreal's Phil M. solidified the friendship that has given DISASTER AREA the basis of strength that all bands thrive on for success and longevity.
DISASTER AREA has spread all across North America. In 1988 DISASTER AREA appeared on " Alfred Hitchcock Presents", a Universal Studios production filmed in Toronto. Three DISASTER AREA original songs were performed in the half-hour episode. "Night Creatures". Since then, DISASTER AREA has supported national touring acts such as Armored Saint, Metal Church, Anvil, Killer Dwarfs, Nuclear Assault, The Poor, Manowar, and Dee Snider's S.M.F. (Twisted Sister frontman).
The 1991 self-release of DISASTER AREA's first studio demo "Only in Darkness" received rave reviews nationwide. "This Claw" appeared on the 1991 Concrete Foundations Forum CD and "Reign of Chaos" appeared on the 1992 compilation. The opportunity to perform live in the 1991 Forum showcase had many positive outcomes.
The 1993 release of "Shaved", a four song EP, sent DISASTER AREA's popularity skyrocketing. The excitement drew the attention of Metallica's Lars Ulrich, who invited DISASTER AREA frontman Harvey Lewis to audition in Denver, CO as James Hetfield's substitution while his arm healed after suffering burns at a Montreal show during the Metallica/Gun's & Roses tour. The relationship continued when members of Metallica showed up at a DISASTER AREA show in Buffalo, NY.
The DISASTER AREA Newsletter, conceived in 1994 by two long-standing fans from Columbus, OH had amazing results. DISASTER AREA has expanded to the World Wide Web with a site consisting of pictures, band bios, tour dates and original music clips which can be downloaded.
In 1995 DISASTER AREA started to focus on regional showcases and contests. Their first nomination was the Coyote's/Roadrunner Video Music Awards in Louisville, KY. This has proven to be an excellent opportunity to reach club owners, agents, and audiences. "Slo Speed" was also granted air time on Louisville's 100.5 The Fox radio. DISASTER AREA was once again nominated in the Coyote's/Roadrunner Music Video Awards in 1996 with the video 'Slo Speed", filmed in Cincinnati, OH at Annie's by Tom Vickery and edited by band members Harvey and Laurence.
DISASTER AREA has enjoyed many exciting accomplishments in the last 10 years. The dedication and perseverance shared by both DISASTER AREA and their large circle of fans/friends has allowed DISASTER AREA to continue writing, recording, and performing their own music in North America.
With over 1200 shows performed in across North America, DISASTER AREA is constantly working on new and better ways to reach the most people. Catch DISASTER AREA in 2000!
DISASTER AREA is:
Harvey Lewis - Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitar
Laurence Langley - Drums/Backing Vocals
Phil M. - Bass Guitar/Death Vocals/Bass Leads
Teague Purtell - Lead guitar/Vocals & "Ferret-like movements"
For more information contact: (502) 459-6153 or
E-mail at disasterarea@disasterarea.org
Web site:
http://www.disasterarea.org/