Uploaded September 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
There’s a lot to be said about commitment to self-identity; and many musicians consummate that goal without even knowing it OR determined self-direction. It’s just who they are & nothing (or no one) can alter their mindset both personally & musically. I know MANY wonderful artists from the 80’s SA metal scene who fall within this mindset; they’re in bands such as BYFIST, SA SLAYER, HELSTAR & SYRUS to name a few. What I find AMAZING is that many of these artists STILL to this day have not faltered one iota to that identity; an identity that includes a DYI sentiment, on stage theatrics, a love for high vocals, intricate guitar solos & lyrical fantasia. One band that began their respective journey in 1985 here in SA who decisively also follow that mantra is Wicked Angel. The band first became renown through the now coveted 1987 demo, ‘Chaotic Intellect’, which included several unforgettable tracks such as ‘Realms of Chaos’, ‘People of the Black Circle’ & ‘Stealer of Souls’. [NOTE: CI was re-released on 10-inch vinyl via Texas Metal Underground Records in 2013] AND, like many other bands that come from that era – there have been member changes, hiatuses (& reunions) & calamity. And, just when I thought the band had long fallen into the annals of SA metal I was proud to see their resurrection with the release of a NEW 4-song EP called ‘Battle For Evil’ released on June 25th, 2025. BFE is a forceful allegiance to the sound they initially created (only with modern production courtesy of Helstar’s, Larry Barragan); part of that also included the return of original vocalist, David ‘Gumby’ Caballero & the resurrected guitar duo of Joseph Valdez & Roland Casias. I became a quick fan because songs like, ‘Phantazma’, ‘Ferryman’ & the title track exude a vibrant ode to the 80’s with catchy guitar melodies, a clean vocal delivery & sordid stories of dark misfortune. I immediately knew I wanted to do what I could to support. SO, on August 2nd, 2025 I took the liberty of inviting guitarist, Roland Casias & drummer, Ernest Chavarria over to the RMW Studio to chat about it ALL. In the interview below you will see us discuss the following: the early days, their official recordings, band evolutions, the power of art/music, recording BFE, the changing SA scene (& the history of it) & crazy stories from original drummer (& historian), Rick Martinez. I want to thank the guys in WA for an AMAZING night, for sharing everything they did with our cameras & all their goodwill. To the RMW Familia – be sure to look for BFE & relish in the heart of 80’s SA metal. Enjoy! ~ El Mero Metal
There’s a lot to be said about commitment to self-identity; and many musicians consummate that goal without even knowing it OR determined self-direction. It’s just who they are & nothing (or no one) can alter their mindset both personally & musically. I know MANY wonderful artists from the 80’s SA metal scene who fall within this mindset; they’re in bands such as BYFIST, SA SLAYER, HELSTAR & SYRUS to name a few. What I find AMAZING is that many of these artists STILL to this day have not faltered one iota to that identity; an identity that includes a DYI sentiment, on stage theatrics, a love for high vocals, intricate guitar solos & lyrical fantasia. One band that began their respective journey in 1985 here in SA who decisively also follow that mantra is Wicked Angel. The band first became renown through the now coveted 1987 demo, ‘Chaotic Intellect’, which included several unforgettable tracks such as ‘Realms of Chaos’, ‘People of the Black Circle’ & ‘Stealer of Souls’. [NOTE: CI was re-released on 10-inch vinyl via Texas Metal Underground Records in 2013] AND, like many other bands that come from that era – there have been member changes, hiatuses (& reunions) & calamity. And, just when I thought the band had long fallen into the annals of SA metal I was proud to see their resurrection with the release of a NEW 4-song EP called ‘Battle For Evil’ released on June 25th, 2025. BFE is a forceful allegiance to the sound they initially created (only with modern production courtesy of Helstar’s, Larry Barragan); part of that also included the return of original vocalist, David ‘Gumby’ Caballero & the resurrected guitar duo of Joseph Valdez & Roland Casias. I became a quick fan because songs like, ‘Phantazma’, ‘Ferryman’ & the title track exude a vibrant ode to the 80’s with catchy guitar melodies, a clean vocal delivery & sordid stories of dark misfortune. I immediately knew I wanted to do what I could to support. SO, on August 2nd, 2025 I took the liberty of inviting guitarist, Roland Casias & drummer, Ernest Chavarria over to the RMW Studio to chat about it ALL. In the interview below you will see us discuss the following: the early days, their official recordings, band evolutions, the power of art/music, recording BFE, the changing SA scene (& the history of it) & crazy stories from original drummer (& historian), Rick Martinez. I want to thank the guys in WA for an AMAZING night, for sharing everything they did with our cameras & all their goodwill. To the RMW Familia – be sure to look for BFE & relish in the heart of 80’s SA metal. Enjoy! ~ El Mero Metal
