Chimaira

Chimaira (IPA: /kaɪ:miːɹ:ə/) is a post-thrash metal band from Cleveland, Ohio. The name is derived from the word "chimera", which refers to a lion-headed monster in Greek mythology.

Chimaira's initial lineup

Chimaira (IPA: /kaɪ:miːɹ:ə/) is a post-thrash metal band from Cleveland, Ohio. The name is derived from the word "chimera", which refers to a lion-headed monster in Greek mythology.

Chimaira's initial lineup consisted of vocalist Mark Hunter, lead guitarist Rob Arnold, rhythm guitarist Jason Hager, bassist Jim LaMarca, drummer Andols Herrick, and Chris Spicuzza who handled keyboards, electronics, and samples. An early Demo the band recorded began to receive widespread airplay on several college radio stations around the area. Even Landing a spot performing on the short lived USA Network show Farmclub.com. Eventually, the band recorded their first EP, called This Present Darkness, which was released in 2000. Banking on the success of the EP, the band was signed by Roadrunner Records and quickly recorded their debut album Pass out of Existence in 2001. Shortly after the release of the album and the tour that was to follow, Jason Hager left the band when he found out he was going to become a father. Matt DeVries, from another local band called Ascension, was recruited to take over as rhythm guitarist.