Pentagram, a seminal underground heavy metal band, faced tumultuous lineup changes and struggled to record their first album for nearly 15 years. Founded in 1971 by Bobby Liebling and Geof O'Keefe in Woodbridge, Virginia, the band's early years were marked by various name changes and a sound heavily influenced by pioneers like Blue Cheer and the Groundhogs. Despite near misses with major record deals in the 1970s, Pentagram went on hiatus in 1976, only to resurface in 1981 with a new lineup including drummer Joey Hasselvander and guitarist Victor Griffin, culminating in the release of their debut album "Relentless" in 1985, advancing the doom metal movement.
The band faced further challenges in the following years but made a comeback with albums like "Review Your Choices" (1999) and "Sub-Basement" (2001), showcasing their enduring influence on heavy metal music. Interest in Pentagram's music grew with the release of compilations like "First Daze Here (The Vintage Collection)" and "Turn to Stone," solidifying their place in heavy metal history. Despite setbacks and the passing of original bassist Greg Mayne in 2021, Pentagram's legacy continues to be celebrated for their significant contributions to the genre.
