Evile

In 1999, former school friends Matt Drake and Ben Carter came together over a mutual love for thrash metal and heavy metal and formed a cover band named Metal Militia (primarily playing Metallica classics){{cite web | title=Evile| work=Metal Storm profile | url=http://www.metalstorm.ee/bands/band.php?band_id=1583&bandname=Evile | access-date=23 May 2008}} Matt's brother, Ol Drake, joined as the lead guitarist, and after London-born bassist Mike Alexander responded to the band's advert in a local guitar store looking for a bassist influenced by bands such as Metallica, Sepultura and Testament, the lineup was complete.

At the band's first live show, at the Ukrainian Club in Halifax, an audience member had a brick thrown at their face by area locals.{{cite web| title=Evile MTUK Interview| work=Metal Team UK| url=http://www.metalteamuk.net/interview-evile.htm| access-date=10 June 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613150640/http://www.metalteamuk.net/interview-evile.htm| archive-date=13 June 2008| url-status=dead}}

In 2004, the band ceased playing covers and dedicated their time to writing original material. Soon after, they independently recorded and released two EPs in limited quantities (250–500 units): All Hallows Eve EP (2004) and Hell Demo (2006). Evile toured extensively throughout the UK (2004–2006) and Netherlands (2006), played as the support act for Exodus and eventually signed to Earache Records. Though Earache had received the band's Hell Demo, it was after label head Digby Pearson witnessed Evile's set at Bloodstock Open Air in 2006 that he contacted the band and signed them to the label. In an interview Matt Drake said that the band was originally supposed to be called "Exile", but there were "a million other bands that called themself that" so the "X" in the band's name was changed to a "V," and the band became known as Evile.{{cite web | title=Evile Metal Mayhem Interview | work=Metal Mayhem | url=http://www.metal-mayhem.co.uk/interviews/evile.html | access-date=10 June 2008}}

Prior to the album's recording, Matt Drake contacted producer Flemming Rasmussen (Metallica, Morbid Angel, Blind Guardian, Artillery) by doing a search for his name on Google and enquired as to whether or not he would like to hear Evile's material. Flemming responded positively, prompting Matt to send him some Evile mp3s via e-mail. Supposedly, Flemming never commented on the mp3s, causing Matt to presume that he "hated them",{{cite web | title=Lucem Fero Evile Interview | work=Lucem Fero | url=http://www.lucemfero.com/evile102007.php | access-date=9 June 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120213155413/http://www.lucemfero.com/evile102007.php | archive-date=13 February 2012 | url-status=dead}} but when Earache Records contacted Flemming to request his skills as producer for Evile's debut, he swiftly accepted the offer.

In 2007, Evile recorded their debut album, Enter the Grave, at Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen with producer Flemming Rasmussen and assistant engineer Anders H Mortensen. The album reached No. 33 on the UK rock album charts, and Kerrang! magazine awarded the album 4 out of 5 stars while dubbing Evile as "Carrying the genre's whole 'revival' on their shoulders". Generally, the album was received positively and received highly rated reviews, including those from Terrorizer Magazine (9/10),{{cite web | title=Enter the Grave Terrorizer Review| work=Terrorizer Magazine | url=http://www.earache.com/archive/evile/Terrorizer_Oct07_ETG.jpg | access-date=9 June 2008}} Metal Revolution (100/100){{cite web| title=Enter the Grave Metal Revolution Review| work=Metal Revolution| url=http://metal-revolution.com/plugins/content/content.php?content.854| access-date=9 June 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080618022900/http://www.metal-revolution.com/plugins/content/content.php?content.854| archive-date=18 June 2008| url-status=dead}} and Classic Rock (the 38th best album of 2007).{{cite web | title=Classic Rock 2007 Albums| work=Classic Rock Magazine | url=http://earache.com/archive/evile/Evile_ClassicRock_Top50fullpage_-2007.jpg | access-date=9 June 2008}}

The band played many shows with class-acts such as Machine Head, and other bands such as Sabbat, Sanctity, Gama Bomb, Severe Torture and Desecration. On 11 December 2007, Evile participated in and won{{cite web | title=Evile Win Get in the Ring 2 | work=Rockworld.tv | url=http://www.rockworld.tv/1541.html | access-date=9 June 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407094644/http://www.rockworld.tv/1541.html | archive-date=7 April 2008 | url-status=dead}} Metal Hammer's Get in the Ring 2, at the Kentish Town Forum, London. Four bands (Evile, Engel, Viking Skull and Goat the Head) performed thirty-minute sets inside a boxing ring and the public selected their favorite via SMS texts. The show was compered by Oderus Urungus of Gwar and the judges included Ville Valo of HIM. Valo commented that Evile were "really tight and rhythmic" but they were not his "cup of tea." The competition was rebroadcast on Rockworld TV on SKY Channel 368 throughout January and February 2008 and included an hour-long supplement dedicated to Evile's GITR2 set.{{cite web | title=Get in the Ring 2 Evile | work=Official Evile Forum | url=http://www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/evile-discussion/360352-vote-evile-get-ring-airing-times-incl.html | access-date=9 June 2008}}

In February and March 2008, Evile supported thrash metal band Megadeth on the European leg of their Tour of Duty and the UK leg of their Gigantour, opening for American deathcore band Job for a Cowboy. In 2008, they played the UK's Bloodstock festival alongside headliners Opeth and Dimmu Borgir.{{Cite web |title=Band Line Up - 2008 - Bloodstock Heavy metal festival band line and metal band biographies {{!}} Bloodstock |url=https://www.bloodstock.uk.com/events/boa-2008/stages |access-date=2024-09-20 |website=www.bloodstock.uk.com}} The band was received warmly throughout the respective tours,{{cite web | first=Steve | last=Gerrard | title=Gigantour UK Review | work=Birmingham Live! | url=http://www.brumlive.com/2008/02/megadeth-birmingham-academy-22nd.html | date=22 February 2008 | access-date=8 June 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080626073821/http://www.brumlive.com/2008/02/megadeth-birmingham-academy-22nd.html | archive-date=26 June 2008 | url-status=dead}} and on the final date, they briefly joined Megadeth on stage at the Hugennottenhalle in Frankfurt to sing the heavy metal anthem "Peace Sells". In March 2008, Evile's track "Thrasher" was featured on the Wii, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3 video game Rock Band as downloadable content (part of the "Earache Thrash Pack").{{cite web |url=http://www.rockband.com/songs/thrasher |title=Thrasher by Evile // Songs // Rock Band |publisher=Rockband.com |date=20 November 2007 |access-date=1 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100418000311/http://www.rockband.com/songs/thrasher |archive-date=18 April 2010 |url-status=dead}} In April 2008, the band embarked on a European tour alongside thrash veterans Exodus. During the tour, they allowed a 14-year-old fan to join them on stage to perform "Enter the Grave",{{cite web | title=EVILE Joined By 14-Year-Old Fan in Sheffield; Video Available | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=94800 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201103347/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=94800 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | date=13 April 2008 | access-date=8 June 2008 }} and on a few occasions they joined Exodus in backing vocals on "The Toxic Waltz," which was followed by the members of Exodus handing their instruments over to Evile to close the set.{{cite web | title=Ol Drake Comments on Exodus Tour | work=Official Evile Forum | url=http://www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/evile-discussion/389566-exodus-tour-pictures.html#post7323600 | access-date=8 June 2008}}

On 8 October the release of Evile's first official Music Video. The video was "Thrasher", a song from their debut album, and was directed by Dan Fernbach (who directed bands such as Bullet for My Valentine).{{cite web | title=Evile 'Thrasher' Music Video | work=Youtube.com | date=October 2008 | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=924bRfmiJ20 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/924bRfmiJ20 |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live| access-date=8 October 2008}}{{cbignore}} Also on 8 October the re-release of Evile's Enter the Grave via Earache Records. Included in the package was a lengthy DVD, Evile guitar pick (with three alternate designs), A woven patch and three bonus tracks.{{cite web | title=Enter the Grave Redux w/ DVD, Pick & Patch | work=Official Evile Forum | url=http://www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/evile-discussion/419176-enter-grave-redux-w-dvd-patch-pick.html | access-date=9 September 2008}}

The band later announced they would provide support to Satyricon on their European "Tour of Nero" in November/December 2008.{{cite web | title=Evile to Support Satyricon in Europe | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=102325 | access-date=7 August 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080816025918/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=102325 | archive-date=16 August 2008 | url-status=dead}} Unfortunately, On 19 November 2008, while on the tour, lead guitarist Ol Drake reportedly collapsed due to health issues. His jaw was fractured and the under-side of his chin was cut open. Evile were forced to cancel their appearances on the remainder of the tour.{{cite web | title=EVILE Guitarist Fractures Jaw; Band Pulls Out of SATYRICON Tour | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=109296 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201152206/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=109296 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=22 November 2008 }}{{cite web | title=Ol Checks in regarding Injury | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/evile-discussion/446849-so-i-bathed-blood-briefly.html | access-date=22 November 2008}} He then had to have his jaw wired shut for two weeks for healing.{{cite web | title=Evile Guitarist's Jaw Wired Shut for 2 Weeks | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=110452 | access-date=12 October 2008 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081210233832/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=110452 | archive-date=10 December 2008}}

Beginning in April 2009, Evile began the UK/Ireland "We Who Are About to Tour" tour along with UK death metal act Trigger the Bloodshed, and London Thrash band Mutant. Warpath, who were originally scheduled for the tour, pulled out two days prior to the start of the tour (though the unfortunate injury occurred a week before the tour{{cite web | title=Evile April Tour – Warpath Pull Out | work=Official Evile Forum | url=http://www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/evile-discussion/448658-we-who-about-tour-april-2009-a-9.html | access-date=5 April 2009}}) leaving Evile two days to find a replacement band.{{cite web | title=Warpath Forced to Drop Off EVILE UK Tour Due to Injury | work=metalunderground.com | url=http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=43927 | access-date=5 March 2009}}{{cite web | title=Trigger The Bloodshed replace Warpath | work=Official Evile Myspace Blog | url=http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=21386078&blogId=483137079 | access-date=5 April 2009 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20121202074646/http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=21386078&blogId=483137079 | archive-date=2 December 2012 | url-status=dead}} Evile played two brand new songs which would be featured on their second album; one entitled "Demolition" and one without a title, which on a nightly basis was open to being named by the audience.{{cite web | title=Evile Perform New Tracks | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=118589 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201082135/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=118589 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=5 April 2009 }}

File:Mike Alexander (Evile), Tuska 2009.jpg

In February 2009 Evile began the pre-production process for their second album with Russ Russell (who has worked with bands such as Napalm Death, The Exploited and Dimmu Borgir).{{cite web | title=Evile Pre-Production with Russ Russell | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=117845 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201171239/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=117845 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=6 October 2009 }} May and June saw Evile enter Parlour Studios in Kettering with Russell to record the album. The band would post three video updates whilst in the studio,{{cite web | title=Evile Studio Update No. 1 | work=Youtube.com | date=19 May 2009 | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wS8zEGXlUG0 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/wS8zEGXlUG0 |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live| access-date=6 October 2009}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web | title=Evile Studio Update No. 2 | work=Youtube.com | date=26 May 2009 | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RZEXoP-ZnQ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/3RZEXoP-ZnQ |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live| access-date=6 October 2009}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web | title=Evile Studio Update No. 3 | work=Youtube.com | date=7 June 2009 | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAbwUu0YYwg |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/pAbwUu0YYwg |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live| access-date=6 October 2009}}{{cbignore}} and give fans a chance to "Ask Evile" questions via their Myspace blog.{{cite web | title=Evile Enter the Studio – Launch "Ask Evile" | work=Smnnews.com | url=http://www.smnnews.com/2009/05/04/evile-back-in-the-studio-to-record-pure-ass-kicker-of-an-album/ | access-date=6 October 2009 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090507054906/http://www.smnnews.com/2009/05/04/evile-back-in-the-studio-to-record-pure-ass-kicker-of-an-album/ | archive-date=7 May 2009 | url-status=dead }} On an Evile studio tour hosted by Ben the working titles of songs to be on the album could be seen written on a whiteboard.{{cite web | title=Evile Tour of the Studio | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=121701 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201110805/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=121701 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=6 October 2009 }}

On 22 June, Evile revealed that the title of the second album would be Infected Nations, with artwork created by Michael Whelan (who also worked with the likes of Sepultura, Obituary and Stephen King). A video was posted online on the same day of Ol talking fans through the concept of the art, stood in front of a large poster print of the cover.{{cite web | title=Evile Infected Nations Artwork | work=Youtube.com | date=16 June 2009 | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqTzI7gQG2c |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/vqTzI7gQG2c |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live| access-date=22 June 2009}}{{cbignore}} The album was released on 21 September in Europe and 22 September in USA.{{cite web | title=Evile Reveal Album Artwork, Title | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=122360 | access-date=22 June 2009 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090708161222/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=122360 | archive-date=8 July 2009}} Infected Nations jumped into the UK top 100 chart at number 91 following its first-day sales.

The band released three tracks publicly prior to the album's release. These tracks were "Infected Nation", "Now Demolition" and "Nosophoros". Evile released a music video for the track "Infected Nation" which, like "Thrasher" was directed by Dan Fernbach and Static Films once again.{{cite web | title=Infected Nation Video Release | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=126311 | access-date=17 September 2009 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090905132636/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=126311 | archive-date=5 September 2009 | url-status=dead}} Also, like "Thrasher", displays the band playing a dynamically aggressive song in a very confined space.

In September 2009, Schmier of the German thrash metal classics Destruction asked lead guitarist, Ol Drake, to stand in for them on guitar. This was prompted by Destruction's guitarist, Mike Sifringer, breaking his fingers forcing them to find a temporary replacement.

On 5 October 2009, tragedy struck the band as their bass player, Mike Alexander, died whilst being rushed to hospital while the band were on tour in Luleå, Sweden.{{cite web|url=http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=48950|title=Evile Bassist Michael Alexander Passes Away While on Tour|publisher=Metal Underground}} He died from a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot on the lungs. Evile unveiled [http://www.mikealexander.co.uk a tribute site] to their fallen member.{{cite web|url=http://www.mikealexander.co.uk |title=22.06.77 – 05.10.09 – RIP |publisher=Mike Alexander |access-date=1 July 2011}}

In early December 2009 the remaining members of Evile held two memorial nights for Mike. One was held in Leeds Rios and the other in the Camden Underworld, London. The night consisted of a covers set of some of Mike's favourite songs and bands, with members of the support bands (Gama Bomb, Mutant and Seregon) on the night stepping in on various instruments. Nick Barker (Dimmu Borgir, Cradle of Filth, Testament, Exodus) also took to the stage on both nights to play drums for several tracks. Both shows saw each remaining member of Evile take to the stage to read out messages of thanks from Mike's girlfriend, children and Mother. The Leeds show saw Mike's mother take to the stage and express her thanks to Evile's fans.{{cite web | title=Mike Alexander News | work=Mikealexander.co.uk | url=http://mikealexander.co.uk/news.php | access-date=5 January 2010}}

Evile were asked, by UK Magazine Metal Hammer, to cover a Pantera track for their Dimebag Darrell tribute Issue. The band chose to cover "Cemetery Gates" with it being their favourite Pantera track. The track would go on to receive positive feedback, be released via iTunes and get substantial airplay in the United States. This would unfortunately be the last track recorded with Mike Alexander.{{cite web | title=Evile cover Pantera | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.Net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=131370 | access-date=5 May 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091207113511/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=131370 | archive-date=7 December 2009 | url-status=dead}} A raffle was also organized prior to the nights to raise funds for Mike's children and family. Evile and Mike's family were overwhelmed to receive support from people/bands such as Ozzy Osbourne & Sharon Osbourne, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Machine Head, Exodus, Overkill, Trivium, Andy Sneap, Annihilator, Benediction, Hirax and more. The winners of the Raffle Prizes were announced via YouTube by Matt and Ol.{{cite web | title=Mike Alexander Raffle | work=Mikealexander.co.uk | url=http://mikealexander.co.uk/raffle.php | access-date=5 January 2010}}

Evile started auditions for a new bass player in late November/December 2009. They then announced dates for a 2010 UK/Europe tour, with the bands The Fading and Warbringer.{{cite web|url=http://www.evile.co.uk/news.php |title=News – Official Website |publisher=Evile |access-date=1 July 2011}}{{Cite web |last=Blabbermouth |date=2009-11-17 |title=EVILE To Tour Europe With WARBRINGER, THE FADING |url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/evile-to-tour-europe-with-warbringer-the-fading/ |access-date=2023-12-04 |website=BLABBERMOUTH.NET |language=en}} On 16 December it was reported that Joel Graham (formerly of Rise to Addiction) is the band's new bass player.{{cite web|url=http://www.metalhammer.co.uk/news/evile-announce-new-bassist|title=Evile Announce New Bassist|work=Metal Hammer}} In December Evile announced their first shows in USA/North America. One tour supporting Kreator alongside Voivod, Kataklysm and more.{{cite web | title=Kreator Killfest 2010 Dates | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=130938 | access-date=5 January 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091127053746/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=130938 | archive-date=27 November 2009 | url-status=dead}} The other tour being in support to Overkill alongside Vader, God Dethroned and Warbringer.{{cite web | title=Overkill tour North America | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=131186 | access-date=5 January 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091204130552/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=131186 | archive-date=4 December 2009 | url-status=dead}}

In April 2010 Evile would pay tribute to their late bassist, Pantera and Dimebag Darrell by performing their cover of "Cemetery Gates" in the latter's birthplace of Dallas, Texas while on tour with Overkill in North America. Also in April 2010, it was announced that Evile would be returning to Bloodstock Open Air, playing main stage on Saturday 14 August.{{cite web | title=Bloodstock Open Air News | work=bloodstock.uk.com | url=http://www.bloodstock.uk.com/news/index.php?/archives/283-EVILE-AND-BONDED-BY-BLOOD-FOR-MAIN-STAGE-THRASH.html | access-date=15 April 2010}} Evile will also be playing Hellfest, Wacken Open Air, Sonisphere and many more European Festivals.

Evile's track "Bathe in Blood" was used in the film Ondine by Neil Jordan and starring Colin Farrell.{{cite web | title=Evile Featured in New Colin Farrell Film | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=141104 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201082641/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=141104 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=25 June 2010 }}

From September 2010 to the end of December the band toured extensively throughout North America. The band had several headline dates as well as tours with veterans such as Overkill, D.R.I. and fellow thrash-band Gama Bomb. Also in February, Ol Drake took part in a "Game with Fame" session via Xbox Live, inviting gamers to play the videogame Rockband 3 with him. The event was advertised on the Xbox Live Dashboard and took place for 3 hours (5pm-8pm EST).{{cite web | title=Evile Game with Fame Xbox Live | work=Rockband.com | url=http://www.rockband.com/blog/game-with-fame-evile | access-date=17 February 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110219112042/http://www.rockband.com/blog/game-with-fame-evile | archive-date=19 February 2011 | url-status=dead}}{{cite web | title=Ol Drake Xbox Dashboard | work=Twitpic.com | url=http://twitpic.com/40ifvd | access-date=17 February 2011}} Around this time the entire Infected Nations album became available via the Rock Band Network, as well as the band achieving "Artist of the Month".{{cite web | title=Evile Artist of the Month RBN | work=Rockband.com | url=http://www.rockband.com/blog/rbn-aotm-feb-evile | access-date=17 February 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110205060443/http://www.rockband.com/blog/rbn-aotm-feb-evile | archive-date=5 February 2011 | url-status=dead}}{{cite web | title=Infected Nations on RBN | work=Rockband.com | url=http://www.rockband.com/songs/artists/Evile | access-date=17 February 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110523023139/http://www.rockband.com/songs/artists/Evile | archive-date=23 May 2011 | url-status=dead}}

On 31 May, Evile revealed that they'd begun working on their third studio album.{{cite web | title=British Thrash Band Evile – HARD | work=aux.tv | url=http://www.aux.tv/video/HARD-117-Evile/ | access-date=30 June 2010 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110201062508/http://www.aux.tv/video/HARD-117-Evile/ | archive-date=1 February 2011}} Ol Drake confirmed this via TwitLonger on 9 November and told that "Album 3 is well on the way and will be out on Earache Records in mid 2011".{{cite web|url=http://www.twitlonger.com/show/d7c290df49c7ded5bf950bbcb6801308 |title=After a handful of people have come up to me accusing us of being disrespectful to Mike, I feel I ha |publisher=TwitLonger |date=9 November 2010 |access-date=1 July 2011}} In February 2011 Evile embarked on a short UK tour to say goodbye to their "Infected Nations" album, while also showcasing a brand new track with the working title "Bitch". Matt also announced the third album will have the initials "FST".{{cite web | title=Evile 2011 UK tour | work=Official Evile Forum | url=http://www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/evile-discussion/637993-evile-uk-tour-announced.html | access-date=17 February 2011}} In March 2011 it was announced that Evile had entered Parlour Studios to begin recording their 3rd album with producer Russ Russell.{{cite web |url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=155433 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120919185755/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=155433 |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 September 2012 |title=BLABBERMOUTH.NET – EVILE To Enter Studio This Weekend |publisher=Roadrunnerrecords.com |access-date=1 July 2011 }} Periodically, the band have been posting excerpts of the album's recording process on their official YouTube page.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmhTBl5uZPc |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/MmhTBl5uZPc |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=Evile Album 3 Recording – Part 1 |date=21 March 2011 |publisher=YouTube |access-date=1 July 2011}}{{cbignore}} On 25 April, the band announced that their 3rd album was fully mixed and awaiting mastering.{{cite web | title=Evile Complete 3rd Album | work=Official Evile Twitter | url=https://twitter.com/evileuk | access-date=26 April 2011}}

In May 2011 Evile announced that they would pay tribute to their fallen bandmate, Mike Alexander, on the latest album. The track was entitled "In Memoriam".{{cite web | title=Evile Dedicate Track to Late Bassist | work=NME.com | url=http://www.nme.com/news/evile/56503 | access-date=2 May 2011}} Ol Drake commented:

It goes without saying that there would be some element of the new album which was for Mike alone. We had a few ideas floating around which were out of the ordinary for Evile, and when Mike passed away those ideas just started to make more and more sense. "In Memoriam"'s initial intention was for Mike and Mike alone. All of us in the band have different views and thoughts on what the song means and who it is for, but it was born out of a want to include something special for Mike, his family and ourselves. As the song grew it started to take on a life of its own, so to speak. It is for anyone who's lost anyone close to them. There is a lot of meaning behind this song, and I expect a few people will question Evile doing such a song, but if the sentiment isn't understood, I couldn't care less. As our producer, Russ Russell said: "It's a brilliant song for a brilliant guy."

It has been revealed through hard rock/heavy metal magazine Metal Hammer that the title for their third album would be Five Serpent's Teeth to be released 26 September 2011 in Europe and 18 October 2011 in North America through Earache Records. On 6 June, the band posted a new song, titled "Eternal Empire", on their YouTube channel. On 12 September 2011 the album's first single/music video, "Cult", was released. The video saw a different, more modern approach.{{cite web | title=Cult video released | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=163212 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201092938/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=163212 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=2 May 2012 }} In September/October 2011 the band set out on a 15-date headline tour of the UK with label-mates Savage Messiah as support.{{cite web | title=Evile UK Tour Sep '11 | work=Dawnofthedeaf.co.uk | url=http://www.dawnofthedeaf.co.uk/savage-messiah-confirm-uk-tour-with-evile/ | access-date=2 May 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304044514/http://www.dawnofthedeaf.co.uk/savage-messiah-confirm-uk-tour-with-evile/ | archive-date=4 March 2016 | url-status=dead }} The band were then asked by Kerrang! Magazine to cover a Nirvana song for Nevermind{{'}}s 20th Anniversary Tribute Issue. Evile covered the track "Lounge Act".{{cite web | title=Evile Nirvana Cover | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=163619 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201115811/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=163619 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=2 May 2012 }} Ol Drake commented:

When we got the offer, all I could see was fun to be had, and what an honor it was to be included. I was a big fan of Nirvana when I was a young teen, so it's an extra honor in that way for me. I wondered what we could do to the track to make it our own, so we approached it like we would one of our own songs. That bass riff is brilliant and I wanted to make it more a core element of the track guitar-wise and just metal it up in general. I wanted to respect the approach of the song but also alter Kurt's [Cobain] chord approach to a style more suited to EVILE, and that's a chug-athon!

In October Evile celebrated the release of Five Serpent's Teeth by taking part in in-store signing sessions in select Blue Banana stores as well as a short tour of Release Shows in the UK; London, Birmingham and Holmfirth.{{cite web | title=Evile schedule signings | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=163212 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201092938/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=163212 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=2 May 2012 }} On 17 October The band were featured in a Live Session on BBC Radio 1's Rock Show with Daniel P. Carter.{{cite web | title=Evile BBC 1 Rock Show '11 | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=164755 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201162549/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=164755 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=2 May 2012 }} The set was recorded at Maida Vale Studios, London. In November Evile announced a 24-date Headlining tour of Europe with Portrait and Dr. Living Dead as supports.{{cite web | title=Evile Euro Tour FST | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=165925 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201082114/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=165925 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=2 May 2012 }}

On 11 February 2012 Evile took part in, and headlined, HMV's "Next Big Thing" at the HMV Ritz in Manchester, UK along with Cerebral Bore and Savage Messiah. After the death of Woods of Ypres mastermind David Gold, the band decided to make the first live debut of "In Memoriam" a dedication to him.{{cite web | title=Ol Nominated for Dimebag Award | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=169492 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201164025/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=169492 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=2 May 2012 }}{{cite web | title=Ol Nominated for Dimebag Award | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=169740 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201125636/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=169740 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=2 May 2012 }} "In Memoriam" was initially written as a tribute to their fallen bandmate, Mike Alexander. In March 2012, Evile's lead guitarist Ol Drake was nominated for the "Dimebag Darrell Shredder" Award as part of Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards. Also up for the award were Devin Townsend, Dino Cazares (of Fear Factory, Russ Parrish), Satchel (of Steel Panther) and Adam Dutkiewicz (of Killswitch Engage).{{cite web | title=Ol Nominated for Dimebag Award | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=170869 | access-date=2 May 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120312002056/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=170869 | archive-date=12 March 2012}} In April 2012 Evile announced they would start filming a music video for the track "In Memoriam".{{cite web | title=Memoriam Music Video Announced | work=Blabbermouth.net | url=http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=172429 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201112546/http://legacy.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=172429 | url-status=dead | archive-date=1 February 2013 | access-date=2 May 2012 }} Ol Drake commented:

The initial idea was to release the "Cult" video, as we did, then immediately get onto recording the video for "In Memoriam"; this was easier said than done. It's been well documented why the song exists. When it came to getting the "right"/"appropriate" treatment for the video, it was a lengthy process. The song is so close to all of us that we wanted to make sure the video complemented the song and its subject matter, and that all four of us were happy with how the song will be portrayed visually. If we'd have settled on the first idea after "Cult", we wouldn't have been happy, so amidst touring and gigging, we've been working hard on getting this 100% before we move on to the next video. The song is basically about loss, which we can all relate to, so we wanted to express that in the video, while staying respectful to why the song exists. We can't wait to get this filmed and out there for all to enjoy!

On 31 January 2013, Ol Drake announced via his Tumblr that Evile were to begin recording their fourth album the following weekend. He also confirmed that the band would again utilise producer Russ Russell.{{cite web | title= Ol Drake announces start of recording of 4th album | work= Official Ol Drake Tumblr | url= http://olevile.tumblr.com/post/41948384132/evile-to-start-recording-new-album-this-weekend#notes | access-date= 31 January 2013 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20130410002451/http://olevile.tumblr.com/post/41948384132/evile-to-start-recording-new-album-this-weekend%23notes | archive-date= 10 April 2013 | url-status= dead}} On 25 March, Ben Carter and Earache Records released the album name, cover and release date of their fourth album, entitled Skull.{{cite web | title= Evile have set "SKULL" as the title of their 4th album | work= Official Evile Tumblr | url= http://evile.tumblr.com/post/46271857267/evile-have-set-skull-as-the-title-of-their-4th#notes | access-date= 25 March 2013 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140116135144/http://evile.tumblr.com/post/46271857267/evile-have-set-skull-as-the-title-of-their-4th#notes | archive-date= 16 January 2014 | url-status= dead}}{{cite web | title=Evile have revealed their new album title and artwork | work= Official Earache Records Blog | date= 25 March 2013 | url=http://earachenews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/evile-reveal-new-album-title-and-artwork.html| access-date=25 March 2013}} Guitarist Ol Drake announced his departure from Evile in August 2013.{{cite web|title=EVILE Guitarist Quits|date=30 August 2013 |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/evile-guitarist-quits/|publisher=BlabberMouth}} In August 2014, Evile announced that Piers Donno-Fuller (formerly of Fallen Fate) would be joining them as lead guitarist, and that they "have something in the pipeline for March".{{cite web|title=EVILE announces new lead guitarist|work=TeamRock |url=http://www.teamrock.com/news/2014-08-11/evile-announce-piers-as-new-lead-guitarist/}}

As early as March 2016, Evile began working on their fifth studio album.{{cite web|title=EVILE Discuss Working on Next Album Without Former Guitarist OL DRAKE - "Obviously The Dynamic Is Going To Change"|url=http://bravewords.com/news/evile-discuss-working-on-next-album-without-former-guitarist-ol-drake-obviously-the-dynamic-is-going-to-change-video|publisher=Bravewords}} On 19 March 2018, Evile announced the departure of Piers due to personal commitments. On 24 April of the same year, the band announced Ol Drake had rejoined the band. On 12 August 2020, Evile announced that Matt Drake had quit the band "a while ago", leaving drummer Ben Carter as their only permanent member. On rhythm guitar, Drake was replaced by Adam Smith of RipTide, while his brother Ol took over on guitar and vocals.{{cite web|title=Evile announce new lineup, set to record album|url=https://lambgoat.com/news/33352/Evile-announce-new-lineup-set-to-record-album|publisher=Lambgoat}}{{cite web|title=Evile - Part Ways With Vocalist, Working on New Album|url=http://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=39258|publisher=MetalStorm}} In the following month, Evile were signed to Napalm Records and began recording their new album with Chris Clancy for a 2021 release.{{cite web|url=http://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=39621|title=Evile - Sign Contract With Napalm Records|website=metalstorm.net|access-date=24 September 2020|date=16 September 2020}} Then On 3 February 2021, Evile announced that their fifth studio album, Hell Unleashed, would be released on 30 April, and the video for the album's lead single, which is the title track, directed by James Mansell, was released on the same day.{{cite web|url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/evile-to-release-new-album-hell-unleashed-in-april/|title=EVILE To Release New Album 'Hell Unleashed' In April|website=Blabbermouth.net|access-date=3 February 2021|date=3 February 2021}} The song "Gore" includes a guest backing-vocal appearance from actor/comedian Brian Posehn.{{cite web|url=https://loudwire.com/evile-gore-brian-posehn-song-lyrics/|title=U.K. Thrashers Evile Tap Comedian Brian Posehn for Blistering New Song 'Gore'|website=Loudwire.com|access-date=10 May 2021|date=18 March 2021}} The song, and music video directed by James Mansell, was released on 18 March. Evile promoted Hell Unleashed with a UK tour in February 2022, supported by Divine Chaos and Tortured Demon.{{cite web|url=https://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=44622|title=Evile - Announce UK Tour Dates|publisher=Metal Storm|access-date=January 6, 2022|date=January 6, 2022}}

In response to why the album had taken eight years to materialise, frontman Ol Drake commented:{{cite web|url=https://metalnation.com/evile-interview-ol-drake-unleashes-the-horror/|title=EVILE Interview: Ol Drake Unleashes The Horror|website=metalnation.com|access-date=10 May 2021|date=4 May 2021}}

they hadn't really done any new music, and when I rejoined in 2018, I just hit the ground running and started new material and the whole complication with my brother leaving and everything made it last even longer. It should have been out a year and a half ago really but sh*t happens.

Hell Unleashed is also the first Evile studio album to include a cover by another band. Ol Drake commented on including Mortician's "Zombie Apocalypse":{{cite web|url=https://metalnation.com/evile-interview-ol-drake-unleashes-the-horror/|title=EVILE Interview: Ol Drake Unleashes The Horror|website=metalnation.com|access-date=10 May 2021|date=4 May 2021}}

The main reason we did it, is because of how fun that riff is. I have loved it most of my metal life. I always play it when we are sound checking or I pick up the guitar and that riff is always in my vocabulary and it was literally just an excuse for us to play it. It is just so fun and I can't wait to do it live.

In a June 2021 interview with Metal Hammer, Ol Drake revealed the band had planned to work on their sixth studio album. He said, with a chuckle, "I started writing the next album before [Hell Unleashed] was even finished. New material will probably start in late 2021."{{cite web|url=https://www.loudersound.com/features/evile-the-return-of-the-kings-of-british-thrash|title=Evile: the return of the kings of British thrash|website=loudersound.com|date=14 June 2021 |access-date=16 June 2021}} Three months later, he confirmed in a "small announcement" on Facebook that Evile had not only officially begun writing their sixth studio album, but stated that it would not take another eight years for it to be released.{{cite web|url=https://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=43266|title=Evile - Writing New Album|publisher=Metal Storm|access-date=September 12, 2021|date=September 9, 2021}} On 18 May 2023, the band announced that their upcoming sixth studio album, The Unknown, would be released on 14 July.{{cite web|url=https://bravewords.com/news/evile-to-release-the-unknown-album-in-july-title-track-music-video-posted|title=

EVILE To Release The Unknown Album In July; Title Track Music Video Posted|magazine=Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles|access-date=May 18, 2023|date=May 18, 2023}}

;Current members

• Ol Drake – lead guitar, backing vocals (2004–2013, 2018–present), lead vocals (2020–present)
• Ben Carter – drums (2004–present)
• Joel Graham – bass, backing vocals (2009–present)
• Adam Smith – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2020–present)

;Former members

• Matt Drake – lead vocals, rhythm guitar (2004–2020; one show in 2021)
• Piers Donno-Fuller – lead guitar, backing vocals (2014–2018)
• Mike Alexander – bass, backing vocals (2004–2009; died 2009)

;Timeline

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}}

{{reflist}}

{{cc}}

• [https://www.youtube.com/user/officialevile YouTube channel]
• {{allmusic}}
• [http://www.earache.com Earache Records]

{{Evile}}

{{Authority control}}

Category:English heavy metal musical groups

Category:Earache Records artists

Category:English thrash metal musical groups

Category:Musical groups established in 2004

Category:English musical quartets

Category:Musicians from Huddersfield