Savage Grace

No relation to the early 70s group that recorded for Reprise Records, this US power metal quartet, originally titled Maquis De Sade, was formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1981. They had a chequered career hindered by unstable lineups, the first of which featured Mike Smith (vocals), Chris Logue (guitar, vocals), Brian East (bass) and Dan Finch (drums). They were signed on the strength of a track included on the Metal Massacre series of compilations and a self-financed EP, The Dominatress, which the band had released in 1983. Master of Disguise, their full debut from 1985, preceded their first lineup changes; ex-Agent Steel guitarist Mark Marshall was added, while Mike Smith’s departure left Chris Logue to handle the lead vocals. Drummer Dan Finch also quit to be replaced by Mark Markum. This incarnation of the band managed to stay together long enough to record 1986’s After the Fall from Grace. Savage Grace then toured Europe with Heir Apparent and swapped bass player Brian East for that band’s Derek Peace before beginning work on recordings for a projected third album. However, the continual lineup shuffles had taken their toll and Peace rejoined Heir Apparent as Savage Grace disappeared late in 1988.