The beginning
Avenged Sevenfold, also known as A7X, is a heavy metal band formed in 1999 in Huntington Beach,
California (USA). The original lineup included:
M. Shadows (Matthew Sanders) – vocals
Zacky Vengeance (Zachary Baker) – rhythm guitar
The Rev (James “Jimmy” Sullivan) – drums and backing vocals
Matt Wendt – bass (soon replaced by Justin Sane, later by Johnny Christ)
Shortly after, Synyster Gates (Brian Haner Jr.) joined as lead guitarist, consolidating
the classic lineup.

Early Years (2001–2003)
The debut album, "Sounding the Seventh Trumpet" (2001), brought strong metalcore elements, still with
screamed and very aggressive vocals. In 2003, they released "Waking the Fallen", which expanded their
fan base, gained prominence in the underground scene, and caught the attention of major record labels.

International Breakthrough (2005–2007)
With "City of Evil" (2005), the band changed its style: less metalcore, more influences
from hard rock and traditional heavy metal. It was the album that introduced A7X to the
mainstream audience, with songs like Bat Country and Beast and the Harlot.
In 2007, the self-titled "Avenged Sevenfold" showcased even more versatility, mixing ballads,
country, hard rock, and metal, consolidating the band’s name.

The Tragedy and "Nightmare" (2009–2010)
At the end of 2009, drummer and founding member The Rev passed away at the age of 28, the victim of
medication intoxication. He was not only the drummer but also a songwriter and one of the band’s
great creative forces. Even though they were devastated, the members decided to move forward. The legendary
Dream Theater drummer, Mike Portnoy, temporarily took over the drums during the recordings of "Nightmare" (2010),
one of the band’s darkest and most emotional albums, dedicated to The Rev’s memory.

Arin Ilejay Joins (2011–2015)
After Portnoy left, young drummer Arin Ilejay joined in 2011. He recorded
"Hail to the King" (2013), an album with a more classic metal vibe, influenced by Metallica,
Black Sabbath, and Iron Maiden. Despite his skill, the chemistry with the band never
fully clicked, and in 2015 Arin parted ways with the group.

Brooks Wackerman Arrives (2015–present)
Later in 2015, the experienced drummer Brooks Wackerman (former Bad Religion member, also with stints in
Suicidal Tendencies and Infectious Grooves) joined the band. His debut came with "The Stage" (2016),
a conceptual, progressive, and bold album. He remains to this day, also playing on "Life Is But a Dream…" (2023),
an experimental album blending metal, jazz, classical, and electronic elements, where his versatile
technique allowed for even more experimentation.

Legacy
Avenged Sevenfold has sold millions of albums, fills arenas worldwide, and is considered
one of the most important names in modern metal. Their sound ranges from their
early metalcore roots to complex, experimental compositions, always keeping the essence that
won passionate fans across the globe.