Merauder
American metalcore band from New York City, formed in 1990.
Merauder is a metalcore band from New York City that started in 1990. The group built a name in the local hardcore and metal scenes by touring heavily and putting out several demos. After vocalist Jorge Rosado replaced Minus Rodriguez in 1995, the band released a split EP with Stigmata and toured with Biohazard. That same year, they put out their debut full-length, *Master Killer*, opened for Fear Factory, and toured Europe with Böhse Onkelz. A second album, *Five Deadly Venoms*, came out in 1999. The band broke up after recording their 2003 release *Bluetality*.
In 2007, Rosado started his own version of Merauder. Guitarist Anthony Muccini—who was not an original member, having replaced original guitarist "Karate" Chris Bozeth—publicly objected to Rosado using the name. In 2008, the band finished a new album recorded at Big Blue Meenie studios in Jersey City and toured Europe, Japan, and the U.S., including shows with the Haunted. The album *God Is I* came out in June 2009 in Europe and August 2009 in the U.S. via Regain Records, though the European release was limited to Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and the Netherlands. In December 2009, Merauder toured Europe with Entombed and Devious, playing their last show at Eindhoven's Metal Meeting alongside Satyricon, Nile, and Legion of the Damned. In May, they toured the U.S. West Coast and Mexico, including a Las Vegas festival with Donnybrook and Grave Maker. In August, they played This Is Hardcore in Philadelphia with Bane, Cro-Mags, Sheer Terror, and Death Before Dishonor. A fan-made video for "Until" surfaced online in February 2011, featuring Rosado and Smerdon.
In summer 2018, Merauder returned to Europe for a full tour with UK band Climate of Fear, with Rosado and longtime bassist Kevin Mahon joined by Climate of Fear members filling in. After a period of low activity, Rosado brought in bassist and businessman Gabe “Biggz” Saldivar to revitalize the band. The group announced festival appearances for 2025, including headlining slots at More Reality Hardcore Festival (Ontario), Ain’t Like You (Germany), Super Bowl of Hardcore (France), and This Is Hardcore 2025 (Philadelphia).
Quick Facts
- Landscape
- yes
- Background
- group_or_band
- Origin
- New York City, U.S.
- Genre
- Metalcore · hardcore punk · tough guy hardcore · beatdown hardcore · groove metal
- Years Active
- 1990–2003 · 2007–present
- Label
- Century Media · Regain · Kingside
- Current Members
- Jorge Rosado / Kevin Mahon / Gabe "Biggz" Saldivar / Ely Castillo / Marc Rizzo
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Merauder formed in 1990, releasing demos and touring heavily. In 1995, vocalist Jorge Rosado replaced Minus Rodriguez, and the band released a split EP with Stigmata and toured with Biohazard. Their full-length debut Master Killer came out later that year, followed by a slot opening for Fear Factory and a European tour with Böhse Onkelz. The band released Five Deadly Venoms in 1999 and Bluetality in 2003, then split up after recording the latter.
In 2007, Rosado formed his own version of the band, leading to a public dispute with guitarist Anthony Muccini over the use of the name. A new album, God Is I, was recorded at Big Blue Meenie studios in Jersey City and released in 2009. The band toured Europe with Entombed and Devious, and played festivals including This Is Hardcore. After a period of low activity, Rosado brought in bassist and businessman Gabe “Biggz” Saldivar in 2025, leading to a revitalized lineup and festival appearances announced for 2025 and 2026.
In late 2025, the band underwent lineup changes, adding drummer Ely Castillo and guitarist Marc Rizzo, and announced plans to enter the studio and release new music in 2026.
Reader's Guide
Merauder's significance lies in their role as a foundational act in the New York metalcore scene, bridging hardcore and metal through aggressive music and relentless touring. Their debut album Master Killer is a landmark release that influenced subsequent generations of metalcore and hardcore bands. Despite lineup changes and a hiatus, the band's persistence—including a reformation in 2007 and continued activity into the 2020s—demonstrates their enduring impact. Their legacy is marked by a series of studio albums, a compilation, and a reputation for intense live performances. The band's ability to reunite and tour internationally, even after years of low activity, underscores their lasting relevance in the underground metal and hardcore communities.
Did You Know?
- Merauder's debut album Master Killer was released in 1995 on Century Media.
- Vocalist Jorge Rosado joined the band in 1995, replacing Minus Rodriguez.
- In 2025, guitarist Marc Rizzo, known for his work with Soulfly and Ill Niño, joined Merauder.
More in American groove metal musical groups 1-24
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced