Adrenaline Mob
Groove-heavy supergroup forged from prog and metal royalty.
Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons
Adrenaline Mob is an American heavy metal supergroup formed in 2011 by vocalist Russell Allen (Symphony X) and drummer Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater). The band's sound blends groove metal, hard rock, and progressive elements, featuring a rotating lineup of notable musicians including guitarists Mike Orlando and Rich Ward (Stuck Mojo, Fozzy), and bassist Paul DiLeo. Their debut album, *Omertà*, was released in 2012.
- Formed
- 2011
- Origin
- New York City, New York, U.S.
- Genres
- Heavy metal, groove metal, hard rock
- Years active
- 2011–present (on hiatus since 2019)
- Labels
- Century Media, Elm City Music
- Notable former members
- Mike Portnoy, John Moyer, A.J. Pero, Erik Leonhardt
- Debut album
- *Omertà* (2012)
Lore & Background
Adrenaline Mob was conceived in early 2011 when Mike Portnoy, fresh from his departure from Dream Theater, and Russell Allen, known for his powerful vocals in Symphony X, decided to collaborate on a more straightforward, riff-driven metal project. They enlisted guitarist Mike Orlando (Sonic Stomp) and bassist Paul DiLeo, and the band's first live performance took place on June 24, 2011, at the Starland Ballroom in Sayreville, New Jersey. The set included early versions of songs that would appear on their debut album, *Omertà*, which was released in March 2012 to positive reviews for its aggressive, no-frills approach.
Reader's Guide
Adrenaline Mob's significance lies in its formation as a supergroup bringing together musicians from prominent metal acts such as Symphony X, Dream Theater, and Disturbed. The band's music was described by members as straightforward metal or rock with a modern sound, explicitly distancing itself from progressive metal. Their career was marked by frequent lineup changes due to scheduling conflicts and two tragic deaths: drummer A.J. Pero in 2015 from a heart attack and bassist David Zablidowsky in a 2017 traffic accident that also seriously injured other members and ultimately killed their tour manager. These events shaped the band's legacy as one marked by both musical collaboration and profound loss.
Did You Know?
- The band's name was inspired by the Mafia code of silence, reflecting their no-nonsense musical attitude.
- Drummer Mike Portnoy left the band in 2014 to focus on other projects, but he occasionally rejoins for special performances.
- The band's second album, *Men of Honor* (2014), featured a cover of the *Knight Rider* theme song.
- Tragically, drummer A.J. Pero (Twisted Sister) died of a heart attack in 2015 while on tour with Adrenaline Mob.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Adrenaline Mob?
Adrenaline Mob is an American heavy metal supergroup that first assembled in early 2011. The project was built around the talents of vocalist Russell Allen, guitarist Mike Orlando, and drummer Mike Portnoy, all of whom brought substantial followings from their prior bands.
Who are the current members of Adrenaline Mob?
The band's most recent lineup features Russell Allen on vocals, Mike Orlando on guitar, and Jordan Cannata on drums. Allen and Orlando have stayed with the group since its very beginning, while the drum chair has seen changes over the years.
Why is Adrenaline Mob called a supergroup?
The supergroup label comes from the fact that each founding member already had a major reputation in the metal scene before joining forces. Portnoy was a highly respected drummer, Allen had a powerful vocal career spanning several well-known acts, and Orlando was an established guitarist in his own right.
What happened to Adrenaline Mob in 2017?
A tragic bus accident in 2017 dealt a severe blow to the band and its members. The incident marked a turning point in the group's history and ultimately led to lineup changes, including Portnoy's departure from the project.
When did Adrenaline Mob play their first concert?
The group took the stage for the first time on June 24, 2011, at the Hiro Ballroom in New York City. Just three days after that debut, they shared a cover of Black Sabbath's 'The Mob Rules' on YouTube to help spread the word about the new project.
More in American heavy metal supergroups 1-24
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