The Wastes
British heavy metal vocalist, frontman of Grim Reaper, and founder of multiple metal projects.
Stephen Grimmett (19 August 1959 – 15 August 2022) was a British singer who was the lead singer and frontman of the heavy metal band Grim Reaper. Of Grim Reaper's numerous lineups over the band's existence Grimmett was the sole consistent member from 1982 to 1988, then 2006 until his death in 2022. Outside of Grim Reaper, Grimmett has been associated with various metal-based acts/projects.
- Key Factions
- The Black Legion
Lore & Background
Grimmett began his career in the era of new wave of British heavy metal. His original band was the short-lived Medusa, before he became known as the lead vocalist for Grim Reaper. Grimmett later featured in Onslaught for a brief period, before forming Lionsheart and in more recent times, the Steve Grimmett Band and GrimmStine. Grim Reaper achieved major success worldwide with three highly acclaimed studio albums along with single releases and MTV airplay. After Grim Reaper came a brief spell with Onslaught, with a debut single that charted in the UK.
In Their Own Story
The wind howled through the skeletal remains of an ancient tower, carrying with it the acrid taste of ash. A lone Exile trudged forward, their cloak heavy with dust and blood. Ahead, the silhouette of a corrupted beast emerged from the fog, its eyes burning with unnatural fire. There was no retreat here—only the choice to fight or fall in this cursed land where hope is as scarce as clean water.
Reader's Guide
The Steve Grimmett Band is a more recent project, with Grimmett backed by Ian Nash, Chaz Grimaldi and Pete Newdeck. This band has continued to gig as Steve Grimmett's Grim Reaper with a lineup now featuring Mark Rumble on drums. Grimmett had just come back from the US promoting his international band GrimmStine which included Grimmett on vocals, Steve Stine on guitar, Hat on bass and Dave Johnson on drums. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2008. Grimmett recorded a music video in conjunction with a commercial for Garmin that aired during the 2007 Super Bowl XLI. In January 2017, Grimmett was hospitalized in Ecuador due to an aggressive infection on his right leg below the knee, where it was amputated in the process. He remained stationed in the medical facility until being released in February. In April, he began to walk again with a prosthetic metal leg attached. On 14 July, Grimmett performed on stage for the first time since his operation in a wheelchair at Bang Your Head!!!.
Did You Know?
- Grimmett was the sole consistent member of Grim Reaper from 1982 to 1988, then 2006 until his death in 2022.
- In 2011, Steve Grimmett and other ex-Onslaught band members launched a project called the Sanity Days.
- On 24 March 2015, the Sanity Days released an album with all-new material called Evil Beyond Belief.
- Grimmett produced and recorded British grunge-metal band Burnthru for their second album, Faithless, in August and September 2013.
- Grimmett died on 15 August 2022, at the age of 62.
Frequently Asked Questions
What region does The Wastes represent in Grim Dawn?
It is the opening zone on Cairn where Exiles awaken following the catastrophic Fall. This ash-choked landscape introduces players to core combat mechanics and skill progression systems.
What caused the destruction seen across this land?
A major event called the Fall unleashed dark powers that scarred the continent with ruins and ash. The resulting desolation creates an oppressive atmosphere filled with hazardous threats.
Which factions control or inhabit The Wastes?
Key groups include the surviving Exiles, the militant Blackguards, and the fanatical Cult of the Eternal Flame. These factions often clash amidst the corrupted beasts and undead roaming the area.
How does this location function for new players?
It serves as an essential training ground that teaches fundamental gameplay loops before moving to later chapters. New Exiles learn loot progression and combat basics within these ruined settlements.
Is The Wastes important beyond the tutorial section?
Yes, it remains a recurring location throughout the narrative due to its connection to the Fall's dark legacy. Players can return here as an active open-world area for exploration and farming later in the campaign.
More in Cayde & The Lands
Elsewhere in the Grim Dawn universe
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