Cloven Hoof

Cloven Hoof is a foundational yet often overlooked pillar of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), formed in Wolverhampton in 1979. Led by bassist and primary songwriter Lee Payne, the band's identity has shifted from early occult-themed theatricality (where members used elemental pseudonyms like 'Air' and 'Fire') to a more sophisticated, power-metal-adjacent sound in the late 1980s.

Their 1984 debut is a cult classic of the genre, blending the aggression of the era with a dark, mystical atmosphere. The late 80s era, featuring vocalist Russ North, saw the band peak technically with 'Dominator' and 'A Sultan's Ransom,' albums that influenced the burgeoning European power metal scene. Despite frequent lineup changes and contractual hiatuses, Payne has maintained the band's reputation for high-level musicianship and epic storytelling. Critically, they are respected as 'musician's musicians' within the metal community, often cited alongside Satan and Witchfynde for their ability to blend traditional heavy metal with progressive structures and high-concept lyrical themes.