Détente

Détente occupies a unique and volatile position in the 1980s Los Angeles metal scene. Formed in 1984, they were a bridge between the burgeoning thrash movement and the city's deep hardcore punk roots.

Their sound is defined by high-velocity tempos, social-political lyricism, and the distinctive, gravelly vocals of Dawn Crosby, whose performance style predated the more extreme vocal techniques of modern metal. The band's history is marked by internal friction and external controversy, including a notorious ban from Bay Area venues following a riot at a show with Megadeth. Notably, the band served as a starting point for guitarist Ross Robinson, who would later become a pivotal producer for bands like Korn and Slipknot. Their 1986 debut, 'Recognize No Authority,' remains a cult classic of the crossover thrash era, praised for its raw production and unapologetic political stance. Despite multiple breakups and the tragic passing of Crosby in 1996, the band's legacy as a fierce, anti-establishment force in metal persists, evidenced by their 2010 comeback and ongoing influence on the 'female-fronted' extreme metal landscape.