In 1995 when metal was at its lowest point, TWISTED TOWER DIRE formed out of a stubborn hatred for the 90's anti-metal culture. Influences were drawn from Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Candlemass, and others. After releasing two legendary demo cassettes, several split EPs and contributing to various sampler CD's to critical acclaim, the band began working with long time fan and Solstice guitarist Rich Walker. He had recently formed a new label called The Miskatonic Foundation and offered to support the recording and distribution of the first TWISTED TOWER DIRE album.
The band unleashed their self produced, full-length debut in 1999. Despite a modest budget, "The Curse of Twisted Tower" won over many dedicated fans that appreciated TWISTED TOWER DIRE's traditional yet unique sound. From 1999 to 2000, the band embarked on a relentless, self-financed world tour in support of "Curse" including several American festival appearances. A European stretch of the tour followed with fellow metal heathens Slough Feg and Solstice including several club dates and a slot in the Wacken Open Air Festival (Germany).
In 2001 TWISTED TOWER DIRE released the critically acclaimed "Isle of Hydra" on The Miskatonic Foundation and Hellion Records. The album featured a more mature approach to songwriting and improved production, but retained a certain underground feel. In support they played several shows in North America's Mid Atlantic Region and beyond, including more festival dates. In July 2002 TWISTED TOWER DIRE returned to Deutschland to continue their assault on small clubs and festivals abroad with a headlining appearance at The Headbanger's Open Air Festival.
In September of that year TWISTED TOWER DIRE signed to Germany's Remedy Records. Their third release "Crest of the Martyrs" was unleashed upon the masses on May 26th, 2003. Crest had the distinguished honor of being named on Terrorizer Magazine's top 20 power metal albums of all time. This release was accompanied by a European tour including festival gigs at the Metal Bash Open Air Festival and their second appearance at the Wacken Open Air Festival.
Between 2004 and 2006, the members of TWISTED TOWER DIRE experienced a number of good and bad life changing events. During this uncertain time the band faithfully trudged along playing shows and working on the aptly named fourth album Netherworlds. In September 2006, singer of nine years Tony Taylor left the band after a long battle with depression. Once it was decided that Tony's departure was permanent, TWISTED TOWER DIRE welcomed Viper vocalist Johnny Aune as their new singer, reinvigorating the band and posturing them for a new era of triumph.
TWISTED TOWER DIRE has gone through countless trials and changes through its 11 year history but the seminal vision has remained the same from early basement practices to today. The "Tower Brethren" continue to fight for the legacy of Classic Heavy Metal with their forthcoming fourth album Netherworlds on Feb 23rd 2007. The band appreciates the support of its dedicated fans and hopes to soon see you in the audience banging your head!
Source : http://www.twistedtowerdire.com/
