Sanctuary Members, Gear & Sound
US heavy metal band
Members
Select a Sanctuary band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Sanctuary is a seminal American metal band hailing from Seattle, Washington, known for their potent blend of progressive metal, thrash metal, and power metal. Formed in the mid-1980s, the band originally consisted of Warrel Dane (vocals), Lenny Rutledge (guitar), Sean Blosl (guitar), Jim Sheppard (bass), and Dave Budbill (drums). Over the years, Sanctuary has become revered for its intricate compositions and the soaring, operatic vocal style of the late Warrel Dane. Their discography, which includes influential albums like Refuge Denied and Into the Mirror Black, showcases a dynamic range that has earned them a dedicated following in the metal community.
How to Sound Like Sanctuary
Sanctuary's sound is characterized by a high-energy, aggressive yet melodic approach that weaves together intricate guitar work and powerful rhythms. The band's guitarists, often employing multi-layered harmonies and complex riffing, create a dense sonic tapestry that is both brutal and melodic. The use of Schecter guitars and high-gain amplifiers like the PRS Archon are integral to achieving their sharp, commanding tone. Effects such as the Strymon BigSky Reverb add a spacious, ethereal quality to solos and lead lines, balancing the raw intensity with atmospheric depth. The drumming is precise and dynamic, underpinning the music with a pulse that drives both speed and power, while the bass provides a thunderous underpinning that complements the dual-guitar attack. Sanctuary's music thrives on its ability to merge ferocity with melody, making their sound a compelling force in the metal genre.
Discography
Get the Sanctuary Sound
Want to sound like Sanctuary? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
