Cloven Hoof

The Profile

Cloven Hoof are a British heavy metal band formed in 1978 by bassist Lee Payne and associated with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Known for galloping riffs, horror/sci‑fi themes, and dramatic vocals, they released classics like Cloven Hoof, Dominator, and A Sultan’s Ransom, split in 1990, and reformed in 2001 to continue recording and performing.

Founded by Lee Payne in 1978; part of the NWOBHM. Style rooted in classic heavy metal with galloping rhythms and horror/sci‑fi atmospheres; clear influences from Judas Priest and Black Sabbath. The Definitive Part One compiles re-recorded tracks plus the unreleased "Mutilator". The group has experienced frequent lineup changes, with notable vocalist Russ North among past members.

A single, in-depth review places Cloven Hoof within the darker fringe of NWOBHM, founded by Lee Payne in 1978. It praises The Definitive Part One as a strong collection of re-recordings (plus the unreleased Mutilator), highlights Russ North’s emphatic vocals, and underlines classic heavy metal traits: galloping rhythms, horror/sci‑fi atmospheres, and a Priest/Sabbath lineage. The piece is positive about the music yet frank on the band’s turbulent lineups and stop‑start comebacks.