Hammers of Misfortune

The Profile

Hammers of Misfortune are an American progressive/heavy metal band from San Francisco, formed in 1996 by guitarist John Cobbett. They are known for narrative-driven albums and genre-blending arrangements that span traditional, progressive, and darker metal styles.

Publicly known and verifiable: American progressive/heavy metal band from San Francisco, California; formed in 1996 by John Cobbett. Albums include The Bastard (2001), The August Engine (2003), The Locust Years (2006), Fields (2008), Church of Broken Glass (2008), 17th Street (2011), Dead Revolution (2016), and Overtaker (2022). Early incarnation was called Unholy Cadaver.

A single review gushes over The Bastard, Hammers of Misfortune’s debut concept album. The write-up praises its seamless, monotrack-like flow and mix of prog, NWOBHM, black and doom metal. It highlights powerful riffs, varied male/female vocals, and a vivid fantasy narrative. Overall verdict: explosive debut and essential listening.