Saint Vitus

The Profile

Saint Vitus are an American doom metal band formed in Los Angeles in 1979 (originally as Tyrant). Pioneers of the genre, they released seminal albums on SST Records in the 1980s, with vocals by Scott Reagers and later Scott “Wino” Weinrich, and Dave Chandler’s signature fuzz-laden guitar. After a 1990s split, they returned in the late 2000s and issued Lillie: F-65 in 2012.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1979 (as Tyrant); early albums released on SST Records; key members include Dave Chandler (guitar), Scott Reagers and Scott “Wino” Weinrich (vocals), Mark Adams (bass), Armando Acosta (drums); classic albums include Saint Vitus (1984), Hallow’s Victim (1985), Born Too Late (1986), Mournful Cries (1988), V (1990); reunion era includes Lillie: F-65 (2012) with Henry Vasquez on drums following Armando Acosta’s death in 2010.

The reviews frame Saint Vitus as cornerstone doom metal originators: the 1984 debut and Born Too Late draw major praise, with Mournful Cries and V deemed strong continuations. Lillie: F-65 is received more cautiously but still recognizably Vitus. Consistent themes include Sabbath-sized riffs, glacial tempos, and cult status. Overall sentiment is positive.