Raven have a history like few other bands, having been a minor player in a couple of metal's major turning points. Formed in 1974, the group was part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. And in 1983, they toured the United States with an unknown band opening for them called Metallica, on their first-ever tour. They've always stayed true to their thrashy, self-proclaimed "athletic rock" sound and just this week released Walk Through Fire (Metal Blade). They will be touring the U.S. in September.