Thrash pioneer Razor’s original drummer Michael Embro has passed away

Michael “M-Bro” Embro, the original drummer of the Canadian band Razor, has passed away at the age of 63, as per Inferno. Embro contributed to the band’s initial formation and recorded on their first four albums before his departure in 1987. Razor, established in Guelph, Ontario, in 1983, is recognized as a pioneer of Canadian thrash metal and is regarded as one of the nation’s “Big Four” bands, alongside Sacrifice, Voivod, and Annihilator. Despite his departure, Embro made a guest appearance as a backing vocalist on the band’s 2022 album, “Cycle of Contempt”. In 2017, Embro co-founded the band 10 Carden Street with guitarist Mike Carl. On behalf of the Chaoszine team, our deepest sympathies to Embro’s family, friends and loved ones.

The band Razor was formed in 1983 by guitarist Dave Carlo, with John Scheffel initially serving as vocalist and guitarist before leaving in 1984. Following unsuccessful attempts with two other vocalists, Carlo assembled a lineup featuring vocalist Stace “Sheepdog” McLaren, bassist Mike Campagnolo, and drummer Embro. The core members, the guitarist and rhythm section, were former schoolmates. A five-track demo was recorded in 1984 prior to the release of the “Armed & Dangerous” EP by Voice Records, which garnered underground acclaim. Subsequently, a pre-production demo album titled “Escape the Fire” was recorded in December 1984, leading to the release of their first full-length album, “Executioner’s Song,” in April 1985 through Viper Records. This was followed by the album “Evil Invaders” in October 1985. Razor performed in both the United States and Canada, sharing stages with notable bands such as Slayer, Motörhead, and Venom.

The third album, “Malicious Intent,” was launched in April 1986. Its reception was hindered by internal conflicts within the band and the absence of an official release in the United States, prompting the band to seek an outright release from Viper/Attic Records.

In January 1987, the band’s request was approved, and Razor was released from their contractual obligations. Subsequently, in July 1987, the band issued their fourth album, “Custom Killing”, which was self-financed.

This album experienced limited commercial success and was largely disregarded by fans, as the musical style shifted towards a more experimental and progressive approach. Following this release, drummer Mike Embro and bassist Mike Campagnolo departed from the band.

They were quickly replaced by Adam, brother of guitarist Dave Carlo, on bass, and Rob Mills on drums. The band returned to their original style with the fifth album, “Violent Restitution”, released in 1988 by Steamhammer.

This record was favorably received, noted for its increased aggression and heaviness compared to previous works. To date, it remains Razor’s most commercially successful album.