OL Drake: Biography, Age, Early Life, Career, Wiki and Facts

OL Drake: Biography, Age, Early Life, Career, Wiki and Facts

Personal Details

Introduction

OL Drake is a renowned British thrash metal guitarist and songwriter, best known for his role as the lead guitarist of the metal band Evile. OL’s intricate guitar work and energetic performance style have contributed significantly to Evile’s sound, setting the band apart in the modern thrash metal scene. His technical skill, impressive speed, and dedication to the genre have cemented his reputation among fans and peers alike, making him one of the prominent figures in contemporary metal.

OL Drake Biography

Born Oliver Michael Drake on March 28, 1984, in Huddersfield, England, OL grew up in a family that encouraged creativity. His interest in music began at a young age, inspired by classic heavy metal bands and thrash legends like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth. OL developed a passion for the guitar early on, practicing relentlessly to perfect his technique. By the time he reached his teenage years, he was not only an accomplished guitarist but also deeply invested in the thrash metal genre, which would define his future career.

OL’s journey as a musician took a significant turn when he co-founded Evile with his brother Matt Drake and friends Ben Carter and Mike Alexander. Together, they carved a niche for themselves in the modern thrash metal scene, drawing inspiration from the 1980s thrash wave while adding a contemporary edge. OL’s unique guitar solos, powerful riffs, and commitment to authenticity have made him an integral part of Evile’s success and a respected name in the metal community.

Age and Early Life

Growing up in Huddersfield, OL Drake was surrounded by music from a young age. His family’s support and his natural inclination toward music allowed him to explore his creative side freely. Inspired by thrash and heavy metal bands of the 1980s, OL took up the guitar and quickly developed a deep connection to the instrument. His early exposure to the work of guitar legends like Kirk Hammett, Dimebag Darrell, and James Hetfield fueled his determination to master the art of thrash guitar.

Throughout his youth, OL practiced tirelessly, developing the technical proficiency and speed required for the thrash metal style. By the time he reached his late teens, his skills as a guitarist were evident, and he was well-prepared to take on a professional career in music.

Career and Notable Works

Formation of Evile and Early Success

In the early 2000s, OL joined forces with his brother Matt Drake to form Evile. The band began as a cover group, paying homage to the thrash bands they admired, but it wasn’t long before they started creating their own material. With the addition of Ben Carter on drums and Mike Alexander on bass, Evile soon evolved into a prominent force in the UK’s metal scene.

Evile’s first major release, “Enter the Grave” (2007), was widely praised for its raw energy and technical precision. The album showcased OL’s skillful guitar work, with riffs and solos that paid homage to the genre’s roots while establishing the band’s unique sound. This debut catapulted Evile into the international metal scene, earning them a devoted fan base and critical acclaim.

Subsequent Albums and Growing Recognition

Following the success of “Enter the Grave,” OL and his bandmates continued to build on their momentum. Their next albums, “Infected Nations” (2009), “Five Serpent’s Teeth” (2011), and “Skull” (2013), showcased the band’s evolution, with OL’s guitar playing becoming even more sophisticated and dynamic. Each release demonstrated OL’s versatility as a guitarist and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of thrash metal.

“Skull”, in particular, received high praise for its intricate compositions and innovative approach. OL’s guitar work on the album was noted for its precision and emotional depth, adding a new layer of complexity to Evile’s sound. Tracks like “Underworld” and “Head of the Demon” highlighted his ability to blend speed with melodic elements, solidifying his status as a top guitarist in the genre.

Solo Career and Break from Evile

In 2013, OL made the difficult decision to leave Evile to pursue other musical interests. During this period, he focused on refining his personal style and exploring new directions as a solo artist. In 2015, he released his debut solo album, “Old Rake,” which showcased his range as a guitarist and allowed him to experiment beyond the traditional confines of thrash metal.

“Old Rake” was well-received by fans and critics, featuring a blend of styles that highlighted OL’s technical skill and versatility. The album included collaborations with renowned musicians and demonstrated his willingness to explore different genres and techniques. OL’s solo work reaffirmed his position as a talented and innovative guitarist, appealing to a broad audience beyond the thrash metal community.

Return to Evile and Current Endeavors

In 2020, OL made a highly anticipated return to Evile, reuniting with his brother and the rest of the band. His return was celebrated by fans, and Evile soon began working on new material, releasing “Hell Unleashed” in 2021. The album marked a triumphant comeback, with OL’s guitar work demonstrating the same intensity and technical mastery that had defined his earlier contributions.

“Hell Unleashed” received acclaim from the metal community, with many noting that OL’s return brought renewed energy to Evile’s sound. His presence was a reminder of the band’s thrash roots, and his solos added a powerful dynamic to the album, further establishing Evile’s legacy in the modern metal scene.

Wiki and Facts

• Stage Name Origin: OL Drake’s nickname, OL, is derived from his full name, Oliver, which he shortened early in his career.
• Influences: OL cites thrash icons like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth as major influences, alongside guitarists such as Dimebag Darrell and Marty Friedman.
• First Major Album: Evile’s debut album, “Enter the Grave,” released in 2007, was instrumental in bringing OL and the band to international attention.
• Solo Work: OL’s solo album, “Old Rake,” allowed him to experiment with various styles and techniques, showcasing his versatility beyond thrash metal.
• Return to Evile: After a brief hiatus, OL returned to Evile in 2020, much to the delight of fans who appreciated his unique contributions to the band’s sound.

Legacy and Influence

OL Drake’s contributions to thrash metal and his dedication to musical excellence have earned him a loyal following. His technical skills, innovative compositions, and commitment to his craft have left an indelible mark on the genre. Both as a solo artist and as the lead guitarist of Evile, OL continues to inspire aspiring musicians and remains a celebrated figure in modern metal. His influence extends beyond thrash, as he explores new musical territories and pushes the boundaries of guitar work.