Original Sin

Although numerous different groups have laid claim to this moniker at one time or another, Long Island, NY's Original Sin still stand apart as one of the few all-female thrash metal bands to emerge during that style's '80s apogee (crosstown rivals Meanstreak being another). Original Sin members Danielle Draconis (vocals), Cynthia Taylor (guitar), Pandora Fox (bass), and Darlene Destructo (drums) were brought together under the patronage of Virgin Steele singer David Defeis (rumor has it Draconis was, in fact, his sister), who also penned some of their material, and no doubt influenced their melodic songwriting style, which crossed over into speed metal on occasional. Unfortunately, Original Sin's lone album, 1986's Sin Will Find You Out (also produced by Defeis, naturally), was a rather gimmicky affair, heavy on gratuitous Satanism and sexual exploitation (telling song titles included "Bitches from Hell," "Succubus," "Pandora's Box" and "Enchantress of Death") -- all of which distracted listeners from the band's quite respectable musicianship. Insufficient backing from their record label, Cobra Records, later sealed Original Sin's fate, and the four had apparently already gone their separate ways by 1987. ~ Eduardo Rivadavia