Prevailing as a preeminent force of the heavy metal phenomenon, the infamous band Twisted Sister is among rock’s biggest paradoxes. In one respect, the group’s diabolically roguish (and humorous) image, sheer exploitation of volume, and pandemonious live and video performances have contributed, in part, to their worldwide popularity. But transcending the devastating wattage and wild debauchery so indigenous to Twisted Sister’s surface appeal is the group: five high-caliber, truly legitimate musicians, deploying some of the hottest hardcore power rock of any current metal faction. Elevating these self-proclaimed “Bad Boys of Rock ‘n’ Roll” above their metal counterparts is the hybrid drumming style of A.J. Pero. A.J. has a unique ability to achieve equilibrium between wild abandon and impeccable precision, while his tonal sounds are so distinctive that, at just 26, he’s become a role model for many young drummers. Before Twisted Sister acquired Pero in 1982, the band—born out of […]

February 1986 Issue