The current Crimson Steel Band was founded in 2018 by bassist Joel McGee, known as the “Minister of Thunder” thecrimsonsteel.com. They emerged as a prominent act in the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal (NWOTHM) and U.S. Power Metal (USPM) scenes, blending classic heavy metal with progressive elements. Their sound draws inspiration from bands like Judas Priest, Dio-era Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Savatage, Crimson Glory, and early Queensrÿche