ANGEL, the legendary 1970s rock and metal band known for their elaborate stage shows, signature all-white costumes, and a theatrical presentation that rivaled even KISS in its ambition, have announced a farewell tour spanning 2026 and 2027. The decision marks the final chapter for a group that has occupied a unique and often overlooked place in the history of American hard rock and heavy metal for half a century.
The band first formed in Washington, D.C. in 1975 and were quickly signed to Casablanca Records, sharing a label with KISS — a connection that went beyond mere business. KISS bassist Gene Simmons is credited with discovering ANGEL and bringing them to the attention of Casablanca boss Neil Bogart. The two bands existed as mirror images of sorts: where KISS dressed in black and breathed fire, ANGEL wore pristine white and employed elaborate lighting effects and levitation tricks.
ANGEL released six studio albums between 1975 and 1980, including the acclaimed "On Earth as It Is in Heaven" (1977) and "White Hot" (1978), which featured the band's biggest hit single. Their music blended progressive hard rock with proto-metal heaviness and polished vocal harmonies, creating a sophisticated sound that was often more musically adventurous than their flashier contemporaries. The band's lineup featured vocalist Frank DiMino, guitarist Punky Meadows, bassist Mickie Jones, keyboardist Gregg Giuffria, and drummer Barry Brandt.
Though ANGEL never achieved the massive commercial success of some peers, their influence on subsequent generations of metal and hard rock acts has been widely acknowledged. Bands from TWISTED SISTER to STRYPER have cited ANGEL's visual presentation and musical approach as formative influences.
The farewell run will give fans a final chance to experience the band's unique blend of progressive hard rock and heavy metal showmanship that made them cult favorites across five decades. Dates and venues will be announced in the coming weeks.