Verbal Abuse, a hardcore punk/crossover thrash band, was formed in Houston, Texas, in 1981 by Nicki Sicki. The original lineup included Radi Kilowatt on bass, General Electric on guitar, and John Glenn on drums. After several member changes and a move to San Francisco in 1983, the band released their debut album Just An American Band through Fowl Records in 1984. This album marked a significant breakthrough for Verbal Abuse, leading to a four-month tour of the U.S. and Canada with influential bands such as Slayer and the Ramones. In 1985, Nicki Sicki left the band due to creative differences, and Verbal Abuse continued under new leadership, adopting a more thrash metal sound. Subsequent albums include Of America (1990) and Red, White & Violent (1995).
