Atheist, an American death metal band from Sarasota, Florida, was founded in 1987 by vocalist and rhythm guitarist Kelly Shaefer, lead guitarist Rand Burkey, bassist Roger Patterson, and drummer Steve Flynn. Originally formed as Oblivion in 1984 and later named R.A.V.A.G.E., the band initially struggled with club management due to their unique sound. Atheist released their debut album, Piece of Time, in 1989. Tragically, Patterson died in a car accident in February 1991, just before recording their second album, Unquestionable Presence. The band continued with bassist Tony Choy and disbanded briefly before releasing Elements in 1993, before permanently disbanding in early 1994. Atheist re-formed in 2006 and released a live DVD filmed at the Wacken Open Air Festival that same year. In November 2010, their fourth studio album, Jupiter, was released under Season of Mist.
