Scanner

Scanner is a German speed/power metal band formed in 1986 in Gelsenkirchen. Emerging from the foundations of the band Lions Breed, they quickly developed their distinctive futuristic sci-fi identity — themes of space, robots, aliens, and epic narratives became their trademark. They are best known for their cult early albums: Hypertrace (1988) – classic European speed metal with strong melodies and a sci-fi concept Terminal Earth (1989) – their most successful release, more aggressive yet still melodic Mental Reservation (1995) and Ball of the Damned (1997) – darker, more mature sound Later releases like The Judgement (2015) and The Cosmic Race (2024) show that the band still maintains strong energy and a devoted fanbase. Scanner is known for high-pitched vocals, fast and precise guitar work, and an old-school European power metal sound reminiscent of Rage, Gamma Ray, Grave Digger, and early Helloween. Although they never became a “stadium” band, Scanner holds cult status among genre fans and continues to perform actively at festivals across Europe.