Detroit, Michigan, USA • 1968-1971

Hard rock group Power of Zeus was a heavy force out of Detroit, Michigan, formed in the late 1960s by guitarist and vocalist Joe Peraino. Alongside Bill Jones (bass), Bob Michalski (drums), and Dennie Weber (keys), the band harnessed the raw power of their city’s burgeoning rock scene. Originally named Gangrene, the group caught the attention of Motown’s Rare Earth Records, who renamed them Power of Zeus and produced their only album, The Gospel According to Zeus, in 1970.

Known for their thunderous live performances at Detroit’s Wooden Nickel club, Power of Zeus gained a loyal following with their mix of heavy riffs, soul-shaking grooves, and darkly thematic originals like “In the Night” and “The Sorcerer of Isis.” Their LP, while not a commercial success at the time, has since become a collector’s gem and a staple for hip-hop producers, with tracks sampled by Eminem and Kanye West.

Though the band disbanded in 1971, their music endures as a testament to Detroit’s rock legacy and the era’s unbridled creativity. Ancient Grease Records' release of recently unearthed demo recordings revives the discussion of their powerful live energy, cementing Power of Zeus as an essential piece of heavy rock history.