JOE STUMP'S REIGN OF TERROR melodic Speed Metal was the band project of solo artist and former TRASH BROADWAY and SHINING HEMLOCK guitarist JOE STUMP. Stump, although credited with five solo albums, felt the need for a full band endeavour convening REIGN OF TERROR in the mid 90's, initially for the Japanese market. The 1995 album 'Light In The Sky' features ZANISTER vocalist Brian Sarrela as frontman.

By the 2001 record 'Sacred Ground' Stump had been joined by the EVENT rhythm section of bassist Jay Rigney and drummer Matt Scurfield. Lead vocalist was none other than the highly rated Mike Vescera, veteran of YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, OBSESSION, LOUDNESS and MVP. The album, which included a cover of RAINBOW's 'Kill The King', also saw guest keyboard playing from Mats Olausson of YNGWIE MALMSTEEN's band. The 'Conquer & Divide' album arrived in October 2002. Japanese editions added a bonus track 'Starstruck'.

In early 2005 it was announced that Joe Stump had formed HOLYHELL with fellow guitar shredder Tom Hess, "Chicago's premier guitar demon", and female singer Maria Breon.

On November 18th JOE STUMP'S REIGN OF TERROR appeared at the Monterrey Metal Fest event at the at the Coca Cola Auditorium in Mexico as second stage headliners.