American crossover thrash band formed in New York City in 1985 (officially S.O.D., for Stormtroopers of Death). Lineup: Billy Milano (vocals), Scott Ian (guitar, Anthrax), Dan Lilker (bass, Anthrax/Nuclear Assault), and Charlie Benante (drums, Anthrax). The band was assembled as a side project during downtime in Anthrax's Spreading the Disease sessions.
Released Speak English or Die (1985), widely credited as foundational to the crossover thrash genre bridging hardcore punk and thrash metal. Reunited intermittently for Bigger Than the Devil (1999) and live appearances. Milano subsequently led the related band M.O.D.
