Heathen is a thrash metal band from the San Francisco Bay Area, formed in 1984. Recognized as one of the influential acts in the Bay Area thrash scene alongside bands like Exodus and Testament, Heathen is known for powerful riffs and technical musicianship. Despite multiple lineup changes, guitarist Lee Altus has remained the core member. The band has released four studio albums, including Breaking the Silence, Victims of Deception, The Evolution of Chaos, and Empire of the Blind.