Ensure you have equipment appropriate for the job. Thrash metal is played at a high volume. A guitar, bass and drums are the focal point of a thrash band. Brand names don't matter because musicians in thrash often play what they can afford or have personal preferences, but an amplifier with ample wattage for loud performance is essential. If you sing, in addition to a microphone, you will need a PA system capable of projecting your voice without your needing to push it to capacity. Thrash bands are loud, both during rehearsals and live performances. A professional PA will help save your voice.
Place an ad for the musicians. Take advantage of free advertising on social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace. Describe the type of band you want to start and provide examples of bands' music you'd like your band's sound to resemble. If you're a singer, a sample ad might read, "Singer forming a thrash metal band. Looking for two guitar players who are dedicated and would like to go all the way."
Include your contact information. Mention whether you play cover or original songs.
Audition with talent in mind, but consider the personalities of the musicians you audition as well. Members of a band spend a lot of time together. A better personality match might give a musician an edge over a more skilled musician. For a thrash metal band, long hair, leather, metal studs, and even a penchant for black eye makeup are ways for band members to project a thrash image for your band. Your stage image plays as important a role as your musical abilities. That includes how the musicians will behave when you perform live.
Give all the members input in naming the band. Unless you already have a name in mind, allow a collaborative effort to represent the unit.
Look for musicians that can write songs. Having more than one songwriter in the band can lead to stronger songwriting and a more cohesive unit. Thrash metal bands often prefer to use songs written within the band. Finding players who have the talent to write and with whom you can collaborate will give your band ample material to play. Consider your own talent. If you write better lyrics, but you aren't as skilled with music, focus on finding a guitar player with writing skills. Look for writers who complement your strengths as a writer.