In 1987 I had already been a Metallica fan for a few years, since 1984.
I knew a bit of Slayer and Anthrax too, but that was about it. I remember
one day in 1987 hearing "Probation" by DRI, so shortly thereafter I found
my way up to Berkeley and bought the Crossover LP. I don't remember the exact
circumstances of turning onto Exodus, Vio-lence, and Death Angel, but i was into
them as well.

If I recall correctly, back in 1988, Vio-lence "Eternal Nightmare", Death Angel "Frolic Through the Park",
and DRI "4 of a Kind" were all released on the very same day!

I remember seeing Vio-lence at the Stone in about 1987 or 1988. I saw DRI and Kreator there in 1990,
and possibly even in an earlier year. I know I saw Exodus and MOD at the Warfield in 1988.

I also saw many arena gigs in the late 70s and earlier 80s, but I guess none of that was thrash.