S.O.D Stormtroopers of Death - Speak English Or Die 12" Vinyl LP Album

  Speak English or Die is the first album by the thrash/hardcore band Stormtroopers of Death (S.O.D.).

  After Anthrax finished recording Spreading the Disease, there still was some studio time left, so Scott Ian and Charlie Benante called some friends, practiced some songs, and recorded it all within a week.

 

large album front cover photo of: S.O.D Stormtroopers of Death Speak English Or Die

S.O.D.'s "Speak English or Die": A Crossover Thrash Explosion
Album Description:

In the mid-1980s, amidst the burgeoning thrash metal scene, a side project emerged that would leave an indelible mark on the genre. Stormtroopers of Death, better known as S.O.D., released their debut album "Speak English or Die" in 1985, igniting a firestorm of controversy and musical innovation.

Historical Context and Musical Exploration

"Speak English or Die" arrived at a time when thrash metal was gaining momentum, with bands like Metallica and Slayer pushing the boundaries of aggression and speed. S.O.D., a supergroup formed by members of Anthrax and Nuclear Assault, injected a dose of hardcore punk into the mix, creating a hybrid genre known as crossover thrash. The album's breakneck tempos, aggressive riffs, and satirical lyrics captured the rebellious spirit of the era.

Genre and Controversies

"Speak English or Die" solidified crossover thrash as a distinct subgenre, blending the raw energy of hardcore punk with the technicality of thrash metal. The album's lyrics, often humorous and politically incorrect, sparked controversy for their offensive nature. Some critics accused the band of racism and xenophobia, while others defended their right to free speech and artistic expression.

Production Team and Recording Studio

The album was produced by Alex Perialas, known for his work with Anthrax and Overkill. The recording sessions took place at Pyramid Sound Studios in Ithaca, New York. The band's DIY approach and tight schedule resulted in a raw and unpolished sound that captured the intensity of their live performances.

Album Cover Art

The album cover, featuring the band's mascot Sergeant D holding a severed head, further fueled the controversy surrounding S.O.D. The artwork, designed by Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian, was a visual representation of the band's irreverent and provocative attitude.

Music Genre:

Hardcore Punk Crossover Thrash Metal

Album Production information:

The album: "Speak English Or Die" was produced by: Scott Ian and Alex Perialas for NOT Productions and Jon Zazula. Precious Metal Music

Alex Perialas legendary producer, shaped 1980s heavy metal with iconic bands like Anthrax, Metallica and many many more. Read His Biography

Jon Zazula: How did a record store shape metal forever? The Jon Zazula story – a must-read for music fans.

 

Record Label & Catalognr:

Roadrunner RR 9725

Album Packaging:

This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photo of the S.O.D. Band. 

Media Format:

12" Vinyl LP  Gramophone Record
Album weight: 220 gram 

Year & Country:

1985 Made in Holland
Band Members and Musicians on: S.O.D Stormtroopers of Death Speak English Or Die
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Billy Milano Vocals (Bill Milano is from the Bronx, New York City he began his musical career 1985 with singing in the "Stormtroopers Of Death" band. In 1986 he founded the Crossover Thrash metal band: M.O.D. ("Method Of Destruction").)
  • Scott Ian Guitars

    Scott Ian ( full-name Scott Ian Rosenfeld ) is an American guitarist and founding member of "Anthrax" and "Stormtroopers of Death". His wife "Pearl Aday" is daughter of the singer "Meat Loaf". In his musical career he has performed with the bands: Anthrax (USA) , Damnocracy, Doom Squad, Four-X, Motor Sister, Pearl, Posehn, S.O.D. STORMTROOPERS OF DEATH (USA) , Slam Jam, The Damned Things.

  • Dan Lilker Bass

    Dan Lilker (full-name: Daniel A. Lilker) - a highly influential figure in the heavy metal and underground music scenes, known primarily for his work as a bassist and founding member of several prominent bands. Born in 1964 in New York, Lilker began playing music as a teenager and formed his first band, Overkill , in 1980.

    In the years that followed, Lilker played with a number of other bands, including Anthrax , Stormtroopers of Death , and Brutal Truth, and became known for his aggressive and innovative bass playing style. He also became a prominent figure in the underground metal community, both as a musician and as a producer and engineer.

    Throughout his career, Lilker has pushed the boundaries of what is considered heavy metal, incorporating elements of punk, hardcore, and experimental music into his work. He has been praised for his technical ability as well as his willingness to experiment and take risks with his music.

    In addition to his work in music, Lilker is also a vocal advocate for animal rights and has been involved in various animal welfare organizations. He is known for his outspoken and sometimes controversial views on a range of issues, including politics and the music industry.

    Overall, Dan Lilker is a highly respected and influential musician who has had a significant impact on the heavy metal and underground music scenes. His innovative approach to bass playing and his willingness to experiment and push boundaries have made him a revered figure among fans and fellow musicians alike.

  • Charlie Benante Drums

    Charlie Benante ( Drums ) long-time drummer with the American Thrash Metal band Anthrax, since 1983 and also performed in S.O.D. Stormtroopers Of Death.

Complete Track Listing of: "Speak English Or Die"

The Song/tracks on "Speak English Or Die" are

  • March of the S.O.D. 1:27
  • Sargent D & the S.O.D. 2:23
  • Kill Yourself 2:11
  • Milano Mosh 1:32
  • Speak English or Die 2:24
  • United Forces 1:53
  • Chromatic Death 0:43
  • Pi Alpha Nu 1:09
  • Anti-Procrastination Song 0:06
  • What's That Noise 1:00
  • Freddy Krueger 2:32
  • Milk 1:54
  • Pre-Menstrual Princess Blues 1:20
  • Pussy Whipped 2:14
  • Fist Banging Mania 2:04
  • No Turning Back 0:52
  • Fuck the Middle East 0:27
  • Douche Crew 1:35
  • Hey Gordy! 0:07
  • Ballad of Jimi Hendrix 0:05
  • Diamonds and Rust (Extended Version) 0:05
Album cover photos of : S.O.D Stormtroopers of Death Speak English Or Die

Photo of "Speak English Or Die" Album's Front Cover 
High Resolution Photo Album Front Cover of SOD - Speak English Die https://vinyl-records.nl
Photo of "Speak English Or Die" Album's Back Cover  
High Resolution Photo Album Back Cover of SOD - Speak English Die https://vinyl-records.nl  
Photo of "Speak English Or Die" Album's Inner Cover  
High Resolution Photo of the Original Custom Inner Sleeve (OIS) #1 of SOD - Speak English Die https://vinyl-records.nl  
Close-up Photo of "Speak English Or Die" Record Label 
Enlarged High Resolution Photo of the Record's label SOD - Speak English Die https://vinyl-records.nl  

 Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).