Album Description:
In the world of extreme music, Death Metal stands as one of the most influential and groundbreaking genres. Among the pioneering bands that shaped the genre's trajectory, Death, led by the iconic Chuck Schuldiner, reigns supreme. Their second full-length album, "LEPROSY", released in 1988, cemented Death's place in music history and furthered the band's artistic evolution.
The Birth of "LEPROSY":
Following their debut album, "Scream Bloody Gore", Death sought to push the boundaries of their sound and delve deeper into the realms of technicality and songwriting prowess. Chuck Schuldiner, the driving force behind the band, envisioned an album that would solidify their standing within the burgeoning Death Metal scene. With the lineup consisting of Chuck Schuldiner on guitar and vocals, Rick Rozz on guitars, Bill Andrews on drums, and Terry Butler on bass, Death entered Morrisound Recording Studio in Tampa to bring "LEPROSY" to life.
Recording Process and Production:
The album's production was entrusted to Dan Johnson of D.U.A.F Productions, known for his work with seminal Death Metal acts. Additionally, Scott Burns, a renowned sound engineer, oversaw the recording process, ensuring that the band's vision translated into a visceral sonic experience. The Morrisound Recording Studio, known for its exceptional work within the genre, provided Death with the ideal environment to capture the raw power and intensity of their music.
Under the watchful eye of Scott Burns, Death meticulously crafted their sonic assault. From the furious guitar riffs to Chuck Schuldiner's distinct growls and intricate song structures, each element of "LEPROSY" received careful attention. The album's lyrical themes delved into topics such as mortality, social decay, and introspection, reflecting Schuldiner's philosophical approach to songwriting.
Artistic Elements and Visuals:
An album's visual presentation often plays a crucial role in conveying its essence. For "LEPROSY", Death enlisted the artistic talents of Edward J. Repka, a legendary figure renowned for his iconic album cover artworks within the genre. Repka's visual interpretation perfectly encapsulated the morbidity and darkness present in Death's music, creating an album cover that resonated with fans and became an enduring symbol of the Death Metal aesthetic.
Additionally, the album's custom inner sleeve featured captivating band photos by J.B. Stapleton and comprehensive lyrics, providing fans with a deeper connection to Death's music and its underlying messages.
Legacy and Lasting Impact:
"LEPROSY" became a turning point in Death's career, solidifying their status as trailblazers in extreme music. The album's precise and intricate musicianship, combined with its raw intensity, pushed the boundaries of Death Metal, inspiring countless bands in its wake. Chuck Schuldiner's visionary songwriting and innovative guitar work influenced generations of musicians, propelling Death into legendary status.
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Album Production:
Produced by Dan Johnson for D.U.A.F Productions.
Dan Johnson is a highly accomplished producer and sound engineer, renowned for his significant contributions to the heavy metal music scene during the vibrant 1980s era. His expertise in capturing and refining the raw power and intensity of heavy metal music has made him a respected figure in the industry. Johnson's extensive work with prominent bands such as Coroner, Crimson Glory, Death, Mad Max, and Savatage has solidified his reputation as one of the premier producers and sound engineers of his time.
Born with an innate passion for music, Dan Johnson developed a deep appreciation for heavy metal at a young age. Inspired by the driving energy and electrifying performances of the genre's pioneers, he became determined to contribute to the creation of groundbreaking metal music. With an unyielding dedication to his craft, Johnson honed his technical skills in sound engineering and production, constantly seeking to refine his understanding of the intricacies of heavy metal music.
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In the early 1980s, Dan Johnson emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. His keen ear for detail and his ability to capture the essence of a band's sound in the recording studio quickly set him apart from his peers. Bands were eager to collaborate with him, recognizing his talent for bringing out the best in their music. It was during this time that Johnson had the opportunity to work closely with the Swiss thrash metal band Coroner, helping to shape their unique sound and contributing to the success of their influential albums.
Continuing his streak of successful collaborations, Dan Johnson worked closely with the American progressive metal band Crimson Glory, pushing the boundaries of their sound and elevating their music to new heights. His production and engineering work on their critically acclaimed albums further solidified his reputation as an innovator within the heavy metal community.
Johnson's partnership with Death, the iconic American death metal band led by Chuck Schuldiner, showcased his versatility as a producer. He played a vital role in capturing the band's aggressive and intricate musical style, allowing their albums to resonate with fans and cementing Death's status as one of the most influential bands in the genre.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Dan Johnson continued to expand his horizons, collaborating with German hard rock band Mad Max and American progressive metal pioneers Savatage. His work with Mad Max resulted in albums that showcased the band's energy and intensity, while his contributions to Savatage's critically acclaimed releases brought out the grandeur and theatricality of their music.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dan Johnson has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to quality and his ability to bring out the best in heavy metal music. His production and engineering work in the 1980s played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of numerous influential bands, leaving an indelible mark on the heavy metal genre. Today, his legacy endures as a testament to his exceptional talent and enduring contributions to the world of music.
Sound/Recording engineer Scott Burns.
Scott Burns' sonic wizardry shaped the ferocious soundscapes of heavy and death metal,
discover a legacy that continues to reverberate through the genre.
Recorded at Morrisound Recording, Tampa.
Morrisound Recording Studio is a renowned recording facility located in Tampa, Florida. It was founded in 1981 by brothers Jim and Tom Morris, who are also notable record producers and engineers. Morrisound gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s as one of the premier studios for heavy metal and rock music.
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The studio's reputation primarily stems from its association with the burgeoning death metal scene in Florida during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Many influential death metal bands, including Morbid Angel, Death, Obituary, and Cannibal Corpse, chose Morrisound as their recording destination. The studio's distinctive sound, characterized by its powerful and heavy production quality, became synonymous with the death metal genre.
Morrisound's success can be attributed to the expertise and technical prowess of the Morris brothers. Jim Morris, an accomplished guitarist, was responsible for producing and engineering most of the records that came out of the studio. His brother, Tom Morris, also played a significant role in shaping the studio's sound as an engineer and mixer.
The studio itself featured state-of-the-art equipment and a spacious recording area, allowing bands to achieve the desired sonic intensity in their recordings. Morrisound became known for its precise drum sound, tight guitar tones, and thunderous bass lines. The studio's engineering techniques, including the innovative use of triggers and layering, contributed to the distinct heaviness and clarity found in many of the albums recorded there.
Morrisound's influence on the death metal genre extended beyond its recording capabilities. The studio's association with the genre helped establish Tampa, Florida, as a mecca for death metal, attracting bands and musicians from around the world. Numerous iconic albums were recorded at Morrisound, solidifying its legacy and impact on the genre.
Over the years, Morrisound Recording Studio expanded its reach beyond death metal, hosting a wide range of artists from various genres. Its versatility and commitment to quality made it a popular choice for bands and musicians seeking professional recording services. However, the studio's association with death metal remained a significant part of its identity.
Mastered by Michael Fuller at Fullersound, Miami.
Michael Fuller explore Mike's journey from aspiring engineer to acclaimed producer, shaping the soundscape of a generation.
Discover the man behind the music!
Album Cover Artwork by Edward J. Repka.
Live Photos by Frank White.
Frank White ( Photographer ) started at a very young age ( 12-13 years ) by photographer Hard Rock greatest like "Led Zeppelin", "Ronnie James DIO". He has photographed DIO from 1975 until 2009 and has published a photobook on DIO.
During the 1980s White has published photos of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal bands on album covers and inner sleeves for bands like: Anthrax, Blood Feast, Cro-Mags, Hades, Overkill, Nasty Savage, Nuclear Assault and many others.
Band Photo by J.B. Stapleton
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Record Label & Catalognr: Combat / Under One Flag FLAG 24 |
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Packaging:
This album includes the original light cardboard custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by Death and photos.
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Media Format:
12" Vinyl Full-Length Stereo LP Gramophone Record
Album weight: 240 gram |
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Year & Country:
1988 Made in England
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Band Members and Musicians on: Death Leprosy
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Death's Band-members, Musicians and Performers
- Chuck Schuldiner
- Guitar, Vocals
Chuck Schuldiner (birth-name: Charles Michael Schuldiner) was an American musician and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the death metal genre. Born on 13 May 13 1967, in Long Island, New York, Chuck displayed a passion for music from an early age.
Chuck's musical journey began when he picked up a guitar at the age of nine. Inspired by the likes of Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, and Slayer, he quickly developed his skills and started playing in local bands. In 1983, at the age of 16, Chuck formed the band Death, which would go on to become one of the most influential and groundbreaking acts in the history of death metal.
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With Death, Chuck released several albums that pushed the boundaries of the genre and showcased his exceptional songwriting and guitar-playing abilities. Their debut album, "Scream Bloody Gore" (1987), was a seminal release that set the tone for the death metal sound with its aggressive riffing, intense vocals, and dark lyrical themes. Subsequent albums like "Leprosy" (1988) and "Spiritual Healing" (1990) further solidified Death's reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the metal world.
However, it was with Death's fourth album, "Human" (1991), that Chuck Schuldiner truly showcased his musical vision and talent. The album featured complex song structures, progressive elements, and technically demanding guitar work. Chuck's lyrics delved into philosophical and existential themes, adding depth to Death's music. "Human" is often hailed as a landmark album that influenced countless bands and helped shape the progressive death metal subgenre.
Throughout his career, Chuck Schuldiner faced various lineup changes and challenges, but he remained the driving force behind Death's music. He continued to evolve his sound, incorporating elements of jazz and fusion in albums like "Individual Thought Patterns" (1993) and "Symbolic" (1995). These albums showcased Chuck's growth as a songwriter and cemented his status as a visionary in the metal scene.
Tragically, Chuck Schuldiner's life was cut short on December 13, 2001, when he succumbed to brain cancer at the age of 34. His death sent shockwaves throughout the metal community, and he was mourned by fans and fellow musicians alike. Chuck's contributions to death metal and his influence on the genre cannot be overstated. His dedication to his craft, innovative approach to songwriting, and technical prowess continue to inspire generations of musicians.
Chuck Schuldiner's legacy lives on through his music and the enduring impact he made on the metal genre. His work with Death remains timeless, and he is remembered as a true pioneer who pushed the boundaries of what metal could be. Chuck's passion and creativity continue to inspire countless aspiring musicians, ensuring that his influence will endure for years to come.
- Rick Rozz
- Guitars
- Bill Andrews
- Drums
- Terry Butler - Bass
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DEATH - Scream, Bloody Gore ( UK ) 12" LP
