POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album

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Possessed's "Beyond the Gates" 12" Vinyl LP mesmerizes with its iconic gatefold gimmick cover. Designed by artist Edward J. Repka, the fold-out cover transforms into a vivid poster, showcasing dark and intricate illustrations that mirror the album's occult themes. A collector's gem, this innovative packaging not only enhances the album's visual allure but also leaves a lasting imprint, influencing subsequent generations of metal artists.

"Beyond the Gates" Album Description:

In the realm of classic metal albums, "Beyond the Gates" by Possessed stands tall as a landmark release that not only shook the foundations of the genre but also made a lasting impression with its distinctive gatefold vinyl packaging. Released during a time when vinyl records were at the zenith of their popularity, Possessed's "Beyond the Gates" went above and beyond, presenting itself in a gatefold cover that was not just an artistic statement but a true gimmick of its own.

The Gatefold Gimmick:

The term "gatefold" refers to a type of album cover that folds out, revealing additional space for artwork, lyrics, or other visual elements. In the case of "Beyond the Gates," Possessed took this concept to another level by introducing a gatefold gimmick that turned the entire cover into a captivating experience. When the gatefold is fully opened, the inner cover transforms into a sprawling poster, offering fans a larger-than-life visual representation of the album's thematic elements.

Artistic Mastery:

Possessed's choice of a gatefold design for "Beyond the Gates" was a stroke of artistic genius. The album cover, adorned with intricate illustrations and dark imagery, perfectly complements the band's aggressive and pioneering sound. The cover art, created by renowned artist Edward J. Repka, captures the essence of the album's themes, which revolve around the occult, horror, and the macabre.

The poster that unfolds from the gatefold is a canvas of chaos and darkness, featuring Repka's detailed artwork in all its glory. The decision to use the inner cover as a poster allows fans to immerse themselves fully in the visual narrative that accompanies the sonic onslaught of Possessed's music.

Collectors' Delight:

Beyond its artistic merits, the gatefold gimmick of "Beyond the Gates" has turned the album into a sought-after collector's item. Vinyl enthusiasts and metal fans alike appreciate the attention to detail in the packaging, making it a cherished addition to any record collection. The large, vivid poster serves as a centerpiece for fans who wish to display their allegiance to Possessed and the golden era of metal.

Album Fact Sheet: POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick

Music Genre:

Death Metal 
Album Production information: 

The album: "Beyond the Gates" was produced by: Carl Canedy, Steve Sinclair

Uncover Carl Canedy’s journey from prodigy to heavy metal legend! Explore his iconic drumming and epic collaborations. Click to learn more

Unlock the untold story of Steve Sinclairthe mastermind behind metal’s most iconic albums

Recorded at Praire Sun Recording Studios, CA.

Sound Engineers - John Cuniberti, Tom Size

Mastered at Frankford/Wayne

Mastering Engineer - Tom Coyne

Uncover the Genius of Tom Coyne

Album cover art by Ed Repka

Ed Repka: Master of Metal Artwork. Discover the twisted genius behind Megadeth's Vic Rattlehead, Death's iconic covers, and more. Read his Biography + career deep-dive

Project coordinator: Joe Leonard

 

Record Label & Catalognr:

Under One Flag FLAG 3

Packaging:

"Beyond the Gates" by "Possessed" comes in a gimmick Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design, the entire cover can be folded open and the inner cover can be used as one large poster

This album "Beyond the Gates" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos of the Possessed band

Record Format:

12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 300 gram  

Year & Country:

1986 Made in England
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Mike Torrao

    Mike Torrao - Guitar, one of the founding members of the American Death Metal band Possessed. Timeline: 1981-1983 Blitzkrieg 1983-1993 Possessed

  • Larry Lalonde

    Larry LaLonde (real name: Reed Lawrence LaLonde) - Guitars. Has been playing guitar with the Heavy Metal bands:
    1984-1987 Possessed
    1987-1988 Blind Illusion
    1989-Today Primus

  • Jeff Becerra

    Jeff Becerra - Vocals, Bass. 1983...Today Possessed 1988 Misery (Band) 1988 Sub-Zero (Band)

  • Mike Sus

    Mike Sus - Drums, one of the founding members of the American Death Metal band "Possessed".

Complete Track-listing of the album "POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick"

The detailed tracklist of this record "POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick" is:

    Track-listing :
  1. Intro - 1:23
  2. The Heretic - 2:40
  3. Tribulation - 4:48
  4. March to Die - 3:12
  5. Phantasm - 4:23
  6. No Will to Live - 6:47
  7. Beyond the Gates - 2:55
  8. The Beasts of the Apocalypse - 3:13
  9. Seance - 3:03
  10. Restless Dead - 2:59
  11. Dog Fight - 1:23

Front Cover Photo Of POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album  front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

This album cover features a striking and surreal piece of artwork, notable for its bold use of colour and a mechanical, otherworldly theme. The central image is a symmetrical depiction of a demonic or alien-like face, rendered in a metallic and biomorphic style. The face appears to be divided down the middle, with intricate details like glowing orange eyes, a grid-like mouth, and a series of lines and curves that evoke both machinery and organic forms.

The dominant colours are deep purples and reds, with vibrant orange highlights, creating a dramatic contrast and an ominous, fiery atmosphere. The design includes pentagram shapes subtly integrated into the head, enhancing the occult or dark thematic undertones.

The cover has a strong sci-fi and horror aesthetic, reminiscent of 1980s underground metal and thrash album designs, which frequently used surreal and darkly imaginative imagery to convey themes of chaos, power, and the supernatural.

Photo Of The Back Cover POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album  back cover

First Photo Of Custom Inner Sleeve POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album

POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album  custom inner sleeve

This custom inner sleeve features a collage of black-and-white photographs capturing candid moments with the band members and their friends or fans, creating a raw and personal feel. Here’s a breakdown of the images:

• Top left: Two band members in leather jackets, standing close and smiling casually, exuding the classic metal attitude.

• Top center: A retro car in motion with band members inside, giving off a laid-back, road-trip vibe.

• Top right: Two band members posing together, wearing leather jackets and looking relaxed but intense.

• Middle left: A group shot in what appears to be a backstage or casual setting, with the band surrounded by drinks and throwing playful gestures.

• Middle center: A mix of band members and others posing together, dressed in typical heavy metal fashion—leather, denim, and graphic tees.

• Middle right: Three band members, arms around each other, looking cheerful and relaxed, joined by another pair of individuals in a fun, light-hearted moment.

• Bottom left: A band member seated behind a drum kit, captured mid-performance or rehearsal, focused and ready.

• Bottom center: A small group standing together, dressed in casual heavy metal attire, with a sense of camaraderie and style.

• Bottom right: A larger group photo in a busy, poster-covered environment, with everyone smiling and showing off their signature metal aesthetic.

The sleeve highlights the band’s personality, their camaraderie, and their connection to the heavy metal community, using a mix of candid and posed shots that encapsulate the energy and attitude of the era.

Second Photo Of Custom Inner Sleeve POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album  custom inner sleeve

Close up of Side One record's label POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album

"Beyond the Gates" Record Label Details: Under One Flag 3 ℗ 1986 Under One Flag Sound Copyright

"Beyond the Gates" Record Label Details: Under One Flag 3 ℗ 1986 Under One Flag Sound Copyright

Side Two Close up of record's label POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

Side Two Close up of record's label POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates Gatefold Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album

Possessed's Vinyl Legacy: Iconic Death Metal Albums from the 1980s

POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates
 POSSESSED - Beyond the Gates (1986, GB) 12" LP

Under One Flag FLAG 3 , 1986 , England

Possessed's "Beyond the Gates" 12" Vinyl LP mesmerizes with its iconic gatefold gimmick cover. Designed by artist Edward J. Repka, the fold-out cover transforms into a vivid poster, showcasing dark and intricate illustrations that mirror the album's occult themes.

Beyond the Gates ( 1986, GB ) 12" Vinyl LP
POSSESSED - Seven Churches
 POSSESSED - Seven Churches ( 1985, Netherlands ) 12" LP

Combat Records / RoadrunneR RR 9757 , 1985 , Netherlands

To fully comprehend the significance of "Seven Churches," it is essential to understand the musical landscape of the mid-1980s. At the time, heavy metal was dominated by traditional metal bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Black Sabbath.

Seven Churches ( 1985, Netherland ) 12" Vinyl LP
POSSESSED - The Eyes of Horror
 POSSESSED - The Eyes of Horror ( 1987 ,  USA )

 Combat 88561-8168-1 , 1987 , USA

In the blood-soaked arena of 1987, where thrash metal was clawing its way to the top of the heap, Possessed unleashed "The Eyes of Horror." It was a 12" vinyl slab of sonic brutality, a guttural testament to a band caught in the crossfire between their own legacy and the shifting tides of the metal scene.

he Eyes of Horror ( 1987 , USA ) 12" Vinyl EP