- Structured Album Cover
Swiss hard rockers China stormed the scene in 1988 with their Dirk Steffens-produced, self-titled debut album. Recorded at Musicland Studios, it offered infectious melodies, fiery guitar work, and the powerful vocals of Math Shiverow. "China" hit the Swiss charts hard, showcasing their potential and setting the stage for their rise in the European hard rock world.
In 1988, a new force emerged from the Swiss hard rock scene: China. Their self-titled debut album, produced by Dirk Steffens and recorded at Munich's Musicland Studios, exploded onto the music scene with a potent blend of hard-driving riffs, soaring vocals, and infectious energy. Released on the Vertigo label, the album quickly established China as a band to watch.
The album showcased the band's impressive musical prowess. Guitarists Claudio Matteo and Freddy Laurence weave intricate melodies and blistering solos, laying down a solid foundation for bassist Marc Lynn's pulsating rhythms and John Dommen's thunderous drumming. Frontman Math Shiverow delivers a powerful vocal performance, imbuing each track with raw emotion and charisma.
While specific details about the album's tracks remain unknown, singles like "Hot Lovin' Night," "Shout It Out," and "Wild Jealousy" hinted at the album's diverse sonic palette. These songs likely ranged from high-octane anthems perfect for headbanging to melodic ballads showcasing Shiverow's vocal range.
China's self-titled debut proved to be a critical and commercial success. The album climbed the Swiss charts, peaking at number six, and established the band as a major force in the European hard rock scene. Their energetic live performances further solidified their reputation, and they soon found themselves sharing stages with established acts.
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Music Genre: Swiss Hard Rock/Glamrock, Hairstyle Rock Music , Hair Metal |
| Album Production Information:
Produced by Dirk Steffens for Soundhaus Productions Dirk Steffens is a notable figure in the German music industry as a record producer. He has worked with several prominent bands and artists, particularly in the hard rock and heavy metal genres. Here are some details about Dirk Steffens and the artists and recordings he has produced. Recorded at Musicland Studios, Munich, Germany. Mixed at Chateau Du Pape, Hamburg, Germany. Hair & Makeup: Justina Catregn for Derby Salon Photography: Felix Eidenbenz |
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Record Label & Catalognr: Vertigo 834 179 / AA 834 179-1.1Y / LC 1633 |
| Album Packaging:This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by China and photos of the band-members |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 200 gram |
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Year & Country: 1988 Made in West Germany for export to Holland and Belgium |
Band Members and Musicians on: China - "China" self-titled |
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Complete Track Listing of: China - "China" self-titled |
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. 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 ).
Five individual photos of the China band-members
"China" Orange to Yellow Gradient Colours Vertigo Record Label Details: VERTIGO 834 179 , Madei in West-Germany ℗ 1988 Phonogram GMBH, Hamburg Sound Copyright
The album showcased the band's impressive musical prowess. Guitarists Claudio Matteo and Freddy Laurence weave intricate melodies and blistering solos, laying down a solid foundation for bassist Marc Lynn's pulsating rhythms
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Recorded at the Marlboro Music Rock in Locarno, Switzerland, this 12" vinyl LP captures the sheer intensity and musicianship that solidified China's status as European rock royalty. The album pulsates with the raw energy
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