- Netherlands release
Barren Cross is a Christian metal band that was formed in Los Angeles, California in 1983 by highschool friends Ray Parris (guitar) and Steve Whitaker (drums). The band released six albums from 1986 to 1994. The lyrical content of "Atomic Arena" deals with social issues such as suicide and abortion, and spiritual issues such as abortion, cults and the nature of God. "Atomic Arena," is a metaphor for the world as a battleground for spiritual warfare.
Released in 1988 on Enigma Records, the Netherlands pressing of Barren Cross's sophomore album, "Atomic Arena," solidified the band's position as a major force in the Christian metal scene. This album, following their successful debut "Rock for the King," showcased a more refined sound while maintaining the band's signature blend of heavy metal and faith-based lyrics.
Historical Context and Genre
By 1988, Christian metal was gaining traction, with bands like Stryper achieving mainstream success. Barren Cross, however, carved out their own niche with a heavier, more aggressive sound that appealed to fans of traditional heavy metal and thrash metal. "Atomic Arena" reflected this evolution, featuring a more polished production and a wider range of musical influences.
The album's music is a powerful mix of heavy metal, thrash metal, and power metal. The vocals are soaring and passionate, the guitars are fast and intricate, and the rhythm section is tight and energetic. The band's sound is characterized by its driving rhythms, catchy choruses, and a sense of epic grandeur.
Musical Exploration
"Atomic Arena" showcases Barren Cross's growth as songwriters and musicians. The album features a more diverse range of tempos and moods, from the fast-paced "Kill the Beast" and "Deadlock" to the more melodic and atmospheric "King of Kings" and "The Stage of Life." The band's songwriting is more mature and sophisticated, with complex arrangements and thought-provoking lyrics.
Production Team and Recording Studio
The album was recorded at Pakaderm Studios in Los Angeles and produced by Dino and John Elefante, known for their work with Kansas and Petra. The Elefante brothers brought a more polished and commercial sound to "Atomic Arena," while still maintaining the band's raw energy and intensity.
Trivia
The album's title t"Atomic Arena," is a metaphor for the world as a battleground for spiritual warfare.
Music Genre: Christian Rock / Metal |
Album Production Information: The album: "BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena " was produced by: Dino Elefante, John Elefante Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Dino Elefante, Mike Mierau This album was recorded at: Pakaderm Studios, Cerritos, California. Mastered at Future Disc Album cover design: Ray Parris Album cover Painting: Steve Huston Inside photos: 'NAR' of Limelight Additional photos by: Rebecca May, Renee Parris Hair and make-up: Lisa Lee Costumes: Sharon Shubin : |
Record Label Information: La Rana Music, Red / White Enigma 3311-1 |
Album Packaging: The original pressing of Barren Cross's "Atomic Arena" album includes a custom inner sleeve featuring comprehensive album details, complete song lyrics, and a collection of photographs, enhancing the overall experience and providing deeper insight into the album's creative process. |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1988 Made in Netherlands |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena " |
The detailed tracklist of this record "BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena " is:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena " |
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Album Back Cover Photo of "BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena " |
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4 Photos of the "Barren Cross" band-members on the Inner Sleeve of "BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena " Album |
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Photo of lyrics printed on the "BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena " Album's Inner Sleeve |
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Close-up Photo of "BARREN CROSS - Atomic Arena " ENIGMA Pink and White Record Label |
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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. |
Enigma D11G-73311 , 1988 , USA
This album "Atomic Arena" was recorded in California at the Pakaderm Studios in 1988 and produced by Dino Elefante and John Elefante. The sound engineer was Mike Mierau. Mastering was done at Future Disc. Album artwork illustration done by Ray Parris and Steve Huston.
Learn moreEnigma 3311-1 , 1988 , Netherlands
Barren Cross' "Atomic Arena" (Netherlands release) is a landmark album in Christian metal, released in 1988 on Enigma Records. This powerful and melodic album features anthemic tracks like "Imaginary Music" and "In the Eye of the Fire," addressing social and spiritual themes with a heavy metal edge.
Learn moreStar Song SRR 2065 , 1986 , UK ( United Kingdom )
"Rock for the King" is a Christian metal album that seamlessly blends heavy metal's intensity with faith-based lyrics. The album features powerful vocals, driving riffs, and soaring guitar solos, tackling themes of spiritual warfare, redemption, and the power of faith.
Learn more