- ZYX Metal Mushroom Records
Bengal Tigers' debut album "Metal Fetish" was released in 1984 on 12" vinyl LP format under the ZYX Metal Mushroom Records label. The album showcases the band's heavy metal sound and punk rock attitude. Despite critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, Bengal Tigers disbanded shortly after the album's release, making "Metal Fetish" a rare and highly sought-after item among collectors of the 1980s metal scene.
Bengal Tigers' 1984 debut, "Metal Fetish," unleashed a wave of raw, energetic heavy metal from the Australian underground. While the band never achieved the fame of some of their global contemporaries, their album stands as a testament to the era's DIY spirit and enduring love of unpolished, aggressive metal.
Aussie Metal in the '80s
Bengal Tigers emerged in a burgeoning Australian metal scene. While bands like AC/DC were known internationally, a thriving underground cultivated its own brand of heavy music. "Metal Fetish" captures the energy of this scene – it's loud, fast, and proudly unrefined.
Pure Metal Power
Tracks like "Break and Bend," "Heavin'", and the title track explode with blistering guitar riffs, pounding drums, and Gordon Heald's raw, intense vocals. Influences from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and classic acts like Judas Priest are evident, but Bengal Tigers maintained a unique, punk-infused attitude.
Production and Controversy
Production on "Metal Fetish" is intentionally rough, reflecting the era's DIY spirit. Some listeners found this charming, while others felt it lacked polish. The album's brash energy and occasional lyrical crudeness might also stir mixed reactions.
The Men Behind the Metal
Bengal Tigers' core lineup featured Gordon Heald (vocals), Barney Fakhouri (guitar), Mick Egan (drums), and Steve Tyler (bass). Their production team was less established, with the band and engineers Daffy "Dinosaur" Williams and John Zulhaika likely playing a large role in shaping the sonic direction.
Music Genre: Heavy Metal Punk Fusion |
Album Production information:
The album: "Metal Fetish" was produced by: Daffy "Dinosaur" Williams, John J. Zulaikha and the Bengal Tigers. Blitzy - Sound Engineer Caz - Sound Engineer Jimbo - Sound Engineer Nick Garvey - Producer Dave Jeffries - Cover design, Layout Larz - Photography Alan Parsons - Mastering Engineer Alan Parsons a renowned sound engineer and music producer, has left an indelible mark on the music industry through his exceptional work in the studio and innovative contributions to the world of sound engineering. Born 1948, in London, United Kingdom, Parsons began his career in the late 1960s and quickly rose to prominence during the 1970s and 1980s. Parsons gained initial recognition for his work with the iconic rock band Pink Floyd. His involvement as the assistant engineer on their seminal album "The Dark Side of the Moon" (1973) played a pivotal role in shaping the album's groundbreaking sound. This collaboration marked the beginning of a successful career that would see Parsons become a sought-after figure in the music production realm. In 1975, Alan Parsons, along with Eric Woolfson, formed The Alan Parsons Project, a progressive rock band that allowed Parsons to showcase not only his engineering prowess but also his talents as a musician and songwriter. The Alan Parsons Project released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including "Tales of Mystery and Imagination" (1976), "I Robot" (1977), and "Eye in the Sky" (1982). These albums showcased Parsons' ability to seamlessly blend intricate musical arrangements with innovative production techniques. In 1975, Alan Parsons, along with Eric Woolfson, formed The Alan Parsons Project, a progressive rock band that allowed Parsons to showcase not only his engineering prowess but also his talents as a musician and songwriter. The Alan Parsons Project released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including "Tales of Mystery and Imagination" (1976), "I Robot" (1977), and "Eye in the Sky" (1982). These albums showcased Parsons' ability to seamlessly blend intricate musical arrangements with innovative production techniques. Parsons' production style is characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a keen ear for sonic perfection. His work often involves creating aural landscapes that elevate the listening experience, incorporating elements of progressive rock, symphonic music, and electronic soundscapes. The Alan Parsons Project's albums, in particular, are known for their conceptual themes and sonic coherence. Beyond his work with Pink Floyd and The Alan Parsons Project, Parsons has collaborated with numerous artists across various genres, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and skilled producer. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of music production technology has also been a hallmark of his career. In addition to his success in the studio, Alan Parsons has received recognition for his achievements, including Grammy Awards and nominations. His influence extends beyond his direct contributions to specific albums, as he has inspired countless aspiring sound engineers and producers to pursue excellence in their craft.Parsons' production style is characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a keen ear for sonic perfection. His work often involves creating aural landscapes that elevate the listening experience, incorporating elements of progressive rock, symphonic music, and electronic soundscapes. The Alan Parsons Project's albums, in particular, are known for their conceptual themes and sonic coherence. Beyond his work with Pink Floyd and The Alan Parsons Project, Parsons has collaborated with numerous artists across various genres, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and skilled producer. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of music production technology has also been a hallmark of his career. In addition to his success in the studio, Alan Parsons has received recognition for his achievements, including Grammy Awards and nominations. His influence extends beyond his direct contributions to specific albums, as he has inspired countless aspiring sound engineers and producers to pursue excellence in their craft. |
Record Label & Catalognr: ZYX Metal 35001 / Mushroom Records |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Mini-LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1984 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: Bengal Tigers Metal Fetish |
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Complete Track Listing of: "Metal Fetish" |
The Songs/tracks on "Metal Fetish" are
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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 ).
"Metal Fetish by Bengal Tigers" Record Label Details: ZYX Metal 35001 / Mushroom Records
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