CHASTAIN - RULER OF THE WASTELAND 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Genuine 1986 European release on: RoadRunneR RR 9689 

Shrapnel wasn't just another record company; it was the first in the US dedicated solely to heavy metal. Founded in 1980, it arrived at a pivotal moment, capturing the burgeoning shred guitar movement and giving a platform to the dazzling technical proficiency that was taking the metal world by storm.

Varney's vision wasn't just about heavy riffs; he had a keen eye for talent. Shrapnel became the launchpad for iconic guitarists like Yngwie Malmsteen, Marty Friedman, Jason Becker, Paul Gilbert, and many more. These players, known for their lightning-fast picking and neo-classical influences, would redefine what it meant to be a metal guitarist.

Varney's influence wasn't limited to shred. Shrapnel also embraced other genres that fell under the rock and metal umbrella, including progressive metal and blues-rock. His impact transcended the music itself; he helped popularize the "shred guitar" aesthetic, with its focus on virtuosity and technical mastery.

Shrapnel wasn't Varney's only venture. The Shrapnel Label Group also includes Tone Center Records, dedicated to jazz fusion, and Blues Bureau International, a haven for blues and blues-rock. He even co-founded Magna Carta Records, a progressive rock and metal label.

Mike Varney's legacy is undeniable. He's not just a record producer; he's a shepherd who nurtured a generation of musical talent and helped shape the sound of rock and metal for decades to come. His influence continues to inspire guitarists and music fans today, ensuring that the shred spirit lives on.

Prairie Sun Recording Studios, nestled in the heart of California, has been a hub for heavy metal music during the 1980s. Its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional engineering have drawn numerous bands seeking to capture their raw energy and power. Bands like Chastain, Exodus, Laaz Rockit, and Vicious Rumours have graced the studios with their presence, utilizing the studio's capabilities to create some of the genre's most iconic albums.

One of the defining features of Prairie Sun is its commitment to providing artists with a comfortable and conducive environment for the creative process. The studio's unique design, incorporating natural surroundings and ample natural light, allows artists to feel at ease while recording. This relaxed atmosphere often translates into the music, as artists are able to fully immerse themselves in their work, resulting in authentic and powerful performances.

Furthermore, Prairie Sun's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality sets it apart from other recording studios. The studio houses cutting-edge equipment and employs experienced engineers who possess a deep understanding of the nuances of heavy metal music. These professionals work closely with the artists, ensuring that every element of the music is captured with precision and clarity. As a result, Prairie Sun has become renowned for its exceptional sound production and mixing capabilities.

Moving on to Fantasy Studios, situated in Berkeley's Zaentz Media Center, the studio has earned a reputation for its role in recording award-winning albums. Initially built as a private recording studio for artists on the Fantasy Records label in 1971, it opened its doors to the public in 1980. Since then, it has become a go-to destination for musicians across various genres, including rock, pop, and punk.

Fantasy Studios holds an illustrious history of producing chart-topping albums that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Notable among these are Journey's "Escape" and Green Day's "Dookie", both of which achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. The studio's commitment to excellence is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities and talented team of engineers and producers, who work tirelessly to ensure the highest quality recordings.

Beyond its technical prowess, Fantasy Studios boasts a unique atmosphere that fosters creativity and collaboration. Its spacious recording rooms and comfortable lounges provide artists with a comfortable environment to explore their musical ideas. The studio's acoustics are meticulously designed to capture the nuances of different instruments and vocal performances, allowing artists to realize their artistic vision with precision and authenticity.

Moreover, Fantasy Studios' location in Berkeley adds to its allure. The vibrant and diverse music scene in the surrounding area serves as a constant source of inspiration for artists who choose to record at the studio. The city's rich cultural history and artistic community create a stimulating backdrop, enhancing the creative process and often influencing the music itself.

Born and raised in the vibrant city of New York, Pat Johnson discovered his passion for photography at an early age. Armed with a camera and an unwavering curiosity, he began honing his skills, capturing the energy and spirit of the people and places that surrounded him. As he delved deeper into his craft, his unique ability to capture the essence of his subjects became evident.

During the 1980s, a defining era in both music and photography, Pat Johnson found himself in the midst of a creative explosion. He became an influential figure in the music industry, collaborating with renowned musicians and contributing to some of the era's most iconic album covers. His distinctive style and innovative approach allowed him to perfectly capture the essence of the artists and their music, turning each album cover into a visual masterpiece.

With his keen eye for detail and an intuitive understanding of his subjects, Pat Johnson worked with a wide array of musicians, including legends such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, and Bruce Springsteen. His photographs adorned the covers of critically acclaimed albums, becoming an integral part of the music's visual narrative.

Beyond the realm of music, Pat Johnson's talent extended to sports and entertainment. His work appeared in prominent magazines, capturing the intensity and grace of athletes in motion, the allure of Hollywood stars, and the vibrant energy of live performances. Through his photographs, he brought forth the emotions, stories, and struggles of those he captured, offering a glimpse into their world for all to witness.

Pat Johnson's ability to establish a deep connection with his subjects, putting them at ease in front of the lens, was a testament to his genuine curiosity and respect for humanity. His photographs were not merely snapshots but narratives that conveyed the essence of each person he photographed, revealing layers of their personality and leaving an everlasting impression on the viewer.

As the years passed, Pat Johnson's work continued to evolve, adapting to changing trends and technological advancements. His photographs not only documented the past but also served as a source of inspiration for aspiring photographers, constantly pushing the boundaries of the craft and redefining what it meant to capture a moment in time.

Today, Pat Johnson's legacy as an American photographer remains unparalleled. His images continue to inspire generations, resonating with their raw emotion and artistic brilliance. His ability to immortalize the great personalities of music, sports, and entertainment in a single frame has solidified his place among the legends of the craft. Pat Johnson's remarkable career serves as a testament to the power of photography, reminding us that a single image has the ability to transcend time and capture the very essence of the human experience.