The self-titled "Crimson Glory" debut unfurls its majesty on a 12" LP Album Vinyl, marking the inception of a legendary band. Released as their first full-length album, this opus is a testament to Crimson Glory's emergence onto the metal stage. With an enchanting blend of progressive and power metal, the album introduces audiences to the band's distinctive sound and paves the way for their enduring influence in the realm of heavy metal music.
Hold onto your leather chaps, metal maniacs, because we're about to dive headfirst into the enigmatic world of Crimson Glory's self-titled debut. Released in 1986, this 12" vinyl LP wasn't just an album; it was a declaration, a battle cry from a band shrouded in mystique and determined to carve their own path in the burgeoning heavy metal scene.
The Birth of a Legend
Emerging from the swamps of Florida, Crimson Glory wasn't your run-of-the-mill hair metal outfit. They were a paradox, a band that embraced the theatricality of metal while pushing its musical boundaries. Their self-titled debut was the first strike, a record that dared to be different in an era dominated by cookie-cutter riffs and recycled power ballads.
Musical Exploration
Let's talk about the music, shall we? Crimson Glory's debut wasn't just heavy metal; it was a melting pot of genres. Progressive metal's intricate song structures collided with power metal's soaring vocals, creating a sound that was both technically impressive and emotionally charged. Songs like "Valhalla" and "Lost Reflection" weren't just tracks; they were epics, journeys that took you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
Band-members, Musicians and Performers
Midnight - Vocals: The enigmatic frontman, Midnight, possessed a voice that was both powerful and haunting. His operatic range soared over the band's intricate arrangements, delivering lyrics filled with mythology and mystery.
Jon Drenning - Lead Guitar: Drenning's lead guitar work was a masterclass in technical proficiency and emotional depth. His solos weren't just flashy displays of skill; they were melodic journeys that complemented the band's grandiose sound.
Ben Jackson - Rhythm Guitar: Jackson's rhythm guitar provided the backbone of Crimson Glory's sound, delivering crunching riffs and intricate harmonies that intertwined with Drenning's leads.
Jeff Lords - Bass: Lords' bass lines were more than just a foundation; they were melodic counterpoints, adding depth and complexity to the band's arrangements.
Dana Burnell - Drums: Burnell's drumming was a powerhouse, driving the band's music with precision and energy. His fills and rhythmic patterns were a perfect match for the band's complex song structures.
Controversies and Conundrums
But what truly set Crimson Glory apart was their image. The band members, concealed behind silver masks, became enigmatic figures, their true identities a closely guarded secret. This sparked controversy and fueled speculation, with fans debating the meaning behind the masks and the band's cryptic lyrics. Some saw it as a gimmick, while others saw it as a bold artistic statement.
The Production Puzzle
Crimson Glory's debut was recorded at Morrisound Recording in Tampa, Florida, a studio known for its work with death metal bands. This unlikely pairing added another layer of intrigue to the album, as it showcased the band's willingness to experiment and defy expectations. The production, helmed by Dan Johnson, captured the raw energy of Crimson Glory's live performances while adding a polished sheen to their intricate arrangements.
A Sonic Legacy
Crimson Glory's self-titled debut may not have set the charts ablaze upon its release, but its impact was undeniable. It laid the groundwork for the band's future endeavors and solidified their reputation as innovators in the metal scene. The album's legacy continues to resonate today, inspiring countless musicians and reminding us that true artistry knows no boundaries.
Music Genre: Heavy Metal / Prog Metal |
Album Production Information: The album: "CRIMSON GLORY - Crimson Glory (Self-Titled)" was produced by: Dan Johnson Darryl Johnston, a prominent figure in the music industry, is best known as the founder of Ebony Records , a renowned record company specializing in heavy metal music, particularly the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) genre. Born on June 12, 1955, in London, England, Darryl Johnston's passion for music began at an early age. Growing up, Johnston was drawn to the powerful and energetic sound of heavy metal. He immersed himself in the music scene, attending concerts, exploring various subgenres, and developing a keen ear for talent. Recognizing the immense potential and rising popularity of NWOBHM, he saw an opportunity to contribute to the movement by establishing a platform for talented bands to showcase their music. In 1982, Johnston took a leap of faith and founded Ebony Records. With a clear vision and determination, he set out to sign and produce promising heavy metal acts, aiming to provide them with the exposure and support they needed to flourish. Ebony Records quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to the genre and its dedication to nurturing emerging talent. Throughout the 1980s, Darryl Johnston worked tirelessly, producing numerous heavy metal albums that would go on to become classics in the NWOBHM canon. His collaborations with bands such as Chateaux , Grim Reaper , Savage, Blade Runner , Samurai , and Fast Kutz showcased his keen ability to identify and cultivate exceptional musicians. Under Johnston's guidance, Ebony Records became a beacon of the NWOBHM movement, championing the raw energy, powerful riffs, and melodic intensity that characterized the genre. The label's commitment to quality and artistic integrity contributed significantly to the growth and success of the heavy metal scene during that era. Johnston's work at Ebony Records extended beyond album production. He took a hands-on approach, involving himself in various aspects of artist development, marketing, and promotion. His dedication and meticulous attention to detail played a crucial role in shaping the careers of many aspiring musicians. By the late 1980s, as the musical landscape began to shift, Darryl Johnston decided to pursue new endeavors outside of the record industry. He left Ebony Records in 1987, but his contribution to the NWOBHM movement and his lasting impact on the heavy metal scene continue to resonate to this day. In retrospect, Darryl Johnston's legacy as a visionary founder and producer at Ebony Records remains deeply etched in the world of heavy metal history. His passion, commitment, and unwavering support for NWOBHM bands helped shape the genre and paved the way for countless artists who followed in his footsteps. Though his time at Ebony Records was relatively short-lived, Darryl Johnston's influence on the music industry endures. His unwavering dedication to heavy metal and his invaluable contributions to the NWOBHM movement solidify his place as an influential figure in the genre's evolution. Jim Morris - Sound Engineer Jim Morris is a renowned sound engineer and producer, best known for his exceptional contributions to the world of hard rock and heavy metal music. Born as one of the three Morris brothers, including Laurel and Tom Morris, Jim Morris has left an indelible mark on the industry through his work at the esteemed "Morris Brothers" Sound Studios. Born and raised in a musical household, Jim Morris developed a deep passion for music from an early age. Inspired by his father, who was an accomplished musician, Jim decided to pursue a career in the music industry, focusing on sound engineering and production. He honed his skills by experimenting with various audio equipment and studying the art of sound engineering. In the 1980s, Jim Morris emerged as a prominent figure in the hard rock and heavy metal scene. He quickly gained recognition for his unparalleled technical prowess and ability to bring out the best in every recording. With a keen ear for detail and a knack for capturing the raw energy of live performances, Jim became the go-to sound engineer for numerous bands seeking to create powerful and memorable albums. During this period, Jim Morris worked on a plethora of notable hard rock and heavy metal records. His collaborations included projects with esteemed bands such as Avatar, Nasty Savage, Crimson Glory, and many others. His expertise and attention to sonic detail helped shape the distinct sound of these bands, garnering critical acclaim and establishing him as a sought-after sound engineer. One of Jim Morris's key contributions to the music industry was his work at the "Morris Brothers" Sound Studios. The studio, founded by Jim and his brothers, became a creative haven for musicians looking for a professional and innovative environment to record their music. Known for its state-of-the-art equipment and welcoming atmosphere, the studio attracted both established acts and emerging artists eager to benefit from Jim Morris's expertise. Beyond his role as a sound engineer, Jim Morris also excelled as a producer, bringing his keen musical sensibilities to the forefront. His production work elevated the overall quality of the albums he worked on, helping bands realize their artistic visions and achieve commercial success. Jim's ability to balance technical precision with artistic creativity made him a trusted collaborator for musicians seeking to push the boundaries of their genre. Throughout his career, Jim Morris has remained dedicated to delivering outstanding sound quality and ensuring that every recording represents the true essence of the artists involved. His passion for music and unwavering commitment to excellence have earned him the respect and admiration of musicians and industry professionals alike. Today, Jim Morris continues to make significant contributions to the music industry, working with a diverse range of artists and genres. His talent, expertise, and unwavering dedication to his craft have solidified his place as one of the most influential and respected sound engineers and producers in the business. Jim's legacy as a pioneer in the world of hard rock and heavy metal music will undoubtedly endure for generations to come. This album was recorded at: Morrisound Studios Morrisound Recording Studio is a renowned recording facility located in Tampa, Florida. It was founded in 1981 by brothers Jim and Tom Morris, who are also notable record producers and engineers. Morrisound gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s as one of the premier studios for heavy metal and rock music. The studio's reputation primarily stems from its association with the burgeoning death metal scene in Florida during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Many influential death metal bands, including Morbid Angel, Death, Obituary, and Cannibal Corpse, chose Morrisound as their recording destination. The studio's distinctive sound, characterized by its powerful and heavy production quality, became synonymous with the death metal genre. Morrisound's success can be attributed to the expertise and technical prowess of the Morris brothers. Jim Morris, an accomplished guitarist, was responsible for producing and engineering most of the records that came out of the studio. His brother, Tom Morris, also played a significant role in shaping the studio's sound as an engineer and mixer. The studio itself featured state-of-the-art equipment and a spacious recording area, allowing bands to achieve the desired sonic intensity in their recordings. Morrisound became known for its precise drum sound, tight guitar tones, and thunderous bass lines. The studio's engineering techniques, including the innovative use of triggers and layering, contributed to the distinct heaviness and clarity found in many of the albums recorded there. Morrisound's influence on the death metal genre extended beyond its recording capabilities. The studio's association with the genre helped establish Tampa, Florida, as a mecca for death metal, attracting bands and musicians from around the world. Numerous iconic albums were recorded at Morrisound, solidifying its legacy and impact on the genre. Over the years, Morrisound Recording Studio expanded its reach beyond death metal, hosting a wide range of artists from various genres. Its versatility and commitment to quality made it a popular choice for bands and musicians seeking professional recording services. However, the studio's association with death metal remained a significant part of its identity. Michael Fuller explore Mike's journey from aspiring engineer to acclaimed producer, shaping the soundscape of a generation. Discover the man behind the music! Debra Cohen - Photographer Jeff Prince - Photographer
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Record Label & Catalog number:RoadRunneR Records RR 9655 |
Record Format12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country:1986 Europe |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: CRIMSON GLORY - Crimson Glory (Self-Titled) |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "CRIMSON GLORY - Crimson Glory (Self-Titled)" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "CRIMSON GLORY - Crimson Glory (Self-Titled)" is:
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Crimson Glory was a progressive metal band that formed in Sarasota, Florida in 1979. The band was known for their unique blend of heavy metal, progressive rock, and classical music, as well as their theatrical stage shows.
The band's early years saw several lineup changes, but by the mid-1980s, they had solidified their core lineup of vocalist Midnight (John Patrick McDonald), guitarists Jon Drenning and Ben Jackson, bassist Jeff Lords, and drummer Dana Burnell. They released their self-titled debut album in 1986, which was met with critical acclaim and helped to establish the band as one of the most promising acts in the metal scene.
Crimson Glory's sound was characterized by Midnight's powerful and operatic vocals, which drew comparisons to Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden and Geoff Tate of Queensrÿche. The band's instrumentation was also highly technical and complex, with intricate guitar riffs and solos, intricate bass lines, and intricate drum patterns. They often incorporated symphonic elements, such as strings and choirs, into their music as well.
The band's second album, "Transcendence," was released in 1988 and was another critical success. It showcased the band's continued growth and evolution, with even more complex and ambitious song structures and arrangements. The album's opening track, "Lady of Winter," is widely regarded as one of the band's best songs and a classic of the progressive metal genre.
Crimson Glory continued to tour and record throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, releasing two more albums, "Strange and Beautiful" (1991) and "Astronomica" (1999). However, by the mid-1990s, the band had gone through more lineup changes and was struggling to maintain their momentum in the rapidly-changing metal scene.
Despite these challenges, Crimson Glory's influence on the progressive metal genre is still felt to this day. Their innovative blend of heavy metal, progressive rock, and classical music helped to pave the way for many other bands in the genre, and their theatrical stage shows inspired countless other performers. The band's legacy lives on through their music, which continues to inspire new generations of metal fans and musicians.
RoadrunneR Records RR 9655 , 1986 , Europe
Hold onto your leather chaps, metal maniacs, because we're about to dive headfirst into the enigmatic world of Crimson Glory's self-titled debut. Released in 1986, this 12" vinyl LP wasn't just an album; it was a declaration, a battle cry from a band shrouded in mystique
Learn moreRoadrunner RR 9301 1 , 1991 , Holland ( Netherlands )
Crimson Glory's "Strange and Beautiful" is a Jekyll and Hyde of an album, a schizophrenic beast with two faces. One minute, you're soaring on the wings of Midnight's operatic wail and Jon Drenning's fiery guitar solos. The next, you're drowning in a sea of hairspray ballads and saccharine hooks.
Learn moreRoadrunner Records RR 9508 1 , 1988 , Europe
Crimson Glory's "Transcendence" is a sonic cathedral, a grandiose opera of metallic majesty that defies categorization. Soaring vocals, neoclassical shredding, and thunderous rhythms collide in a wall of sonic fury. Controversial yet visionary, the album pushes boundaries and leaves an indelible mark on heavy metal history.
Learn more