Exploring the Origins: CJSS's "World Gone Mad"
CJSS's debut album, "World Gone Mad" (1985), marked a milestone in metal history. Fusing David T. Chastain's stellar guitar work with CJSS's synergy, the album's release on Leviathan Records resonated with the mid-80s metal scene. With tracks like "Communication Breakdown," it became a timeless classic, showcasing the band's technical prowess and lyrical depth.
In the vibrant tapestry of heavy metal history, certain albums stand out as seminal works that define an era. One such album is "World Gone Mad," the debut collaboration between renowned guitarist David T. Chastain and the band CJSS. Released on the Leviathan record label in 1985, this 12" Vinyl LP marked a significant chapter in the evolution of the metal genre.
The Genesis of CJSS
Before delving into the creation of "World Gone Mad," it's crucial to understand the roots of CJSS. The band, formed in 1984, comprised David T. Chastain on guitars, Russell Jinkens on vocals, Mike Skimmerhorn on bass, and Les Sharp on drums. The acronym CJSS derived from the initials of the band members' last names.
A Sonic Adventure: Making of "World Gone Mad"
The recording process of "World Gone Mad" was a testament to the burgeoning talent within CJSS. With David T. Chastain's exceptional guitar skills at the forefront, the album showcased a fusion of intricate riffs, blistering solos, and powerful vocals. The chemistry between the band members was palpable, resulting in a collection of tracks that resonated with the spirit of the mid-80s metal scene.
The album's production reflected the raw energy and unbridled passion of the band. The studio sessions were marked by an unapologetic commitment to the essence of metal, capturing the essence of the era's musical zeitgeist.
Release and Reception
"World Gone Mad" hit the shelves in 1985, becoming an instant classic in the metal community. Tracks like "Communication Breakdown" and "Land of the Free" showcased the band's ability to seamlessly blend melody with aggression. The album's lyrical themes touched upon societal issues, adding a layer of depth to the sonic experience.
The reception was overwhelmingly positive, solidifying CJSS's presence in the metal landscape. Fans and critics alike praised the album for its technical prowess, lyrical depth, and the distinctive style that would become synonymous with David T. Chastain's musical identity.
Music Genre: Heavy Power Metal |
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Album Production Information:
The album: "David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad" was produced by: Dave Chastain and CJSS Background information: David T. Chastain an American musician, composer, and record producer from Atlanta, Georgia. He is best known as the founder and lead guitarist of the band CJSS (Chastain, James Murphy, David T. Chastain), which was active in the 1980s and 1990s. He has also released solo albums and collaborated with other musicians in the heavy metal and neoclassical metal genres. Chastain began playing guitar at a young age and formed his first band, Chastain, in the early 1980s. The band released several albums and gained a following in the heavy metal scene. In the late 1980s, Chastain formed CJSS with James Murphy and released several albums together. In the 1990s, Chastain released several solo albums and collaborated with other musicians in the heavy metal and neoclassical metal genres. He also founded the record label Leviathan Records, which released albums by other heavy metal and neoclassical metal artists. Chastain continues to release music and tour as a solo artist and with various bands. He is also a music teacher and has released instructional guitar videos. Gerard Gustave - Sound Engineer Ray Janos - Mastering Engineer Eric Larnoy (1961-1996) - Album Cover Art Eric Larnoy was an American Graphics artists who has illustrated a couple of dozen Heavy Metal album covers during the 1980s, a couple of bands for which he has designed album covers are: David Chastain's CJSS (World Gone Mad) , Liege Lord (Freedom's Rise) , Manilla Road (The Deluge). Guy Aitchison - Album artwork Guy Aitchison has been designing and drawing Heavy Metal album covers during the mid to late-1980s. During this period he has drawn numerous album covers. Since 1988 he apprenticed in Chicago at Bob Olson's Custom Tattooing and became a tattooist. Guy Aitchison has been working often together with Steve Fontano, Dino Alden, and George Horn on the same heavy metal albums. |
Record Label Information: Black Dragon Records BD 007 / Leviathan Records |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1986 Made in France |
Album cover photos of : David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad |
| Front Cover Photo of "David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad" Album |
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| Back Cover Photo of "David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad" Album |
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| Inner Sleeve of "David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad" Album |
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Close-up Photo of "David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad" 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. |
Band Members and Musicians on: David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad |
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Track Listing of: "David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad" |
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The Songs/tracks on "David T Chastain's CJSS - World Gone Mad" are
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CJSS is a rock band that was formed in the 1980s by guitarist David T. Chastain. The band's name is an acronym of the members' last names: David T. Chastain, Mike Haid, Les Sharp, and Russell Jinkens. The band was initially formed to play instrumental rock music, but they later added vocals to their music.
The band's sound is heavily influenced by heavy metal and hard rock, with fast-paced guitar riffs, pounding drums, and energetic vocals. Their music is known for its technical prowess, with complex guitar solos and intricate drumming patterns. The band's lyrics often deal with themes of rebellion, power, and freedom.
CJSS released their first album, "World Gone Mad," in 1984, which received critical acclaim from both fans and critics. The album features eight tracks, including the popular songs "Hell on Earth" and "Out of Control." The success of their first album led to the release of several more albums, including "Praise the Loud" (1986), "Kings of the World" (1988), and "Best of 1984-1989" (1991).
One of the defining features of CJSS is their live performances, which are known for their high energy and intensity. The band has toured extensively in the United States and Europe, playing in venues ranging from small clubs to large arenas. Their concerts often feature elaborate stage setups, with pyrotechnics, lasers, and other special effects.
Despite their success, CJSS faced some setbacks over the years. The band went through several lineup changes, with David T. Chastain being the only consistent member. They also struggled with record label issues, which limited the distribution of their albums. However, the band continued to tour and release new music, and their fan base remained loyal and supportive.
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Leviathan LA 862 , 1986 , Made in USA
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Black Dragon Records BD 016 yPartx 92 195 , 1986 , Made in France
Explore the sonic realm of CJSS's "Praise the Loud" French release, featuring a distinct cover setting it apart from global editions. This metal masterpiece, born from David T. Chastain's genius, offers a musical odyssey, with the French edition becoming a collector's treasure, boasting a visual departure from the original design
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Black Dragon Records BD 007 / Leviathan Records , 1986 , Made in France
CJSS's debut album, "World Gone Mad" (1985), marked a milestone in metal history. Fusing David T. Chastain's stellar guitar work with CJSS's synergy, the album's release on Leviathan Records resonated with the mid-80s metal scene. With tracks like "Communication Breakdown," it became a timeless classic, showcasing the band's technical prowess and lyrical depth.
Learn more