OMEN - Battle Cry INCL OIS 1984 Roadrunner 12" Vinyl LP Album

"Battle Cry" is the debut album of the American heavy metal band Omen. It was originally released in 1984 by Metal Blade. This is the original 1984 release of the album and includes lyrics insert and large poster.

This album "OMEN - Battle Cry" includes the original custom made inner sleeve (OIS) with album production details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork

large album front cover photo of: Omen's Battle Cry

Collector's notes ( detailed background information on the persons working on this album)

Album Fact Sheet: OMEN - Battle Cry

Music Genre:

 Power Metal  

Album Production Information:

The album: "OMEN - Battle Cry" was produced by: Brian Slagel

Brian Slagel is an influential figure in the world of heavy metal music. Born on 17 February 1961, in Los Angeles, California, Slagel developed a deep passion for music at an early age. Growing up in the vibrant music scene of the 1970s and 1980s, he played an instrumental role in shaping the landscape of heavy metal as we know it today.

In his teenage years, Slagel immersed himself in the thriving metal scene of Los Angeles. He attended numerous concerts and built a vast network of connections with musicians, fans, and industry professionals. Recognizing the immense talent around him, Slagel decided to channel his passion into something more substantial.

In 1982, at the age of 21, Slagel founded Metal Blade Records in his small apartment. The label began as a means to support and promote local metal bands who were struggling to secure record deals. Slagel's vision was to create a platform where these talented artists could showcase their music and gain wider recognition.

Metal Blade Records released its first compilation album, "Metal Massacre", in 1982. The album featured now-legendary bands such as Metallica, Ratt, and Slayer, among others. This groundbreaking release played a significant role in catapulting Metal Blade Records and its roster of artists into the spotlight.

Read more...

As the label continued to grow, Slagel nurtured and signed a multitude of influential bands, including Mercyful Fate, Cannibal Corpse, Gwar, and Armored Saint, to name just a few. His keen ear for talent and unwavering support for the genre helped Metal Blade Records become one of the most successful independent labels in the music industry.

Throughout his career, Slagel remained committed to preserving the authenticity and integrity of heavy metal music. While other labels veered towards more commercial sounds, Slagel stayed true to his roots, signing and promoting bands that embodied the spirit of the genre. He played a crucial role in the rise of the thrash metal movement, which had a profound impact on the music industry and inspired countless musicians.

In addition to his work as a label owner, Slagel has also served as a producer, working on albums for bands like Flotsam and Jetsam, Exciter, and Trouble. His deep understanding of the genre and his ability to bring out the best in artists allowed him to make significant contributions to their musical journeys.

Over the years, Brian Slagel's contributions to heavy metal have been widely recognized and celebrated. In 2010, he received the "Lifetime Achievement" award at the Metal Hammer Golden Gods ceremony. His dedication to the genre has left an indelible mark on the music world, influencing generations of metal musicians and fans alike.

Today, Metal Blade Records continues to thrive under Slagel's guidance. His passion, perseverance, and unwavering belief in the power of heavy metal have cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the genre. Brian Slagel's story is a testament to the transformative power of music and the immense impact that one person can have on an entire cultural movement.

Recorded at: Eldorado Studio, Hollywood

Sound engineers: Scott Singer, Carolyn Collins, Track Record, Los Angeles, Ron Fair

Notes: Carolyn Collins started her sound engineering career with Omen's Battle Cry as one of the first projects in which she participated, in 1985. She also participated in the sound engineering of Slayer's Hell Awaits album.
Ron Fair is a veteran Artists and Repetoir executive, record producer and songwriter. In a career that has spanned over 25 years at major record labels he has produced and arranged hits for several artists, but he is best known as a "guru/mentor", guiding the careers of unknown artists and turning them into superstars. Among the artists he has mentored include Wild Orchid, Christina Aguilera, Prima J, Travis Garland, Brick and Lace, Joanna Drew, Alexander Jessie James, Vanessa Carlton, Ashlee Simpson and the Black Eyed Peas.

Mastered by: Patrick W Engel
Notes: Patrick Engel is a recording engineer and metal musician from Germany. Was working at Rape of Harmonies Studios from 1997 to 2010. Afterward started Temple of Disharmony Studios.

Album Artwork: Vince Gutierrez
Notes: In 1984 Vincent Gutierrez drew the artwork for: 3rd Stage Alert, Omen Battle Cry, Slayer - Haunting the Chapel

Photos: Linda Burdick

Record Label Information:

 RoadrunneR RR 9818

Record Format:

 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

  1984 Made in Holland
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: OMEN - Battle Cry
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • John David Kimball - Vocals ( John has also sung in Master, Hammer Damage. )
  • Kenny Powell - Guitars - Guitars ( Kenny has also played in Savage Grace, Stepchild, Rapid Fire )
  • Steve Wittig - Drums ( Steve has also performed with Savage Grace, Rapid Fire )
  • Jody Henry - Bass
Complete Track-listing of the album "OMEN - Battle Cry"

The detailed tracklist of this record "OMEN - Battle Cry" is:

    Track-listing Side One:
  1. Death Rider
  2. The Axeman
  3. Last Rites
  4. Dragon's Breath
  5. Be My Wench
    Track-listing Side Two:
  1. Battle Cry
  2. Die By The Blade
  3. Prince Of Darkness
  4. Bring Out The Beast
  5. In The Arena
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover  "OMEN - Battle Cry"

Use the zoom-buttons to either zoom-in or zoom-out the images.

High Resolution Photo #10 OMEN - Battle Cry RoadrunneR https://vinyl-records.nl
Album Back Cover  Photo of "OMEN - Battle Cry"
High Resolution Photo #11 OMEN - Battle Cry RoadrunneR https://vinyl-records.nl  
Inner Sleeve   of "OMEN - Battle Cry" Album
High Resolution Photo #12 OMEN - Battle Cry RoadrunneR https://vinyl-records.nl
Photo of "OMEN - Battle Cry" Album's Inner Sleeve  
High Resolution Photo #13 OMEN - Battle Cry RoadrunneR https://vinyl-records.nl
Enlarged & Zoomed photo of "OMEN - Battle Cry" Record's Label
High Resolution Photo #14 OMEN - Battle Cry RoadrunneR https://vinyl-records.nl  
Photo of "OMEN - Battle Cry" 12" LP Record - Side One:
High Resolution Photo #15 OMEN - Battle Cry RoadrunneR https://vinyl-records.nl  
Photo of "OMEN - Battle Cry" 12" LP Record - Side Two:
High Resolution Photo #16 OMEN - Battle Cry RoadrunneR https://vinyl-records.nl  

 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. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Omen's Classic Heavy Metal Discography of the 1980s": Featuring "Battle Cry," "Warning of Danger," "The Curse," and "Nightmares.

Band Information:

  Omen is an American heavy metal band that was formed in 1983 in Los Angeles, California. The band has released several critically acclaimed albums, and is considered to be one of the pioneers of the American heavy metal scene.

Omen was formed in 1983 by guitarist Kenny Powell and vocalist J.D. Kimball. The band's original lineup also included bassist Andy Haas and drummer Steve Wittig. In 1984, the band released their debut album, "Battle Cry," which was well received by critics and fans alike. The album featured classic tracks such as "Death Rider" and "The Axeman."

The band's second album, "Warning of Danger," was released in 1985 and further solidified their place in the heavy metal genre. The album featured a more polished sound and showcased the band's ability to write memorable hooks and choruses. Omen continued to tour extensively throughout the 1980s and released several more albums, including "The Curse" and "Nightmares."

In the early 1990s, Omen disbanded due to changing musical tastes and declining interest in the heavy metal genre. However, the band reformed in 1997 and released a new album, "Reopening the Gates," in 1998. The album was well received and helped to reignite interest in the band.

Omen's musical style is rooted in traditional heavy metal, with influences from bands such as Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden. The band's music is characterized by fast-paced guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and memorable hooks and choruses. Omen's lyrics often deal with themes of fantasy, mythology, and warfare.

Omen's impact on the heavy metal genre cannot be overstated. The band's music helped to define the American heavy metal scene in the 1980s, and their influence can be heard in the music of countless bands that have followed in their footsteps. Omen's dedication to the art of heavy metal and their refusal to compromise their sound or image has earned them a loyal fan base that has stood the test of time.

OMEN - Battle Cry (Metal Blade Records) 12" LP
OMEN - Battle Cry (Metal Blade Records)  12" LP

Metal Blade Records 3984-14215-1 , 2017 , Europe

"Battle Cry" is the debut album of the American heavy metal band Omen. It was originally released in 1984 by Metal Blade. This is the 2017 re-issue of the album and includes lyrics insert and large poster.

Learn more
OMEN - Battle Cry (Roadrunner RR 9818) 12" LP
OMEN - Battle Cry (Roadrunner RR 9818)  12" LP

OMEN - Battle Cry (Roadrunner RR 9818) , 1984 , Netherlands

This is the original 1984 release of the album and includes lyrics insert and large poster.

Learn more
OMEN - Nightmares 12" EP
OMEN - Nightmares  12" LP

Metal Blade Records RR 9617 , 1987 , Netherlands

Nightmares is an 12" extended play ( EP ) record by the American Heavy Metal band OMEN, this record was released in 1987 and produced by Brian Slagel.

Learn more
OMEN - Warning of Danger 12" LP
OMEN - Warning of Danger  12" LP

Roadrunner Records – RR 9738 , 1985 , Netherlands

"Warning of Danger" is the second full length album by the American Heavy Metal band: "Omen". It has been recorded at the Eldorado Studios and Track Record Studio. Bill Metoyer has been taking care of the recording , while production was managed by "Brian Slagel" and Omen. Eddy Schreyer was the mastering engineer, mastering it at Eldorado Studio, Los Angeles.

Learn more