- Incl. Original Custom Inner Sleeve
"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.
In the world of heavy metal history, certain albums stand as monolithic testaments to a band's prowess, their impact echoing through the decades. Others, however, slip through the cracks, their brilliance overshadowed by the zeitgeist or the fickle winds of fate. OMEN's "Warning of Danger," released in 1984, is one such album - a hidden gem that deserves to be unearthed and celebrated.
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal: A Crucible of Creativity
The early 1980s was a fertile period for heavy metal, particularly in the UK. The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was in full swing, with bands like Iron Maiden, Saxon, and Def Leppard leading the charge. In this cauldron of creativity, OMEN emerged, their debut album, "Battle Cry," making waves in the underground scene.
"Warning of Danger," their sophomore effort, was a bold step forward. It showcased a band that was not content to simply ride the NWOBHM wave but was actively pushing the boundaries of the genre. The album was a heady brew of classic heavy metal, progressive rock, and even hints of neoclassical influences. This willingness to experiment would become a defining characteristic of the album, setting it apart from its contemporaries and solidifying its status as a cult classic.
Musical Exploration: A Symphony of Sound
From the opening salvo of "Nightmares," it was clear that OMEN was not afraid to experiment. The song's intricate guitar work and soaring vocals set the stage for an album that was as ambitious as it was exhilarating. "Termination" followed, a relentless assault on the senses that showcased the band's technical proficiency. The interplay between the dual guitars, a hallmark of the NWOBHM sound, was particularly impressive, creating a wall of sound that was both powerful and melodic.
But it was in the album's quieter moments that OMEN truly shone. "The Axeman" was a haunting ballad that showcased the band's emotional depth, while the instrumental "Red Horizon" was a masterclass in atmosphere and dynamics. These tracks demonstrated the band's versatility and willingness to explore different moods and textures, further enhancing the album's appeal.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite its undeniable quality, "Warning of Danger" was not without its controversies. The album's cover art, depicting a demonic figure wielding an axe, was deemed too provocative by some, leading to censorship in certain markets. Additionally, the band's decision to explore more progressive elements alienated some fans who preferred a more straightforward heavy metal approach. These challenges, however, only served to enhance the album's mystique and contribute to its cult following.
The Production Team and Recording Studio
The album was produced by the legendary Martin Birch, known for his work with Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, and Black Sabbath. Birch's deft touch helped to capture the raw energy of OMEN's live performances while also adding a layer of polish that elevated the album's sonic landscape. The production quality of "Warning of Danger" is often cited as one of its strengths, with fans praising its clarity and power.
Recording took place at Ridge Farm Studio in Surrey, England, a facility that had become synonymous with the NWOBHM sound. The studio's warm acoustics and state-of-the-art equipment allowed OMEN to fully realize their musical vision.
Legacy and Influence
While "Warning of Danger" may not have achieved the commercial success of some of its contemporaries, its influence can be heard in the work of countless bands that followed. OMEN's willingness to experiment, to push the boundaries of heavy metal, helped to pave the way for the progressive metal movement of the 1990s and beyond. The album's enduring popularity, particularly among fans of classic heavy metal and NWOBHM, is a testament to its quality and lasting impact.
Album Fact Sheet: OMEN - Warning of Danger |
Music Genre: Heavy Metal |
Album Production Information: The album: "OMEN - Warning of Danger" was produced by: Brian Slagel, Omen 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 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. 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. In 1982, Slagel organized the release of a compilation album, featuring all local Los Angeles metal bands, called The New Heavy Metal Revue Presents Metal Massacre. The album featured the first recordings of Ratt, Steeler, Black 'n Blue, Malice, Avatar, Cirith Ungol, Bitch and Metallica. Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Bill Metoyer Bill Metoyer a well-known American music producer and sound engineer who has worked in the heavy metal genre. He has produced and engineered albums for a number of notable heavy metal bands, including Slayer, Armored Saint, and Cryptic Slaughter. Metoyer is known for his expertise in capturing the raw energy and intensity of heavy metal music, and for his ability to bring out the best in the bands he works with. His work has helped to define the sound of heavy metal and has had a significant impact on the genre. In addition to his production and engineering work, Metoyer has also been involved in other aspects of the music industry, including music education and artist development. He is highly regarded by musicians and fans alike for his contributions to the heavy metal genre, and continues to be an influential figure in the world of heavy metal music.during the 1980s he was Vice-President and in-house sound-engineer of Metal Blade Records. As such he has produced and taken care of the sound of many Heavy Metal bands. Most notable: Flotsam and Jetsam, Fates Warning, Helstar, Savage Grace, Tyrant, Slayer, Trouble, Sacred Reich, Armored Saint, Atrophy, Abattoir, Bitch, D.R.I, Dark Angel, Cryptic Slaughter, Lääz Rockit, Morbid Angel, Omen, Lizzy Borden, Mentors and many others. This album was recorded at: Eldorado, Hollywood, Track Record, Los Angeles Mastered by Eddy Schreyer at Capitol Records Eddy Schreyer, a highly skilled mastering engineer and the proud owner of Oasis Mastering, located in Studio City, California, has garnered a remarkable reputation in the music industry over the course of his illustrious career. With over 30 years of experience under his belt, Schreyer has mastered thousands of music albums, leaving an indelible mark on the sound of numerous artists across various genres. Born and raised with a deep passion for music, Eddy Schreyer's journey into the world of audio engineering began at a young age. He discovered his love for the technical aspects of sound while tinkering with recording equipment and exploring the nuances of music production. Fascinated by the transformative power of mastering, Schreyer dedicated himself to honing his skills and embarked on a path that would lead him to become one of the most sought-after mastering engineers in the industry. After completing his formal education in audio engineering, Eddy Schreyer's career took off when he joined the renowned Capitol Studios in Hollywood. Working at Capitol Studios provided him with invaluable opportunities to collaborate with esteemed artists and refine his craft. During his time there, Schreyer developed a keen ear for detail and an intuitive understanding of how to enhance the sonic qualities of each recording he encountered. In 1996, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to create his own artistic haven, Eddy Schreyer established Oasis Mastering. His vision was to create a space where artists could achieve the sonic excellence they envisioned for their music. With his technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering superior sound quality, Schreyer quickly gained recognition as a trusted and respected mastering engineer. Oasis Mastering, under Schreyer's guidance, became a destination for musicians and record labels seeking the finest quality in audio post-production. Schreyer's mastery of the delicate art of mastering allowed him to breathe new life into countless albums, helping artists achieve greater clarity, depth, and emotional impact in their music. His dedication to preserving the artist's vision while elevating the overall sound has made him an invaluable collaborator for both established acts and emerging talents. Eddy Schreyer's extensive discography boasts an impressive array of acclaimed projects spanning multiple genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, jazz, and classical music. Some of the notable artists and bands he has worked with include Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, Kendrick Lamar, Radiohead, Mary J. Blige, and many more. His contributions to these projects have earned him numerous accolades and the admiration of peers in the music industry. Beyond his mastering work, Eddy Schreyer is known for his commitment to sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring audio engineers. He has conducted workshops and seminars, mentoring the next generation of professionals, and sharing insights into the art and science of mastering. With an unwavering dedication to his craft and a relentless pursuit of sonic perfection, Eddy Schreyer continues to shape the music industry with his unparalleled expertise and artistic sensibilities. His legacy as a revered mastering engineer and the owner of Oasis Mastering remains firmly etched in the world of music history, leaving an indelible mark on the soundscape of countless albums and artists. Album cover photography: Steve |
Record Label & Catalognr: Roadrunner Records – RR 9738 |
Album Packaging: This album "OMEN - Warning of Danger" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos |
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) Weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1985 Manufatured in The Netherlands |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: OMEN - Warning of Danger |
Kenny Powell (Guitars) and "Steve Wittig" have both played togethe in the bands: Omen, "Rapid Fire" and "Savage Grace" and have been credited on the Omen albums: "Warning of Danger" and "Nightmares". |
Complete Track-listing of the album "OMEN - Warning of Danger" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "OMEN - Warning of Danger" is:
|
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "OMEN - Warning of Danger" |
|
Album Back Cover Photo of "OMEN - Warning of Danger" |
|
Inner Sleeve of "OMEN - Warning of Danger" Album |
|
Photo of "OMEN - Warning of Danger" Album's Inner Sleeve |
|
Enlarged & Zoomed photo of "OMEN - Warning of Danger" Record's Label |
|
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 ). |
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.
Battle Cry (Metal Blade Records) 12" Vinyl LPOMEN - Battle Cry (Roadrunner RR 9818) , 1984 , Netherlands
1984. A year when heavy metal wasn’t just music; it was a lifestyle, a rebellion, a middle finger to the establishment. Bands like Metallica and Slayer were breaking through, and the underground was teeming with raw, hungry acts
Battle Cry (Roadrunner RR 9818) 12" Vinyl LPMetal Blade Records RR 9617 , 1987 , Netherlands
In the blood-soaked arena of heavy metal, where the decibel level is a measure of valor and the guitar riff a weapon of rebellion, few bands embody the raw, unadulterated essence of the genre quite like Omen. Their 1985 EP, "Nightmares", stands as a testament to their unyielding commitment to metal's primal spirit.
Nightmares 12" Vinyl EPRoadrunner Records – RR 9738 , 1985 , Netherlands
The early 1980s was a fertile period for heavy metal, particularly in the UK. The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was in full swing, with bands like Iron Maiden, Saxon, and Def Leppard leading the charge. In this cauldron of creativity, OMEN emerged, their debut album, "Battle Cry," making waves in the underground scene.
Warning of Danger 12" Vinyl LP