"Wrecking Ball" is the one and only album released by the Chicago Heavy Metal band "Ravage". It has been recorded and released in 1986. It has been recorded, mixed and mastered in the Fantasy Studios, Pierce Arrow Recorder, Solid Sound Studio. Album cover artwork was done by Guy Aitchison.
Emerging from the vibrant 1980s metal scene, RAVAGE's "Wrecking Ball" stands as a testament to the era's raw energy and unbridled passion for heavy music. This 12" vinyl LP, released in 1986, captures a pivotal moment in the evolution of thrash metal, showcasing a band determined to make their mark on the genre.
Historical Context and Musical Exploration
The mid-1980s was a fertile time for metal, with various subgenres vying for attention. Thrash metal, characterized by its aggressive tempo, fast guitar riffs, and often politically charged lyrics, was gaining momentum. Bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth were already carving their names into the annals of metal history. RAVAGE, hailing from Chicago, entered this scene with a hunger to prove their mettle.
"Wrecking Ball" is a relentless sonic assault, showcasing RAVAGE's mastery of thrash metal's core elements. The album is packed with fast-paced drumming, intricate guitar work, and vocals that range from raspy shouts to soaring screams. The band's songwriting delves into themes of social unrest, personal struggles, and the dark side of human nature. While not reinventing the wheel, RAVAGE's music is a solid representation of the thrash metal sound that was defining the era.
Production and Recording
The album was recorded at several studios, including Fantasy Studios, Pierce Arrow Recorder, and Solid Sound Studio. These studios had a history of working with diverse artists, contributing to the album's polished sound. The production team, including engineer Judd Sager and mixer Peter "The Butcher" Leonardy, ensured that RAVAGE's raw energy was captured while maintaining a level of sonic clarity that was essential for the genre.
Album Cover Art
The cover art for "Wrecking Ball" is a visual representation of the album's sonic intensity. Created by artist Guy Aitchison. The imagery is both symbolic and literal, reflecting the destructive force of the music contained within the grooves of the vinyl.
Genre and Controversies
RAVAGE's music firmly falls within the thrash metal genre, with elements of speed metal and traditional heavy metal woven into their sound. Their lyrics, while not overtly controversial, touch on themes of rebellion and societal disillusionment that resonated with many metal fans at the time.
| Album Fact Sheet: RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball |
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Music Genre: Heavy Metal |
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Album Production Information: The album: "RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball" was produced by: Ravage Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Judd Sager at Solid Sound Studio, Hoffman Estates, IL Remixed and engineered by: Peter "The Butcher" Leonardy at Pierce Arrow Recorders, Evanston, IL This album was mastered at: Fantasy Studios by George Horn George Horn is a highly acclaimed Chief Mastering Engineer known for his exceptional work at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California, as well as his contributions as a mastering engineer at CBS Studios in San Francisco. Renowned for his expertise and meticulous attention to detail, Horn has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of numerous heavy metal albums, collaborating frequently with industry stalwarts such as Steve Fontano, Dino Alden, and Guy Aitchison. Born with an innate passion for music, George Horn's journey in the world of audio engineering began early on. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to various genres and instruments, which fueled his curiosity and desire to understand the technical aspects of sound. His fascination with the process of capturing and enhancing audio quality led him to pursue a formal education in audio engineering and mastering. After completing his studies, Horn embarked on his professional career at CBS Studios in San Francisco, where he honed his skills under the guidance of seasoned engineers. During his tenure there, he had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, gaining invaluable experience and establishing a reputation for his exceptional ear for sound. Horn's true breakthrough came when he joined the esteemed team at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California. As the Chief Mastering Engineer at this iconic studio, he oversaw the final stage of the production process, meticulously fine-tuning the sound of countless albums. It was here that he forged significant partnerships with renowned heavy metal producers and engineers, including Steve Fontano, Dino Alden, and Guy Aitchison. The collaboration between George Horn and these industry luminaries proved to be a winning formula, resulting in numerous highly acclaimed heavy metal albums that captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Their combined expertise and creative synergy pushed the boundaries of the genre, delivering powerful and sonically rich recordings that defined the sound of many iconic bands. With a keen understanding of the nuances of heavy metal music, George Horn's mastering work brought out the best in each album he touched. His acute attention to detail ensured that every element of the music, from the thunderous guitars to the pounding drums and soaring vocals, was presented with exceptional clarity, power, and balance. His precise and artistic approach to mastering contributed greatly to the overall impact and emotional resonance of the final product. Throughout his career, George Horn has received widespread acclaim for his contributions to the music industry. His work has earned him multiple awards and nominations, solidifying his reputation as one of the finest mastering engineers in the business. Beyond heavy metal, he has also worked on a diverse range of genres, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability as an engineer. George Horn's dedication to his craft and unwavering commitment to excellence have made him a trusted figure in the world of audio engineering. His contributions to heavy metal music, in particular, have left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing the way it sounds and ensuring its enduring popularity. Today, George Horn continues to push the boundaries of audio engineering, constantly seeking new ways to enhance the sonic experience. His passion for music and unwavering pursuit of sonic perfection have made him a revered figure among musicians, producers, and fellow engineers alike. Through his remarkable work, George Horn has undoubtedly shaped the landscape of heavy metal and left an enduring legacy in the realm of audio mastering. Logo and cover artwork: Guy Aitchison / Guilty and Innocent Productions: 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. Album cover photography: Mike Barwacz |
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Record Label Information: RoadrunneR Records – RR 9672 |
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Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) Weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1986 Manufactured in the Netherlands |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball" is:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball" |
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Album Back Cover Photo of "RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball" |
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Photo of "RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball" 12" LP Record - Side One: |
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Photo of "RAVAGE - Wrecking Ball" 12" LP Record - Side Two: |
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Note: the pictures on this page are actual photos of the 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 ). |