- 1986 HALLELUJAH Records
This is the extremely rare and hard to find original Swiss release of Killer's Young Blood Because of the small market size (more often record were imported from Germany, France, or Holland) in Switzerland, This Swiss edition was pressed in limited quantities The record label +SUISA+ The stamper contains "Swiss Made" with the icon of a Swiss Crossbow
1986 wasn't just the year Halley's Comet swung by; it was the year Swiss metal band KILLER shed their skin and roared back with "YOUNG BLOOD." Forget their previous incarnation; this was a sonic baptism by fire, a middle finger to the hair metal hordes clogging up MTV.
The Backstory:
KILLER had already cut their teeth in the early 80s, but by '86, the landscape had shifted. Glitz and glam were all the rage, and the raw, unadulterated metal of KILLER's past was in danger of being overshadowed. But like a phoenix from the ashes, they emerged from Hallelujah Records with a new lineup and a sound that was both familiar and utterly revitalized.
Musical Mayhem:
This wasn't just a change of clothes; this was a sonic overhaul. "YOUNG BLOOD" is a relentless assault of speed metal riffs, punctuated by a rhythm section that could hammer nails into your coffin. The vocals are a primal scream, a rallying cry against the vapid pop that dominated the airwaves.
Think Judas Priest on steroids, Motörhead with a Swiss twist. It's a sound that's both brutal and melodic, a headbanger's dream and a purist's delight. It's the sound of a band refusing to compromise, a band that would rather burn out than fade away.
Popular Tracks:
"YOUNG BLOOD" wasn't just a collection of songs; it was an arsenal of anthems. Tracks like "Under the Knife" and "Bloodbath" became instant classics, their raw energy and aggressive lyrics resonating with fans who craved something heavier, something more real.
The Unholy Trinity:
At the helm of this sonic maelstrom was a trio of mad scientists: Martin Eric Ain on bass, Thomas Gabriel Fischer on vocals and guitars, and Reed St. Mark on drums. This wasn't just a band; it was a brotherhood forged in the fires of heavy metal hell.
Their chemistry was undeniable, their passion palpable. They weren't just playing music; they were exorcising demons, channeling the raw energy of youth and rebellion into a sonic weapon.
| Album Fact Sheet: KILLER - YOUNG BLOOD SWISS METAL HALLELUJAH |
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Music Genre: Swiss Heavy Metal |
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Album Production Information: Young Blood has been recorded in December 1985 at the Spygel Studios in Kirchheim/Teck Western Germany. Sound Engineers: Walter "Batze" Kramer, Tom Kruger Walter "Batze" Kramer a name synonymous with excellence in sound engineering, has played an instrumental role in shaping the sound of heavy metal. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality, Kramer has been the force behind the auditory experience of numerous iconic heavy metal bands. His expertise has touched the music of Starstruck, Tyrant, Sacrifice, Gravestone, Restless, Bloody Six, Vampyr, Maniac, Tox, Killer, Stormwitch, Necronomicon, Lustfinger, Veto, and many more. Early Career and Background Walter Kramer, affectionately known as "Batze," began his journey into sound engineering in the early 1980s. His fascination with music and technology led him to explore the intricate world of sound mixing and mastering. Over the years, he honed his skills, developing a unique ability to balance the raw energy of heavy metal with crystal-clear sound quality. Contributions to Heavy Metal Kramer's work has been pivotal in defining the auditory aesthetics of heavy metal. His technical prowess and creative approach have elevated the music of many bands, ensuring their sound is both powerful and precise. Here are some of the notable bands he has worked with: Starstruck, Tyrant , Sacrifice, Gravestone , Restless, Bloody Six , Vampyr, Maniac, Tox , Killer , Stormwitch , Necronomicon , Lustfinger, Veto and many others. Technical Expertise and Innovation Kramer's approach to sound engineering is characterized by a blend of traditional techniques and modern innovations. He utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and software to achieve a sound that is both classic and contemporary. His understanding of acoustics, coupled with his creative instincts, allows him to bring out the best in every band he works with.
Tom Krüger, a German producer, sound and mixing engineer, and musician, is a prominent figure in the world of heavy metal music. Born in Germany, his passion for music began at a young age, and he dedicated his life to honing his skills and making a significant impact on the music industry. Krüger's journey in the music world started in the 1980s when heavy metal was gaining immense popularity. He was captivated by the raw energy and power of the genre, and he set out to contribute his talents to this thriving movement. With his exceptional technical abilities and a keen ear for sound, he quickly made a name for himself as a producer and engineer in the German heavy metal scene. Throughout his career, Krüger collaborated with numerous influential bands, working on over two dozen German heavy metal albums during the 1980s. His skills as a producer and engineer brought a distinct sound to each project, helping to shape the overall atmosphere and tone of the albums. He had an innate ability to capture the essence of the heavy metal sound, emphasizing the aggression and intensity that fans craved. Krüger's contribution to the heavy metal genre extended beyond his role as a producer and engineer. He was also a talented musician, proficient in playing various instruments, including guitar and keyboards. His musical prowess allowed him to understand the creative process from both sides of the studio, enabling him to communicate effectively with the bands he worked with. During his career, Krüger collaborated with renowned German heavy metal acts, including Accept, Helloween, Scorpions, and Kreator, among many others. His collaborations resulted in the creation of iconic albums that have stood the test of time, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the German heavy metal scene. In addition to his work as a producer and engineer, Krüger also ventured into other areas of the music industry. He established his own recording studio, where he continued to produce and engineer albums for various bands and artists. His studio became a hub for creativity, attracting talented musicians seeking to achieve the distinctive sound that Krüger was known for. Krüger's impact on the German heavy metal scene during the 1980s cannot be overstated. His contributions helped shape the genre's sound and solidify its place in the global music landscape. His meticulous attention to detail, technical expertise, and innate musicality made him a sought-after professional in the industry. Today, Tom Krüger's legacy lives on through the albums he worked on and the countless heavy metal fans who continue to appreciate the music he helped bring to life. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering passion for heavy metal have left an indelible mark on the genre, ensuring his place as a respected and influential figure in the history of German heavy metal. Mastered by Rico Sonderegger, St Gallen, Switzerland. Preproduction at MBB Studios Switzerland. Album cover design: Martin Appoldt. Photography: Pascal Hegner
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Record Label & Catalognr: Hallelujah X 710 / Gama Musikverlag |
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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 Made in Switzerland |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: KILLER - YOUNG BLOOD SWISS METAL HALLELUJAH |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "KILLER - YOUNG BLOOD SWISS METAL HALLELUJAH" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "KILLER - YOUNG BLOOD SWISS METAL HALLELUJAH" is:
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. 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 ).
Killer, a pioneering Swiss heavy metal band, emerged in the early 1980s with a raw, aggressive sound that defied the era's glam metal trends. Their albums, like "Young Blood," showcased a relentless energy and rebellious spirit, solidifying their place in the metal scene. Known for their intense live shows and controversial imagery, Killer left a lasting impact on the genre, inspiring generations of metal bands. Their music remains a testament to the power of unfiltered passion and unwavering dedication to their craft.
"Ladykiller" was expertly produced by Corry Knobel and Christoph Berger, who skillfully captured the raw power and intensity of Killer's music. The album was recorded at New Sound Studio, with the talented Gwyn Mathias serving as the sound engineer, ensuring the best possible sound quality for the band's tracks.
Ladykiller 12" Vinyl LP
"Stronger Than Ever" showcased Killer's growth as musicians. The album was a departure from their earlier sound, incorporating more melodic elements while retaining their signature hard rock edge. This musical evolution was a testament to their willingness to experiment and push boundaries.
Stronger Than Ever 12" Vinyl LP
The early 1980s was a time of burgeoning heavy metal, with bands emerging from various corners of the world, each contributing their unique flavor to the genre. Killer, with their raw energy and undeniable talent, stood as a testament to Switzerland's contribution to the global heavy metal movement.
Thriller 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1986, "Young Blood" marked a significant turning point for Swiss heavy metal band Killer. The album, released on Scratch Records, signaled a fresh start for the band after a major lineup change and a shift in their musical direction.
- Young Blood ( 1986, Germany ) - Young Blood ( 1986, Switzerland )