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Album
Production information:
Produced by Steve Fontano, Vicious Rumors.
Steve Fontano, born Stephen M. Fontano, is an esteemed American producer, sound engineer, and mixer who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Known for his exceptional work in the realm of 1980s Heavy Metal, Fontano has collaborated with numerous iconic bands, showcasing his unparalleled talent and contributing to the creation of several groundbreaking albums.
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Born and raised in the United States, Fontano's passion for music developed at an early age. Fascinated by the intricate technicalities of sound engineering, he embarked on a journey to master his craft. With dedication and a keen ear for detail, Fontano honed his skills and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional abilities in the studio.
In the vibrant era of 1980s Heavy Metal, Fontano rose to prominence as a sought-after producer and sound engineer. His extensive discography is a testament to his immense talent and his significant contributions to the genre. He has had the privilege of working with some of the most influential bands of that time, elevating their sound to new heights.
One of Fontano's notable collaborations was with the iconic band W.A.S.P. Known for their theatrical performances and energetic music, W.A.S.P. entrusted Fontano with capturing their raw power and intensity in the studio. Together, they crafted albums that resonated with fans worldwide, leaving an indelible impact on the Heavy Metal scene.
Fontano's expertise extended beyond W.A.S.P., as he lent his talents to numerous other acclaimed bands. Racer X, Apocrypha, Chastain, Hexx, M.A.R.S, David T. Chastain, and Tony MacAlpine are among the notable acts that benefited from his technical prowess and creative input. Fontano's skillful mixing and production played a crucial role in shaping the sonic landscape of these albums, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a producer.
Throughout his career, Fontano consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the nuances of Heavy Metal music. His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his ability to capture the essence of each band's unique sound, made him a trusted collaborator in the industry. Artists relied on his expertise to translate their artistic vision into sonic masterpieces, resulting in albums that are celebrated to this day.
Steve Fontano's impact on the world of Heavy Metal cannot be overstated. His work has stood the test of time, and his contributions continue to inspire generations of music enthusiasts and professionals. His dedication, technical expertise, and creative vision have firmly established him as one of the most accomplished producers, sound engineers, and mixers in the history of Heavy Metal music.
Recorded at Prairie Sun, Cotati, CA.
In the world of music, recording studios play a vital role in capturing the essence and creativity of artists. Two prominent studios, Prairie Sun Recording Studios and Fantasy Studios, have made their mark in the industry by providing exceptional recording experiences and producing award-winning albums. Prairie Sun, located in California, and Fantasy Studios, situated in Berkeley, have both contributed significantly to the musical landscape, attracting renowned artists from various genres.
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Prairie Sun Recording Studios, nestled in the heart of California, has been a hub for heavy metal music during the 1980s. Its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional engineering have drawn numerous bands seeking to capture their raw energy and power. Bands like Chastain, Exodus, Laaz Rockit, and Vicious Rumours have graced the studios with their presence, utilizing the studio's capabilities to create some of the genre's most iconic albums.
One of the defining features of Prairie Sun is its commitment to providing artists with a comfortable and conducive environment for the creative process. The studio's unique design, incorporating natural surroundings and ample natural light, allows artists to feel at ease while recording. This relaxed atmosphere often translates into the music, as artists are able to fully immerse themselves in their work, resulting in authentic and powerful performances.
Furthermore, Prairie Sun's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality sets it apart from other recording studios. The studio houses cutting-edge equipment and employs experienced engineers who possess a deep understanding of the nuances of heavy metal music. These professionals work closely with the artists, ensuring that every element of the music is captured with precision and clarity. As a result, Prairie Sun has become renowned for its exceptional sound production and mixing capabilities.
Moving on to Fantasy Studios, situated in Berkeley's Zaentz Media Center, the studio has earned a reputation for its role in recording award-winning albums. Initially built as a private recording studio for artists on the Fantasy Records label in 1971, it opened its doors to the public in 1980. Since then, it has become a go-to destination for musicians across various genres, including rock, pop, and punk.
Fantasy Studios holds an illustrious history of producing chart-topping albums that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Notable among these are Journey's "Escape" and Green Day's "Dookie", both of which achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. The studio's commitment to excellence is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities and talented team of engineers and producers, who work tirelessly to ensure the highest quality recordings.
Beyond its technical prowess, Fantasy Studios boasts a unique atmosphere that fosters creativity and collaboration. Its spacious recording rooms and comfortable lounges provide artists with a comfortable environment to explore their musical ideas. The studio's acoustics are meticulously designed to capture the nuances of different instruments and vocal performances, allowing artists to realize their artistic vision with precision and authenticity.
Moreover, Fantasy Studios' location in Berkeley adds to its allure. The vibrant and diverse music scene in the surrounding area serves as a constant source of inspiration for artists who choose to record at the studio. The city's rich cultural history and artistic community create a stimulating backdrop, enhancing the creative process and often influencing the music itself.
Album cover artwork by: Lionel Baker II
Photography Jim Marshall
Jim Marshall (1936-2010) was an American photographer known for his iconic images that captured the essence of the music and cultural scene of the 1960s and 1970s. His work became synonymous with rock 'n' roll, and he is regarded as one of the greatest music photographers of all time.
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Born on 3 February 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, James Joseph Marshall developed an early passion for photography. He received his first camera, a Kodak Brownie, at the age of nine and began experimenting with capturing the world around him. As a teenager, Marshall worked as an assistant to a local portrait photographer, honing his skills and developing his own unique style.
In the early 1960s, Marshall moved to San Francisco, where he became immersed in the burgeoning counterculture and music scene. He began photographing jazz musicians, but it was his love for rock 'n' roll that would define his career. Marshall's ability to blend seamlessly into the music scene allowed him to capture intimate and candid moments of some of the greatest musicians of all time.
One of Marshall's most famous photographs is the image of Jimi Hendrix burning his guitar on stage at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. This image encapsulated the rebellious spirit of the era and became an enduring symbol of the power and energy of rock music. Marshall's other notable subjects included Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, and Miles Davis, among many others.
Marshall's photographs went beyond the stage and studio; he captured the essence of the artists themselves, documenting their lives on the road and offstage. His images showcased the raw emotions, vulnerability, and humanity of these legendary figures, making them relatable to audiences around the world.
Throughout his career, Marshall was known for his relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft. He was often described as a maverick, unafraid to push boundaries and capture the truth of the moment. His photographs reflected the cultural and political climate of the time, and his ability to connect with his subjects on a personal level allowed him to capture moments of rare authenticity.
Despite his success, Marshall remained humble and often preferred the company of musicians over the glitz and glamour of the industry. He valued his relationships with the artists he photographed, and many of them considered him a friend as well as a trusted documentarian.
In addition to his music photography, Marshall also ventured into other genres, including street photography and portraiture. His work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums worldwide and has been featured on album covers, book covers, and in publications such as Rolling Stone, Life, and Vanity Fair.
Jim Marshall passed away on 24 March 2010, leaving behind a rich legacy of images that continue to inspire and resonate with music lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. His photographs capture a transformative period in history and remain a testament to the power of visual storytelling. Today, his work continues to be celebrated and recognized as an indelible part of the cultural fabric of the 20th century.
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