"W.A.S.P.'s self-titled" Album Description:
W.A.S.P.'s self-titled debut album, also known as "Winged Assassins," stands as a monumental piece of musical history, marking its release in the vibrant era of the 1980s. Produced by the dynamic duo of Blackie Lawless and Mike Varney, this 12" Vinyl LP Album not only etched its name in the annals of heavy metal but also played a pivotal role in shaping the genre during its release period.
Unleashed upon the music scene in 1984, W.A.S.P.'s inaugural effort sent shockwaves through the industry with its bold sound and rebellious attitude. The album is a sonic journey that encapsulates the raw energy and unbridled spirit of the times. As the '80s witnessed a flourishing of diverse musical genres, the self-titled release from W.A.S.P. carved its niche with a unique blend of heavy metal, glam, and a hint of punk.
Commercial success swiftly followed the album's release, catapulting W.A.S.P. into the limelight. The band's distinctive image, characterized by Blackie Lawless's menacing stage presence and the provocative album cover, contributed to its mystique. The album's standout tracks, including "I Wanna Be Somebody" and "L.O.V.E. Machine," became anthems that resonated with a generation hungry for music that defied conventions.
What sets "Winged Assassins" apart is not just its sonic intensity but also its thematic depth. Blackie Lawless's songwriting prowess shines through as he delves into themes of rebellion, love, and societal critique. The album's lyrical content, coupled with Lawless's distinctive vocals, created a powerful combination that set W.A.S.P. apart from its contemporaries.
As the album gained momentum, W.A.S.P. emerged as a trailblazer in the metal scene, influencing a wave of bands that embraced both the music and the rebellious ethos. The album's impact extended beyond the sonic realm, contributing to the evolution of the heavy metal subculture during the '80s.
| Album Production Information:
Produced by Blackie Lawless and Mike Varney
Sound/recording engineers Duane Baron, Stephen M. Fontano, Jim Scott, Hanspeter Huber
Duane Baron – Sound Engineer, Mixing Engineer
Veteran sound engineer who helped define the polished muscle of ’80s and ’90s hard rock and metal.
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Duane Baron is a renowned sound engineer known for shaping the sound of iconic rock and metal albums. Working as both engineer and mixer, he played a key role in crafting records by artists such as Mötley Crüe, Ozzy Osbourne, Heart, and Alice Cooper. His ability to balance clarity, power, and radio-ready polish made him a go-to figure during the peak years of big-budget rock production.
Duane Baron
, sound engineer and producer who has been working on 2 dozen of Heavy Metal albums during the 1980s. These albums include two W.A.S.P albums: "W.A.S.P" and "Inside the Electric Circus".
Mike Varney – Producer, Shrapnel Records founderThe behind-the-scenes catalyst of the 80s shred boom, with late-70s punk fingerprints all over his origin story. Read more... Mike Varney is the American producer and label boss who turned fast fingers into a business plan. I first clocked him in the late 1970s, thumping bass in San Francisco punks The Nuns, then moving to guitar with the Rocky Sullivan Band. Out in Novato, California, he founded Shrapnel Records in 1980, and by the early 1980s he was hunting new monsters via Guitar Player "Spotlight" and the U.S. Metal compilations. Mid-80s he supercharged the shred boom with releases tied to Steeler (with Yngwie Malmsteen) and Racer X, then kept the pipeline hot for Cacophony, Vinnie Moore, Tony MacAlpine and friends. Later he widened the map with Tone Center and Blues Bureau, still betting on feel as much as speed. Steve Fontano is a renowned music producer and sound engineer whose expertise shaped the sound of 1980s Heavy Metal. Known for his work with W.A.S.P., Racer X, and Tony MacAlpine, his technical mastery brought iconic albums to life. A key figure in the genre, Fontano’s contributions continue to influence music production today. Learn more about his career on the Steve Fontano biography page.
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Record Label & Catalognr: Capitol Records 1A 064-24 0195 1 ( 064-240195 ) |
Packaging:
This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos.
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Record |
Year & Country:
1984 Made in Holland |
