METALLICA - Death Magnetic 12" Vinyl 2LP Album

- Released on Blackened Records wit Gatefold Album Cover

Born in Long Beach, New York, Rubin developed a deep passion for music from a young age. Growing up in a diverse cultural environment, he was exposed to a wide range of musical genres, which greatly influenced his later work. In his teenage years, Rubin immersed himself in the vibrant New York punk rock scene, attending shows and embracing the rebellious spirit of the movement.

Rubin's foray into the music industry began in the early 1980s when he co-founded Def Jam Recordings with Russell Simmons. The label quickly gained prominence and became one of the most influential hip-hop imprints of its time. Rubin's keen ability to recognize emerging talent led him to work with iconic rap acts such as Run-D.M.C., LL Cool J, and Beastie Boys, among others. His production style, characterized by stripped-down beats and minimalist arrangements, revolutionized the hip-hop genre and earned him widespread acclaim.

In the mid-1980s, Rubin's diverse musical tastes led him to explore the realms of heavy metal and hard rock. He founded Def American Recordings (later renamed American Recordings) as an avenue to work with artists from these genres. It was during this time that Rubin forged a partnership with thrash metal giants such as Danzig, Metallica, and Slayer.

Rubin's work with Danzig resulted in the band's self-titled debut album in 1988, which showcased their raw energy and gothic sensibilities. His production brought a clarity and intensity to their sound, solidifying their position as one of the pioneering acts of dark, heavy music.

His collaboration with Metallica on their critically acclaimed fifth studio album, "Metallica" (commonly known as "The Black Album"), is regarded as one of his most significant achievements. Released in 1991, the album showcased a more accessible sound while retaining the band's heavy roots. Rubin's guidance in songwriting and production helped Metallica achieve commercial success while maintaining their artistic integrity.

Rubin's involvement with Slayer began in 1986 when he produced their landmark album, "Reign in Blood". The record, known for its breakneck speed and intense lyrical themes, is often regarded as one of the greatest thrash metal albums of all time. Rubin continued to collaborate with Slayer on subsequent album s, including "South of Heaven" (1988) and "Seasons in the Abyss" (1990), solidifying his status as a go-to producer for the band.

Throughout his career, Rubin's production style has been marked by his ability to capture the essence and raw power of the artists he works with. His minimalist approach, combined with a relentless pursuit of sonic perfection, has garnered him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards.

Beyond his work in thrash metal, Rick Rubin has collaborated with artists from a wide range of genres, including rock, pop, country, and folk. Some of his notable collaborations include projects with Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash, Tom Petty, Adele, and Kanye West, among many others.

Rick Rubin's influence on the music industry extends far beyond his role as a producer. His entrepreneurial ventures, such as the co-founding of Def Jam Recordings and his involvement with American Recordings, have left an indelible mark on the business side of music. Rubin's career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to artistic integrity and his innate ability to shape and redefine genres.

Born on 20 May 1955, in Strijen, the Netherlands, Corbijn initially pursued a career in music journalism before realizing his true passion lay behind the camera. He gained recognition in the late 1970s and early 1980s for his distinctive black-and-white portraits of iconic musicians, particularly those within the burgeoning punk and new wave movements. Corbijn's ability to connect with his subjects on a personal level allowed him to capture their essence in a way that resonated with both the artists themselves and their fans.

One of Corbijn's most significant early collaborations was with the influential British band Joy Division. His iconic photograph of lead singer Ian Curtis, taken shortly before Curtis's tragic death in 1980, has become an enduring symbol of the band's legacy. Corbijn's ability to convey vulnerability and emotion through his images added a new dimension to music photography, elevating it from mere documentation to a form of art in its own right.

Corbijn's work extends far beyond the realm of music, with his evocative portraits of actors, directors, and other cultural figures capturing their innermost thoughts and emotions. His unique visual style, characterized by a careful use of light and shadow, often in monochromatic tones, adds a depth and intensity to his photographs, creating a sense of intimacy between the viewer and the subject.

Throughout his career, Corbijn has collaborated with some of the most influential figures in popular culture. His long-standing association with Irish rock band U2 has resulted in a series of iconic album covers and music videos that have helped shape the band's visual identity. Corbijn's ability to capture the raw energy and charisma of performers such as David Bowie, Tom Waits, and Patti Smith has made him a sought-after photographer in the world of music.

In addition to his photography, Corbijn has also made a name for himself as a filmmaker. He directed a number of critically acclaimed music videos, including Nirvana's "Heart-Shaped Box" and Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence". In 2007, he made his feature film debut with "Control", a biographical film about Ian Curtis and Joy Division that received widespread acclaim for its artistry and emotional depth.

Corbijn's contributions to the world of photography have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Prince Bernhard Culture Fund Award for his outstanding achievements in the field of photography. His photographs have been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, solidifying his status as a true master of the medium.

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Corbijn is known for his humility and down-to-earth nature. Despite his success, he remains dedicated to his craft, constantly seeking new ways to challenge himself and push the boundaries of his creativity. Whether photographing world-famous musicians or ordinary individuals, Corbijn has an uncanny ability to capture the humanity that resides within each subject, revealing their inner complexities and vulnerabilities.

Visit: Anton Corbijn his lens captures raw essence like no other, making him a true master of photography. Explore his timeless vision that has shaped decades of art