Metallica's debut album, "Kill 'Em All," recorded in a mere two weeks on a tight budget, gained legendary status. The French release on MFN, limited to 1500 copies, features a 170-gram 12" vinyl LP, adding rarity and collectible appeal. With iconic artwork and impactful music, this edition has become a sought-after gem, embodying Metallica's pivotal role in shaping the thrash metal genre.
Metallica, the iconic heavy metal band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry, catapulted to fame with their debut album "Kill 'Em All." Released in 1983, this masterpiece not only laid the foundation for thrash metal but also became a collector's item with special editions, such as the French release on MFN (Music for Nations) featuring a 170-gram 12" vinyl LP.
Recording Breakthrough:
"Kill 'Em All" marked a significant breakthrough for Metallica. Recorded in just two weeks on a shoestring budget, the album showcased the raw energy and unbridled passion of a band hungry for success. The frenetic pace at which it was produced added a gritty edge that resonated with fans and critics alike.
Limited Edition Rarity:
What makes the French release of "Kill 'Em All" even more special is its limited availability. Initially, only 1500 copies of this edition were printed, making it a rare gem for collectors seeking a piece of heavy metal history. The scarcity of these albums has driven their value up, turning them into coveted items for enthusiasts and collectors.
Music for Nations (MFN):
The French release of "Kill 'Em All" came under the Music for Nations (MFN) label. Known for its contributions to the heavy metal genre, MFN played a crucial role in introducing and promoting iconic bands. The 170-gram 12" vinyl LP format of Metallica's debut album under MFN added a layer of richness to the audio quality, enhancing the listening experience for fans.
Artwork and Aesthetic:
Beyond the music, the French release of "Kill 'Em All" on MFN featured unique artwork and aesthetic details. The album cover, designed by drummer Lars Ulrich's brother, Hugh, depicted a hammer held by a zombified hand – a visual representation of the aggressive and relentless sound that Metallica brought to the metal scene.
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Production information: The album: "METALLICA KILL 'EM ALL (NL)" was produced by: Paul Curcio and Jon Zazula, Jon Zazula: How did a record store shape metal forever? The Jon Zazula story – a must-read for music fans. Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Chris Bubacz, Andy Wroblewski, Jack Skinner This album was recorded at: Music America Studios, Rochester Jack Skinner is a well-known mastering engineer, working at "Sterling Sound, New York City". During the 1980's he has mastered many albums for Heavy Metal bands, some of them include: Metallica , Exciter , Savatage , Anthrax and many others. Chris "Dr Metal" Bubacz, born on 12 April 1955, is a renowned sound engineer who made a significant impact on the Heavy Metal scene of the 1980s. With his exceptional talent and dedication to achieving the perfect sound, he became a driving force behind the success of several influential bands, including Metallica, Anthrax, and Znöwhite. Born and raised in a small town in the United States, Bubacz developed a deep passion for music at an early age. Fascinated by the technical aspects of sound and recording, he spent countless hours experimenting with audio equipment, building his own amplifiers, and dissecting albums to understand their production techniques. Bubacz's journey into the world of Heavy Metal began in the late 1970s when he moved to a bigger city to pursue a career in sound engineering. He started working at a local recording studio, learning the ropes of the profession and honing his skills. His dedication and keen ear for detail quickly earned him a reputation as a rising talent. In the early 1980s, Bubacz's path crossed with Metallica, an emerging force in the world of Heavy Metal. Impressed by his technical expertise and passion for the genre, the band invited him to work on their second studio album, "Ride the Lightning." Bubacz's contribution to the album's sound proved to be transformative, capturing the raw energy and aggression that became synonymous with Metallica's early years. Following the success of "Ride the Lightning," Bubacz's reputation soared, and his services were in high demand within the Heavy Metal community. Bands like Anthrax and Znöwhite sought out his expertise to achieve the perfect sonic landscape for their albums. With his meticulous attention to detail and innovative recording techniques, Bubacz played a crucial role in shaping the sound of each band he worked with. He had a remarkable ability to capture the intensity of live performances while maintaining clarity and balance within the recordings. During his tenure as a sound engineer, Bubacz worked on numerous groundbreaking albums, including Metallica's "Master of Puppets," Anthrax's "Among the Living," and Znöwhite's "Act of God." These albums not only became influential within the Heavy Metal genre but also helped solidify Bubacz's status as one of the most sought-after sound engineers of the era. Bubacz's work extended beyond the recording studio. He often accompanied bands on tour, ensuring their live performances matched the sonic excellence of their studio albums. His commitment to quality and his ability to adapt to different venues and equipment made him an invaluable asset on the road. Despite his tremendous success, Bubacz remained humble and focused on his craft. He continued to explore new recording techniques, pushing the boundaries of what was possible within the Heavy Metal genre. His innovative approach to sound engineering left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring countless aspiring sound engineers and musicians. After the 1980s, Bubacz continued to work on various projects, collaborating with a wide range of artists across different genres. While his contributions to the Heavy Metal scene remain legendary, he proved his versatility by adapting his skills to diverse musical styles. Chris "Dr Metal" Bubacz's pioneering work as a sound engineer in the 1980s cemented his place in Heavy Metal history. His dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of the genre through sound made him a highly respected figure in the industry. Today, his legacy lives on, influencing generations of musicians and sound engineers who strive to replicate his unparalleled contributions to the world of Heavy Metal. |
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Music Genre: Speed Thrash Metal |
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Album Production Information: Produced by Paul Curcio and Jon Zazula,Published by Take Out Music |
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Record Label Information: Music For Nations MFN 7 |
| Packaging: This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos of Metallica. |
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Media Format: 12" 170 grams Vinyl LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 250 gram |
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Year & Country: 1983 Made in France |
Band Members and Musicians on: Metallica Kill 'Em All |
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Track Listing of: Metallica Kill 'Em All |
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The Song/tracks on "Metallica Kill 'Em All" are
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Album cover photos of : Metallica Kill 'Em All |
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| Photo of Metallica Album's Back Cover |
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| Photo of Metallica Album's Inner Sleeve |
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual 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 ). |
This section shows the complete Metallica discography ordered by album-title. Several titles are International and have been listed with the country of release
