"Chained and Desperate" by the British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) "Chateaux" is their first offical full-length album and was released in 1984 on Ebony Records. This album has produced by "Darryl Johnsto n" the owner of "Ebony Records". Album cover artwork was done by "Garry Sharpe" who has also worked on album covers for Grim Reaper, Savage, Fast Kutz, and many others.
In the vibrant tapestry of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, one band that etched its mark with raw energy and unbridled passion was Chateaux. Their inaugural full-length album, "Chained and Desperate," released in 1984 on Ebony Records, stands as a testament to the golden era of British metal.
Crafted under the watchful eye of Darryl Johnston, the maestro behind Ebony Records, "Chained and Desperate" emerges as a compelling showcase of Chateaux's musical prowess. The album, wrapped in the artistic finesse of Garry Sharpe, renowned for his work with Grim Reaper, Savage, and Fast Kutz, captures the essence of an era marked by sonic innovation and rebellious spirit.
The album opens with a thunderous declaration of intent in the form of its title track, "Chained and Desperate." The relentless guitar riffs and powerhouse vocals set the tone for an auditory journey that encapsulates the very essence of NWOBHM. The lyrical themes, echoing tales of rebellion, despair, and resilience, resonate with the socio-political climate of the time.
Tracks like "Spirit" and "Burn Out at Dawn" showcase the band's ability to seamlessly blend melodic elements with the unapologetic aggression characteristic of the genre. Chateaux's musicality shines through in the intricate guitar solos and tight-knit rhythm section, reminiscent of the NWOBHM greats.
One cannot overlook the album's cover art, a creation of Garry Sharpe, which serves as a visual gateway into the sonic landscape within. The cover, adorned with symbolic imagery, captures the essence of Chateaux's music—a rebellious spirit shackled by the constraints of a society in flux.
"Chained and Desperate" not only solidified Chateaux's place in the NWOBHM pantheon but also contributed to the rich tapestry of British metal history. Its influence can be heard in the subsequent works of metal acts that drew inspiration from the raw, unfiltered energy that defines this album.
| Album Fact Sheet: CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate |
| Music Genre: NWOBHM, Heavy Metal |
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Album Production Information:
The album: "CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate" was produced by: Darryl Johnston Darryl Johnston, a prominent figure in the music industry, is best known as the founder of Ebony Records , a renowned record company specializing in heavy metal music, particularly the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) genre. Born on June 12, 1955, in London, England, Darryl Johnston's passion for music began at an early age. Growing up, Johnston was drawn to the powerful and energetic sound of heavy metal. He immersed himself in the music scene, attending concerts, exploring various subgenres, and developing a keen ear for talent. Recognizing the immense potential and rising popularity of NWOBHM, he saw an opportunity to contribute to the movement by establishing a platform for talented bands to showcase their music. In 1982, Johnston took a leap of faith and founded Ebony Records. With a clear vision and determination, he set out to sign and produce promising heavy metal acts, aiming to provide them with the exposure and support they needed to flourish. Ebony Records quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to the genre and its dedication to nurturing emerging talent. Throughout the 1980s, Darryl Johnston worked tirelessly, producing numerous heavy metal albums that would go on to become classics in the NWOBHM canon. His collaborations with bands such as Chateaux , Grim Reaper , Savage, Blade Runner , Samurai , and Fast Kutz showcased his keen ability to identify and cultivate exceptional musicians. Under Johnston's guidance, Ebony Records became a beacon of the NWOBHM movement, championing the raw energy, powerful riffs, and melodic intensity that characterized the genre. The label's commitment to quality and artistic integrity contributed significantly to the growth and success of the heavy metal scene during that era. Johnston's work at Ebony Records extended beyond album production. He took a hands-on approach, involving himself in various aspects of artist development, marketing, and promotion. His dedication and meticulous attention to detail played a crucial role in shaping the careers of many aspiring musicians. By the late 1980s, as the musical landscape began to shift, Darryl Johnston decided to pursue new endeavors outside of the record industry. He left Ebony Records in 1987, but his contribution to the NWOBHM movement and his lasting impact on the heavy metal scene continue to resonate to this day. In retrospect, Darryl Johnston's legacy as a visionary founder and producer at Ebony Records remains deeply etched in the world of heavy metal history. His passion, commitment, and unwavering support for NWOBHM bands helped shape the genre and paved the way for countless artists who followed in his footsteps. Though his time at Ebony Records was relatively short-lived, Darryl Johnston's influence on the music industry endures. His unwavering dedication to heavy metal and his invaluable contributions to the NWOBHM movement solidify his place as an influential figure in the genre's evolution. This album was recorded at: Ebony Studios, Hull, England. Album cover design: Garry Sharpe Garry Sharpe-Young was a prominent figure in the British music industry, known for his contributions as a rock journalist and graphic designer. Born in the United Kingdom, his passion for music and visual arts drove him to pursue a career that would leave an indelible mark on the rock and heavy metal genres. From a young age, Sharpe-Young demonstrated a keen interest in music, particularly in the rock and heavy metal scene. He immersed himself in the sounds of influential bands and developed a deep understanding of the music's intricacies. This passion eventually led him to combine his love for music with his artistic talents. As a writer, Sharpe-Young was known for his extensive knowledge and insightful analysis of rock and heavy metal music. He authored more than 20 books dedicated to these genres, becoming a respected authority and an indispensable resource for fans and musicians alike. His writings encompassed a wide range of topics, including band biographies, album reviews, and detailed histories of various subgenres within rock and heavy metal. In addition to his accomplishments as a writer, Sharpe-Young made significant contributions as a graphic designer. He possessed a unique talent for translating the essence of a band's music into visually striking album covers. His designs adorned the works of numerous bands, including notable acts such as Grim Reaper, Fast Kutz, Savage, and many others. With his artistic vision and meticulous attention to detail, Sharpe-Young's album covers became iconic representations of the music they accompanied. Throughout his career, Sharpe-Young fostered strong relationships with musicians, record labels, and fellow music journalists. He was regarded as a trusted and respected member of the rock and heavy metal community, known for his integrity, passion, and dedication to his craft. His contributions helped shape the way fans perceived and experienced the music he loved. Beyond his professional achievements, Garry Sharpe-Young was described as a humble and approachable individual. He possessed a genuine enthusiasm for sharing his knowledge and experiences, often engaging with fans and aspiring artists to provide guidance and support. His contributions extended beyond his own work, as he actively encouraged and promoted new talents within the industry. Tragically, Garry Sharpe-Young's life was cut short, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate within the rock and heavy metal community. His writings, album covers, and overall dedication to the genre serve as a testament to his impact and influence. Though he may no longer be with us, his contributions remain immortalized in the pages of his books and the artwork he crafted, forever preserving his passion for rock and heavy metal music. |
| Record Company / Catalog number / Label: EBON 13 |
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Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
| Year & Country: 1983 Made in GB |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate" is:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate" |
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 ) |
Album Back Cover Photo of "CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate" |
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Photo of "CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate" 12" LP Record - Side One: |
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Photo of "CHATEAUX - Chained and Desperate" 12" LP Record - Side Two: |
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