"Second Heat" emerges as Racer X's second studio masterpiece, encapsulated in a 12" Vinyl LP Album. This pivotal record, introducing new members Bruce Bouillet and Scott Travis to the lineup, showcases Racer X's evolution. The album's sonic prowess, combined with the fresh energy of the new additions, solidifies "Second Heat" as a hallmark in the band's catalog, marking a dynamic chapter in the history of the American rock and metal scene.
Released in 1987, Racer X's "Second Heat" solidified the band's position as one of the premier acts in the neoclassical metal genre. Arriving during a period when heavy metal was experiencing a surge in popularity, the album's relentless speed and technical virtuosity captivated fans and critics alike.
Musical Exploration and Genre
"Second Heat" is a testament to Racer X's dedication to pushing the boundaries of metal. The album's tracks are a whirlwind of intricate guitar work, lightning-fast drumming, and soaring vocals. While rooted in heavy metal, the band incorporated elements of hard rock, classical music, and even jazz fusion, creating a unique sonic landscape that set them apart from their contemporaries. The album's standout tracks, such as "Sacrifice," "Scarified," and "Motor Man," showcase the band's ability to blend aggression with melody, resulting in a sound that was both exhilarating and memorable.
Controversies
Despite the album's critical acclaim, "Second Heat" did face some controversy. The track "Heart of a Lion" was originally written by Judas Priest members Glenn Tipton, K.K. Downing, and Rob Halford for their album "Turbo." However, due to creative differences, the song was not included on the final release. Racer X, who were fans of Judas Priest, decided to record their own version of the song, which led to some accusations of plagiarism. Nevertheless, the band's rendition of "Heart of a Lion" became a fan favorite and a highlight of their live shows.
Another notable cover on the album is David Bowie's "Moonage Daydream." Racer X's interpretation of the song is a testament to their versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres.
Production and Recording
"Second Heat" was produced by the renowned engineer Mike Varney, who was known for his work with other shred guitar virtuosos like Yngwie Malmsteen and Jason Becker. The album was recorded at Prairie Sun Recording Studios in Cotati, California, a facility that had hosted numerous legendary artists.
Album Cover Art
The album cover features a marquee for an XXX theater, boldly displaying "Second Heat" as the featured attraction, a nod to the band's fiery sound and energetic live performances. The image, combined with the album's title, perfectly captures the essence of Racer X's music: a relentless and passionate assault on the senses.
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Song Notes: Heart of a Lion, written by Glenn Tipton, K.K. Downing, and Rob Halford "Moonage Daydream", was written by David Bowie |
| Music Genre: Shred/Speed Metal Music |
| Album Production Information: Produced by Steve Fontano, Executive Producer: Mike Varney Discover the story behind Mike Varney, the visionary founder of Shrapnel Records, who redefined rock and heavy metal by launching guitar legends—explore his journey on his dedicated webpage Sound Engineer: Dino Alden Dino Alden: The Genius Sound Engineer Who Defined Heavy Metal’s Greatest Hits – See How He Shaped Music History!
Mastering; George Horn George Horn is a highly acclaimed Chief Mastering Engineer known for his exceptional work at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California, as well as his contributions as a mastering engineer at CBS Studios in San Francisco. Renowned for his expertise and meticulous attention to detail, Horn has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of numerous heavy metal albums, collaborating frequently with industry stalwarts such as Steve Fontano, Dino Alden, and Guy Aitchison. Born with an innate passion for music, George Horn's journey in the world of audio engineering began early on. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to various genres and instruments, which fueled his curiosity and desire to understand the technical aspects of sound. His fascination with the process of capturing and enhancing audio quality led him to pursue a formal education in audio engineering and mastering. After completing his studies, Horn embarked on his professional career at CBS Studios in San Francisco, where he honed his skills under the guidance of seasoned engineers. During his tenure there, he had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, gaining invaluable experience and establishing a reputation for his exceptional ear for sound. Horn's true breakthrough came when he joined the esteemed team at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California. As the Chief Mastering Engineer at this iconic studio, he oversaw the final stage of the production process, meticulously fine-tuning the sound of countless albums. It was here that he forged significant partnerships with renowned heavy metal producers and engineers, including Steve Fontano, Dino Alden, and Guy Aitchison. The collaboration between George Horn and these industry luminaries proved to be a winning formula, resulting in numerous highly acclaimed heavy metal albums that captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Their combined expertise and creative synergy pushed the boundaries of the genre, delivering powerful and sonically rich recordings that defined the sound of many iconic bands. With a keen understanding of the nuances of heavy metal music, George Horn's mastering work brought out the best in each album he touched. His acute attention to detail ensured that every element of the music, from the thunderous guitars to the pounding drums and soaring vocals, was presented with exceptional clarity, power, and balance. His precise and artistic approach to mastering contributed greatly to the overall impact and emotional resonance of the final product. Throughout his career, George Horn has received widespread acclaim for his contributions to the music industry. His work has earned him multiple awards and nominations, solidifying his reputation as one of the finest mastering engineers in the business. Beyond heavy metal, he has also worked on a diverse range of genres, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability as an engineer. George Horn's dedication to his craft and unwavering commitment to excellence have made him a trusted figure in the world of audio engineering. His contributions to heavy metal music, in particular, have left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing the way it sounds and ensuring its enduring popularity. Today, George Horn continues to push the boundaries of audio engineering, constantly seeking new ways to enhance the sonic experience. His passion for music and unwavering pursuit of sonic perfection have made him a revered figure among musicians, producers, and fellow engineers alike. Through his remarkable work, George Horn has undoubtedly shaped the landscape of heavy metal and left an enduring legacy in the realm of audio mastering. Collector's Notes: After the dismantling of "Racer X" in 1989, "Bruce Bouillet", "Scott Travis" and "John Alderete" continued in a band called "The Scream". |
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Record Label: Shrapnel Roadrunner RR 9601Varney Metal Music |
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Record Format 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
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Year & Country 1987 Made in Holland |
Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Racer X Second Heat |
| Photo of Front Cover |
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Photo of Record Label
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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 ). |
Band Members and Musicians on: Racer X Second Heat |
Collector's notes: Jeff Martin (real name: Jeffery Louis Martin) is a singer and drummer. As drummer he has played for Paul Gilbert, George Lynch, Michael Schenker, Dokken and P.K. Mitchell, the last band he played drums in (before starting in lead vocals) is "Surgical Steel". |
Complete Track Listing of: Racer X Second Heat |
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