Znöwhite were an American thrash/speed metal band from Chicago, Illinois, United States. Formed in 1982 by the brothers Ian Tafoya ( real-name: Greg Fulton ) and Sparks Tafoya ( real-name: Tony Heath ). "Kick 'em When They’re Down" is the second studio recording released by this band.
Speed / Power Metal
Axe Killer Records – 7012
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1985 France
Ian Tafoya - Producer
Paul Curcio - Producer
Sharp-Fulton Ltd - Executive Producer
Chris Bubacz - Sound Engineer
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.
Peter Leonardy ( Chicago ) - Sound Engineer
Recorded at Music America Studios, NY June 1983 and Pierce Arrow Studios, Chicago May 1984
Mastered at Capitol Records
Janet Loechner - Logo and Graphics Design
Kevin Williams - Artwork
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 )
