AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse 12" Vinyl LP Album

"Skeptics Apocalypse," the inaugural testament by the American Speed/Power metal force Agent Steel, reverberates on a 12" Vinyl LP Album. This debut release, recorded "somewhere in Los Angeles" as cryptically mentioned on the album cover, solidifies Agent Steel's position in the metal realm. Released as the band's first official album, "Skeptics Apocalypse" showcases their speed-infused power metal sound, marking a crucial chapter in their journey and contributing to the dynamic landscape of American metal.

large album front cover photo of: Skeptics Apocalypse

"Skeptics Apocalypse" Album Description:

In the realm of heavy metal, certain albums stand as timeless relics, encapsulating the essence of their era and leaving an indelible mark on the genre. One such masterpiece that graced the metal scene is AGENT STEEL's "Skeptics Apocalypse," a 12" Vinyl LP Album that not only symbolizes a specific time period in the rich history of metal but also showcases the band's prowess in production and musical innovation.

Time Period - The Golden Era of Metal:

Released in the mid-1980s, "Skeptics Apocalypse" emerged during the golden era of metal, a time marked by the birth of thrash and the expansion of the genre's boundaries. This was an age when bands were pushing the limits of speed, aggression, and lyrical themes, giving rise to a wave of groundbreaking releases. AGENT STEEL, with their unique blend of speed and power metal elements, added a distinctive flavor to the metal landscape.

Production Excellence:

The production of "Skeptics Apocalypse" reflects the standards of excellence prevalent in the metal industry during that period. The album was recorded with a raw, unfiltered energy that captured the intensity of AGENT STEEL's live performances. The analog recording techniques of the time contributed to the album's authentic sound, allowing the listener to experience the raw power of the band's performance.

Guitars that Shred:

One cannot discuss "Skeptics Apocalypse" without acknowledging the blistering guitar work that defines the album. The intricate and lightning-fast riffs, courtesy of guitarists Juan Garcia and Kurt Kilfelt, showcase a level of technical proficiency that was becoming increasingly prevalent in the metal scene. The album's guitar solos, executed with precision and flair, remain a testament to the band's mastery of their craft.

Vocal Prowess:

The vocal delivery of AGENT STEEL's frontman John Cyriis is another highlight of "Skeptics Apocalypse." Cyriis's soaring and operatic vocals add a layer of theatricality to the album, elevating it beyond the confines of conventional thrash metal. His unique vocal style became a defining characteristic of AGENT STEEL's sound, setting them apart from their contemporaries.

Album Fact Sheet: AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse

Music Genre:

 Power/Speed Metal 

Album Production Information:

 

The album: "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse" was produced by: Jay Jones

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Dean "Goatie" Davis

Dean Davis a sound engineer working together with "Karat Fave" on the albums "Bloodlust - Guilty as Sin" and "Megadeth - Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!"

This album was recorded December 1984 - February 1985 , Somewhere in Los Angeles

Mastered by Tom Coyne at Frankford/Wayne Mastering Labs

Live photos: Vickie Miellie and Teresa Trebotic

Tom Coyne is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and respected mastering engineers in the music industry. With his exceptional talent, meticulous attention to detail, and a career spanning several decades, Coyne has played an instrumental role in shaping the sound of countless iconic albums.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Tom Coyne developed a passion for music at an early age. He was captivated by the sonic nuances of records and the transformative power of the mastering process. Eager to pursue his dreams, Coyne embarked on a journey to acquire the technical skills and knowledge necessary to become a mastering engineer.

Coyne's career began in the late 1970s when he joined the legendary Frankford/Wayne Mastering Labs in New York City. Under the guidance of experienced engineers, he honed his craft and gained a deep understanding of the intricacies of audio mastering. His exceptional ear for detail and innate musicality quickly set him apart, earning him a reputation for delivering exceptional sonic quality.

In the 1980s, Coyne's career soared as he collaborated with a wide range of artists across various genres. He worked with renowned acts such as Madonna, The Rolling Stones, U2, and Miles Davis, among many others. His expertise in shaping the overall sound and balance of albums became sought after by both emerging artists and established superstars.

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As the music industry evolved and entered the digital age, Coyne adapted to the advancements in technology without compromising his commitment to excellence. He embraced digital mastering tools while staying true to his analog roots, ensuring that his work retained its signature warmth and clarity. This adaptability and dedication to quality made him a trusted collaborator for artists and record labels alike.

Coyne's work has been recognized with numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. He has received multiple Grammy nominations and has been involved in Grammy-winning projects, solidifying his status as a mastering engineer of exceptional talent and expertise. Additionally, his contributions to the industry have been acknowledged by organizations such as the TEC Awards and the Recording Academy.

Beyond his mastering work, Coyne is known for his mentorship and willingness to share his knowledge with aspiring engineers. He has lectured at universities, participated in industry conferences, and mentored emerging talents, helping to shape the next generation of mastering engineers.

 

Record Label Information:

 RoadrunneR – RR 9759

Packaging:

This album includes the original custom made inner sleeve (OIS) with album production details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos

Record Format:

 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

  1985 Made in Holland
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover  "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse"
High Resolution Photo #10 AGENT STEEL Skeptics Apocalypse https://vinyl-records.nl
Album Back Cover  Photo of "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse"
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Inner Sleeve   of "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse" Album
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Photo of "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse" Album's Inner Sleeve  
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Enlarged & Zoomed photo of "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse" Record's Label

Using the marked/"highlighted" rectangles below , you will be able to correctly identify this release of the album.

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Photo of "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse" 12" LP Record - Side One:
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Photo of "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse" 12" LP Record - Side Two:
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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 ).

Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • John Cyriis - Vocals
  • Juan Garcia - Guitar
  • Kurt Colfelt - Guitar
  • George Robb - Bass
  • Chuck Profus - Drums

Collector notes:

John Cyriis is together with Chuck Profus the founding members of the "Agent Steel" band.

In the bands: "Black Reign" and "Lemegeton" , "John Cyriis" was using the pseudo: "Max Kobol".

John Cyriis used the pseudo "Father Damien" while singing in the "Pontius Prophet" band.

In the bands "Pontius Prophet" and "Black Reign" he continued to perform with his mate from "Agent Steel" Chuck Profus.

The real name of Chuck Profus is Charles Profus.

Chuck Profus started his career playing drums with Agent Steel and worked with Agent Steel from 1984 till 1988. After leaving Agent Steel he played in bands like Pontius Prophet, Black Reign, Sanctuary, The MOFO Homeboys.

In the bands "Pontius Prophet" and "Black Reign" he continued to perform with his mate from "Agent Steel" John Cyriis.

George Robb is from Philadelphia and joined "Agent Steel" in 1984, after his departure he went on to form the "L.S.N." and "Detente" bands.

Juan Garcia, has played guitars in several Heavy Metal bands, including: Abattoir, Agent Steel, Evildead and others.


Complete Track-listing of the album "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse"

The detailed tracklist of this record "AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse" is:

    Track-listing Side One:
  1. (The Calling) 0:47
  2. Agents Of Steel
  3. Taken By Force
  4. Evil Eye / Evil Minds
  5. Bleed For The Godz
    Track-listing Side Two:
  1. Children Of The Sun
  2. 144,000 Gone
  3. Guilty As Charged
  4. Back To Reign

AGENT STEEL ( Speed / Thrash Metal, USA ) VINYL RECORDS

Agent Steel is a Los Angeles-based heavy metal band that formed in 1984. The band is renowned for their unique style that combines elements of thrash metal, speed metal, and science fiction-themed lyrics. Their music is characterized by fast and intricate guitar riffs, thundering drums, and soaring vocals that evoke a sense of power and intensity.

The band was formed by guitarist John Cyriis, who is considered to be the driving force behind Agent Steel's sound and vision. Cyriis' vision was to create a sound that was fast, aggressive, and innovative, while also incorporating elements of science fiction into their lyrics. This combination of high-speed metal and imaginative storytelling set Agent Steel apart from their contemporaries and helped them to build a dedicated following of fans.

One of the most notable aspects of Agent Steel's music is their incorporation of science fiction themes into their lyrics. Their songs often depict epic battles between good and evil, intergalactic wars, and the struggle for survival against hostile alien forces. These themes, combined with the band's powerful musical delivery, create an immersive experience for listeners that draws them into the world of the song.

Agent Steel's first full-length album, "Skeptics Apocalypse," was released in 1985 and received widespread critical acclaim. The album featured fast and aggressive thrash metal tracks, as well as more melodic and atmospheric songs that showcased the band's versatility and musicianship. The album's standout tracks, such as "Mad Locust Rising" and "Agents of Steel," have become fan favorites and remain popular to this day.

In the years that followed, Agent Steel continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including "Unstoppable Force" (1987) and "Mad Locust Rising" (1988). These albums further solidified the band's reputation as one of the leading lights of the heavy metal scene, and their music continues to inspire new generations of metal fans to this day.

Despite their popularity and success, Agent Steel faced numerous challenges over the years. The band experienced numerous lineup changes and personnel difficulties, which often resulted in long periods of inactivity. Despite these setbacks, Agent Steel has remained active and continues to tour and record new music to this day.

In conclusion, Agent Steel is a heavy metal band that has left a lasting impact on the world of metal music. Their unique style, blending fast and aggressive metal with science fiction-themed lyrics, has earned them a dedicated following of fans and critical acclaim. Their music continues to inspire and captivate listeners, and their legacy as one of the pioneering bands of the heavy metal genre remains unchallenged.

About John Cyriis

John Cyriis is an American vocalist primarily known for his involvement in the early years of the progressive and power metal band Agent Steel. Agent Steel was formed in 1984 and gained recognition for their high-pitched vocals, sci-fi-themed lyrics, and fast-paced music. Cyriis played a significant role in shaping the band's sound during their formative years.

Cyriis was the vocalist on Agent Steel's debut album, "Skeptics Apocalypse," released in 1985, and their critically acclaimed follow-up, "Unstoppable Force," released in 1987. His unique vocal style, characterized by high screams and falsettos, set him apart in the metal scene at the time.

After leaving Agent Steel, Cyriis remained relatively inactive in the metal scene for many years. However, in 2019, he resurfaced with the announcement that he had formed a new version of Agent Steel, called "John Cyriis' Agent Steel." This led to some controversy and legal disputes with the original members of Agent Steel.

AGENT STEEL - Mad Locust Rising (England)
Thumbnail Of  AGENT STEEL - Mad Locust Rising (England) album front cover

Music For Nations 12 KUT 124 , 1986 , England

Agent Steel's "Mad Locust Rising" is a seminal 1986 EP, the band's second release, featuring three intense speed metal tracks: "The Swarm Is Upon Us," "Mad Locust Rising," and a cover of Judas Priest's "The Ripper." Originally released by Music For Nations, it gained significance in metal history. A 1999 reissue by Century Media introduced it to a new audience, adding further value to this classic vinyl release.

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AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse (Netherlands Release)
Thumbnail Of  AGENT STEEL - Skeptics Apocalypse (Netherlands) album front cover

 RoadrunneR – RR 9759 , 1985 , Netherlands

"Skeptics Apocalypse," the inaugural testament by the American Speed/Power metal force Agent Steel, reverberates on a 12" Vinyl LP Album. This debut release, recorded "somewhere in Los Angeles" as cryptically mentioned on the album cover, solidifies Agent Steel's position in the metal realm. Released as the band's first official album, "Skeptics Apocalypse" showcases their speed-infused power metal sound, marking a crucial chapter in their journey and contributing to the dynamic landscape of American metal.

Learn more
AGENT STEEL - Unstoppable Force (UK Release)
Thumbnail Of  AGENT STEEL - Unstoppable Force (UK) album front cover

Music For Nations MFN 66 , 1986 , United Kingdom

"Unstoppable Force" is the second and final album by the Speed Metal band: "Agent Steel", after the recording of this album the band split up. This album "AGENT STEEL UNSTOPPABLE FORCE UK MFN " includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos. If you like "King Diamond's" high-pitched singing style, you will definitely like "John Cyriis's" singing on this album

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AGENT STEEL - Unstoppable Force (Canadiam Release)
Thumbnail Of  AGENT STEEL - Unstoppable Force (Canada)
 album front cover

Relativity Cobra Records CL 1019 , 1987 , Canada

This is the Canadian release of "Unstoppable Force" release on Cobra Records.

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AGENT STEEL - Unstoppable Force (USA Release)
Thumbnail Of  AGENT STEEL - Unstoppable Force (USA) album front cover

Music for Nations MFN 66 / Combat Records , 1986 , USA

This is the American release of "Unstoppable Force"

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