ANTHRAX STATE OF EUPHORIA MEGAFORCE / ISLAND German Release 12" LP Vinyl Album

Anthrax's "State of Euphoria" - A Thrilling and Intelligent Heavy Metal Masterpiece. This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.

 

large photo of State of Euphoria front cover

Album Description & Collectors information:

This is the German release of Anthrax's "State of Euphoria" is a 12" LP vinyl album that was released on 19 September 1988, by Megaforce and Island Records. The album features nine tracks, all of which showcase Anthrax's signature thrash metal sound. This album was a critical and commercial success for the band, helping to solidify their place in the heavy metal genre.

The album kicks off with "Be All, End All," a fast-paced, riff-heavy song that sets the tone for the rest of the record. This is followed by "Out of Sight, Out of Mind," a song that features catchy guitar riffs and a driving drum beat. "Make Me Laugh" is a track that showcases Anthrax's sense of humor, with lyrics that poke fun at the music industry and the band's own status as a heavy metal band.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Antisocial," a cover of a French punk rock band Trust's song of the same name. Anthrax's version of the song became a hit, earning them significant airplay on radio and MTV. The song's catchy chorus and infectious guitar riffs made it an instant classic in the heavy metal community.

Another memorable track on the album is "Now it's Dark," a song that starts off with a slow, ominous guitar riff before exploding into a frenzied display of thrash metal. The song's lyrics deal with the theme of mental illness, with lead singer Joey Belladonna singing about the descent into madness.

Overall, "State of Euphoria" is a standout album in Anthrax's discography. The band's trademark thrash metal sound is on full display, with catchy guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and Belladonna's soaring vocals. The album's lyrics deal with a range of topics, from mental illness to drug addiction, and showcase the band's ability to tackle serious subjects with intelligence and sensitivity.

In terms of production, "State of Euphoria" is a well-produced album that showcases the band's musicianship and technical abilities. The album was produced by Mark Dodson, who had previously worked with bands such as Judas Priest and Ozzy Osbourne. The album's sound is crisp and clear, with each instrument and vocal track given its proper space in the mix.

This album "ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos

"State of Euphoria" is the fourth studio album by the American thrash metal band Anthrax. It was released on September 19, 1988 through Megaforce/Island Records.

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Music Genre:

  American Thrash Metal 

Album Production Information:

The album: "ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria" was produced by: Anthras , Mark Dodson , Alex Perialas, Jon Zazula, Marsha Zazula

  Mark Dodson is a British record producer and sound engineer, who mostly works with artists in the heavy metal genre. He is best known for producing albums by Anthrax and Suicidal Tendencies, as well as working with dozens of other bands.

This album was recorded at: Quadradial Studios, Miami, Florida. Mixed at Electric Lady Studios, NYC.

Mastered by Greg Calbi, at Sterling Sound, New York City

Album cover art: Don Brautigam

Don Brautigam, a renowned American painter and graphic artist, emerged as a true icon in the world of album cover art during the 1980s. Born on 12 July 1950, in a small town in Wisconsin, Brautigam's passion for art ignited at an early age. Growing up, he found solace and inspiration in the works of the great masters, studying their techniques and envisioning a future where he would leave his own indelible mark on the art world.

Education played a crucial role in shaping Brautigam's artistic prowess. He attended the prestigious School of Visual Arts in New York City, where he honed his skills and developed a unique style that seamlessly blended realism with vivid imagination. Immersed in the bustling artistic scene of the city, he drew inspiration from various sources, including contemporary art movements and the thriving music industry.

In the late 1970s, Brautigam's talent caught the attention of record labels seeking captivating artwork for their album covers. It was during this period that he embarked on a remarkable journey that would define his career and solidify his status as one of the most sought-after album cover artists of his time.

Brautigam's breakthrough came when he was approached by renowned heavy metal band Anthrax to create the cover art for their debut album, "Fistful of Metal". The collaboration proved to be a tremendous success, and Brautigam's distinct style resonated with both the band and its fans. His ability to capture the essence of the music and translate it into visually striking images made him a natural choice for other heavy metal acts.

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Throughout the 1980s, Brautigam painted over 3000 book and record cover works, leaving an indelible mark on the visual landscape of the era. His iconic album covers became synonymous with the rise of heavy metal music and captured the rebellious and edgy spirit of the genre. Bands such as Axe, Metallica, Motley Crue, and Vicious Rumors sought out his talent, entrusting him with the task of translating their music into captivating visual narratives.

Brautigam's ability to infuse his paintings with energy and emotion, while maintaining a strong sense of realism, set him apart from his contemporaries. His covers featured intricate details, vibrant colors, and powerful compositions that perfectly complemented the intensity of the music within.

Beyond the world of heavy metal, Brautigam's artistic range extended to various other genres, including rock, punk, and even classical music. He worked with an array of artists and bands, each collaboration an opportunity to explore new artistic directions and push the boundaries of his own creativity.

In addition to his album cover work, Brautigam also ventured into other artistic endeavors. He created intricate and thought-provoking illustrations for magazines, book covers, and promotional materials. His ability to capture the essence of a story or concept through a single image made him a highly sought-after illustrator in the publishing industry.

Brautigam's career spanned 35 years, during which he continued to evolve as an artist while staying true to his distinctive style. His work not only left an indelible impact on the music industry but also inspired a generation of artists who followed in his footsteps.

Today, Don Brautigam's legacy lives on through his iconic album covers and his continued influence on the world of art and design. His ability to fuse music and visual art, capturing the essence of a sound through a single image, remains unparalleled. Brautigam's contributions to the art world solidify his place as a true master painter and graphic artist, forever remembered for his unparalleled creativity and unwavering passion for his craft.

Back cover art: Mort Drucker

Cover concept: Charlie Benante

Album cover photography: Gene Ambo

Jon Zazula Jon Zazula, also known as Jonny Z, is a legendary figure in the heavy metal music scene. He is best known for discovering and promoting some of the biggest heavy metal bands of the 80s, including Metallica, Anthrax, and Megadeth. Born in 1951, Jon Zazula grew up in the Bronx, New York and was a passionate music fan from an early age. He was particularly drawn to heavy metal, a genre that was still in its infancy at the time, and he became one of its biggest supporters and advocates.

Zazula started his music career as a record store owner, running a small record store called Rock 'n' Roll Heaven in the Bronx. It was here that he first discovered Metallica, then a relatively unknown band. Impressed by their raw talent and energy, Zazula offered to become their manager and help them secure a record deal. He was instrumental in getting them signed to a record label and launching their career.

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In 1983, Zazula founded Megaforce Records, which became one of the most influential heavy metal labels of the 80s. The label helped popularize heavy metal and thrash metal, a sub-genre of heavy metal characterized by its fast and aggressive style. Under Zazula's guidance, Megaforce Records released some of the most influential heavy metal albums of all time, including Metallica's "Kill 'Em All," Anthrax's "Fistful of Metal," and Megadeth's "Killing Is My Business... And Business Is Good!"

In addition to his work with Megaforce Records, Zazula was also known for his passion and dedication to heavy metal music. He was a tireless promoter of the genre, organizing concerts and tours, and working to get heavy metal music heard by a wider audience. He was always on the lookout for new talent, and he discovered and signed many other important heavy metal bands over the years, including Mercyful Fate, Testament, and Exodus.

Despite his many accomplishments, Jon Zazula remains a humble and down-to-earth individual. He is still involved in the music industry today and continues to support new heavy metal bands. He is widely respected and admired by fans of the genre for his contributions to the heavy metal music scene, and for his unwavering support of the genre and its artists.

Marsha Zazula widely known as a pioneering executive producer in the music industry, played a significant role in shaping the landscape of heavy metal music. Alongside her husband Jon Zazula, she co-founded and owned Megaforce Records, a renowned record label that served as a launching pad for numerous influential bands. Marsha's tireless dedication to supporting emerging talent and her unwavering commitment to the artists she worked with established her as an influential figure in the music business.

Born and raised in the United States, Marsha developed a deep passion for music from an early age. She possessed an innate ability to recognize exceptional talent and had an unwavering belief in the power of heavy metal as a genre. In 1982, Marsha and Jon founded Megaforce Records in New Jersey, creating a platform to promote and distribute the music they loved.

Marsha's role at Megaforce Records involved overseeing the production of albums for an impressive roster of bands. Throughout the 1980s, she produced over two dozen albums for notable acts such as Hades, Overkill, Raven, and Anthrax. Her work as a producer not only showcased her impeccable musical taste but also her ability to nurture artists and bring out their best performances.

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Under Marsha's guidance, Megaforce Records became synonymous with the burgeoning thrash metal movement of the 1980s. The label's roster boasted a diverse range of influential bands that pushed the boundaries of heavy metal music. Marsha's keen ear for talent and her dedication to ensuring the artists' artistic vision were preserved made Megaforce Records a sought-after destination for aspiring metal bands.

Marsha's influence extended beyond the studio. She actively worked to secure recording contracts, negotiate deals, and promote the artists she believed in. Her relentless efforts to get the music heard by wider audiences resulted in several breakthrough moments for the bands she worked with.

Beyond her work with Megaforce Records, Marsha also played a pivotal role in organizing and promoting live events. She recognized the importance of live performances as a means for bands to connect with their fans and build a devoted following. Through her efforts, Marsha helped facilitate countless memorable concerts and tours, solidifying Megaforce Records' reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the heavy metal scene.

Marsha Zazula's contributions to the music industry have left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal. Her passion, vision, and unwavering support for artists have been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous bands and influencing the genre as a whole. Her work with Megaforce Records helped pave the way for the success of countless metal acts, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with fans and musicians to this day.

Record Label Information:

  Island Records, Black Lion Music, SBK Songs Framce , Megaforce Worldwide 209 334

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year and Country:

  1988 Made in Germany
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria
    Anthrax's Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Joey Belladonna Vocals

    is an American Singer from Oswego, New York and best known as lead singer in the American ( East-Coast ) Thrash Metal band Anthrax. Belladonna has been with Anthrax since 1984 with several long breaks in-between. Besides Anthrax he has also been singing for Belladonna ( Band ), Bible Black, Chief Big Way, Metal All Stars.

  • Scott Ian Rhythm Guitar

    Scott Ian ( full-name Scott Ian Rosenfeld ) is an American guitarist and founding member of "Anthrax" and "Stormtroopers of Death". His wife "Pearl Aday" is daughter of the singer "Meat Loaf". In his musical career he has performed with the bands: Anthrax (USA) , Damnocracy, Doom Squad, Four-X, Motor Sister, Pearl, Posehn, S.O.D. STORMTROOPERS OF DEATH (USA) , Slam Jam, The Damned Things.

  • Dan Spitz Lead Guitar

    Dan Spitz ( full-name: Daniel Alan Spitz ) is an American musician and Heavy Metal watch-maker. Spitz started his musical career in 1981 as guitarist in the American Thrash Metal band Overkill. He left Overkill in 1983 to join Anthrax as lead guitarist. Spitz performed in Anthrax mainly from 1983 until 1995. After 1995 he started to developed himself into mechanical watchmaker and has won several awards for this.

  • Frank Bello Bass

    Frank Bello ( Full-name: Francis Charles Joseph Bello ) is from the Bronx, New York and has been bass guitarist with the American Thrash Metal band Anthrax since 1984.

  • Charlie Benante Drums

    Charlie Benante ( Drums ) long-time drummer with the American Thrash Metal band Anthrax, since 1983 and also performed in S.O.D. Stormtroopers Of Death.

  • Carol Freedman Cello
Complete Track-listing of the album "ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria"

The detailed tracklist of this record "ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria" is:

  • Be All, End All (Anthrax) 6:22
  • Out of Sight, Out of Mind (Anthrax) 5:13
  • Make Me Laugh (Anthrax) 5:41
  • Antisocial (Bonvoisin/Krief) 4:27 (Trust Cover)
  • Who Cares Wins (Anthrax) 7:35
  • Now It's Dark (Anthrax) 5:34
  • Schism (Anthrax) 5:27
  • Misery Loves Company (Anthrax) 5:40
  • 13 (Anthrax) 0:49
  • Finale (Anthrax) 5:47
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover  "ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria"
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Album Back Cover  Photo of "ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria"
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Inner Sleeve   of "ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria" Album

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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 )

Index of ANTHRAX Band - Vinyl Album Gallery & Discography

Anthrax is an American heavy metal band that was formed in 1981. They are widely considered as one of the pioneers of the thrash metal genre and are one of the "Big Four" thrash metal bands along with Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth.

The band's original lineup consisted of Scott Ian on rhythm guitar, Dan Lilker on bass, and Dave Weiss on drums. Later, Neil Turbin became the lead vocalist, and Charlie Benante joined as the drummer. In 1983, the band released its debut album, "Fistful of Metal", which received positive reviews and solidified their place in the heavy metal community.

Over the years, Anthrax experienced numerous lineup changes and went through several stylistic shifts. However, they have consistently remained at the forefront of the heavy metal scene and have continued to release critically acclaimed albums and tour extensively. Their most successful album to date is "Among the Living", which was released in 1987 and is widely considered as one of the best thrash metal albums of all time.

One of the defining characteristics of Anthrax's music is their blend of thrash metal and punk rock, which sets them apart from other thrash metal bands. This unique blend is evident in their high-energy live shows, which are characterized by Ian's stage presence and Benante's powerful drumming. In addition, Anthrax is known for incorporating elements of rap and hip-hop into their music, making them one of the pioneers of the rap metal genre.

In addition to their musical achievements, Anthrax has made a significant impact on the heavy metal community. They are widely regarded as one of the most influential bands in the genre and have inspired countless musicians and bands. They have also been recognized for their activism, particularly in the area of animal rights.

Despite their success and longevity, Anthrax has faced numerous challenges over the years, including lineup changes and legal disputes. However, the band has persevered and continues to tour and release music to this day.