Apocalypse- self-titled - Rare Swiss Thrash Metal 1st Pressing 12" Vinyl LP Album

  OUT OF TUNE RECORDS

  This is the extremely rare and hard to find Swiss 1st pressing release of Apocalypse's Thrash Metal debut album
  Because of the small market size (more often record were imported from Germany, France, or Holland) in Switzerland, This Swiss edition was pressed in limited quantities.

  Note the +Suisa+ on the record's label as well as the "Swiss Made" and crossbow logo in record's dead wax.

 

large album front cover photo of: Apocalypse self-titled

Apocalypse - A Rare Slice of Swiss Thrash Metal Fury (Self-Titled Debut)
Album Description:

Apocalypse's self-titled debut album, a rare first pressing on 12" vinyl, offers a glimpse into the vibrant but often overlooked Swiss thrash metal scene of the late 1980s. Released in 1987 (exact date unavailable), this album stands as a testament to the raw energy and aggression that characterized the genre during its peak.

Historical Context

The late 1980s witnessed a global thrash metal explosion. While the genre originated in the United States and the United Kingdom, bands from Europe emerged with their own distinct takes on the sound. Switzerland, with its burgeoning underground metal scene, was no exception. Apocalypse emerged during this period, contributing to the European thrash metal movement with their debut album.

Musical Exploration

The exact details of Apocalypse's musical exploration on this album are difficult to ascertain without listening to it. However, based on the genre and era, we can expect a relentless onslaught of fast tempos, pounding drums, and distorted guitar riffs. Apocalypse likely incorporated elements of social and political commentary into their lyrics, reflecting the rebellious spirit common in thrash metal.

Music Genre

Undoubtedly, Apocalypse belongs to the thrash metal genre. However, without a deeper listen, it's impossible to say if they incorporated influences from other subgenres like speed metal or hardcore punk. The "rare Swiss thrash metal" description suggests a sound that might be unique to the Swiss scene, potentially incorporating regional influences or lyrical themes.

Production Team and Recording Studio (Unavailable Information)

Details about the production team and recording studio are currently unavailable. However, the "rare first pressing" designation suggests the album might have been released on a smaller, independent label, which may have limited access to high-end production facilities. This, however, wouldn't necessarily diminish the raw power and energy captured on the recording.

The Allure of Rarity

The rare "Out of Tune" Records label adds a layer of intrigue for collectors and fans of the genre. The first pressing of an album often holds a special value due to its limited availability and potential for unique sound characteristics.

Album Summary: 

Thrash Metal act APOCALYPSE's debut, originally released on Out Of Tune in Switzerland, was later picked up by Music For Nations, who released it through their Under One Flag imprint. 

Music Genre:

Obscure Swiss Thrash Metal Music 

Album Production Information: 

Produced by Apocalypse

Original 1st Swiss Pressing. Recorded by Jean Ristory at Aquarius Studios Geneva

Fleming Rasmussen - Producer, Sound Engineer

Danish maestro Flemming Rasmussen shaped the sound of heavy metal. Metallica's thunderous albums? His work. Founder of legendary Sweet Silence Studios, he's produced icons across genres.

Jean Ristory - Sound Engineer

Carlos Torres - Art Concept

Eric Philippe - Artwork

Eric Philippe is a highly acclaimed album cover designer known for his exceptional artistic talent and iconic designs. Throughout his illustrious career, Eric has collaborated with numerous renowned bands and musicians, creating visually stunning artwork that has become synonymous with the music itself. His work has left an indelible mark on the world of music, making him one of the most sought-after designers in the industry.

more...

Born with a creative spirit Eric Philippe grew up with a deep passion for art and music. From an early age, he displayed a remarkable talent for visual expression, often sketching and painting in his spare time. Inspired by the album covers he saw on his favorite records, Eric developed a keen interest in combining his two passions: art and music.

Eric's journey as an album cover designer began when he started working with local bands in his hometown. Recognizing his exceptional talent, word of his unique artistic vision spread rapidly, reaching the ears of well-established musicians in the industry. It wasn't long before Eric received his first major opportunity to design an album cover for the Belgian heavy metal band Ostrogoth.

The album cover for Ostrogoth's release catapulted Eric into the spotlight, showcasing his ability to capture the essence of a band's music through visual representation. The success of this collaboration led to numerous other opportunities, with bands such as Dark Wizard, E.F. Band, FN Guns, Killer, and many others seeking Eric's artistic expertise for their album covers.

Eric Philippe's designs have become renowned for their intricate details, vivid colors, and ability to convey the mood and themes of the music within. His style often blends elements of fantasy, surrealism, and realism, creating a visual language that resonates deeply with both musicians and fans alike. Whether it's a heavy metal album cover or a softer acoustic release, Eric has an innate ability to capture the essence of the music and translate it into stunning visual art.

Over the years, Eric's portfolio has expanded to include collaborations with a wide range of musical genres and artists from around the world. His designs have graced the covers of countless albums, making a significant impact on the overall visual identity of the music industry. His iconic artwork has not only attracted attention and accolades but has also become collectors' items, sought after by fans and art enthusiasts alike.

Beyond his work as an album cover designer, Eric Philippe has also dabbled in other artistic endeavors. He has exhibited his paintings in galleries, created designs for merchandise, and even ventured into the realm of music videos, applying his unique artistic vision to the moving image.

Eric continues to push boundaries and explore new horizons in his artistic career. His dedication to his craft and his ability to bring music to life through his visual creations have solidified his position as one of the most respected and influential album cover designers of his time. With each new project, Eric Philippe leaves an enduring artistic legacy, weaving a visual tapestry that enhances the music and creates a lasting impression on all who experience it.

Joseph Carlucci - Photographer

 Record Label: 

Out of Time Records DT 277-1 

 Record Format

12" Vinyl LP Record  

Year & Country:

1988 Made in Switzerland 

 

Band Members and Musicians on: Apocalypse self-titled Rare Swiss Thrash Metal Pressing
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Carlos Sprenger (vocals)
  • Julien Brocher (guitar)
  • Zurich Zurcher (guitar)
  • Jean Claude Schneider (bass)
  • Momos Domenjoz (drums)
Track Listing of: Apocalypse self-titled Rare Swiss Thrash Metal Pressing

 

    Side One:
  1. Digital Life
  2. A Tale of a Nightmare
  3. Crash! (Instrumental)
  4. F**K Off and Die
    Side Two:
  1. The Night Before
  2. Apocalypse
  3. Back to the Fire
  4. Dark Sword (Instrumental)
  5. Cemetry

Photos of "Apocalypse (Suisa)" Album Front and Back Cover + Record Label

High Resolution Photo Album Front Cover of Apocalypse (Suisa) https://vinyl-records.nl

 

High Resolution Photo Album Back Cover of Apocalypse (Suisa) https://vinyl-records.nl

 

Enlarged High Resolution Photo of the Record's label Apocalypse (Suisa) https://vinyl-records.nl