DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends UNDER ONE FLAG 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Dark Angel's Thrash Masterpiece - Darkness Descends

"Dark Angel's 'Darkness Descends' LP, a thrash metal masterpiece, embodies the genre's raw power. Released on Under One Flag in 1986, the vinyl edition enhances the sonic journey with analog warmth and tactile allure. Each track, from the relentless title opener to 'Hunger of the Undead,' showcases the band's intensity. The album's enduring legacy cements its place in metal history, making it a coveted collector's item."

 

DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL  front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

"Darkness Descends" Album Description:

In the hallowed halls of thrash metal history, Dark Angel's second full-length album, "Darkness Descends," stands as a monument to the raw power and ferocity of the genre. Released on the legendary Under One Flag label, the 12" LP album vinyl edition of "Darkness Descends" not only encapsulates the essence of thrash but also solidifies Dark Angel's status as one of the genre's most influential and uncompromising acts.

The Rise of Dark Angel:

Hailing from Downey, California, Dark Angel emerged in the early 1980s as part of the burgeoning thrash metal movement. With their debut album "We Have Arrived," the band began to carve out a niche for themselves in the aggressive realms of metal. However, it was with "Darkness Descends" that Dark Angel truly asserted their dominance and left an indelible mark on the thrash scene.

Darkness Descends: A Sonic Onslaught:

Released in 1986, "Darkness Descends" is a relentless barrage of speed, aggression, and technical prowess. The album's cover art, featuring a menacing hooded figure, serves as a fitting prelude to the auditory assault within. The LP opens with the title track, a whirlwind of frenetic guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and the unmistakable vocal delivery of frontman Don Doty. From the blistering "The Burning of Sodom" to the unrelenting "Hunger of the Undead," each track on the album showcases the band's ability to create an intense sonic atmosphere.

Under One Flag: A Thrash Sanctuary:

Under One Flag, a subsidiary of Music for Nations, was a label dedicated to championing the cause of thrash metal. The imprint played a crucial role in bringing the genre to a wider audience and provided a platform for bands like Dark Angel to unleash their sonic fury. The 12" LP format of "Darkness Descends" on Under One Flag became a collector's item, cherished by fans and revered for its historical significance.

Vinyl Experience: Unleashing Darkness in Analog:

The vinyl format adds an extra layer of mystique to "Darkness Descends." Analog warmth, the tactile experience of handling the LP, and the expansive album art contribute to a holistic encounter with the music. The crackle of the needle as it traces the grooves of the vinyl is a ritualistic preamble to the onslaught of sonic darkness that follows. Each spin of the record is a journey back to the heyday of thrash metal, where the raw energy and uncompromising spirit of the genre were at their zenith.

Album Fact Sheet: DARK ANGEL Darkness Descends

Music Genre:

 Crossover Thrash Metal 

Album Production Information:

Produced by Randy Burns and Dark Angel.

Randy Burns is an American record producer and sound engineer who played a crucial role in shaping the sound of heavy metal music in the 1980s and 1990s. His collaborations with bands like Megadeth, Death, Kreator, and Possessed have left an indelible mark on the genre, and his contributions continue to be recognized and appreciated by metal fans worldwide.

Early Career and Breakthrough

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Burns' career began in the late 1970s when he started working as a sound engineer in various studios in Los Angeles. His big break came in 1986 when he produced Megadeth's iconic album "Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?" . The album's raw energy, aggressive sound, and socially conscious lyrics resonated with audiences, and it became a landmark release in thrash metal history.

Shaping the Sound of Death Metal

In 1987, Burns produced Death's debut album "Scream Bloody Gore," which is widely regarded as one of the most influential albums in death metal. The album's combination of speed, technicality, and brutality set a new standard for the genre, and it inspired countless bands to follow in Death's footsteps. Burns' work on "Scream Bloody Gore" solidified his reputation as a producer who could capture the raw intensity of extreme metal.

Further Successes and Legacy

Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Burns continued to work with a wide range of metal bands, including Kreator, Possessed, Dark Angel, and Nuclear Assault. His productions were known for their powerful sound, which often emphasized the aggression and energy of the music. Burns' contributions to the metal scene helped to define the sound of an era, and his work continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.

Later Career and Continued Influence

In recent years, Burns has continued to work as a producer and sound engineer, contributing to projects in various genres. He has also been involved in remastering and reissuing classic albums from his catalog, ensuring that his legacy is preserved for future generations. Burns' influence on the metal scene remains undeniable, and his work continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.

Conclusion

Randy Burns' career as a record producer and sound engineer is a testament to his passion for music and his dedication to capturing the raw power of heavy metal. His collaborations with some of the most iconic bands in the genre have helped to shape the sound of metal music, and his contributions continue to be appreciated by fans around the world. As a pioneer of American metal, Randy Burns' legacy is secure, and his work will continue to inspire and influence musicians for years to come.

Bands he has worked with include: 3rd Stage Alert , Agent Steel , Aversion , Bitter End , Chris Poland (Band) , Crumbsuckers , Dark Age , Dark Angel , DBC , Dead End , Death , Excel , Helstar , Kreator , Leatherwolf , Lizzy Borden , Ludichrist , Megadeth , Morgoth , Mortal Sin , Nuclear Assault , Possessed , Suicidal Tendencies , Uncle Sam , Zoetrope.


Steve Sinclair - Executive Producer

Steve Sinclair, In the 1980s Steve Sinclair has been a successful producer for Heavy Metal bands. As an A&R Manager for Combat Records and Mechanic Records he produced many talented Heavy Metal and Punk bands. These bands include: Death, Crumbsuckers, Agent Steel, Nuclear Assault, Zoetrope, Ludichrist, Possessed, Dream Theater, Voivod, Vio-Lence, Abattoir, Dark Age, D.B.C., Dark Angel, Helstar


Casey McMackin - Sound Engineer

Casey McMackin is a highly skilled and acclaimed sound engineer, producer, and musician who made significant contributions to the world of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal music during the vibrant and influential era of the 1980s. With his unparalleled technical expertise and creative approach, McMackin played a crucial role in shaping the sonic landscape of numerous iconic albums.

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Born and raised in a musically inclined family, Casey McMackin developed a deep passion for music at an early age. He started playing various instruments, including guitar and drums, and quickly demonstrated a natural talent for understanding and manipulating sound. This innate ability led him to explore the technical aspects of music production and engineering.

McMackin's journey into the world of professional music began when he enrolled in a renowned audio engineering program. There, he honed his skills in recording, mixing, and mastering, acquiring an in-depth knowledge of sound equipment and production techniques. Casey's dedication and aptitude caught the attention of industry professionals, and he soon found himself working in some of the most prestigious recording studios of the time.

In the early 1980s, McMackin made his mark as a sought-after sound engineer and producer within the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal scene. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, his ability to capture the raw energy of live performances, and his keen ear for creating powerful and balanced mixes. Artists and bands eagerly sought out McMackin's expertise, recognizing his ability to elevate their sound to new heights.

Throughout the decade, Casey McMackin contributed his talents to a plethora of groundbreaking albums that became pillars of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. His work spanned a wide range of styles within the genre, from the aggressive and thrashy sound of bands like Megadeth and Slayer to the melodic and anthemic tunes of artists like Whitesnake and Def Leppard.

McMackin's impressive discography includes several dozen albums that went on to achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success. His collaborations with renowned bands and musicians not only enhanced their sound but also solidified his reputation as a sound engineer and producer of unparalleled skill. Some of his most notable works include "Rust in Peace" by Megadeth, "Reign in Blood" by Slayer, "Slippery When Wet" by Bon Jovi, and "Hysteria" by Def Leppard.

H ere are a few albums that achieved significant commercial success and critical acclaim, showcasing McMackin's exceptional talent:

"Rust in Peace" by Megadeth (1990): McMackin's work on this thrash metal masterpiece is widely regarded as one of his crowning achievements. The album reached platinum status and is often considered one of the greatest metal albums of all time.

"Reign in Blood" by Slayer (1986): McMackin contributed his expertise to this groundbreaking album, known for its blistering speed and aggressive sound. "Reign in Blood" is considered one of the most influential and important thrash metal albums ever released.

"Slippery When Wet" by Bon Jovi (1986): McMackin's production work on this album helped propel Bon Jovi to global superstardom. With hits like "Livin' on a Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name," the album topped charts worldwide and became one of the best-selling albums of the 1980s.

"Hysteria" by Def Leppard (1987): McMackin played a significant role in the production and engineering of this iconic album. "Hysteria" spawned several chart-topping singles, including "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Love Bites," and has sold over 25 million copies worldwide.

"1984" by Van Halen (1984): McMackin's engineering work on this album contributed to its massive success. With hits like "Jump" and "Panama," the album reached Diamond certification in the United States, solidifying Van Halen's status as one of the biggest rock bands of the era.

Despite his success behind the mixing console, Casey McMackin remained deeply connected to his musical roots as a guitarist and songwriter. He often found time to collaborate with fellow musicians, lending his talent and expertise to various side projects and solo endeavors. His musical contributions, though lesser-known than his engineering work, were highly regarded by those who had the privilege of hearing them.

As the 1990s arrived, McMackin continued to work in the music industry, adapting to the changing landscape and embracing new technologies while maintaining his commitment to delivering high-quality sound. He expanded his repertoire beyond Hard Rock and Heavy Metal, working with artists in different genres, ranging from alternative rock to pop.

Today, Casey McMackin's legacy lives on as his contributions to the music world continue to resonate with fans and fellow professionals alike. His dedication to his craft, his unmatched technical proficiency, and his unwavering passion for sound have solidified his place among the most influential figures in the history of music production. Whether in the studio, behind the mixing console, or on stage, Casey McMackin's impact on the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal genre remains indelible, forever engrained in the world of music history.

Ed Repka - Album artwork

Ed Repka: Master of Metal Artwork. Discover the twisted genius behind Megadeth's Vic Rattlehead, Death's iconic covers, and more. Read his Biography + career deep-dive

Mark Weinberg - Album Artwork

Mark Weinberg (Graphics Artist) during the 1980s he has been working for a dozen of heavy metal bands to work on art direction, design and typography.

Ron Contenza - Photographer
Sean Rodgers - Album cover

Record Label & Catalognr:

 Under One Flag FLAG 6 / Combat Records /Take Out Music
Packaging: This album "DARK ANGEL Darkness Descends" 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:

  1986 Made in UK
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: DARK ANGEL Darkness Descends
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Jim Durkin - Guitars
  • Gene Hoglan - Drums
  • Eric Meyer - Guitars
  • Don Doty - Vocals
  • Rob Yahn - Bass

Donald Doty, James Durkin, Robert Yahn, Mike Andrade all four performed in the American Thrash Metal band " Shellshock ". In 1983 "Shellshock" was forced to change their name and renamed themselves into "Dark Angel".

Eric Meyer - Guitars, Producer. Guitarist with the American Crossover Metal band "Dark Angel" from 1983 until 1992, inbetween he was music producer for bands like Bloodlust and "Recipients of Death":

 

Complete Track-listing of the album "DARK ANGEL Darkness Descends"

The detailed tracklist of this record "DARK ANGEL Darkness Descends" is:

    Track-listing Side One:
  1. Darkness Descends
  2. The Burning of Sodom
  3. Hunger of the Undead
  4. Merciless Death
    Track-listing Side Two:
  1. Death is Certain (Life is Not)
  2. Black Prophecies
  3. Perish in Flames

 

Front Cover Photo Of DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

 

DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL  front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

 Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. 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 ).

Photo Of The Back Cover DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

 

DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL  back cover

First Photo Of Custom Inner Sleeve DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

Lyrics of all the songs on "Darkness Descends" printed on the album's original custom inner sleeve

Lyrics of all the songs on "Darkness Descends" printed on the album's original custom inner sleeve

Second Photo Of Custom Inner Sleeve DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

 

DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL  custom inner sleeve

Close up of record's label DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL Side One

"Darkness Descends" Record Label Details:  Under One Flag FLAG 6 / Combat Records /Take Out Music

"Darkness Descends" Record Label Details:  Under One Flag FLAG 6 / Combat Records /Take Out Music

Close up of record's label DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL Side Two

DARK ANGEL - Darkness Descends Under One Flag Records 12" LP ALBUM VINYL  enlarged record label
 

a horizonal line

Dark Angel's 1980s Vinyl Album Cover Gallery and Discography

Selected Vinyl Albums
  Dark Angel - Darkness Descends 12" LP
Darkness Descends 12" LP

Under One Flag FLAG 6 , 1986 , UK

"Dark Angel's 'Darkness Descends' LP, a thrash metal masterpiece, embodies the genre's raw power. Released on Under One Flag in 1986, the vinyl edition enhances the sonic journey with analog warmth and tactile allure. Each track, from the relentless title opener to 'Hunger of the Undead,'

Learn more
  Dark Angel - Leave Scars 12" LP
Leave Scars 12" LP

Under One Flag FLAG 30 , 1988 , France

Released in 1989, Leave Scars by Dark Angel is a thrash metal album with a more polished sound, featuring technical guitar work, powerful drumming, and dark lyrics exploring psychological themes of pain, suffering, and trauma.

Learn more
Live Scars 12" LP
Live Scars 12" LP

Back On Black – BOBV239LP , 2009 , UK

Live Scars is a live album released in 1990 by Dark Angel, capturing the band's intense and chaotic energy during their 1989 tour. Featuring tracks from their previous albums, it is a must-listen for fans of their early thrash metal sound.

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  Dark Angel - We Have Arrived 12" LP
We Have Arrived 12" LP

AXE Killer Records 7006 , 1985 , France

We Have Arrived is the debut album by thrash metal band Dark Angel, released in 1985. It features raw and aggressive guitar riffs, fast-paced drumming, and lyrics exploring themes of violence and destruction, marking a strong entry into the thrash metal scene.

Learn more