Destruction - Mad Butcher 12" Vinyl EP Album

Released in 1987, amidst the peak of thrash metal's global dominance, Destruction's "Mad Butcher" EP served as a bridge between their earlier raw aggression and their evolving sound. While not a full-length album, this 12" vinyl release cemented the band's position in the Teutonic thrash scene and showcased their evolving musicality.

Historical Context

By 1987, thrash metal had firmly established itself as a major force in heavy music. The "Big Four" (Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax) were at their peak, and countless bands worldwide were following in their footsteps. In Germany, Destruction had already released two critically acclaimed albums, "Infernal Overkill" and "Eternal Devastation," solidifying their place alongside Sodom and Kreator as leaders of the Teutonic thrash movement.

Musical Exploration

"Mad Butcher" is a four-track EP that clocks in at just under 18 minutes, but it packs a punch. The title track, a re-recording of a song from their debut album, is a ferocious thrash anthem with lightning-fast riffs, pummeling drums, and Schmier's signature aggressive vocals.

The EP also features a cover of The Plasmatics' "The Damned," showcasing Destruction's ability to put their own spin on another band's material. "Reject Emotions" is a slower, more melodic track that hints at the band's future exploration of different styles. The instrumental "The Last Judgement" highlights the band's technical proficiency and features a blistering guitar solo by new member Harry Wilkens.

Production and Personnel

"Mad Butcher" was recorded at Karo Studio in Münster, Germany, with Kalle Trapp handling production, recording, and mixing duties. The production is cleaner and more polished than the band's earlier releases, reflecting a growing trend in thrash metal towards a more professional sound.

The lineup for "Mad Butcher" saw some changes from the band's previous albums. While Schmier remained on vocals and bass, Mike Sifringer was joined by Harry Wilkens on guitars, and Oliver "Olly" Kaiser took over on drums. These changes brought a fresh energy to the band's sound, with Wilkens' guitar playing adding a new dimension to their dual-guitar attack.

Controversies

The cover art for "Mad Butcher," depicting a butcher wielding a cleaver and surrounded by dismembered body parts, caused some controversy upon release. Some retailers refused to stock the album, and it was banned in several countries. However, the artwork has since become iconic in the metal community, symbolizing the band's uncompromising attitude and their willingness to push boundaries.