LÄÄZ ROCKIT - Annihilation Principle - 12" Vinyl LP Album

  "Annihilation Principle" is the fourth studio album by American thrash metal band Lȧȧz Rockit. This album was recorded August-September 1988 at: Prairie Sun Recording Studios, Cotati, California and was released in 1989 on Roadrunner Records/Enigma Records.

 

Front Cover Photo of "Annihilation Principle" Album

Collectors information / Album Description: 

"Annihilation Principle" is a powerful and intense 12" vinyl LP album by Lȧȧz Rockit, an influential thrash metal band from the United States. Released in 1989 on Roadrunner Records/Enigma Records, it stands as the band's fourth studio album and showcases their signature sound and musical prowess.

Recorded at Prairie Sun Recording Studios in Cotati, California, during August and September 1988, "Annihilation Principle" delivers a relentless onslaught of thrash metal. The album captures the band's energy and aggression, featuring fast and intricate guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and fierce vocal performances.

With this album, Lȧȧz Rockit further refines their sound, blending elements of traditional heavy metal with the aggression and speed of thrash. The songs on "Annihilation Principle" tackle themes such as social issues, political corruption, and personal struggles, all delivered with a raw and unapologetic intensity.

"Annihilation Principle" received positive reviews from both fans and critics upon its release, solidifying Lȧȧz Rockit's position in the thrash metal scene. The album's blend of relentless aggression, melodic sensibilities, and thought-provoking lyrics appealed to fans of the genre and helped establish Lȧȧz Rockit as a force to be reckoned with.

Although the band experienced several lineup changes throughout their career, "Annihilation Principle" remains a highlight of Lȧȧz Rockit's discography. It serves as a testament to their contribution to the thrash metal genre and their ability to create music that resonates with fans of heavy and aggressive music.

 

The album includes a cover version of punk band Dead Kennedys' "Holiday in Cambodia"

Music Genre:

  American Speed/Thrash

Album  Production information:

The album: "Annihilation Principle" was produced by: Roy M. Rowland, Jeff Weller.

  Roy Rowland aka "Roy Macaroni" Rowland is a sound engineer, who during the 1980s engineered a dozen important heavy metal albums. Some of the bands he has worked for are: Kreator, Lääz Rockit, Onslaught, Rogue Male, Sabbat, Satan and Testament.

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This album was recorded August-September 1988 at: Prairie Sun Recording Studios, Cotati, California

In the world of music, recording studios play a vital role in capturing the essence and creativity of artists. Two prominent studios, Prairie Sun Recording Studios and Fantasy Studios, have made their mark in the industry by providing exceptional recording experiences and producing award-winning albums. Prairie Sun, located in California, and Fantasy Studios, situated in Berkeley, have both contributed significantly to the musical landscape, attracting renowned artists from various genres.

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Prairie Sun Recording Studios, nestled in the heart of California, has been a hub for heavy metal music during the 1980s. Its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional engineering have drawn numerous bands seeking to capture their raw energy and power. Bands like Chastain, Exodus, Laaz Rockit, and Vicious Rumours have graced the studios with their presence, utilizing the studio's capabilities to create some of the genre's most iconic albums.

One of the defining features of Prairie Sun is its commitment to providing artists with a comfortable and conducive environment for the creative process. The studio's unique design, incorporating natural surroundings and ample natural light, allows artists to feel at ease while recording. This relaxed atmosphere often translates into the music, as artists are able to fully immerse themselves in their work, resulting in authentic and powerful performances.

Furthermore, Prairie Sun's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality sets it apart from other recording studios. The studio houses cutting-edge equipment and employs experienced engineers who possess a deep understanding of the nuances of heavy metal music. These professionals work closely with the artists, ensuring that every element of the music is captured with precision and clarity. As a result, Prairie Sun has become renowned for its exceptional sound production and mixing capabilities.

Moving on to Fantasy Studios, situated in Berkeley's Zaentz Media Center, the studio has earned a reputation for its role in recording award-winning albums. Initially built as a private recording studio for artists on the Fantasy Records label in 1971, it opened its doors to the public in 1980. Since then, it has become a go-to destination for musicians across various genres, including rock, pop, and punk.

Fantasy Studios holds an illustrious history of producing chart-topping albums that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Notable among these are Journey's "Escape" and Green Day's "Dookie", both of which achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. The studio's commitment to excellence is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities and talented team of engineers and producers, who work tirelessly to ensure the highest quality recordings.

Beyond its technical prowess, Fantasy Studios boasts a unique atmosphere that fosters creativity and collaboration. Its spacious recording rooms and comfortable lounges provide artists with a comfortable environment to explore their musical ideas. The studio's acoustics are meticulously designed to capture the nuances of different instruments and vocal performances, allowing artists to realize their artistic vision with precision and authenticity.

Moreover, Fantasy Studios' location in Berkeley adds to its allure. The vibrant and diverse music scene in the surrounding area serves as a constant source of inspiration for artists who choose to record at the studio. The city's rich cultural history and artistic community create a stimulating backdrop, enhancing the creative process and often influencing the music itself.

A complete list of the people on the production team working on the creation of "Lääz Rockit Annihilation Principle"

Michael Coons - Vocals
Aaron Jellum - Guitar
Phil Kettner - Guitar
Victor Agnello - Drums (1964-2014)
Willy Lange - Bass
Jeff Weller - Producer, Guitarist
Prairie Sun Recording Studios, Cotati, California
Marc Reyburn - Sound Engineer
Roy "Macaroni" Rowland - Sound Engineer, Producer
George Horn - Mastering Engineer
Juan Urteaga - Mastering Engineer
Alex Solca - Photographer
Dave Plastic - Photography
Dwayne Cavanas - Photography
Eric de Haas - Photographer
Gene Ambo - Photography
Jay Ginnini - Photography
Jodi Beth Summers - Photographer
John Harrell - Photography
Neil Zlozower - Photographer
Steve Gross - Design
William Hames - Photography
Jeff "Ski" Sadowski - Album artwork
Mark DeVito - Layou

William Hames a photographer (and musician) with American/Japanese origins who has photographed dozens of Heavy Metal bands. During the late 1980s he started photographing Japanese metal bands like Anthem, Loudness and later bands like: Bow Wow, Dokken , Lääz Rockit , W.A.S.P. He continues photographing Heavy Metal b

ands until the early 2000s

Neil Zlozower Neil Zlozower is an American photographer and music industry professional, best known for his work documenting the hard rock and heavy metal scenes of the 1970s and 1980s. He was born on 9 December 1949, in Los Angeles, California.

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Zlozower started his photography career in the 1970s, working as a freelance photographer for various music industry magazines and record labels. Over the years, he has captured some of the most iconic images of some of the biggest and most influential musicians of the rock and metal worlds, including Mötley Crüe , Van Halen , Guns N' Roses, Slayer , and many more.

Zlozower's work has been featured in numerous books, magazines, and exhibitions, and he continues to be one of the most respected and sought-after photographers in the music industry. In addition to his photography work, Zlozower has also been involved in various other aspects of the music business, including album design, marketing, and publicity. He is widely recognized as one of the key figures in the history of hard rock and heavy metal photography.

Jeff Sadowski has done the artwork for several Heavy Metal bands, incl 7 albums for Laaz Rockit

Alex Solca is an esteemed photographer who has made an indelible mark in the world of music photography, particularly in the realm of Heavy Metal. With several decades of experience capturing the raw energy and captivating essence of numerous renowned bands, Solca has become an iconic figure in the industry.

Born with an innate passion for both music and visual arts, Alex Solca embarked on his photographic journey at an early age. Growing up in a vibrant cultural scene, he was drawn to the rebellious and powerful nature of Heavy Metal music. This fascination led him to combine his two passions, giving birth to a career that would redefine music photography.

Solca's work with Heavy Metal bands spans a vast array of genres, from classic and progressive rock to thrash and death metal. His distinctive style is characterized by an ability to freeze moments in time, capturing the essence of the music and the emotions it evokes. Through his lens, Solca has managed to immortalize the larger-than-life personalities of some of the most iconic bands and musicians in the history of Heavy Metal.

Read more...

Over the years, Solca has had the privilege of photographing a multitude of legendary acts, including Journey, Dio, Alice Cooper, Fates Warning, King Diamond, Mercyful Fate, Vasco Rossi, Glenn Hughes, Jeff Blades, Jeff Scott Soto, Danzig, Lee Rocker, Reo Speedwagon, Machine Head, Tower of Power, B'Z, Skinlab, Gotthard, Dave Weckl, Kyuss, Christopher Cross, and countless others. His body of work serves as a testament to his versatility and enduring passion for the art form.

Beyond his technical skills, Solca possesses a unique ability to connect with the musicians he photographs. He understands their passion, their struggles, and their desire to express themselves through their music. This empathetic approach allows him to capture moments that not only showcase the artists' stage presence but also reveal their vulnerability and humanity.

Alex Solca's photographs have graced the pages of prestigious music magazines, album covers, and concert posters worldwide. His images have become synonymous with the spirit of Heavy Metal, influencing generations of aspiring photographers and leaving an indelible mark on the genre's visual history.

While Heavy Metal remains his primary focus, Solca's portfolio extends beyond the genre. He has also explored other musical realms, capturing the essence of jazz, blues, and rock 'n' roll icons. His ability to adapt his style to different genres demonstrates his versatility and artistic range.

Throughout his illustrious career, Alex Solca has received numerous accolades and honors for his contributions to music photography. His work continues to inspire and captivate audiences, preserving the spirit and energy of Heavy Metal for future generations to experience.

As the music industry evolves, Alex Solca remains at the forefront, capturing the ever-changing landscape of Heavy Metal and other genres. With his keen eye, unwavering passion, and decades of experience, he continues to redefine the boundaries of music photography, leaving an enduring legacy that will forever be etched in the world of rock history.

George Horn - Chief Mastering Engineer at Fantasy Studios, Berkeley, CA and mastering engineer at CBS Studios, San Francisco.

 

Record Label Information:

  Enigma ENVLP 521

Media Format:

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

Year & Country:

  1989 Made in EEC
Band Members and Musicians on: Lääz Rockit Annihilation Principle
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Michael Coons - vocals
  • Phil Kettner - guitar
  • Aaron Jellum - guitar
  • Willy Lange - bass
  • Victor Agnello - drums
Track Listing of: "Annihilation Principle"

The Songs/tracks on "Annihilation Principle" are

  1. Fire in the Hole - 3:49
  2. Mob Justice - 4:59
  3. Chain of Fools - 4:15
  4. Shadow Company - 6:17
  5. Holiday in Cambodia (Dead Kennedys) - 3:45
  6. Bad Blood - 4:36
  7. Chasin' Charlie - 4:40
  8. Mirror to Madness - 5:08
  9. The Omen - 6:35
Album cover photos of : Lääz Rockit Annihilation Principle

Front Cover Photo of "Annihilation Principle" Album
Front Cover Photo of "Annihilation Principle" Album
Back Cover  Photo of "Annihilation Principle" Album
Back Cover  Photo of "Annihilation Principle" Album  
Close-up Photo of "Annihilation Principle" ENIGMA Record Label 
Close-up Photo of "Annihilation Principle" ENIGMA Record Label   
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.
Through the Fire and Flames: An Illustrated Journey of Laaz Rockit's Vinyl Discography

Band Information:

  Laaz Rockit was a thrash metal band that emerged in the early 1980s and gained a dedicated following throughout the decade. Known for their aggressive music and politically charged lyrics, the band released several critically acclaimed albums and influenced many other thrash and speed metal bands that followed.

  Formed in 1982 in the San Francisco Bay Area, Laaz Rockit's original lineup consisted of Michael Coons (vocals), Aaron Jellum (guitar), Phil Kettner (guitar), Willy Lange (bass), and Victor Agnello (drums). The band quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy live shows and their ability to blend elements of punk, heavy metal, and thrash into their music.

  In 1984, Laaz Rockit signed with Target Records and released their debut album, "City's Gonna Burn." The album showcased the band's technical musicianship and political lyrics, with songs like "Fire in the Hole" and "Last Breath" addressing themes of war, government corruption, and social inequality. "City's Gonna Burn" received positive reviews from critics and helped establish Laaz Rockit as one of the leading thrash metal bands of the time.

  Over the next few years, Laaz Rockit continued to release albums and tour extensively, both in the United States and internationally. Their second album, "No Stranger to Danger," was released in 1985 and included the popular tracks "Euroshima" and "Shot to Hell." The album showcased the band's growth and maturity as songwriters, while maintaining their trademark thrash sound.

  In 1987, Laaz Rockit released "Know Your Enemy," which was produced by Metallica's Kirk Hammett. The album saw the band experimenting with new sounds and incorporating elements of funk and rap into their music. While some fans were critical of the album's departure from the band's thrash roots, "Know Your Enemy" remains a unique and innovative work that showcases Laaz Rockit's willingness to take risks and push boundaries.

  After several lineup changes and a brief hiatus in the early 1990s, Laaz Rockit released their final album, "Left for Dead," in 2008. The album marked a return to the band's thrash roots and received positive reviews from critics and fans alike. However, the band ultimately disbanded in 2018, after over three decades of making music.

  Laaz Rockit's legacy continues to be felt in the thrash and speed metal scenes, with many bands citing them as an influence. Their music and lyrics remain relevant and powerful, addressing themes of social and political injustice that continue to resonate with listeners today. While they may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their peers, Laaz Rockit's impact on the world of heavy metal is undeniable.

LÄÄZ ROCKIT - Annihilation Principle 12" Vinyl LP

Thumbnail Of  LÄÄZ ROCKIT - Annihilation Principle 12" Vinyl LP album front cover

Enigma ENVLP 521 , 1989 , EEC

  "Annihilation Principle" is the fourth studio album by American thrash metal band Lȧȧz Rockit. This album was recorded August-September 1988 at: Prairie Sun Recording Studios, Cotati, California and was released in 1989 on Roadrunner Records/Enigma Records.

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LÄÄZ ROCKIT - Holiday in Cambodja 12" Vinyl EP

Thumbnail Of  LÄÄZ ROCKIT - Holiday in Cambodja 12" Vinyl EP album front cover

Restless Records – 72302-0 , 1989 , USA

  "Holiday in Cambodja" was originally written and performed by the "Dead Kennedys" , this version is a cover performed by "Laaz Rockit"

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Lääz Rockit - Know Your Enemy 12" Vinyl LP

Thumbnail Of  Lääz Rockit - Know Your Enemy 12" Vinyl LP album front cover

Enigma 3305-2 , 1987 , Netherlands

  "Know Your Enemy" is the third studio album from Californian thrash metal band, Lääz Rockit. It was released in 1987 on Roadrunner Records/Enigma Records and follows 1985's No Stranger to Danger.

Learn more