- ENIGMA Records Release
"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.
In the heart of 1987, when thrash metal was a maelstrom of snarling guitars and rebellious lyrics, Lääz Rockit unleashed "Know Your Enemy" onto a world hungry for sonic warfare. This wasn't just another album; it was a declaration of intent, a sonic middle finger to conformity, and a testament to the raw power of Bay Area thrash.
Formed in 1982, Lääz Rockit had already established themselves as formidable contenders in the thrash scene. "Know Your Enemy" was their third studio offering, a culmination of their musical evolution and a bold step into uncharted territory.
Thrash Metal's Golden Age: The late '80s was a pivotal moment for thrash metal. Bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Exodus were rewriting the rules of heavy music, and Lääz Rockit was right there in the trenches with them. "Know Your Enemy" was a product of its time, a reflection of the angst and frustration of a generation disillusioned with the status quo.
Musical Exploration and Evolution: "Know Your Enemy" showcased Lääz Rockit's growth as musicians. The album was a departure from their earlier work, incorporating more complex song structures, intricate guitar solos, and a broader range of vocal styles. This musical exploration was a testament to their ambition and refusal to be pigeonholed into a single genre.
A Sonic Assault on the Senses: From the opening riff of "The Nightmare" to the final notes of "The Executioner," "Know Your Enemy" was an unrelenting sonic assault. The guitars were razor-sharp, the drums thunderous, and the vocals a guttural howl of defiance. The album's production, helmed by Michael Rosen, captured the raw energy of the band's live performances, making it a visceral listening experience.
Controversies and Challenges: "Know Your Enemy" wasn't without its controversies. The album's lyrics tackled social and political issues head-on, often with a bluntness that ruffled feathers. Some critics accused the band of being overly simplistic in their message, while others praised their willingness to confront difficult topics.
The Bay Area's Sonic Legacy: Lääz Rockit was part of a vibrant Bay Area thrash scene that produced some of the most iconic bands in metal history. "Know Your Enemy" was a testament to the scene's creativity and rebellious spirit, a sonic snapshot of a time when metal was raw, dangerous, and unapologetically loud.
Recording Studio and Production Team: The album was recorded at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California, a legendary studio known for its work with artists like Creedence Clearwater Revival and Journey. The production team, led by Michael Rosen, captured the raw energy of the band's live performances, making it a visceral listening experience.
Conclusion: Lääz Rockit's "Know Your Enemy" was more than just an album; it was a statement, a sonic manifesto that embodied the spirit of thrash metal. It was a testament to the power of music to challenge, provoke, and inspire. While the album may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of its peers, it remains a cult classic among thrash metal fans, a reminder of a time when metal was raw, dangerous, and unapologetically loud.
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Music Genre: Thrash Metal (USA) |
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Album Production Information: The album: " Know Your Enemy" was produced by: Roy M. Rowland 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 This album was recorded in 1987 at: Prairie Sun Recorders Cotati, California "Prairie Sun Recording Studios" 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. 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. Eddy Schreyer - Mastering Engineer Eddy Schreyer, a top-tier mastering engineer and founder of Oasis Mastering, has shaped the sonic intensity of heavy metal for decades. His expert touch has refined albums by Slayer, Korn, System of a Down, and Slipknot, ensuring powerful clarity and relentless aggression. With over 30 years in the industry, Schreyer remains a key figure in metal production.
Read more about Eddy Schreyer.
Scott Singer - Sound Engineer Neil Zlozower - Photography Neil Zlozower invites you to explore his legendary career in rock photography on this dedicated page: Neil Zlozower - Photographer.
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Record Label & Catalognr: Enigma 3305-2 |
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1987 Made in Holland |
Band Members and Musicians on: Lääz Rockit - Know Your Enemy |
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Complete Track Listing of: " Know Your Enemy" |
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The Songs/tracks on " Know Your Enemy" are
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Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Lääz Rockit - Know Your Enemy |
| Front Cover Photo of " Know Your Enemy" Album |
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| Back Cover Photo of " Know Your Enemy" Album |
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Close-up Photo of " Know Your Enemy" ENIGMA Record Label
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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. |
Emerging from the fiery depths of the Bay Area thrash scene in the early 80s, Lääz Rockit carved their name in metal history with ferocious riffs and defiant lyrics. Their vinyl discography, a testament to their sonic evolution, spans from the raw energy of their debut "City's Gonna Burn" to the politically charged "Know Your Enemy," the experimental "Annihilation Principle," and the anthemic "Holiday in Cambodia" cover. Each record captures a snapshot of a band pushing boundaries and refusing to be silenced. For collectors and metalheads alike, their vinyl releases are coveted artifacts, a window into the golden age of thrash metal.
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.
Annihilation Principle 12" Vinyl LP
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"
Holiday in Cambodja 12" Vinyl EP
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.
Know Your Enemy 12" Vinyl LP