Living Death Protected From Reality Speed Thrash Metal Album Cover Gallery & 12" Vinyl LP Discography Information #vinylrecords

"Protected From Reality" Album Description:

In the vast tapestry of heavy metal's history, certain albums stand as pillars, marking pivotal moments in the evolution of the genre. "Protected From Reality," the iconic 12" Vinyl LP by Living Death released under Cobra Records, is one such masterpiece that not only solidified the band's place in metal lore but also bore the indelible mark of producer and bass player Ralph "Ralf" Hubert.

The creation of "Protected From Reality" was no ordinary journey; it was a sonic exploration led by the skilled hands of Ralph Hubert, a multifaceted artist known for his roles as a producer, sound engineer, sound mixer, and bass player. Hubert, also recognized by the alias "Björn Eklund" during his time with Mekong Delta, played a pivotal role in shaping the Teutonic Metal sound of the 1980s.

The album's production credits read like a who's who of heavy metal greatness. Ralph Hubert's involvement extended beyond Living Death, touching the works of Brainfever, Steeler, Warlock, Atlain, Stormwind, and an array of other influential bands. As the producer and sound engineer, Hubert left an indelible mark on each project, becoming a driving force behind the powerful and distinctive sound that defined the era.

The Teutonic Metal sound, characterized by its raw energy, aggressive guitar riffs, and thunderous basslines, found its voice through the skilled hands of Ralph Hubert. His influence extended far beyond the studio, making him a true influencer in the metal scene of the 1980s. The impact of his work resonated in albums by notable bands like Kreator, Holy Moses, and Siren, to name just a few.

In addition to his production prowess, Ralph Hubert showcased his musical talents as the bass player for Mekong Delta, contributing to the band's sonic journey since 1985. Under the alias "Björn Eklund," he not only held down the low end with Mekong Delta but also lent his musical prowess to Schwarzarbeit and X-Mas Project, leaving an indelible mark on each project.

The album's visual identity was equally captivating, with Peter Larisch's photography capturing the essence of Living Death's musical vision. The cover art and visuals served as a gateway, inviting listeners into a world where reality was, indeed, protected by the sonic onslaught contained within the grooves of the vinyl.

Ralph Hubert's impact transcended the recording studio; in 1986, he co-founded "Aaarrg Records," a label that played a crucial role in shaping the destiny of many metal acts. This venture showcased his commitment to the metal community, solidifying his status as not just a producer but a dedicated architect of the genre's landscape.

Music Genre:

Speed Thrash Death Metal

Album
Production information:

Produced by Ralph Hubert

Photography by Peter Larisch

Ralph "Ralf" Hubert

In the world of heavy metal history, certain individuals emerge as true architects of the genre's sonic landscape. One such luminary is Ralph "Ralf" Hubert, a versatile talent whose impact on heavy metal, both as a producer and a musician, remains indelible. Known for his pivotal role in shaping the Teutonic Metal sound of the 1980s, Hubert's multifaceted career spans across production, sound engineering, bass playing, and co-founding a record label.

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Ralph Hubert's journey into the realm of heavy metal began as a producer, sound engineer, and sound mixer. His adept skills were employed in crafting the albums of numerous iconic bands, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the metal scene during the genre's golden era. Bands such as Brainfever, Steeler, Fact , Warlock , and Living Death , among others, bear the imprint of Hubert's production prowess. His influence extended to an extensive roster, including Atlain , Stormwind , Darxon, Hunter, Lions Breed, Metal Sword, Overdose, Breaker, Mad Butcher, Carrie , Invader, Holy Moses , Siren, Target, Kreator, and Sacred Chao.

It was during this era that Hubert's touch became synonymous with the Teutonic Metal sound, a subgenre characterized by its raw intensity, powerful riffing, and uncompromising attitude. As a producer and sound engineer, Hubert played a pivotal role in shaping the sonic identity of the 1980s metal scene, leaving an indelible mark that resonates to this day.

Beyond his contributions behind the mixing console, Ralph Hubert also showcased his musical prowess as a bass player. Under the alias "Björn Eklund," he held down the low end with the influential band "Mekong Delta" from 1985 onwards. This collaboration allowed him to express his musicality and contribute to the band's unique sound. His bass-playing finesse further extended to other projects, including Schwarzarbeit and X-Mas Project, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

Not content with merely influencing the musical landscape, Ralph Hubert ventured into the realm of entrepreneurship. In 1986, he co-founded "Aaarrg Records," a label that played a significant role in amplifying the voices of emerging metal acts. This endeavor solidified Hubert's status as not just a contributor to the metal scene but also as a catalyst for its growth and evolution.

Record Label Information:

Cobra CL 1038

Media Format:

12" Vinyl LP Gramophone

Year & Country:

1988 Made in Canada

Band Members and Musicians on: Living Death Protected From Reality

Thorsten Bergmann (Vocals)
Frank Fricke (Guitar)
Reiner Kelch (Guitar)
Dieter Kelch (Bass)
Atomic Steif (Drums)

Atom Steif, born Guido Richter, is a highly regarded German drummer renowned for his contributions to the heavy metal scene during the 1980s. Born in 1965, in Germany, Atom Steif's musical journey began at a young age when he discovered his passion for drumming.

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In his early years, Atom Steif honed his drumming skills by immersing himself in various musical styles, ranging from rock to jazz. Inspired by the energy and power of heavy metal, he decided to pursue a career in the genre. With an unwavering dedication to his craft, Atom Steif's talent quickly caught the attention of fellow musicians and music enthusiasts.

In the early 1980s, Atom Steif joined the band "Violent Force", a prominent force in the German thrash metal scene. His precise and aggressive drumming style contributed significantly to the band's success and solidified his reputation as a remarkable drummer. Atom Steif's skills on the drums became a defining characteristic of the band's sound, and they garnered a loyal following.

Following his stint with "Violent Force", Atom Steif embarked on a musical journey that led him to join several notable bands. He became a member of "Sacred Chao", where his rhythmic expertise elevated the band's performances. With Atom Steif behind the drum kit, the band produced impactful and dynamic music that resonated with metal enthusiasts.

Atom Steif's talents didn't go unnoticed, and he soon found himself joining "Sodom", a pioneering German thrash metal band. As a member of "Sodom", he made significant contributions to their albums, playing a vital role in shaping the band's distinctive sound. His drumming prowess added depth and intensity to the band's music, further cementing his position as one of the premier drummers in the metal scene.

Continuing his musical journey, Atom Steif became part of "Living Death", a German speed metal band known for their energetic live performances. With his technical finesse and powerful drumming style, he brought an electrifying energy to the band's music, earning praise from fans and critics alike.

In addition to his work with "Living Death", Atom Steif also joined "Holy Moses", another influential German thrash metal band. With his solid drumming foundation, he helped shape the band's dynamic sound and contributed to their success during the 1980s.

Throughout his career, Atom Steif's drumming skills and musical contributions earned him widespread recognition and respect within the heavy metal community. His technical proficiency, precision, and ability to infuse songs with power and intensity established him as one of the most revered drummers of his time.

Atom Steif's impact on the metal scene extended beyond his work with various bands. He inspired countless aspiring drummers with his dedication and innovative drumming techniques, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

While the specific details of Atom Steif's personal life and current activities may not be widely available, his legacy as a highly influential German drummer during the 1980s remains a testament to his musical talent and dedication to heavy metal. His contributions to the bands "Violent Force", "Sacred Chao", "Sodom", "Living Death", and "Holy Moses" have solidified his place in the world of metal history, ensuring that his impact will continue to be celebrated by metal enthusiasts for generations to come.

Track Listing of: Living Death Protected From Reality

The Song/tracks on "Living Death Protected From Reality" are

Horrible Infanticide (Part One) 03:39
Manila Terror 03:49
Natures Death 04:39
Wood of Necrophiliac 05:18
Vengeance (Horrible Infanticide Part Two) 04:07
Intruder 04:50
The Gallery 05:34
War of Independence 03:31
Eisbein (Mit Sauerkraut) 02:51

Album front cover photo of : Living Death Protected From Reality

Photo of Album's Back Cover

Album front cover photo of : Living Death Protected From Reality

Close-up of Living Death's Cobra Record Label

Note: the above pictures are actual photos of the album and allow you to judge the quality of cover. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash.

Band Information:

Living Death was a German thrash metal band that formed in 1981 in Velbert, a city in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The band is regarded as one of the pioneers of the German thrash metal scene, along with bands like Kreator, Sodom, and Destruction. Living Death was known for their fast and aggressive style of music, combined with dark and satanic lyrics that often dealt with death, horror, and the occult.

History

Living Death was formed in 1981 by guitarist Frank Fricke, bassist Dieter Kelch, drummer Reiner Kelch, and vocalist Thorsten Bergmann. The band released their debut album, "Vengeance of Hell," in 1984, which was well-received by both critics and fans of the genre. The album featured fast and aggressive thrash metal tracks like "You and Me," "Heavy Metal Hurricane," and "Nightlight," and established Living Death as a force to be reckoned with in the German thrash metal scene.

Living Death went on to release several more albums throughout the 1980s, including "Protected from Reality" (1987), "Worlds Neuroses" (1988), and "Killing in Action" (1991). The band's sound evolved over time, with later albums featuring more complex arrangements and a more polished production. However, Living Death never lost their signature aggressive style, and their music continued to be well-received by thrash metal fans around the world.

Legacy

Living Death's influence on the thrash metal genre cannot be overstated. Along with other German thrash metal bands like Kreator, Sodom, and Destruction, Living Death helped to establish Germany as a major center of the thrash metal scene in the 1980s. The band's fast and aggressive style of music, combined with dark and satanic lyrics, set the template for many thrash metal bands that followed.

Living Death's music continues to be revered by thrash metal fans around the world, and the band's influence can be heard in the music of many modern thrash metal bands. Despite never achieving the same level of commercial success as some of their peers, Living Death remains a cult favorite among thrash metal fans, and their legacy as pioneers of the genre is secure.

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Earthshaker ES 4012 , 1985 , Germany

"Metal Revolution" by Living Death, a 1985 speed metal masterpiece on Earthshaker Records, encapsulates the essence of the mid-'80s metal revolution. Characterized by raw energy and intense production, the album's iconic cover art mirrors its apocalyptic sonic assault. The release stands as a testament to the global impact of German metal, inspiring a new wave of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on heavy metal history.

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LIVING DEATH - Protected from Reality 12" LP

Cobra CL 1038 , 1988 , Canada

"Protected From Reality," Living Death's iconic 12" Vinyl LP, emerged as a hallmark of Teutonic Metal's 1980s heyday. Producer and bass player Ralph Hubert, a driving force behind the genre's sound, left an indelible mark on bands like Kreator and Holy Moses. Hubert's multifaceted role extended to co-founding "Aaarrg Records." The album's sonic prowess, complemented by Peter Larisch's visuals, solidifies

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Mausoleum Records – SKULL 8360, Earthshaker Records – ES 4002 , 1984 , Belgium

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LIVING DEATH - Watch Out! 12" LP

Earth Shaker ESM 4007 , 1985 , Switzerland

Living Death's "Watch Out," a thrash metal masterpiece, gains allure with its rare Swiss pressing on Earth Shaker RECORDS. Released in 1985 during the genre's transformative era, this edition reflects Switzerland's small music market, often reliant on imports. The scarcity and limited quantities of this release make it a coveted treasure for collectors, embodying a unique moment when heavy metal's global influence resonated even in smaller musical landscapes.

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