MEGADETH Killing is my Business and Business is Good Album Cover Photos & 12" Vinyl LP Discography Information #vinylrecords

Album Description

Megadeth's 1985 debut album, "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" stands as a monument of raw aggression and technical prowess in the world of thrash metal. The album unleashed the relentless fury of Dave Mustaine, a guitarist scorned by his expulsion from Metallica, and set the foundation for one of the most influential metal bands of all time. This article will delve into the Netherlands release of this seminal work on vinyl (Music for Nations, Roadrunner Productions, RR 9786).

The Birth of a Thrash Masterpiece

Recorded on a shoestring budget, "Killing Is My Business…and Business Is Good!" exudes an unfiltered punk-infused energy. Mustaine's snarling vocals and lightning-fast riffs collide with the thunderous rhythm section of bassist David Ellefson and drummer Gar Samuelson. Lead guitarist Chris Poland adds intricate solos and dissonant flourishes, further enhancing the album's chaotic brilliance.

Netherlands Vinyl Edition: Unique Features

The Netherlands pressing of the album boasts some interesting features that distinguish it from other releases. These include:

Printed Inner Sleeve: Many Netherlands pressings are known for including printed inner sleeves that often feature lyrics, band photos, or additional artwork.

Label Variations: The center labels of the vinyl may have subtle differences in design, such as the arrangement of the track titles or the prominence of the record labels.

Sound Quality: European vinyl pressings, including those from the Netherlands, can sometimes offer a slightly different sonic experience compared to their American counterparts.

Tracklist and Iconic Moments

The album bursts with iconic tracks that have become staples of Megadeth's live shows:

"Last Rites/Loved to Death:" This blistering opener establishes the album's blistering pace and showcases Mustaine's penchant for dark, twisted lyrics.

"Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" The title track is a thrash metal anthem, with its infectious riff and defiant attitude.

"The Skull Beneath the Skin:" This complex, multi-part composition showcases the band's instrumental dexterity.

"Mechanix:" A furiously paced thrasher, notable as the song Mustaine originally co-wrote during his brief tenure in Metallica (reappearing on their debut with altered lyrics as "The Four Horsemen").

Featured Song: "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" Explained

Megadeth's debut album explodes with the title track, "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" This isn't your typical war cry. With a darkly humorous twist, the song delves into the world of a cold-blooded assassin.

The music itself is a masterclass in thrash metal. Blazing guitar riffs weave between a mid-tempo stomp and lightning-fast thrash sections. Dave Mustaine's vocals snarl the lyrics, a chilling contrast to the almost catchy rhythm.

The lyrics paint a picture of a professional killer, detached and efficient. He completes his assigned hit but with a shocking twist - he eliminates the one who hired him. Is it greed, a personal vendetta, or just another layer of this character's twisted morality? The song leaves that delightfully ambiguous.

"Killing Is My Business..." became an anthem for the band's rebellious spirit. It wasn't just about violence; it was a middle finger to the establishment, a declaration of doing things their own way, consequences be damned. The song's raw energy and dark humor continue to resonate with fans, solidifying its place as a thrash metal classic.

Listen to the song:

Music Genre: Metal, Hard Rock

Album Production Information:

Produced by Dave Mustaine and Karat Faye

Recorded and mixed at Indigo Ranch Studios, Malibu and Crystal Sound Labs, Hollywood. December 1984 and January 1985.

Album design: Donald J. Munz

Photography: Dan Rizzi

Record Label: Music for Nations, Roadrunner Productions, RR 9786

Album Packaging:

Original custom inner sleeve with album details, lyrics and photos.

Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Record 160grams

Year & Country:

1985 Made in Holland

Band Members and Musicians on: MEGADETH Killing is my Business and Business is Good

Dave Mustaine

Dave Mustaine ( full-name: David Scott Mustaine ) born 1961 in La Mesa, California. He is the co-founder, lead vocalist, and lead guitarist of the heavy metal band Megadeth, which was formed in 1983. Mustaine is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians in the thrash metal genre and is considered a pioneer of the American thrash metal scene.

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Mustaine was originally a member of the band Metallica , but he was eventually fired from the band due to personal and musical differences. He went on to form Megadeth , which became one of the "big four" of the thrash metal genre along with Metallica , Slayer , and Anthrax .

Throughout his career, Mustaine has been recognized for his musical abilities and innovative style, and he has been awarded numerous accolades and awards, including several Grammy nominations. He is known for his fast and complex guitar playing, as well as his powerful vocals and distinctive songwriting.

In addition to his work with Megadeth, Mustaine has been involved in various other musical projects and has collaborated with a number of other musicians. He is also a published author and has been involved in various business ventures and charitable causes throughout his career.
Chris Poland

Megadeth's original lead guitarist. Chris Poland defined 80s thrash metal with his unconventional style. Get the full story.

David Ellefson

Dave Ellefson o-founder of Megadeth. Master of the bass. Dave Ellefson's story is the inside look at thrash metal's rise. Discover his journey now.

Gar Samuelson
Gar Samuelson ( full-name: Gary Charles Samuelson ) was born in 1958 at Dunkirk, New York and was an American drummer. Samuelson started his musica career as Jazz Fusion drummer in a band called "The New Yorkers", he is best known as drummer with the American Thrash Metal band "Megadeth" from 1984 until 1987.