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").
