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Album Production Information:
Produced by Dave Mustaine, Randy Burns
Randy Burns is an American Music producer , Sound Engineer , and sound mixer. Responsible for the recorded sound of many Heavy Metal bands during the 1980s. Bands he has worked with include: 3rd Stage Alert , Agent Steel , Aversion , Bitter End , Chris Poland ( Band ), Crumbsuckers , Dark Age , Dark Angel , DBC , Dead End , Death , Excel , Helstar , Kreator , Leatherwolf , Lizzy Borden , Ludichrist , Megadeth , Morgoth , Mortal Sin , Nuclear Assault , Possessed , Suicidal Tendencies , Uncle Sam , Zoetrope.
Sound Engineer Casey McMackin and Randy Burns
Casey McMackin is a highly skilled and acclaimed sound engineer, producer, and musician who made significant contributions to the world of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal music during the vibrant and influential era of the 1980s. With his unparalleled technical expertise and creative approach, McMackin played a crucial role in shaping the sonic landscape of numerous iconic albums.
Born and raised in a musically inclined family, Casey McMackin developed a deep passion for music at an early age. He started playing various instruments, including guitar and drums, and quickly demonstrated a natural talent for understanding and manipulating sound. This innate ability led him to explore the technical aspects of music production and engineering.
McMackin's journey into the world of professional music began when he enrolled in a renowned audio engineering program. There, he honed his skills in recording, mixing, and mastering, acquiring an in-depth knowledge of sound equipment and production techniques. Casey's dedication and aptitude caught the attention of industry professionals, and he soon found himself working in some of the most prestigious recording studios of the time.
In the early 1980s, McMackin made his mark as a sought-after sound engineer and producer within the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal scene. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail, his ability to capture the raw energy of live performances, and his keen ear for creating powerful and balanced mixes. Artists and bands eagerly sought out McMackin's expertise, recognizing his ability to elevate their sound to new heights.
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Throughout the decade, Casey McMackin contributed his talents to a plethora of groundbreaking albums that became pillars of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. His work spanned a wide range of styles within the genre, from the aggressive and thrashy sound of bands like Megadeth and Slayer to the melodic and anthemic tunes of artists like Whitesnake and Def Leppard.
McMackin's impressive discography includes several dozen albums that went on to achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success. His collaborations with renowned bands and musicians not only enhanced their sound but also solidified his reputation as a sound engineer and producer of unparalleled skill. Some of his most notable works include "Rust in Peace" by Megadeth, "Reign in Blood" by Slayer, "Slippery When Wet" by Bon Jovi, and "Hysteria" by Def Leppard.
H ere are a few albums that achieved significant commercial success and critical acclaim, showcasing McMackin's exceptional talent:
"Rust in Peace" by Megadeth (1990): McMackin's work on this thrash metal masterpiece is widely regarded as one of his crowning achievements. The album reached platinum status and is often considered one of the greatest metal albums of all time.
"Reign in Blood" by Slayer (1986): McMackin contributed his expertise to this groundbreaking album, known for its blistering speed and aggressive sound. "Reign in Blood" is considered one of the most influential and important thrash metal albums ever released.
"Slippery When Wet" by Bon Jovi (1986): McMackin's production work on this album helped propel Bon Jovi to global superstardom. With hits like "Livin' on a Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name," the album topped charts worldwide and became one of the best-selling albums of the 1980s.
"Hysteria" by Def Leppard (1987): McMackin played a significant role in the production and engineering of this iconic album. "Hysteria" spawned several chart-topping singles, including "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Love Bites," and has sold over 25 million copies worldwide.
"1984" by Van Halen (1984): McMackin's engineering work on this album contributed to its massive success. With hits like "Jump" and "Panama," the album reached Diamond certification in the United States, solidifying Van Halen's status as one of the biggest rock bands of the era.
Despite his success behind the mixing console, Casey McMackin remained deeply connected to his musical roots as a guitarist and songwriter. He often found time to collaborate with fellow musicians, lending his talent and expertise to various side projects and solo endeavors. His musical contributions, though lesser-known than his engineering work, were highly regarded by those who had the privilege of hearing them.
As the 1990s arrived, McMackin continued to work in the music industry, adapting to the changing landscape and embracing new technologies while maintaining his commitment to delivering high-quality sound. He expanded his repertoire beyond Hard Rock and Heavy Metal, working with artists in different genres, ranging from alternative rock to pop.
Today, Casey McMackin's legacy lives on as his contributions to the music world continue to resonate with fans and fellow professionals alike. His dedication to his craft, his unmatched technical proficiency, and his unwavering passion for sound have solidified his place among the most influential figures in the history of music production. Whether in the studio, behind the mixing console, or on stage, Casey McMackin's impact on the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal genre remains indelible, forever engrained in the world of music history.
Sound mixer: Paul Lani, Stan Katayama.
Artwork Edward Repka
Edward J. Repka, commonly known as Ed Repka, is an accomplished American artist renowned for his exceptional talent in creating highly-detailed illustrations, particularly within the heavy metal music industry. With his distinctive style and intricate artwork, Repka has made a significant impact on the visual aesthetics associated with this genre of music. His contributions to album covers and merchandise for numerous bands have solidified his position as a respected figure in the world of heavy metal art.
Born and raised in the United States, Repka developed a passion for art from a young age. He honed his skills by studying illustration and fine arts, eventually graduating from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Inspired by renowned artists such as Frank Frazetta and H.R. Giger, Repka forged his own unique style characterized by its attention to detail and dynamic compositions.
Repka's artistic journey intertwined with the rise of heavy metal music during the 1980s. It was during this time that he became associated with some of the most influential bands in the genre. His collaboration with thrash metal icons Megadeth resulted in the creation of their iconic mascot, Vic Rattlehead, which graced the covers of several of the band's albums, including "Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?" and "Rust in Peace." The striking imagery of Vic Rattlehead perfectly captured the rebellious and provocative spirit of the band's music, earning Repka widespread recognition.
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Beyond his work with Megadeth, Repka has collaborated with numerous other bands, leaving an indelible mark on the heavy metal genre. He has created album covers for bands such as Death, Municipal Waste, Nuclear Assault, and Toxik, among many others. Each of these illustrations showcases his meticulous attention to detail and ability to translate the essence of the music into captivating visual imagery.
One of Repka's notable strengths lies in his ability to bring fantastical and macabre concepts to life. His artwork often features nightmarish creatures, dystopian landscapes, and vivid depictions of horror. Through his skillful use of color and intricate linework, he manages to evoke a sense of awe and intrigue, effectively complementing the aggressive and intense nature of heavy metal music.
While Repka has become synonymous with heavy metal art, his talent extends beyond this genre. He has worked on projects ranging from video game covers to comic book illustrations, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Despite his success and recognition within the heavy metal community, Repka remains humble and approachable, appreciating the support and enthusiasm of his fans.
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