MEKONG DELTA - DANCES OF DEATH & OTHER WALKING SHADOWS LYRICS SLEEVE 12" Vinyl EP Album

- This album comes with a Merchandising Postcard

"Dances Of Death" (1990), a seminal album by German Speed/Thrash Metal band Mekong Delta, remains a collector's treasure with its 12" vinyl EP and merchandising postcard. The creation history unveils a groundbreaking approach to thrash metal, blending technical prowess with thematic depth. The album's visual and lyrical elements, coupled with its innovative format, solidify its status as a trailblazer in the metal genre, leaving an indelible mark on the evolution of thrash.

 

High Resolution Photo #1 MEKONG DELTA Dances Of Death

"Dances Of Death" Album Description:

In the world of thrash metal history, certain albums stand out as milestones that have left an indelible mark on the genre. Among them is the 1990 release, "Dances Of Death," a formidable offering from the German Speed/Thrash Metal band, Mekong Delta. This 12" vinyl EP album, accompanied by a merchandising postcard, has become a collector's item, cherished by enthusiasts of the heavy metal genre.

The creation history of "Dances Of Death" is a fascinating journey into the heart of Mekong Delta's creative process. As with any groundbreaking album, its genesis can be traced back to a confluence of musical influences, artistic vision, and the socio-cultural backdrop of the time.

Mekong Delta, formed in the mid-1980s, was known for pushing the boundaries of conventional thrash metal. Their music was characterized by intricate compositions, technical prowess, and a penchant for incorporating unconventional elements. "Dances Of Death" was a testament to their commitment to innovation within the thrash metal domain.

The album sleeve, a canvas for visual representation, often plays a crucial role in complementing the auditory experience. The artwork and design of the "Dances Of Death" sleeve are reflective of the band's thematic exploration. The imagery, possibly mirroring the intensity of the music within, sets the tone for the sonic journey that awaits the listener.

A distinctive feature of this release is the inclusion of a merchandising postcard. This added element not only served as a token for fans but also as a promotional tool for the band. The postcard, adorned with artwork or band imagery, became a tangible extension of the album, creating a more immersive experience for the audience.

Examining the lyrical content of "Dances Of Death" provides insight into the thematic depth that Mekong Delta sought to convey. Lyrics on a thrash metal album often serve as a narrative thread, weaving together a tapestry of themes ranging from socio-political commentary to existential introspection. Each track on the album becomes a chapter in this sonic novel, contributing to the overall impact.

The year 1990 marked a critical juncture in the evolution of thrash metal, with bands experimenting with different sounds and styles. Mekong Delta's "Dances Of Death" emerged as a trailblazer, showcasing the band's ability to transcend the confines of the genre while retaining its essence. The impact of this album reverberated through the metal community, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.

Music Genre: German Power Speed Thrash Metal, Progressive Metal

Album  Production information:

The album: "MEKONG DELTA Dances of Death (& Other Walking Shadows)" was produced by: Bjorn Eklund (real name Ralph Hubert)

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: Blue Label AAARRG ARG 23/034
Packaging: This album "Dances of Death (& Other Walking Shadows)" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by "Mekong Delta"
Record Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 210 gram  
Year & Country  1990 Made in Germany
Band Members and Musicians on: MEKONG DELTA Dances of Death (& Other Walking Shadows)
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Doug Lee - Vocals
  • Uwe B. (real name: - Uwe Baltrusch) - Guitars
  • Björn Eklund - Bass, Accoustic guitar
  • Gordon Perkins - Drums
Track Listing of: "MEKONG DELTA Dances of Death (& Other Walking Shadows)"

The Songs/tracks on "MEKONG DELTA Dances of Death (& Other Walking Shadows)" are

    Side One:
  1. Dances of Death
    Side Two:
  1. Transgression
  2. True Believers
  3. Night on a Bare Mountain
Album cover photos of : MEKONG DELTA Dances of Death (& Other Walking Shadows)
High Resolution Photo #1 MEKONG DELTA Dances Of Death  
Back Cover  Photo of "MEKONG DELTA Dances of Death (& Other Walking Shadows)" Album

High Resolution Photo #2 MEKONG DELTA Dances Of Death

High Resolution Photo #3 MEKONG DELTA Dances Of Death  

 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. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

From the Mekong Delta: A Decade of Technical and Progressive Thrash Metal Mastery in the 1980s

Band Information:

  Mekong Delta is a progressive thrash metal band from Germany that formed in 1985. The band's name comes from the Mekong Delta region in Vietnam, which was the site of many battles during the Vietnam War. Mekong Delta's music is known for its technical complexity, intricate arrangements, and use of classical music elements.

The band's founding members were Rolf Stein, a guitarist who had previously played in a number of local bands, and Jörg Michael, a drummer who had played in the German metal band Grave Digger. The two musicians met through a mutual friend and decided to form a new band together. They were soon joined by bassist Peter Sjöberg and keyboardist Reiner Kelch, and the lineup was completed with the addition of vocalist Wolfgang Borgmann.

Mekong Delta's debut album, "Mekong Delta," was released in 1987. The album was well-received by critics and fans, and it established the band's reputation as a technical and musical powerhouse. The band's second album, "The Music of Erich Zann," was released in 1988, and it featured even more complex and ambitious arrangements.

Over the years, Mekong Delta has undergone a number of lineup changes, with Stein and Kelch being the only constant members. The band has released a total of 14 studio albums, as well as several live albums and compilations. Some of their most notable albums include "Dances of Death (and Other Walking Shadows)" (1990), "Visions Fugitives" (1994), and "In a Mirror Darkly" (2014).

Mekong Delta's music is characterized by its use of classical music elements, such as symphonic arrangements and complex time signatures. The band's compositions are often quite long, with multiple sections and intricate instrumental interplay. The band's lyrics are often philosophical or science-fiction inspired, and they deal with topics such as time, perception, and the human condition.

Despite their technical virtuosity and innovative approach, Mekong Delta has never achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their peers in the metal world. However, they have maintained a dedicated fan base over the years, and their influence can be heard in the work of other progressive metal bands.

MEKONG DELTA - S/T Self-Titled 12" LP
Thumbnail Of MEKONG DELTA - S/T Self-Titled album front cover

AAARRG 4 , 1987 , Germany

Mekong Delta's self-titled 1987 debut, a German progressive thrash metal masterpiece, fused technical prowess with classical influences, challenging metal norms. Created by Ralph Hubert, Uwe Baltrusch, Peter Haas, and Wolfgang Borgmann, the album's intricate compositions and exotic themes set it apart. With avant-garde flair and precise musicianship, Mekong Delta's innovative sound marked a significant milestone in the evolution of thrash metal, leaving an enduring impact on the genre.

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MEKONG DELTA - Music of Erich Zann 12" LP
Thumbnail Of MEKONG DELTA - Music of Erich Zann album front cover

 AAARRG 11 , 1988 , Germany

Explore the genesis of Mekong Delta's iconic "Music of Erich Zann" 12" Vinyl LP. Emerging from the 1980s German Speed/Thrash metal scene, the band, led by producer and bassist Ralph Hubert (Björn Eklund), drew inspiration from H.P. Lovecraft's tale. The album's complex compositions and thematic depth, showcased on the expansive canvas of vinyl, solidify its status as a genre-defying masterpiece with a lasting influence.

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MEKONG DELTA - Toccata 12" Maxi-Single
Thumbnail of MEKONG DELTA - Toccata 12" Maxi-Single album cover

AAARRG 17 , 1989 , Germany

Mekong Delta's 1989 "Toccata" 12" vinyl maxi-single, produced by Ralph Hubert, marked a pivotal moment in German Thrash metal. Released on White Label AAARRG 17, it showcased the band's fusion of classical elements with technical precision. The strategic choice of the vinyl format and collaboration with a renowned producer underscored the band's commitment to pushing musical boundaries, solidifying its place in the dynamic metal landscape of the late 1980s.

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MEKONG DELTA - Dances with the Death 12" LP
Thumbnail of MEKONG DELTA - Dances with the Death

AAARRG ARG 23/034 , 1990 , Germany

"Dances Of Death" (1990), a seminal album by German Speed/Thrash Metal band Mekong Delta, remains a collector's treasure with its 12" vinyl EP and merchandising postcard. The creation history unveils a groundbreaking approach to thrash metal, blending technical prowess with thematic depth. The album's visual and lyrical elements, coupled with its innovative format, solidify its status as a trailblazer in the metal genre, leaving an indelible mark on the evolution of thrash.

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