Album Description:
In the world of German Speed/Thrash metal, Mekong Delta stands as a formidable presence, pushing the boundaries of the genre with their intricate compositions and unyielding energy. Among their notable works, the third album, "Music of Erich Zann," remains a masterpiece that captivates metal enthusiasts with its compelling fusion of musical prowess and literary inspiration.
The Band's Evolution:
Mekong Delta, known for their technical prowess and avant-garde approach, embarked on a unique musical journey with the creation of "Music of Erich Zann." Formed in the mid-1980s, the band comprised talented musicians including Ralph Hubert, the bassist operating under the alias Björn Eklund, who would also assume the role of producer for this particular album.
Conceptual Roots:
The album draws its inspiration from the short story "The Music of Erich Zann" by renowned American writer H.P. Lovecraft. This literary connection sets the stage for a sonic exploration into the mysterious and the arcane, as Mekong Delta translates Lovecraft's narrative into a musical odyssey.
Studio Alchemy:
Ralph Hubert's dual role as both bassist and producer played a pivotal role in shaping the album's sound. Recorded in the late 1980s, the production process involved a meticulous attention to detail, with Hubert sculpting the compositions to achieve the desired atmospheric and technical qualities. The result was a symphony of chaos and precision, mirroring the band's penchant for pushing the boundaries of conventional metal.
Vinyl LP Format:
The decision to release "Music of Erich Zann" as a 12" vinyl LP reflects not only the era's prevailing format but also a commitment to delivering a tactile and immersive listening experience. The larger canvas of vinyl allowed for the nuances of Mekong Delta's complex arrangements to unfold in a way that CD or cassette formats might not have captured.
Album Art and Lyrics Sleeve:
Beyond the auditory realm, the album's visual elements played a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience. The LP's cover art and accompanying lyrics sleeve, often overlooked in the digital age, served as portals into the thematic depths explored by Mekong Delta. The visual presentation complemented the music, creating a cohesive narrative that transcended the limitations of the purely sonic.
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Music Genre: Power Speed Thrash Metal, Progressive Metal |
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Album Production Information:
The album: "MEKONG DELTA - The Music of Erich Zann" was produced by: Ralph Hubert
Sound engineer: Jörg Stegert
Notes:
Ralph "Ralf" Hubert – Record Producer, Sound Engineer, MusicianHe is the guy who can make a mid-budget German metal band sound like it had a plan all along. Read more... Ralph "Ralf" Hubert is the kind of German studio hawk who makes a band sound sharper than they actually are (a compliment). Back in Sep-Nov 1984 I can place him behind the desk at Sound-Partner Studio in Kirchhellen, engineering Stormwind sessions with that clean, metallic bite. From 1985 onward he stepped out from the control room as bassist, writer and guiding hand in Mekong Delta, where precision riffing and surgical low-end are the whole religion. Across the late 1980s and beyond, his name keeps popping up in metal credits-usually where the drums are tight and the guitars stop flapping. Producer, engineer, musician: the link between sweaty rehearsal rooms and the cold, exacting final mix. |
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Record Label: AAARRG 11 |
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Packaging: This album "MEKONG DELTA - The Music of Erich Zann" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by "Mekong Delta"
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Record Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 210 gram
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Year & Country 1988 Made in Germany
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