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.
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.
| 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 Ralph "Ralf" Hubert, a versatile talent whose impact on heavy metal, both as a producer and a musician, remains indelible. Learn all about him. |
| Record Label: AAARRG 11 |
| 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 |
| Year & Country 1988 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: MEKONG DELTA - The Music of Erich Zann |
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Complete Track Listing of: "MEKONG DELTA - The Music of Erich Zann" |
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The Songs/tracks on "MEKONG DELTA - The Music of Erich Zann" are
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Photo of "MEKONG DELTA - The Music of Erich Zann" 12" LP Record
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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 ). |
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.
MEKONG DELTA (Self-Titled) 12" Vinyl LP
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.
Music of Erich Zann 12" Vinyl LP
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.
Toccata 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
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.
Dances with the Death 12" Vinyl LP
