Mekong Delta - Toccata 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single

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.

 

High Resolution Photo #1 MEKONG DELTA Toccata

"Toccata" Album Description:

The release of Mekong Delta's "Toccata" on a 12" vinyl maxi-single in 1989 marked a significant moment in the band's discography, showcasing their prowess in the realm of German Thrash metal. Produced by Ralph Hubert, the track not only demonstrated the band's musical proficiency but also provided a glimpse into the evolving landscape of heavy metal during that era.

The origins of "Toccata" can be traced back to the creative minds within Mekong Delta, a band known for pushing the boundaries of the Thrash metal genre. As they ventured into the late 1980s, the music scene was witnessing a fusion of diverse influences, and Mekong Delta sought to carve their niche within this dynamic environment.

The decision to release "Toccata" as a 12" vinyl maxi-single was strategic, aligning with the prevailing trends in the music industry. Vinyl records, although gradually giving way to newer formats, still retained a dedicated following, and the extended play format allowed for a more immersive experience of the band's sonic exploration.

The choice of Ralph Hubert as the producer added an extra layer of expertise to the project. Hubert, also known as Markgraf, had already established himself as a notable figure in the production realm, having worked with various metal acts. His collaboration with Mekong Delta on "Toccata" brought forth a meticulous approach to sound engineering, ensuring that the nuances of the band's performance were captured with precision.

The 1989 Germany release on White Label AAARRG 17 became a distinct marker in Mekong Delta's journey. White label releases often signify limited editions or promotional copies, adding an element of exclusivity to the maxi-single. The choice of the AAARRG label, known for its association with several prominent metal bands, further emphasized the gravity of the release within the metal community.

"Toccata" itself is a composition that weaves intricate musical patterns, showcasing Mekong Delta's technical prowess and ability to infuse classical elements into their Thrash metal foundation. The choice of the title, evoking the classical music form of toccata, hinted at the band's desire to transcend conventional boundaries and explore a fusion of genres.

Trivia:  Toccata is dedicated to Andrea

Music Genre:

  German Power Speed Thrash Metal, Progressive Metal

Album Production information:

Produced by Ralph Hubert, published by Zardoz Music

Notes:

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 Information:

  White Label AAARRG 17

Media Format:

  12" 45rpm Vinyl Maxi-Single   Gramophone Record
Album weight: 200 gram  

Year & Country:

  1989 Made in Germany
Track Listing of: Mekong Delta Toccata

The Song/tracks on "Mekong Delta Toccata " are

    Side One:
  • Toccata 6:01
    Side Two:
  • Black Betty ( Cover )
  • Interludium
Album cover photos of : Mekong Delta Toccata

High Resolution Photo #1 MEKONG DELTA Toccata

High Resolution Photo #2 MEKONG DELTA Toccata  

 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

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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
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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

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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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"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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