NUCLEAR ASSAULT Vinyl DIscography And Album Cover Gallery

"Nuclear Assault" is an American Thrash Metal band from New York City. This band was formed in the year 1985 and has been active since ( with several breaks ). After "Dan Lilker" left Anthrax he was one of the founding band-members of "Nuclear Assault".

NUCLEAR ASSAULT Banner photo

On the discography listing below you will find NUCLEAR ASSAULT vinyl records released during the 1980s. For each record you will have the record company's catalognr, album title, year and country of release. Complete information for each record can be viewed by selecting the corresponding links. Albums have been ordered in ascending alphabetical order of the album titles.

"NUCLEAR ASSAULT" Band Description:

 Nuclear Assault is a legendary American thrash metal band that emerged in the mid-1980s. The band formed in 1984 in New York City, and released their first album, "Game Over," in 1986. Nuclear Assault quickly gained a reputation for their intense, politically charged lyrics and blistering guitar work, and went on to become one of the most influential bands in the thrash metal genre.

Nuclear Assault was formed by Dan Lilker, who had previously been a member of the pioneering thrash metal band Anthrax. Lilker founded the band with guitarist John Connelly, drummer Glenn Evans, and vocalist Dave DiPietro. The band's early music was heavily influenced by the thrash metal scene of the early 1980s, and they quickly gained a following in the New York City underground music scene.

"Game Over," Nuclear Assault's debut album, was released in 1986 on Combat Records. The album showcased the band's aggressive style and politically charged lyrics, which often addressed issues like war, government corruption, and environmental destruction. The album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish Nuclear Assault as one of the leading thrash metal bands of the time.

Nuclear Assault followed up "Game Over" with a series of critically acclaimed albums, including "Survive" (1988), "Handle with Care" (1989), and "Out of Order" (1991). These albums continued to showcase the band's politically charged lyrics and aggressive style, and helped to cement their reputation as one of the most important bands in the thrash metal genre.

Despite their success, Nuclear Assault faced a number of challenges throughout their career. In the early 1990s, the band struggled with conflicts over creative direction, and ultimately disbanded in 1995. However, the band members continued to collaborate on various projects, and Nuclear Assault eventually reunited in 2002.

Since their reunion, Nuclear Assault has continued to perform and release music, and their influence on the thrash metal genre continues to be felt to this day. The band's uncompromising approach to political commentary and their blistering guitar work have inspired countless musicians and fans over the years, and their legacy as one of the most important bands in the thrash metal genre is secure.

Nuclear Assault: The Core Thrashers of the 80s
Band-member descriptions:

Nuclear Assault emerged from the fertile ground of the 1980s thrash metal scene, carving a niche with their aggressive sound and socially conscious lyrics. But who were the driving forces behind this New York band? Let's dive into the core members who laid down the foundation for Nuclear Assault's thrash assault in the 1980s.

Dan Lilker (Bass, Vocals): A pivotal figure in early thrash, Lilker's bass work on Anthrax's debut album "Fistful of Metal" helped define the genre's sound. After leaving Anthrax, he sought a more aggressive outlet, co-founding Nuclear Assault. His powerful bass lines and occasional backing vocals became a hallmark of the band's sound.

John Connelly (Guitar, Vocals): Another Anthrax alumni, Connelly brought his sharp guitar skills and commanding vocals to Nuclear Assault. His thrash riffs and shared vocal duties with Lilker created a dynamic and aggressive soundscape.

Anthony Bramante (Guitar): Completing the formidable guitar duo was Anthony Bramante. His technical playing style added another layer of complexity to Nuclear Assault's music. Bramante's shredding solos and intricate harmonies became a vital ingredient in the band's sonic identity.

Drummers: While Nuclear Assault had a steady stream of drummers throughout the 1980s, some notable contributors include Derek Lord (founding member) and Glenn Evans. Their pounding beats provided the backbone for the band's fast-paced thrash anthems.

These four musicians, along with the various drummers who contributed, formed the core of Nuclear Assault during their most influential period in the 1980s. Their blend of technicality, aggression, and social commentary helped solidify their place as one of thrash metal's leading lights.

Assaulting the '80s: Nuclear Assault's Intense, Politically Charged Discography Sets the Standard for Thrash Metal

NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Brain Death

Thumbnail Of  NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Brain Death album front cover

Under One Flag 12FLAG 102 , 1986 , England

"Brain Death," Nuclear Assault's inaugural 12" Vinyl EP Album, marked a seminal moment in thrash metal history. Released as the band's first Extended Play (EP), this iconic record showcased their raw intensity and lyrical prowess. Unleashed with thunderous riffs and relentless energy, "Brain Death" solidified Nuclear Assault's place in the burgeoning metal scene, laying the foundation for their influential musical journey.

Brain Death 12" Vinyl LP

NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Fight To Be Free

Thumbnail Of  NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Fight To Be Free album front cover

Under One Flag – 12FLAG 105 , 1988 , UK ( United Kingdom )

The "Fight To Be Free" 12" vinyl maxi-single by Nuclear Assault is a limited edition marvel. Beyond its thrash metal brilliance, the album stands out for its unique presentation—a large poster bag serving as the album sleeve. This innovative choice adds an exclusive touch, inviting fans to immerse themselves not only in the music but also in the visual and tactile experience, making it a collector's delight.

Fight To Be Free 12" Vinyl LP

NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Game Over

Thumbnail Of  NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Game Over album front cover

Under One Flag FLAG 5 , 1986 , England

"Nuclear Assault's debut 'Game Over' 12" Vinyl LP, unleashed in 1986, marked a defining moment in thrash metal history. With relentless energy, the album showcased the band's raw power through tracks like 'Live, Suffer, Die'. This pioneering release remains a classic, encapsulating the essence of early thrash and laying the foundation for Nuclear Assault's influential career in the genre".

Game Over 12" Vinyl LP

NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Good Times, Bad Times

Thumbnail Of  NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Good Times, Bad Times album front cover

 Under One Flag 12 FLAG 107 , 1988 , UK ( United Kingdom )

Nuclear Assault's 'Good Times, Bad Times' 12" Vinyl EP pays homage to Led Zeppelin's debut. Akin to its inspiration, the title track echoes hard-hitting thrash energy. The album's cover and music reflect the thrash metal genre, marked by the label Under One Flag. This 1988 UK release, weighing 230 grams, also includes live tracks like 'Hang The Pope', showcasing Nuclear Assault's dynamic live presence and iconic sound.

Good Times, Bad Times 12" Vinyl LP

NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Handle With Care

Thumbnail Of  NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Handle With Care album front cover

Under One Flag FLAG 35 , 1989 , England

"Nuclear Assault's 'Handle with Care' 12" LP, released in 1989, is a milestone for thrash metal enthusiasts. Produced by Randy Burns and recorded at 'The Music Grinder' in Los Angeles, it encapsulates the genre's intensity. The album features a custom inner sleeve with lyrics and artwork. Band members like Dan Lilker, John Connelly, Glenn Evans, and Anthony Bramante contribute to the powerful sound, as showcased in tracks including 'New Song' and 'Critical Mass'".

Handle With Care 12" Vinyl LP
NUCLEAR ASSAULT - The Plague
Thumbnail Of  NUCLEAR ASSAULT - The Plague album front cover

 Under One Flag M Flag 13 , 1987 , England

"Nuclear Assault's 'The Plague' 12" Vinyl EP, released in 1987 on Under One Flag label, continues their thrash metal onslaught. Recorded during December 1986 and January 1987, this mini-album packs a punch. With tracks like 'Game Over' and 'Justice,' it encapsulates the band's fierce energy. The album's detailed inner sleeve features lyrics, while contributors like Dan Lilker, Anthony Bramante, and Glenn Evans drive its heavy sound."

The Plague 12" Vinyl LP

NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Survive

Thumbnail Of  NUCLEAR ASSAULT - Survive album front cover

Under One Flag FLAG 21 , 1988 , England

Nuclear Assault's 'Survive' 12" Vinyl LP, released in 1988, is a testament to their thrash metal mastery. Produced by Miles Copeland and Randy Burns, this album delivers a blend of aggression and social commentary. Tracks like 'Rise from the Ashes' and 'Brainwashed' showcase the band's signature energy. The LP features a custom inner sleeve with lyrics and photos, highlighting the contributions of band members like John Connelly, Glenn Evans, and Dan Lilker

Survive 12" Vinyl LP