Sacred Reich - Surf Nicaragua 12" Vinyl EP

Sacred Reich's "Surf Nicaragua" EP, encapsulates the band's thrash metal brilliance. Released on 12" vinyl, the American outfit delivers a sonic onslaught. The title track pays homage to surf culture with a thrash twist, while additional songs amplify their aggressive style. A testament to Sacred Reich's impact, "Surf Nicaragua" remains a classic in the thrash metal genre.

 

large album front cover photo of: Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua

"Surf Nicaragua" Album Description:

In the tumultuous times of the late 1980s and the thriving metal scene, Sacred Reich emerged as a force to be reckoned with, delivering their potent blend of thrash metal and socially charged lyrics. Among their discography, the "Surf Nicaragua" 12" Vinyl EP stands as a testament to the band's musical prowess and their ability to make a significant impact during a vibrant period in the metal genre.

The Time Period: Late 1980s Thrash Metal Boom

The late 1980s marked a pivotal era for thrash metal, a subgenre that had rapidly evolved from its punk and NWOBHM roots. Bands like Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax had already paved the way, and the scene was ripe for newcomers with a fresh perspective. Sacred Reich emerged in 1985 in Phoenix, Arizona, just as thrash metal was reaching its zenith.

"Surf Nicaragua" was released in 1988, a time when thrash metal was flourishing globally. The music was characterized by breakneck tempos, aggressive guitar riffs, and politically charged lyrics. It was a period where metal music became not only a form of entertainment but also a platform for addressing social and political issues.

Production Insight: Crafted by Bill Metoyer and Sacred Reich

The EP's sonic intensity and clarity owe much to the production prowess of Bill Metoyer, a seasoned figure in the metal scene known for his work with Slayer, W.A.S.P., and Armored Saint. Metoyer's collaboration with Sacred Reich resulted in a sound that perfectly encapsulated the raw energy and aggression characteristic of thrash metal.

In addition to Metoyer, the band played a significant role in the production process, ensuring that their vision was faithfully translated onto the vinyl. The meticulous attention to detail during production allowed Sacred Reich to capture the essence of their live performances, providing an authentic and unapologetic listening experience.

Visual Aesthetics: Brian Ames and Paul Stottler

While the auditory elements of "Surf Nicaragua" are paramount, the visual aesthetics also play a crucial role in shaping the overall experience. Brian Ames, responsible for the album layout, and Paul Stottler, the mastermind behind the album cover art, contributed to the creation of a visual identity that complemented the EP's sonic intensity.

Stottler's artwork for "Surf Nicaragua" featured a bold and striking design that visually echoed the aggression present in the music. The synergy between the music and visual elements created a holistic experience for the listener, immersing them in the world of Sacred Reich.

The Architects: Sacred Reich Band Members

The formidable lineup of Sacred Reich during the creation of "Surf Nicaragua" included:

- Greg Hall (Drums): Providing the thunderous backbone to the band's sound, Hall's drumming added a relentless intensity to the EP.

- Phil Rind (Vocals, Bass): As the vocalist and bassist, Rind's powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics were integral to Sacred Reich's identity.

- Wiley Arnett (Guitars): Arnett's guitar work contributed to the distinctive sound of the band, featuring razor-sharp riffs and searing solos.

- Jason Rainey (Guitars): Another crucial component in Sacred Reich's guitar-driven sound, Rainey's contribution added depth and intricacy to the EP.

Together, these musicians crafted a sonic journey that not only solidified Sacred Reich's place in the thrash metal landscape but also left an indelible mark on the genre's evolution.

Music Genre:

 Hardcore Punk Crossover Thrash Metal

Album Production Information:

Produced by Bill Metoyer and Sacred Reich

Bill Metoyer a well-known American music producer and sound engineer who has worked in the heavy metal genre. He has produced and engineered albums for a number of notable heavy metal bands, including Slayer, Armored Saint, and Cryptic Slaughter.

 Metoyer is known for his expertise in capturing the raw energy and intensity of heavy metal music, and for his ability to bring out the best in the bands he works with. His work has helped to define the sound of heavy metal and has had a significant impact on the genre.

 In addition to his production and engineering work, Metoyer has also been involved in other aspects of the music industry, including music education and artist development. He is highly regarded by musicians and fans alike for his contributions to the heavy metal genre, and continues to be an influential figure in the world of heavy metal music.during the 1980s he was Vice-President and in-house sound-engineer of Metal Blade Records. As such he has produced and taken care of the sound of many Heavy Metal bands. Most notable: Flotsam and Jetsam, Fates Warning, Helstar, Savage Grace, Tyrant, Slayer, Trouble, Sacred Reich, Armored Saint, Atrophy, Abattoir, Bitch, D.R.I, Dark Angel, Cryptic Slaughter, Lääz Rockit, Morbid Angel, Omen, Lizzy Borden, Mentors and many others.

Album layout Brian Ames

Brian Ames - Album artwork designer for Metal Blade Records. Design many heavy metal album covers from the mid-1980s until today (2018).

Album cover art Paul Stottler

 

Record Label Information:

 Roadrunner RR 9512
Packaging: This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos of "Sacred Reich". 

Record Format:

 12" Vinyl EP   Gramophone Record
Album weight: 200 gram  

Year & Country:

 1988 Made in Holland
Band Members and Musicians on: Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers of Sacred Reich
  • Greg Hall - Drums
  • Phil Rind - Vocals, Bass
  • Wiley Arnett - Guitars
  • Jason Rainey - Guitars

Collection notes:

Phil Rind (Vocals, Bass) is with the American band "Sacred Reich" since 1985 and has briefly sung with "Flotsam and Jetsam" in 1986.

Track Listing of: Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua

The Song/tracks on "Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua" are

    Side One:
  • Surf Nicaragua
  • One Nation
    Side Two:
  • War Pigs (Black Sabbath's Paranoid)
  • Draining You of Life
Album cover photos of : Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua
High Resolution Photo #10 Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua  
Photo of Album's Inner Cover  

High Resolution Photo #11 Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua

High Resolution Photo #12 Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua

High Resolution Photo #13 Sacred Reich Surf Nicaragua

 

 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 ).

 

Ignorance and The American Way: The Early Political and Social Commentary of Sacred Reich

Sacred Reich Band Information:

Sacred Reich is an American thrash metal band that was formed in 1985 in Phoenix, Arizona. The band is known for their political and social commentary lyrics, as well as their aggressive and heavy music style. With four studio albums, several EPs and live recordings, Sacred Reich has become a cult favorite among the metal community.

The band was founded by Phil Rind on bass and vocals, Wiley Arnett on guitar, and Greg Hall on drums. They were later joined by Jason Rainey on guitar. The band's early years were marked by the typical struggles of a struggling band trying to make it in the competitive metal scene of the mid-1980s. However, Sacred Reich's talent and dedication paid off when they signed with Metal Blade Records in 1987, which led to the release of their debut album, "Ignorance."

"Ignorance" was a critical success, and Sacred Reich quickly gained a reputation for their powerful, politically charged lyrics and their energetic live performances. The album's title track, "Ignorance," deals with the dangers of blind obedience and the need for people to think for themselves. Another standout track is "Death Squad," which addresses the brutality of war and the senseless loss of life that results from it.

The band's second album, "The American Way," was released in 1990 and was another critical success. The album's title track is a scathing indictment of the greed and materialism that permeates American society. The song urges listeners to resist the pressure to conform and to fight for their individuality. The album also includes the track "Who's to Blame," which deals with the issue of environmental destruction and the need for people to take responsibility for their actions.

Sacred Reich continued to tour and release albums throughout the 1990s, but the band faced numerous challenges, including lineup changes and declining interest in thrash metal. Despite these challenges, the band remained committed to their music and their message, and their influence continued to be felt in the metal community.

In 1996, Sacred Reich released their fourth studio album, "Heal." The album marked a departure from their thrash metal roots and featured a more melodic and introspective sound. The album's title track deals with the issue of mental health and the need for people to seek help when they are struggling. Another standout track is "Blue Suit, Brown Shirt," which addresses the issue of racism and the dangers of extremist ideologies.

Sacred Reich went on hiatus in 2000, and the band members pursued other projects. However, they reunited in 2006 for a series of live shows, and in 2019, they released their fifth studio album, "Awakening." The album marked a return to their thrash metal roots and featured the same powerful political and social commentary that has defined their music for decades.

Sacred Reich has been an influential band in the thrash metal genre, and their legacy continues to be felt in the metal community today. They are known for their powerful lyrics, their energetic live performances, and their unwavering commitment to their music and their message. The band has inspired countless fans and other musicians, and their impact on the metal scene cannot be overstated. 

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RoadRacer RO 9431 1 , 1989 , Netherlands

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Thumbnail Of  SACRED REICH - Ignorance album front cover

Metal Blade Records RR 9578 / Roadrunner , 1987 , Netherlands

  "Ignorance" the inaugural studio album by American thrash metal stalwarts Sacred Reich, debuted on a 12" Vinyl LP in 1987. This seminal release solidified Sacred Reich's place in the thrash metal pantheon, showcasing their raw energy and social commentary. With tracks like "Death Squad" and "Ignorance," the album became a cornerstone of the genre, leaving an indelible mark on the metal landscape.

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SACRED REICH - Surf Nicaragua

Thumbnail Of  SACRED REICH - Surf Nicaragua album front cover

Roadrunner RR 9512 , 1989 , Netherlands

Sacred Reich's "Surf Nicaragua" EP, encapsulates the band's thrash metal brilliance. Released on 12" vinyl, the American outfit delivers a sonic onslaught. The title track pays homage to surf culture with a thrash twist, while additional songs amplify their aggressive style. A testament to Sacred Reich's impact, "Surf Nicaragua" remains a classic in the thrash metal genre.

Learn more