SODOM - Agent Orange - Gatefold 12" Vinyl LP Album

Sodom's monumental Gatefold 12" Vinyl LP Album, "Agent Orange," marked a significant chapter in their history as guitarist Frank Blackfire's final collaboration. This thrash metal masterpiece achieved unprecedented success, becoming the first of its genre to secure a spot on the esteemed German album charts. A testament to Sodom's prowess, "Agent Orange" resonates as a seminal work within the thrash metal landscape.

Album Front Cover Photo of SODOM - Agent Orange
Essentials of: SODOM - Agent Orange
Album Description:

Sodom's fifth studio album, "Agent Orange", was released in 1989. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish Sodom as one of the leading thrash metal bands of the era.

The album was produced by Harris Johns, who had previously worked with bands such as Kreator and Destruction. The album's sound is a mix of thrash metal, black metal, and hardcore punk. The songs are fast, aggressive, and heavy, and they feature some of Sodom's most memorable riffs and solos.

The album's lyrics are often dark and violent, and they deal with themes such as war, death, and destruction. The album's title track, "Agent Orange", is a reference to the chemical weapon that was used in the Vietnam War.

The album was a critical and commercial success. It reached number 13 on the German album charts, and it was certified gold in Germany. The album's success helped to establish Sodom as one of the leading thrash metal bands of the era.

The album has been praised by critics and fans alike. AllMusic gave the album a four-star rating, and they called it "a classic of the thrash metal genre". Metal Hammer gave the album a five-star rating, and they called it "one of the most important thrash metal albums of all time".

The album has been influential on many other thrash metal bands. Bands such as Kreator, Destruction, and Morbid Angel have all cited "Agent Orange" as an influence on their music.

The album is considered to be a classic of the thrash metal genre. It is a must-have for fans of the genre.

Music Genre:

Thrash Metal ( Germany )

Label & Catalognr:

 Steamhammer Orange SPV 08-7596

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1989 Made in West Germany (for European Distribution)  

Production & Recording Information
Album Packaging

This 12" LP vinyl music record comes comes in a Fold Open Cover (FOC), which is also also known as a Gatefold cover. The inner pages of this album cover contains artwork.

This album also includes the original custom inner sleeve with credits on one side and on the other side lyrics of all the songs

Producers:

Harris Johns - Producer


Harris Johns is a prominent European music producer renowned for his contributions to the heavy metal and punk genres. With a career spanning several decades, he has worked with numerous iconic bands, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. Born in the late 1950s, Harris Johns developed a passion for music at an early age and pursued his dreams with unwavering determination.

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In the late 1970s, Harris Johns emerged as a key figure in the burgeoning heavy metal and punk scene. His unique talent and distinctive approach to music production quickly caught the attention of many prominent bands. With a desire to create powerful and impactful soundscapes, he became known for his ability to capture the raw energy and intensity of these genres.

Throughout his career, Harris Johns has collaborated with a plethora of big-name bands, solidifying his reputation as a go-to producer. His notable works include projects with Helloween, Coroner, Tankard, Sodom, Voivod, Kreator, Exumer, Ratos de Porão, Slime, Daily Terror, and many others. Each album he worked on showcased his exceptional skill in sculpting the sonic landscapes that defined the heavy metal and punk movements.

For over a decade, Harris Johns operated his studio, Music Lab Berlin Studio, which served as the creative hub for many of his productions. In an effort to further his artistic vision, he established Spiderhouse, a recording facility situated in a former guest house in the countryside near Berlin. For ten years, Spiderhouse became a sanctuary where he could channel his creativity and bring forth groundbreaking music.

In 2007, Harris Johns made the decision to reopen the Music Lab Berlin, reestablishing it as a prime destination for bands seeking his expertise in music production. The studio became a hub of creativity and collaboration, attracting both established acts and up-and-coming artists. However, in 2016, Harris Johns decided to step away from the studio, concluding a significant chapter in his illustrious career.

Despite stepping back from the day-to-day operations of Music Lab Berlin, Harris Johns continues to contribute to the music industry. He remains active as a producer and dedicates his time to teaching music production skills. His wealth of knowledge and experience has made him an invaluable resource for aspiring producers and musicians, as he imparts his expertise and nurtures the next generation of talent.

As we reflect upon the 1980s, it becomes evident that Harris Johns' discography during this era stands as a testament to his immense talent. Some of the notable albums he worked on include groundbreaking releases such as:

These albums showcase Harris Johns' ability to capture the essence and intensity of the heavy metal and punk genres, earning him a place in music history.

Harris Johns' impact on the heavy metal and punk scenes cannot be understated. His talent, dedication, and distinctive approach to music production have left an indelible mark on the industry. As he continues to produce and educate, Harris Johns remains a respected and influential figure, shaping the future of music for generations to come.

Sound & Recording Engineers:

Harris Johns - Sound Engineer

Recording Location:

Musiclab Studios, West-Berlin, Germany , recorded during April and May 1989

Album Cover Design & Artwork:

Andreas Marschall - Album Cover paintings

Andreas Marschall is a renowned German album cover illustrator and graphic artist, widely recognized for his exceptional contributions to the world of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal during the 1980s. Born on October 10, 1961, in Munich, Germany, Marschall discovered his passion for art at a young age and nurtured his creative talents throughout his life.

In his early years, Marschall displayed an inclination towards visual arts and began honing his skills through various mediums. Inspired by the rebellious and energetic nature of Rock and Metal music, he found his artistic voice in the realm of album cover artwork. Combining his love for music and art, Marschall embarked on a journey that would shape the visual identities of numerous iconic bands.

During the 1980s, Marschall's work gained immense popularity within the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal scene. His distinctive style blended vivid imagery, intricate details, and a dark aesthetic, capturing the essence of the music and captivating audiences worldwide. Bands such as Destruction, Kreator, and Running Wild, among many others, sought out Marschall's artistic vision to bring their music to life visually.

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Marschall's collaborations with these bands resulted in a series of iconic album covers that became emblematic of the era. His artwork adorned record sleeves, posters, and merchandise, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Rock and Metal. Marschall's visuals evoked a sense of intensity, aggression, and imagination, resonating with fans who connected deeply with the music he portrayed.

Beyond his contributions to album artwork, Marschall's talent extended to other artistic realms. He lent his skills to creating stage designs, concert backdrops, and even ventured into directing music videos. This multidimensional approach further solidified his position as a creative force within the industry.

As the 1990s unfolded, Marschall continued to explore different avenues of artistic expression. He expanded his portfolio to include cover designs for books, movie posters, and even ventured into the world of filmmaking. His debut as a director came with the German horror film "Todesking" in 1990, showcasing his ability to seamlessly transition his visual storytelling from static imagery to moving pictures.

In the years that followed, Marschall maintained an active presence in the world of art and continued to collaborate with various musicians, filmmakers, and authors. His work continued to evolve, embracing new technologies while staying true to his signature style. Through his prolific career, Marschall left an enduring impact on the artistry and aesthetics of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal.

 

Photography:

Manfred Eisenblätter - Live photos


Musicians:
  • Tom Angelripper - Bass, Vocals
  • Chris Witchhunter - Drums, Percussion, Backing Vocals
  • Frank Blackfire - Guitars, Backing Vocals

      Frank Blackfire - real-name Frank Gosdzik ( Guitarist ) is from Essen, Germany and best known as guitarist in the German Top Tier Thrash Metal bands Kreator and Sodom . He played in Sodom from 1987 until 1989 and joined Kreator in 1989.

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Agent Orange 6:04
  2. Tired and Red 5:25
  3. Incest 4:38
  4. Remember the Fallen 4:20
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Magic Dragon 5:59
  2. Exhibition Bout 3:35
  3. Ausgebombt 3:04
  4. Baptism of Fire 4:03

High Resolution & Quality Photos
Front Cover Photo Of SODOM - Agent Orange
High Resolution Photo #11 SODOM - Agent Orange

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 )

Photo Of The Back Cover SODOM - Agent Orange
High Resolution Photo #12 SODOM - Agent Orange
Photo of the inside cover SODOM - Agent Orange
High Resolution Photo #13 SODOM - Agent Orange
Photo of the inside cover SODOM - Agent Orange
High Resolution Photo #14 SODOM - Agent Orange
Photo of the custom inner sleeve SODOM - Agent Orange
High Resolution Photo #15 SODOM - Agent Orange
Photo of the custom inner sleeve SODOM - Agent Orange
High Resolution Photo #16 SODOM - Agent Orange
Close up of the record's label
High Resolution Photo #19 SODOM
Photo of Side One: SODOM - Agent Orange
High Resolution Photo #17 SODOM - Agent Orange
Photo of Side Two: SODOM - Agent Orange
High Resolution Photo #18 SODOM - Agent Orange

SODOM's Vinyl Record Discography: A Thrash Metal Journey Through the 1980s.

SODOM: A Brief Overview

SODOM is a German thrash metal band that was formed in Gelsenkirchen, Germany in 1981. They are considered to be one of the pioneers of the thrash metal genre alongside bands such as Metallica, Slayer and Megadeth. The band has gone through several lineup changes over the years, with vocalist and bassist Thomas "Tom Angelripper" Such being the only constant member.

SODOM's music is known for its aggressive and fast-paced style, with lyrics often dealing with topics such as war, death, and the occult. The band's early releases were heavily influenced by the first wave of black metal, but they later incorporated elements of punk and hardcore into their sound. SODOM has released 15 studio albums to date, with their most recent album, "Genesis XIX," being released in 2020.

Early Years

SODOM was formed in 1981 by Tom Angelripper, who was then playing in a band called "Bassinvaders". He recruited guitarist Frank "Aggressor" Testegen and drummer Rainer "Bloody Monster" Focke to join the band. SODOM's early releases, such as "In the Sign of Evil" and "Obsessed by Cruelty," were heavily influenced by black metal and helped establish the band's reputation as a pioneer of the thrash metal genre.

Mainstream Success

SODOM achieved mainstream success with their fifth studio album, "Agent Orange," which was released in 1989. The album, which was produced by Harris Johns, featured the hit single "Ausgebombt" and helped establish SODOM as one of the leading thrash metal bands of the era. The band continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, with notable releases including "Better Off Dead," "Til Death Do Us Unite," and "M-16."

Recent Years

In recent years, SODOM has continued to tour and release new music. The band's most recent album, "Genesis XIX," was released in 2020 and received positive reviews from critics. In addition to their music, SODOM is also known for their elaborate stage shows and live performances, which often feature pyrotechnics and other special effects.

Despite their many lineup changes over the years, SODOM has remained a popular and influential band in the thrash metal genre. Their aggressive and fast-paced music continues to inspire new generations of metal fans, and their legacy as pioneers of the genre is firmly established.

 

Biography of Tom Angelripper - Vocals/Bass:

Tom Angelripper, born as Thomas Such, is a German musician best known as the founder, vocalist, and bassist of the influential thrash metal band Sodom. Born on 19 February 191963, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Tom Angelripper has left an indelible mark on the heavy metal scene with his aggressive vocal style and powerful bass playing.

Growing up in a working-class family, Tom developed a deep passion for music at an early age. He was heavily influenced by bands like Motörhead, Venom, and Black Sabbath, whose raw energy and rebellious spirit inspired him to pursue a career in music. With a burning desire to create his own brand of extreme music, Tom embarked on a musical journey that would eventually shape the landscape of thrash metal.

In 1981, Tom formed Sodom alongside guitarist Frank "Aggressor" Testegen and drummer Rainer "Bloody Monster" Focke. Together, they crafted a unique sound that combined the aggression of punk with the speed and intensity of early black metal. Sodom quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy live performances and unrelenting sound, earning them a dedicated following within the emerging German thrash metal scene.

As the driving force behind Sodom, Tom Angelripper's distinct growling vocals and thunderous bass lines became the band's trademark sound. His guttural and aggressive vocal delivery, combined with his dexterous bass playing, added a ferocious dimension to Sodom's music, setting them apart from their peers. Tom's lyrics often explored themes of war, social unrest, and political corruption, reflecting his desire to confront and expose the darker aspects of society.

Throughout the years, Tom Angelripper has been the sole consistent member of Sodom, with various lineup changes revolving around him. Despite the challenges, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to creating uncompromising and impactful music. Sodom's discography boasts numerous critically acclaimed albums, including "Persecution Mania", "Agent Orange", and "M-16", which solidified their status as one of the most influential thrash metal bands of all time.

Outside of Sodom, Tom has also engaged in various side projects and collaborations. He formed the band Onkel Tom Angelripper, where he explored a more humorous and punk-influenced approach to music. With Onkel Tom, he released albums such as "Ein Strauß bunter Melodien" and "Ich glaub' nicht an den Weihnachtsmann". These projects showcased his versatility as a musician and his willingness to experiment with different styles.

Tom Angelripper's impact on the heavy metal scene extends far beyond his contributions as a musician. As a pioneer of thrash metal and a dedicated advocate of the genre, he has inspired countless bands and artists, shaping the direction of extreme music for decades. His influence can be heard in the work of numerous bands, and his contributions continue to resonate with fans of heavy music worldwide.

Tom Angelripper's dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to delivering uncompromising music have solidified his place as a true icon of the thrash metal genre. With his distinctive growls and aggressive bass lines, he has left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal, forever etching his name in the world of music history.

 

Biography of Frank Blackfire - Guitars:

Frank Blackfire, born as Frank Gosdzik, is a German guitarist known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the thrash metal genre. Born on 5 October 5 1966, in Dortmund, Germany, Frank Blackfire emerged as a prominent figure in the heavy metal scene during the 1980s, leaving an enduring legacy through his powerful guitar playing.

From a young age, Frank showed a natural aptitude for music and an unwavering passion for the guitar. He immersed himself in the burgeoning German metal scene, drawing inspiration from bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Accept. These influences, combined with his own innate talent, set the stage for his future musical endeavors.

In 1985, Frank Blackfire joined the thrash metal band Sodom, making his mark on their seminal album "Persecution Mania". His arrival marked a turning point for Sodom, as his technical proficiency and aggressive playing style injected a new level of intensity into the band's sound. Frank's lightning-fast riffing, blistering solos, and precision guitar work became hallmarks of Sodom's music during his tenure.

Together with Tom Angelripper's distinct vocals and Chris Witchhunter's thunderous drumming, Frank Blackfire's guitar playing helped define Sodom's signature sound. His contributions were prominently displayed on classic Sodom albums such as "Agent Orange" and "Tapping the Vein", where his virtuosic guitar work became a driving force behind the band's success.

In addition to his work with Sodom, Frank Blackfire collaborated with other notable bands and artists in the metal scene. He lent his talents to bands like Kreator, another influential German thrash metal group, playing guitar on their acclaimed album "Extreme Aggression". His contributions to Kreator showcased his versatility and ability to adapt his playing style to fit different musical contexts.

After leaving Sodom and Kreator, Frank continued to pursue his musical career with various projects. He joined the band Assassin, contributing to their album "Interstellar Experience" in 1988. Additionally, he formed his own band, called Frank Blackfire, releasing the album "Back on Fire" in 1990, which further showcased his songwriting and guitar skills.

While Frank Blackfire's time with Sodom and Kreator represented the pinnacle of his visibility within the metal scene, his impact and influence continue to resonate among musicians and fans alike. His technical prowess, lightning-fast guitar solos, and ability to create memorable riffs have made him a revered figure in the thrash metal community.

Beyond his technical abilities, Frank's contributions to the genre extend to his songwriting and musical innovation. His creativity and willingness to push boundaries have made a lasting impression on the development and evolution of thrash metal.

Frank Blackfire's dedication to his craft and his influential guitar playing have solidified his place as a respected and revered figure in the world of heavy metal. His contributions to Sodom, Kreator, and the genre as a whole have left an indelible mark on the history of thrash metal. Through his talent, passion, and commitment, Frank Blackfire continues to inspire guitarists and fans worldwide, ensuring his legacy lives on for generations to come.

 

Biography of Chris Witchhunter - Drums:

Chris Witchhunter, born as Christian Dudek, was a German drummer known for his thunderous and precise drumming style. Born on 18 August 1965, in Essen, Germany, Chris Witchhunter became a prominent figure in the thrash metal scene, leaving an enduring legacy through his powerful drumming and contributions to the genre.

From a young age, Chris displayed a natural affinity for rhythm and percussion. He honed his skills through dedication and practice, drawing inspiration from drummers like Dave Lombardo of Slayer and Ventor of Kreator. With his exceptional talent and relentless determination, Chris set out to make his mark in the world of heavy metal.

In 1983, Chris Witchhunter joined the influential German thrash metal band Sodom, solidifying their lineup and propelling them to new heights. With his arrival, Sodom's sound became more formidable and impactful, as his drumming style perfectly complemented the band's aggressive approach to music. Chris's precision, speed, and incredible energy behind the drum kit became a defining characteristic of Sodom's sound during his tenure.

Together with Tom Angelripper's distinctive vocals and Frank Blackfire's incendiary guitar work, Chris Witchhunter's drumming laid the foundation for Sodom's iconic songs. His thunderous double bass drumming, lightning-fast fills, and powerful grooves added a relentless intensity to their music. Albums like "Persecution Mania" and "Agent Orange" showcased his exceptional skills and contributed to the band's success.

Chris Witchhunter's drumming prowess extended beyond his work with Sodom. He collaborated with other notable bands and musicians in the metal scene, further solidifying his reputation as a highly sought-after drummer. He played on albums such as "Endless Pain" by Kreator, making his mark on the burgeoning German thrash metal movement.

Throughout his career, Chris Witchhunter's drumming style demonstrated a balance between technical precision and raw power. His ability to seamlessly blend complex rhythms with sheer aggression set him apart as a formidable force behind the drum kit. His influence on the thrash metal genre cannot be overstated, as his contributions helped shape the sound and direction of the scene during its formative years.

Tragically, Chris Witchhunter's life was cut short when he passed away on 7 September 2008, at the age of 43. His untimely death shocked the metal community, leaving behind a void that could never be filled. However, his impact and legacy endure through the music he created and the memories he left behind.

Chris Witchhunter's dedication to his craft, his relentless drumming style, and his undeniable talent have cemented his place as one of the most revered drummers in the thrash metal genre. His contributions to Sodom and the German thrash metal movement have left an indelible mark on the history of heavy metal. Through his skill, passion, and unwavering commitment, Chris Witchhunter will forever be remembered as a true legend of the drums.