- Includes OIS (Original Inner Sleeve) with Heavy Metal Merchandise
Tankard's 1989 mini-LP "Alien" delivers pure thrash metal energy in five explosive tracks. Vinyl editions are especially collectible, with the Original Inner Sleeve (OIS) and vintage merchandise inserts being highly sought after. This release is a nostalgic piece of thrash metal history, showcasing the band's raw sound and the subculture's emphasis on physical memorabilia.
Formed amidst the fertile thrash metal scene of Frankfurt, Germany, Tankard emerged as the embodiment of beer-soaked, high-energy mayhem. Their 1989 mini-LP "Alien" cemented their reputation, delivering a concentrated dose of the band's signature sound in just five raucous tracks. But for collectors, the true charm of this release lies in the physical vinyl edition, particularly those including the Original Inner Sleeve (OIS) and those coveted vintage merchandise inserts.
Sonic Assault with a Sci-Fi Twist
Musically, "Alien" is a pure thrash metal masterclass. The title track explodes with a sci-fi infused narrative set against breakneck riffs and frantic drumming – a testament to the genre's penchant for fun and escapism. Fan-favorites like the anthemic "(Empty) Tankard" and the hangover lament "The Morning After" showcase the band's lyrical mix of partying and social commentary. Tankard's blistering rendition of Rose Tattoo's "Remedy" reveals both their influences and their ability to make a classic their own.
The Vinyl Experience & Collectible Allure
The enduring appeal of "Alien" extends far beyond the music itself. The 12" vinyl format offers a tangible, ritualistic experience that digital downloads can't replicate. For collectors, the OIS is the holy grail. Featuring not only lyrics but often vintage tour dates, the sleeve transforms the album into a slice of thrash metal history. The occasional merchandise insert provides a fascinating window into Tankard's early aesthetic, showcasing shirts, patches, and other items that fueled the visual identity of the band.
Finding Your Own Piece of History
While securing an original pressing of "Alien" with all the inserts takes persistence, the hunt is part of the thrill. Scour online marketplaces like Discogs and eBay, alongside record stores specializing in metal. Be aware that condition and completeness affect the price, making pristine copies with both OIS and insert the most sought after.
Beyond the Music
Tankard's "Alien" is more than just a thrilling five-track blast. It's a piece of thrash metal history, a testament to the unique subculture's emphasis on physical media and memorabilia. Whether you're blasting the tunes or carefully flipping through the sleeve, this mini-LP offers a nostalgic return to the genre's formative years – an era defined by its raw energy and DIY spirit.
Music Genre: Thrash Metal / Heavy Metal |
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Album Production information: The album: "TANKARD - Alien" was produced by: Harris Johns , Karl Walterbach
Harris Johns, a legendary producer and sound engineer, gained recognition during his time working with Sodom in the thriving punk and metal scenes. His innovative techniques and dedication shaped some of the most influential records of the era. From groundbreaking collaborations to establishing iconic studios, his contributions remain unmatched.
Learn more about Harris Johns here.
Karl-Ulrich Walterbach: German music producer who transformed the heavy metal scene. Founder of the iconic Noise Records, he launched the careers of Helloween, Celtic Frost, and countless others.
Walterbach's Career Description
This album was recorded at: Musiclab, Berlin, January 1989 Album cover design: Sebastian Kruger/Becker-Derouet Sebastian Krüger a German Illustrator who has (during the 1980s) drawn around two dozen of album covers for bands like: Destruction, Risk, Tankard, Running Wild. Album cover photography: Martin Becker Martin Becker, a photographer, has captured the imagery of nearly two dozen heavy metal bands. His portfolio features notable metal acts |
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Record Label & Catalognr: |
Blue Label NOISE International N 0131-5 / NUK 131 |
Media Format: |
12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: |
1989 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: Tankard - Alien |
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "TANKARD - Alien" |
A photo of the Tankard band-members jumping in the air on the back cover of the Alien Album
A promo of stickers of Tankad on the custom inner sleeve
T-Shirts of Helloween, Kreator, Voivod , Running Wild Merchandise on the custom inner sleeve
Lyrics of all the songs on "Alien" printed on the custom inner sleeve
Tankard's Tour dates in Germany and The Netherlands
Close-up of the Blue NOISE International N 0131-5 Record Label Side 1
Close-up of the Blue NOISE International N 0131-5 Record Label Side 2
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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. |
Complete Track-listing of the album "TANKARD - Alien" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "TANKARD - Alien" is:
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Musically, "Alien" is a pure thrash metal masterclass. The title track explodes with a sci-fi infused narrative set against breakneck riffs and frantic drumming – a testament to the genre's penchant for fun and escapism.
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