TANKARD Alien Thrash Metal 12" EP Vinyl Album Cover Gallery & Information #Tankard #vinylrecords

"Alien" Album Description:

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.

Listen to ALIEN:

Music Genre: Thrash Metal / Heavy Metal
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 Krüger/Becker-Derouet Sebastian Krüger, a German painter and illustrator, gained recognition in the 1980s for his striking album cover art in the heavy metal scene. His work, blending surrealism and dark humor, defined the visual identity of bands like Destruction, Tankard, and Running Wild. His intense, exaggerated style became iconic in thrash metal history. Learn more in the Sebastian Krüger biography. 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
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

Andreas "Gerre" Geremia - Vocals, Bass(since 1982 with the Tankard band)
Andy Boulgaropoulos - Guitar ( with Tankard from 1982 until 1995)
Axel Katzmann - Guitar (with Tankard from 1982 until 1995)
Frank Thorwarth - Bass (with Tankard since 1982)
Oliver Werner - drums, (performing with "Tankard" from 1982 until 1989 , after which he joined the "Chase Crime" band in 1989)