Tankard's "The Meaning of Life," a thrash metal gem, showcases a compelling blend of music and artistry. Released in October 1990, the 12" Vinyl LP Album features a captivating cover concept by Buffo, with cover artwork crafted by Sebastian Kruger and Becker-Derouet. The collaboration results in a visually striking representation of the genre and complements the album's intense musical content, solidifying Tankard's enduring legacy in the thrash metal scene.
"The Meaning of Life" is the fourth studio album from German thrash metal band Tankard.
In the realm of German thrash metal, Tankard stands as a formidable force, and their fourth studio album, "The Meaning of Life," remains a testament to their musical prowess and enduring influence. Released on October 1990, this 12" Vinyl LP Album is a quintessential chapter in the band's discography, marked by intense riffs, powerful rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrical content.
The album's creation history unveils a fascinating journey of collaboration and creative ingenuity. The cover concept, attributed to Buffo, sets the tone for the visual representation of "The Meaning of Life." This artwork serves as a gateway into the thematic depths explored within the album, reflecting the band's desire to convey a profound message through their music.
The cover art itself is a product of the collaborative efforts of two notable artists—Sebastian Kruger and Becker-Derouet. Sebastian Kruger, renowned for his distinctive and detailed artistry, played a pivotal role in bringing the visual elements of the album to life. His work is characterized by a unique blend of realism and expressionism, capturing the essence of Tankard's music in a visually striking manner.
Becker-Derouet's involvement in the cover artwork further adds layers to the creation narrative. The collaborative synergy between Buffo, Sebastian Kruger, and Becker-Derouet resulted in an album cover that not only visually represents the thrash metal genre but also encapsulates the thematic richness of "The Meaning of Life."
Released during a significant era for thrash metal, the album resonated with fans and critics alike. The music encapsulates the aggressive and energetic spirit of the genre while delving into philosophical themes that transcend the conventional boundaries of thrash metal lyrics.
Music Genre: Alcoholic Speed Thrash Metal |
Album Production Information: Producers Harris Johns, Karl-U 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
Recorded at Musiclab Studio/Berlin April and May 1990. Mixed at Hansa Studio Berlin, June 1990 Backing vocals by Gerre, Ken (Criminal Justice), Tommy (Megalomaniax) Album cover concept by Buffo Cover artwork by Sebastian Kruger/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.
Photography Buffo, Petra Gall Uwe "Buffo" Schnädelbach a German Photographer, Editor and Band manager (Tankard). During the 1980s he has photographed a dozen of Heavy Metal bands. Uwe "Buffo" Schnädelbach a German Photographer, Editor and Band manager (Tankard). During the 1980s he has photographed a dozen of Heavy Metal bands. Sebastian Krüger
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.
|
Record Label & Catalognr: Noise International N 0156-1 |
Packaging: This album includes a 12" insert with Tankard band-member photos, band-details and lyrics of all the songs |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP |
Year & Country: 1990 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: Tankard - The Meaning of Life |
|
Complete Track Listing of: Tankard - The Meaning of Life |
The Song/tracks on "Tankard - The Meaning of Life" are:
|
Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Tankard - The Meaning of Life |
Photo of Front Cover |
Photo of Album's Back Cover |
|
Close-up Photo of Record Label
|
|
Note: the above pictures are actual photos of the album and allow you to judge the quality of cover. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |
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.
Alien 12" Vinyl EPThe creation history of "Chemical Invasion" is deeply rooted in the thriving German thrash metal scene of the late 1980s. The album emerged in 1987, a time when the genre was experiencing a surge in popularity
Chemical Invasion 12" Vinyl LPThe album's creation history unveils a fascinating journey of collaboration and creative ingenuity. The cover concept, attributed to Buffo, sets the tone for the visual representation of "The Meaning of Life."
The Meaning of Life 12" Vinyl LPThe recording of "The Morning After" took place at Music Lab Studio in Berlin, with Harris Johns serving as the producer. Harris Johns, known for his work with other thrash metal acts like Kreator and Sodom
The Morning After 12" Vinyl LPThe creation history of "Zombie Attack" is a tale of raw energy, unbridled passion, and the relentless pursuit of musical excellence. Formed in 1982 in Frankfurt, Germany, Tankard was part of the burgeoning thrash metal
Zombie Attack 12" Vinyl LP