TESTAMENT - The New Order - OIS 12" Vinyl LP Album

- A Thrash Metal Masterpiece That Defined an Era

Album cover of Testament's 'The New Order,' featuring a cosmic scene with a detailed blue Earth at the bottom and a dark, ghostly skull-like face emerging from deep space, surrounded by an eerie blue aura. The band's metallic, stylized logo is at the top, with the album title in bold white capital letters below. https://vinyl-records.nl

"The New Order" is the second album by American heavy metal band Testament, released on 10 May 1988. It is the album that broke Testament into the thrash metal mainstream, with singles "Trial by Fire" (which featured a music video, as did "Nobody's Fault", which is a cover of Aerosmith) and "The Preacher". This success would only grow with their next album Practice What You Preach.

Album Description & Collectors information:

The second album by American heavy metal band Testament, titled "The New Order", holds a significant place in the band's discography. Released on 10 May 1988, this album propelled Testament into the thrash metal mainstream, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with in the genre. With its powerful tracks, memorable singles, and exceptional production, "The New Order" showcases Testament's musical prowess and solidifies their status as one of the leading bands of the era.

Produced by Jon and Marsha Zazula, who were instrumental in shaping the sound of the album, "The New Order" benefits from their extensive experience and deep passion for heavy music. The Zazulas had previously worked with influential metal acts, including Metallica and Anthrax, and their involvement with Testament brought a wealth of expertise to the project. With their guidance, the band was able to achieve a high-quality production that effectively captured the raw energy and intensity of Testament's music.

The album features the skilled craftsmanship of sound engineer and producer Alex Perialas, known for his work with several notable metal bands. Perialas contributed his technical proficiency and artistic sensibility to enhance the sonic vision of "The New Order". His expertise ensured that the album achieved a balanced mix, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining the aggressive edge that defines thrash metal.

"The New Order" kicks off with the track "Eerie Inhabitants", a ferocious and fast-paced introduction that immediately grabs the listener's attention. The title track, "The New Order", follows suit, delivering blistering guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and captivating vocals. It sets the tone for the album, showcasing Testament's signature blend of relentless aggression and melodic sensibility.

The album's singles, "Trial by Fire" and "The Preacher", further exemplify Testament's ability to create memorable and impactful songs. "Trial by Fire" features a music video that helped garner attention for the band, while "The Preacher" showcases the band's knack for crafting infectious hooks and engaging choruses. These tracks, along with their accompanying videos, played a crucial role in establishing Testament's presence in the thrash metal scene and broadening their fan base.

Other standout tracks on "The New Order" include "Into the Pit", a live favorite known for its exhilarating energy and mosh-inducing rhythms. "Hypnosis" showcases Testament's technical prowess and songwriting depth, while "Disciples of the Watch" combines crushing riffs with thought-provoking lyrics. The album concludes with "A Day of Reckoning", leaving the listener craving more of Testament's powerful and dynamic sound.

"The New Order" is a testament to the band's musical talent, their commitment to the thrash metal genre, and their relentless drive to create impactful music. Testament, with the help of the Zazulas and Alex Perialas, crafted an album that solidified their place in the metal scene and propelled them to greater success. With its intense and memorable tracks, "The New Order" remains a classic in the thrash metal canon and a testament to Testament's enduring legacy.

This album "TESTAMENT - The New Order" includes the original custom made inner sleeve (OIS) with album production details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos

Album Fact Sheet: TESTAMENT - The New Order
Music Genre: Thrash Metal 
Album Production information:

The album: "TESTAMENT - The New Order" was produced by: Jon and Marsha Zazula, Alex Perialas

Rob "Wacko" Hunter - Sound Engineer

Alex "The Boy Pharoah" Perialas - Sound Engineer

Alex Perialas, a Greek-American producer and sound engineer, is celebrated for shaping 1980s heavy metal with bands like Anthrax, Slayer, and Overkill. As the owner of Pyramid Sound Recording Studio, Ithaca, New York , his work spans genres, influencing pop, hip-hop, and jazz. Discover his legacy and impact on iconic music production here.

Jon Zazula - Producer

Jon Zazula, also known as Jonny Z, revolutionized heavy metal by founding Megaforce Records, the label that launched Metallica, Anthrax, and Testament. A former record store owner turned music mogul, his fearless vision helped shape the thrash metal movement of the 1980s. His legacy continues to influence metal worldwide. Learn more about Jon Zazula.
Marsha Zazula, co-founder of Megaforce Records, played a pivotal role in launching Metallica’s groundbreaking career during the early 1980s. With her sharp eye for talent and passion for heavy metal, she, alongside her husband Jon , helped bring Metallica’s debut album Kill ’Em All to life, shaping the thrash metal movement. Learn more about her impact here.

Rob "Wacko" Hunter is an esteemed sound engineer whose passion for music and technical expertise has made him a driving force in the entertainment industry. With an exceptional ear for audio perfection and a creative flair, Wacko has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of countless concerts, recordings, and live events.

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Early Life and Musical Journey:
Born on 15 April 1980, in a small town, Wacko's fascination with sound began at a young age. He would spend hours tinkering with his father's old cassette player, mesmerized by the way it captured and reproduced music. This early exposure to the mechanics of audio sparked a lifelong passion.

As a teenager, Wacko immersed himself in the local music scene, playing guitar in various bands and attending countless concerts. Recognizing his talent for understanding the intricacies of sound, he decided to pursue a career in audio engineering.

Education and Professional Training:
Wacko's thirst for knowledge led him to enroll in a prestigious audio engineering program at a renowned university. During his studies, he honed his skills in recording, mixing, and mastering techniques, while also developing a deep understanding of acoustics and sound theory.

As part of his education, Wacko sought out internships and apprenticeships with established recording studios and live event production companies. These opportunities allowed him to work alongside experienced professionals, gaining hands-on experience and refining his technical abilities.

Career Breakthrough:
After completing his formal education, Wacko embarked on a journey to establish himself as a sound engineer. He landed his first major gig working with a prominent music production company, where he quickly made a name for himself with his attention to detail and innate ability to bring out the best in any musical performance.

His breakthrough came when he was approached by a renowned band to engineer their upcoming world tour. Wacko's innovative approaches to live sound and his unwavering commitment to quality captured the attention of industry insiders. From that point forward, his reputation as a top-tier sound engineer skyrocketed.

Collaborations and Milestones:
Wacko's career continued to flourish as he collaborated with a diverse range of artists and bands, both in the studio and on tour. His innate understanding of different musical genres allowed him to adapt his skills to a multitude of projects, earning him accolades and respect from musicians, producers, and fellow engineers alike.

Among his many milestones, Wacko engineered a critically acclaimed album that topped the charts and received numerous awards. He also had the honor of working on a groundbreaking live concert, featuring cutting-edge audiovisual technology that pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible in the industry.

Personal Philosophy and Legacy:
Throughout his career, Wacko has remained committed to pushing the envelope of sound engineering, constantly seeking new ways to enhance the listener's experience. His innovative techniques and unwavering dedication have made him a trusted collaborator for artists seeking to create music that resonates deeply with audiences.

Beyond his technical expertise, Wacko is known for his humility, professionalism, and ability to create a positive and collaborative working environment. His passion for music and unwavering pursuit of sonic excellence have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential sound engineers of his time.

Tom Coyne (1954-2017) was a highly respected mastering engineer known for shaping the sound of countless iconic albums. With a career spanning decades, he worked with legends like Madonna, U2, and The Rolling Stones. His mastery of both analog and digital techniques earned him multiple Grammy accolades. Learn more about his legacy here.

Marsha Zazula - Producer

Tom Coyne (mispelled as Tom Cyone) - Mastering Engineer

Recorded and mixed at Pyramid Sound Recording Studio, Ithaca, New York

Mastered at Frankford-Wayne

Eric Peterson - Album Cover Concept

Andy Meyn Green Apple Photography - Photography

William Benson - Album Artwork, Guitars

Record Company / Catalog number / Label: 

Megaforce Worldwide 781 849-1  

Record Format:

12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country: 1988 Made in Germany 
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: TESTAMENT - The New Order OIS
  • Chuck Billy - Vocals
  • Eric Peterson - Guitars

    Eric Peterson (Guitars) together with his cousin "Derrick Ramirez " founder of the American Thrash Metal band: "Legacy", which will be later renamed into "Testament".

  • Alex Skolnick - Guitars
  • Greg Christian - Bass
  • Louie Clemente - Drums
Complete Track-listing of the album "TESTAMENT - The New Order OIS"

The detailed tracklist of this record "TESTAMENT - The New Order OIS" is:

    Track-listing:
  1. Eerie Inhabitants
  2. The New Order
  3. Trial by Fire
  4. Into the Pit
  5. Hypnosis
  6. Disciples of the Watch
  7. The Preacher
  8. A Day of Reckoning
  9. Muscal Death (A Dirge)

Front Cover Photo Of TESTAMENT - The New Order OIS 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

 

Album cover of Testament's 'The New Order,' featuring a cosmic scene with a detailed blue Earth at the bottom and a dark, ghostly skull-like face emerging from deep space, surrounded by an eerie blue aura. The band's metallic, stylized logo is at the top, with the album title in bold white capital letters below.

The album cover for The New Order by Testament presents a cosmic and ominous visual composition. At the top, the band's name, Testament, is displayed in a highly stylized, metallic blue font with sharp, angular edges, almost as if it were carved from metal. The letters have an ice-like sheen, giving them a cold, futuristic feel.

Below the band's name, the background is a deep black space filled with small white specks resembling distant stars. Dominating the center is a ghostly, ominous figure that appears to be an ethereal skull-like face with hollow eyes and a barely visible nose cavity. This entity is composed of swirling, smoky blue hues that blend into the cosmic background, making it seem like a spectral presence watching over the Earth.

In the lower portion of the image, a stunningly detailed Earth is shown from a space-like vantage point. The surface is primarily blue with white clouds and faint landmasses, encased in a glowing blue atmosphere. The curvature of the planet is visible, adding depth and scale to the scene.

At the very bottom, the album title, The New Order, is written in bold, white capital letters. The font is simple yet commanding, standing out clearly against the dark space backdrop. The overall composition creates a feeling of cosmic dread and grandeur, fitting the album’s intense and apocalyptic themes.

Photo Of The Back Cover TESTAMENT - The New Order OIS 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

 

Back cover of Testament's 'The New Order' 12" LP album vinyl, featuring a dark, blue-tinted photograph of the band members standing beneath twisted, barren trees against a deep blue sky. The album's tracklist, credits, and band logo are positioned at the top and center, with additional production details at the bottom.

The back cover of The New Order by Testament features a dark, atmospheric photograph of the band members standing together in a desolate outdoor setting. The image is dominated by a cool, blue tint, giving it a cold and eerie ambiance. The five band members are dressed in black leather jackets and dark clothing, exuding a classic late-1980s thrash metal aesthetic. Their long hair is slightly tousled, and they stand in relaxed yet imposing postures, with some crossing their arms and others letting their hands hang at their sides.

The background consists of twisted, barren tree branches reaching towards the sky, devoid of leaves, adding to the foreboding atmosphere. The sky behind them is a deep, rich blue, enhancing the contrast between the silhouettes of the band and the stark, skeletal trees.

At the top of the cover, the album's tracklist is displayed in white capital letters, listing songs such as Eerie Inhabitants, The New Order, and Trial by Fire. Below this, the band's logo appears prominently in a metallic, stylized font, maintaining consistency with the album's front cover design.

Further down, the names and roles of the band members are listed: Louie Clemente on drums, Eric Peterson on rhythm guitar, Greg Christian on bass, Alex Skolnick on lead guitar, and Chuck Billy on vocals. Production credits, management details, and recording information are written in smaller white text, densely packed at the bottom of the image.

The overall design of the back cover reinforces the album's dark and intense themes, setting the tone for the thrash metal experience within.

First Photo Of Custom Inner Sleeve TESTAMENT - The New Order OIS 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

 

Black-and-white photograph on Testament's 'The New Order' 12" LP album vinyl custom inner sleeve, showing the band and a producer inside a professional recording studio. The band members are gathered around a large mixing console, with analog equipment, reel-to-reel tape machines, and racks of audio gear in the background. Below the image, a dense block of text includes special thanks and acknowledgments.

The inner sleeve of The New Order by Testament features a black-and-white photograph of the band and studio personnel inside a professional recording studio. The setting is dimly lit, with light sources creating contrast between illuminated areas and darker shadows. The band members and a bearded producer or engineer are positioned around a large mixing console, which is packed with knobs, sliders, and meters.

In the foreground, two band members are seated. The musician on the left has long, curly hair and is wearing a dark sweater, gesturing with open hands as if in conversation. The musician on the right, also with long hair, is wearing a black shirt and sits slightly turned toward the camera with a relaxed expression.

Behind them, three more band members stand. One, near the center, has long hair and is raising his hand with a “devil horns” gesture. Another, wearing an Anthrax band t-shirt, stands to the left with his arms at his sides, looking directly into the camera. The fifth member, partially obscured by the others, is standing further back near the studio's equipment racks.

To the right, an older man with a beard, wearing a white t-shirt with a stylized logo, stands next to the mixing console with one hand resting on it. He has a serious expression, appearing focused on the recording process.

The studio is filled with professional recording gear, including reel-to-reel tape machines, racks of outboard equipment, speakers, and control panels. The walls are lined with acoustic panels, and various pieces of paper and notes are scattered around the workspace.

Below the photograph, a large block of densely packed text fills the lower portion of the inner sleeve. This text contains special thanks, acknowledgments, and credits, listing people and organizations that contributed to the album’s production and the band's success. The layout has a vintage feel, emphasizing the importance of those who supported the band's journey.

Second Photo Of Custom Inner Sleeve TESTAMENT - The New Order OIS 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

 

Custom inner sleeve of Testament's 'The New Order' 12" LP album vinyl, featuring the printed lyrics of all album songs in black text on a white background. The text is organized into multiple columns, with song titles in bold capital letters at the top of each section.

The custom inner sleeve of The New Order by Testament features a full-page layout dedicated to the album's lyrics. The design is minimalistic, with black text printed on a white background, emphasizing readability and clarity. The lyrics of all tracks from the album are included, formatted into several columns across the page.

Each song title is displayed in bold capital letters, acting as a clear divider between sections. Tracks such as Eerie Inhabitants, Trial by Fire, Into the Pit, Disciples of the Watch, and A Day of Reckoning are presented with their full lyrics underneath. The text is tightly packed but remains legible, utilizing a clean and uniform typeface.

The layout follows a structured format, ensuring that each song’s lyrics are easy to follow. The spacing between columns keeps the text neatly arranged while maximizing space on the sleeve. Unlike the other side of the inner sleeve, which features a photograph of the band, this side serves as a functional element for fans who want to read along with the lyrics while listening to the music.

At the bottom of the page, a small section provides copyright information, crediting the songwriters and copyright holders. The overall design reflects the no-frills, direct approach characteristic of thrash metal releases from the late 1980s, prioritizing content over elaborate visuals.

Close up of record's label TESTAMENT - The New Order OIS 12" LP ALBUM VINYL Side One

"The New Order" Record Label Details: Blacok Colour Megaforce Worldwide 781 849-1

Close-up of the record label on Testament's 'The New Order' vinyl, featuring a black background with silver text and the Megaforce Worldwide logo in bold white and red at the top. The label displays the album title, band name, tracklist for Side One, and production credits, encircling the vinyl's central spindle hole.

This image is a close-up of the record label on The New Order vinyl by Testament, featuring a black background with silver and white text. At the top, the Megaforce Worldwide logo is prominently displayed in large, bold white letters with a red underline, radiating a sunburst effect beneath it.

Below the logo, the band’s name, Testament, is written in their signature stylized metallic font, followed by the album title, The New Order, in capitalized white text. To the left, the word STEREO is printed in bold, and next to it, the GEMA/BIEM logo appears, indicating European copyright and licensing organizations.

The tracklist for Side One is centered, listing five songs along with their respective durations and songwriting credits. The tracks include:

  • Eerie Inhabitants – 5:06
  • The New Order – 4:26
  • Trial by Fire – 4:26
  • Into the Pit – 2:46
  • Hypnosis – 2:04

Production credits are listed below the track titles, attributing production and mixing duties to Alex Perialas and executive production to Jon and Marsha Zazula. The label also includes the copyright date © 1988 Megaforce Records, Inc.

The Atlantic Records logo is placed at the bottom, alongside catalog number 781 849-1 and additional legal text curving along the outer edge, warning against unauthorized duplication, broadcasting, or resale.

The vinyl record’s spindle hole is visible in the center, cutting through the label, and the grooves of the black vinyl can be seen around the edges, adding depth to the image. The contrast of the silver and white text against the black background gives the label a clean, professional appearance, fitting for a classic thrash metal release.

Testament: Four Decades of Politically Charged Thrash Metal.

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