"A Life Of Crime" Album Description:
In the tumultuous landscape of Thrash Metal during the 1980s, a band emerged from the musical scene in Chicago, USA, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Zoetrope, founded in 1976 by Barry Stern, Kevin Michael Rasofsky, and Calvin "Willis" Humphrey, achieved their main success between 1980 and 1987. One of their notable releases during this period was the Die-Cut Gimmick Cover 12" Vinyl LP Album titled "A Life of Crime."
Formation and Rise to Prominence:
Zoetrope's journey began in the mid-70s, with a lineup that exuded passion for heavy and aggressive music. Their musical prowess, coupled with the energy of the Chicago metal scene, propelled them into the limelight. The band's distinctive sound, characterized by thrashing guitars, powerful drumming, and intense vocals, contributed to their growing fan base.
"A Life of Crime" Album:
Released during the peak of their success, "A Life of Crime" stands out as a testament to Zoetrope's musical innovation and commitment to pushing boundaries. The die-cut gimmick cover of the 12" vinyl LP is an iconic representation of the band's willingness to experiment not only with their music but also with the visual presentation of their art.
Die-Cut Gimmick Cover:
The die-cut gimmick cover of "A Life of Crime" is a visual masterpiece that captures the essence of Zoetrope's music. The cover design features intricate cutouts, revealing glimpses of the album artwork beneath. This unique design choice was not merely a visual gimmick but a deliberate artistic expression that mirrored the band's commitment to pushing boundaries.
The die-cut cover served as a metaphorical window into the world of Zoetrope's music, offering fans a sneak peek into the intensity and complexity that awaited them within the grooves of the vinyl. The interplay between the die-cut design and the underlying artwork created a dynamic and engaging visual experience, reflecting the band's dynamic and intense musical style.
Musical Highlights:
Beyond its visually striking cover, "A Life of Crime" delivered a sonic assault that cemented Zoetrope's reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the Thrash Metal scene. Tracks like "Prohibition," "N.A.S.A.," showcased the band's technical prowess, relentless energy, and socially conscious lyricism.
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Music Genre:
American Thrash Metal
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Album Production information:
The album: "ZOETROPE - A Life of Crime" was produced by: Randy Burns
Randy Burns – Record Producer & Sound Engineer
He captured thrash when it still sounded dangerous, not "clean."
Read more...
Randy Burns is the producer/engineer I trust when metal has to hit hard without turning into mush. I clocked him in 1986 at Music Grinder, co-producing and engineering Megadeth's
"Peace Sells... but Who's Buying?"
with Mustaine: snare like a fist, bass tight, guitars sharp enough to shave with. He makes chaos readable, no fake gloss. His 80s run is a straight line of troublemaking: Suicidal Tendencies (engineer, 1983), Possessed
"Seven Churches"
(producer, 1985), Dark Angel
"Darkness Descends"
(producer/engineer, 1986), Death
"Scream Bloody Gore"
(producer, 1987), Nuclear Assault
"Survive"
(1988) and
"Handle with Care"
(1989), then Kreator "Coma of Souls" (1990).
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Casey McMakin
This album was recorded February-March 1987 at: Music Grinder, Track Record, Hollywood
Executive producer: Steve Sinclair
Steve Sinclair is a record producer and engineer widely recognized in the Heavy Metal world for his work throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. He collaborated with numerous influential bands during the peak of the genre’s rise, shaping the sound of several key releases with his bold, high-energy production style.
Read his story |
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Record Label & Catalognr:
Music For Nations MFN 76
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Packaging
This album "ZOETROPE - A Life of Crime" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos.
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Media Format:
12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
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Year & Country:
1987 Made in USA
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