SODOM - Better Off Dead 12" Vinyl LP Album

This album "SODOM – Better Off Dead " is the fourth album by Sodom. "Better Off Dead" is the 4th album by the German Thrash Metal band: "SODOM". It has been produced by Harris Johns, who was assisted for the sound engineering by Angelo Plate, Thomas Patsch and David Nash. Recording of this album took place at Music Lab Studios, Berlin, while sound mixing was done at Dierks Studio Pulheim, during August until September 1990. It has been released on the Steamhammer record-label in 1990.

Album Front Cover Photo of SODOM - Better Off Dead
Essentials of: SODOM - Better Off Dead
"Better Off Dead" Album Description:

"SODOM - Better Off Dead" stands as a testament to the ferocity of German Thrash Metal. Released on [Long European Date Format: August 1990], this album marked the fourth offering from the iconic band Sodom, propelling them further into the realms of metal greatness.

Historical Context:

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Thrash Metal scene was in full swing, with bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth dominating the genre. Sodom, formed in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, in 1981, had already established themselves as a force to be reckoned with by the time they embarked on the creation of "Better Off Dead."

The Making of "Better Off Dead":

The production of the album was entrusted to the skilled hands of Harris Johns, a renowned figure in the metal world. Assisted by Angelo Plate, Thomas Patsch, and David Nash for sound engineering, the team meticulously crafted the auditory assault that would become "Better Off Dead." The recording sessions unfolded at Music Lab Studios in Berlin, capturing the raw energy and aggression synonymous with Thrash Metal.

The album's sonic tapestry was woven at Dierks Studio Pulheim, where the tracks were mixed to perfection. The process unfolded during a crucial period from August to September 1990, a time that would go down in history as the forging of one of Sodom's most influential albums.

Release and Reception:

"Better Off Dead" saw the light of day under the Steamhammer record label in 1990. Its release was met with anticipation and excitement from the metal community. The album's impact resonated not only in Germany but also across the global metal landscape, solidifying Sodom's status as a heavyweight in the Thrash Metal genre.

Music Genre:

Speed / Thrash Metal

Label & Catalognr:

SteamHammer SPV 008 - 76261

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1990 Made in Germany

Production & Recording Information
Album Packaging

This 12" LP vinyl music record comes comes in an album cover which has been embossed

This album included the original custom inner sleeve with on one side an illustration and credits, while on the other side illustration and lyrics of all the songs

Producers:

Harris Johns

Harris Johns is a prominent European music producer renowned for his contributions to the heavy metal and punk genres. With a career spanning several decades, he has worked with numerous iconic bands, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. Born in the late 1950s, Harris Johns developed a passion for music at an early age and pursued his dreams with unwavering determination.

more...

In the late 1970s, Harris Johns emerged as a key figure in the burgeoning heavy metal and punk scene. His unique talent and distinctive approach to music production quickly caught the attention of many prominent bands. With a desire to create powerful and impactful soundscapes, he became known for his ability to capture the raw energy and intensity of these genres.

Throughout his career, Harris Johns has collaborated with a plethora of big-name bands, solidifying his reputation as a go-to producer. His notable works include projects with Helloween, Coroner, Tankard, Sodom, Voivod, Kreator, Exumer, Ratos de Porão, Slime, Daily Terror, and many others. Each album he worked on showcased his exceptional skill in sculpting the sonic landscapes that defined the heavy metal and punk movements.

For over a decade, Harris Johns operated his studio, Music Lab Berlin Studio, which served as the creative hub for many of his productions. In an effort to further his artistic vision, he established Spiderhouse, a recording facility situated in a former guest house in the countryside near Berlin. For ten years, Spiderhouse became a sanctuary where he could channel his creativity and bring forth groundbreaking music.

In 2007, Harris Johns made the decision to reopen the Music Lab Berlin, reestablishing it as a prime destination for bands seeking his expertise in music production. The studio became a hub of creativity and collaboration, attracting both established acts and up-and-coming artists. However, in 2016, Harris Johns decided to step away from the studio, concluding a significant chapter in his illustrious career.

Despite stepping back from the day-to-day operations of Music Lab Berlin, Harris Johns continues to contribute to the music industry. He remains active as a producer and dedicates his time to teaching music production skills. His wealth of knowledge and experience has made him an invaluable resource for aspiring producers and musicians, as he imparts his expertise and nurtures the next generation of talent.

As we reflect upon the 1980s, it becomes evident that Harris Johns' discography during this era stands as a testament to his immense talent. Some of the notable albums he worked on include groundbreaking releases such as:

These albums showcase Harris Johns' ability to capture the essence and intensity of the heavy metal and punk genres, earning him a place in music history.

Harris Johns' impact on the heavy metal and punk scenes cannot be understated. His talent, dedication, and distinctive approach to music production have left an indelible mark on the industry. As he continues to produce and educate, Harris Johns remains a respected and influential figure, shaping the future of music for generations to come.

Sound & Recording Engineers:

Angelo Plate - Sound Engineer

David Nash - Sound Engineer

Thomas Pätsch - Sound Engineer

Recording Location:

Music Lab Studios, Berlin - Recording Studio

Dierks Studio Pulheim - Sound mix studio

Recorded and mixed during August and September 1990.

Album Cover Design & Artwork:

Andreas Marschall - Album Cover Artwork

Andreas Marschall is a renowned German album cover illustrator and graphic artist, widely recognized for his exceptional contributions to the world of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal during the 1980s. Born on October 10, 1961, in Munich, Germany, Marschall discovered his passion for art at a young age and nurtured his creative talents throughout his life.

more...

In his early years, Marschall displayed an inclination towards visual arts and began honing his skills through various mediums. Inspired by the rebellious and energetic nature of Rock and Metal music, he found his artistic voice in the realm of album cover artwork. Combining his love for music and art, Marschall embarked on a journey that would shape the visual identities of numerous iconic bands.

During the 1980s, Marschall's work gained immense popularity within the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal scene. His distinctive style blended vivid imagery, intricate details, and a dark aesthetic, capturing the essence of the music and captivating audiences worldwide. Bands such as Destruction, Kreator, and Running Wild, among many others, sought out Marschall's artistic vision to bring their music to life visually.

Marschall's collaborations with these bands resulted in a series of iconic album covers that became emblematic of the era. His artwork adorned record sleeves, posters, and merchandise, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Rock and Metal. Marschall's visuals evoked a sense of intensity, aggression, and imagination, resonating with fans who connected deeply with the music he portrayed.

Beyond his contributions to album artwork, Marschall's talent extended to other artistic realms. He lent his skills to creating stage designs, concert backdrops, and even ventured into directing music videos. This multidimensional approach further solidified his position as a creative force within the industry.

As the 1990s unfolded, Marschall continued to explore different avenues of artistic expression. He expanded his portfolio to include cover designs for books, movie posters, and even ventured into the world of filmmaking. His debut as a director came with the German horror film "Todesking" in 1990, showcasing his ability to seamlessly transition his visual storytelling from static imagery to moving pictures.

In the years that followed, Marschall maintained an active presence in the world of art and continued to collaborate with various musicians, filmmakers, and authors. His work continued to evolve, embracing new technologies while staying true to his signature style. Through his prolific career, Marschall left an enduring impact on the artistry and aesthetics of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal.

 

DE SIGN Gmbh - Album Cover Design


Musicians:
  • Tom Angelripper - vocals/bass guitar
  • Michael Hoffman - guitars
  • Chris Witchhunter - drums
Tracklisting Side One:
  1. "An Eye for an Eye" 4:25
  2. "Shellfire Defense" 4:23
  3. "The Saw Is the Law" 4:11
  4. "Turn Your Head Around" (Tank cover) 3:23
  5. "Capture the Flag" 6:08
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. "Cold Sweat" (Thin Lizzy cover) 3:10
  2. "Bloodtrails" 4:45
  3. "Never Healing Wound" 2:26
  4. "Better off Dead" 3:44
  5. "Resurrection" 4:50
  6. "Tarred and Feathered" 3:02
  7. "Stalinorgel" 4:41

High Resolution & Quality Photos
Front Cover Photo Of SODOM - Better Off Dead
High Resolution Photo #11 SODOM Better Off Dead

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. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )

Photo Of The Back Cover SODOM - Better Off Dead
High Resolution Photo #12 SODOM Better Off Dead
Photo of the custom inner sleeve SODOM - Better Off Dead
High Resolution Photo #13 SODOM Better Off Dead
Photo of the custom inner sleeve SODOM - Better Off Dead
High Resolution Photo #14 SODOM Better Off Dead
Photo of Side One: SODOM - Better Off Dead
High Resolution Photo #15 SODOM Better Off Dead
Photo of Side Two: SODOM - Better Off Dead
High Resolution Photo #16 SODOM Better Off Dead

SODOM's Vinyl Record Discography: A Thrash Metal Journey Through the 1980s.

SODOM - Agent Orange 12" Vinyl LP
SODOM - Agent Orange  album front cover vinyl record

"Agent Orange"was produced by Harris Johns, who had previously worked with bands such as Kreator and Destruction. The album's sound is a mix of thrash metal, black metal, and hardcore punk. The songs are fast, aggressive, and heavy, and they feature some of Sodom's most memorable riffs and solos.

Learn more
SODOM - Better Off Dead 12" Vinyl LP
SODOM - Better Off Dead  album front cover vinyl record

"SODOM - Better Off Dead" stands as a testament to the ferocity of German Thrash Metal. Released on [Long European Date Format: August 1990], this album marked the fourth offering from the iconic band Sodom, propelling them further into the realms of metal greatness.

Learn more
SODOM - Expurse of Sodomy 12" Vinyl LP
SODOM - Expurse of Sodomy album front cover vinyl record

In The Realm Of Thrash Metal, The German Band Sodom Has Solidified Their Place As One Of The Genre's Most Influential Acts. Among Their Extensive Discography, "Expurse Of Sodomy" Stands Out As A Memorable Ep That Encapsulates The Band's Raw Energy And Intense Musical Prowess.

Learn more
SODOM - In The Sign Of Evil 12" Vinyl LP
SODOM - In The Sign Of Evil  album front cover vinyl record

Sodom's first record, "In The Sign Of Evil", released by Devil's Game (DG No 001) in 1984. The album showcases the band's mastery of German Death Thrash Metal, establishing their influential presence in the genre.

Learn more
SODOM - Mortal Way of Live 12" Vinyl LP
SODOM - Mortal Way of Live album front cover vinyl record

The creation of "Mortal Way of Life" was not merely a recording endeavor but a sonic journey that reflected the band's dedication to delivering an authentic thrash metal experience. To delve into the album's creation history, we must first understand the backdrop of Sodom's ascendancy in the metal scene.

Learn more
SODOM - Persecution Mania 12" Vinyl LP
SODOM - Persecution Mania  album front cover vinyl record

At its core, "Persecution Mania" captures the essence of what made Sodom such a force to be reckoned with. Led by the indomitable Tom Angelripper on vocals and bass, the band unleashed a sonic assault that would leave listeners in awe. Frank Blackfire's searing guitar work tore through the speakers

Learn more