NECRONOMICON “Apocalyptic Nightmare” /Ltd. LP + Poster/

Official merch.
100% Cotton.
Fruit Of The Loom. Valueweight. Made in Morocco.
Total Metal Concerts & Booking, 2016. Printed in Ukraine.

First re-release of the seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Re-release includes bonus-track and new cover artwork.
Total Metal Records, 2012/2020 (TMR035-167). Made in EU.


Tracklist:
1. Invictus 06:46
2. Unleashed 04:06
3. Bloody Bastards 04:05
4. Thoughts Running Free 05:51
5. Unconquered 05:58
6. Upon Black Wings 04:42
7. Face to the Wall 05:18
8. Pandora’s Box 04:05
9. Before the Curtain Falls 04:44
10. Possessed by Evil 2011 05:02
Bonus track:
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged) 04:10
Total playing time: 54:50 min.



 

First time on cassette, the seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Total Metal Records, 2020 (TMR035-167/MC).


Tracklist:

Side 1
1. Invictus
2. Unleashed
3. Bloody Bastards
4. Thoughts Running Free
5. Unconquered
Playing time: 26:54 min.

Side 2
6. Upon Black Wings
7. Face to the Wall
8. Pandora’s Box
9. Before the Curtain Falls
10. Possessed by Evil 2011
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged)
Playing time: 28:01 min.

The seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Box Set includes re-release of "Invictus" on CD with new cover artwork, cassette (released for the first time) and two patches.
Total Metal Records, 2020 (TMR035-167/BX).


CD Tracklist:
1. Invictus 06:46
2. Unleashed 04:06
3. Bloody Bastards 04:05
4. Thoughts Running Free 05:51
5. Unconquered 05:58
6. Upon Black Wings 04:42
7. Face to the Wall 05:18
8. Pandora’s Box 04:05
9. Before the Curtain Falls 04:44
10. Possessed by Evil 2011 05:02
Bonus track:
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged) 04:10
Total playing time: 54:50 min.


MC Tracklist:

Side 1
1. Invictus
2. Unleashed
3. Bloody Bastards
4. Thoughts Running Free
5. Unconquered
Playing time: 26:54 min.

Side 2
6. Upon Black Wings
7. Face to the Wall
8. Pandora’s Box
9. Before the Curtain Falls
10. Possessed by Evil 2011
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged)
Playing time: 28:01 min.



 

First re-release of the seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Re-release includes bonus-track and new cover artwork.
Total Metal Records, 2012/2020 (TMR035-167/DT). 


Tracklist:
1. Invictus 06:46
2. Unleashed 04:06
3. Bloody Bastards 04:05
4. Thoughts Running Free 05:51
5. Unconquered 05:58
6. Upon Black Wings 04:42
7. Face to the Wall 05:18
8. Pandora’s Box 04:05
9. Before the Curtain Falls 04:44
10. Possessed by Evil 2011 05:02
Bonus track:
11. Possessed Again (Unplugged) 04:10
Total playing time: 54:50 min.

First re-release of the third full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Formed in 1984, the band from Lörrach, Baden-Württemberg, could have made it big, if only they hadn’t fallen prey to the wrong record label back in the days… be that as it may, Necronomicon never gave in, and they are still here today. “Escalation” certainly one of the most successful releases by Necronomicon and has reached cult status. It was recorded and mixed during the year 1987 at the Zuckerfabrik Studio, Stuttgart. When musicians wrote the songs, they wanted to leave the dark path of the two previous productions and musically to sound broader and more diverse… somehow more mature. And they must be very proud of the result. According to the reactions by fans & press, all these goals were met. The band had developed a much more focused approach to the songwriting, delivered a tighter and faster performance, and also Freddy’s vocals had changed. Compared to the former albums, they had become a lot harsher, and a lot more unique.
In general, this album is said to be the most convincing of Necronomicon’s first three outputs. The response was incredible, band gained worldwide attention and got a lot of great reviews. For the first time, Necronomicon earned a little money with one of their releases, because Gama Records held the exclusive rights only up to a certain sales volume... they simply had not reckoned with the success. The release of "Escalation" was followed by band's legendary East European tour that should herald the breakthrough for the band before then the big bang should follow. Necronomicon recorded “Escalation” as a three piece, as bassist Lars “Lala“ Honeck had left the band. But on the European tour, Michael Mörgelin came in as band's new bass player. 
“Escalation” comes with a bunch of great Thrash Metal tunes, some of which are even regarded as small classics, like the opener “Death Toll” and “Cold Ages (Dark Land 3)”. Only “Dirty Minds” is a bit unusual, being more classic Hard Rock than Thrash Metal. Memorable and razorblade-like riffs, galloping basslines and precise drumming are some of the qualities that can be found here. Everything sounds clear and no instrument overlaps the other. "Escalation" enjoys of a healthy wall of sound that would please any Thrash Metal fan! It's a highly recommended album for Thrash and classic Metal listeners!!
Limited to 500 copies (150 black + 350 mustard/black splatter) vinyl with poster, 425 gsm heavy cardboard cover and insert. 
High Roller Records, 1988/2015 (HRR 433). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Death Toll 6:09 
2. Black Forest 2:21 
3. Dirty Minds 3:40 
4. Skeletal Remains 3:27

Side B
1. Murder Of Profit 3:55 
2. ...And The Night Will Be Silent 4:29 
3. Mosh The Abc 2:14 
4. Cold Ages (Darkland III) 6:40

Total playing time: 32:55 min.
 

First re-release of the debut full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon is one of those German Thrash Metal bands that never got the attention they actually deserved. They always walked through the shadows of the three main bands of the German scene, which are Kreator, Destruction and Sodom - all three are Thrash Metal legends. They all had solid label backing, played nationwide tours and full-colour advertisements for their records were to be seen in all the Metal papers of the day. But what about Necronomicon? Necronomicon had had the same luck as the above mentioned three in signing a deal with one of the prominent German labels in the mid-‘80’s. But instead of securing a deal with Steamhammer (like Sodom and Destruction), Noise (Kreator) or even Roadrunner, Necronomicon ended up with... Wave Records. A very obscure label with a very obscure name. Wave Records was something like the distribution arm of Gama Records or at least that’s how they wanted to make it look like to the public. Gama always was a very dodgy label, ripping off bands left, right and centre and that was one of their ways to cheat people for their money. Signing to Gama was a very bad choice.
Necronomicon was loved internationally, especially in all Scandinavian countries, USA and South America. Back in the ‘80’s, fanzines were all over the place, and they wrote about the band on a regular basis. This was different in Germany, but it has only changed over the last couple of years – ironically.
In 1988, it seemed the end of the road for Necronomion had come (after only three albums). Band definitely needed to part ways with Gama. But Gama held the rights to all the songs, to band's name, to just about everything. Musicians were practically forced to do nothing at all or change their name (which band did not want to do). So, they had to sit through all this, doing nothing. For the band, there was only one question: are they gonna wait until eternity to put out another Necronomicon album or do they take the risk to get sued by Gama? At this point in time, band got the news that Gama was filing for bankruptcy. So, guys took the risk to record a new album... In 1994, the fourth longplay, “Screams”, was released on CD via D&S Records. Unfortunately, band's liaison with D&S was not very enduring either. It was a rocky way for Necronomicon up until the present day...
Luckily, the rights to the songs had reverted to the band. An odyssey of uncertainty and suffering has come to and end. The present for Necronomicon marks the deluxe re-release of their legendary debut, by many fans still regarded as one the greatest German Thrash Metal records in history.
This album is a fu***ng piece of violent and brutal German Thrash Metal, it has all what an adept of 80s European Thrash Metal want in an album. The first thing that catch our attention when listening the album is the unique sound quality, not quality-wise but rather in rawness, because the album has a somewhat "Punkish" sound on it, which is a pretty damn cool thing! The songwriting on the album is great, they had a lot of great ideas for sure. The musicianship on the album is far from top-notch, but it's still great enough to enjoy everything that is played, especially for a first effort. The mix on the album is pretty much what you would expect from a record with that production work. The main focus on the album is the guitars, because they are somewhat higher in the mix than the other instruments. But in general, the mix is pretty good. The guitar sound has sometimes been compared to that of the mighty (early) Celtic Frost. Volker also had that ultimate crunch in his guitar playing. The drums are well-performed, using basic Thrash technic. The vocals of Freddy are basically a worship of Schmier, they have a really similar tone (which is a good thing for Destruction's fans). Another interesting thing on the album is the kind of riffs we have. Yes, the type of riffs are similar to those of Destruction, but Necronomicon made great additions to it, by expanding even more what they did before. You will also hear the typical fancy guitar solos like in Destruction. The most popular song is indeed "Possessed by Evil", which is a unique original piece of the German Thrash scene and is mainly considered a classic.
Overall, this is not the catchiest album ever, but songs like "Blind Destruction" or "Iron Charm" has solid choruses, this is the kind of songs that will get stuck in your head for a bit of time. There's no bad tracks on this album at all, each track have their great moments and killer riffs! It's obviously recommend people to give the album a few listens. This is the kind of album that needs to grow in you before appreciating its evil art, but once you're into it, you will dig it and see its catchiness. If you're a 80s German Thrash Metal fan, especially fan of Destruction, then you need to look up to it!! This is an undeniable classic German Thrash Metal album!!!
Limited to 366 copies double black vinyls with 7 bonus tracks, including "Blind Destruction" demo (1985), housed in gatefold embossed  425 gsm heavy cardboard cover with insert.
High Roller Records, 1986/2010 (HRR 115). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech. Black vinyl.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Dark Land 6:42
2. Possessed By Evil 4:17
3. Bloody Revenge 3:36
4. Insanity 3:00

Side B
5. Blind Destruction 3:50
6. Hades Invasion 4:30
7. Magic Forest 5:44
8. Iron Charm 5:34

Side C
9. Iron Charm
10. Possessed By Evil
11. Insanity
12. Blind Destruction

Side D
13. Bloody Revenge
14. Possessed By Evil
15. Blind Destruction

Tracks A1-B4 taken from "Necronomicon" LP 1986;

Tracks C1-D1 taken from "Blind Destruction" Demo 1985, remastered;
Tracks D2-D3 taken from "Break Out - German Metal Tracks No. 2" compilation LP 1986.

 

First re-release of the debut full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon is one of those German Thrash Metal bands that never got the attention they actually deserved. They always walked through the shadows of the three main bands of the German scene, which are Kreator, Destruction and Sodom - all three are Thrash Metal legends. They all had solid label backing, played nationwide tours and full-colour advertisements for their records were to be seen in all the Metal papers of the day. But what about Necronomicon? Necronomicon had had the same luck as the above mentioned three in signing a deal with one of the prominent German labels in the mid-‘80’s. But instead of securing a deal with Steamhammer (like Sodom and Destruction), Noise (Kreator) or even Roadrunner, Necronomicon ended up with... Wave Records. A very obscure label with a very obscure name. Wave Records was something like the distribution arm of Gama Records or at least that’s how they wanted to make it look like to the public. Gama always was a very dodgy label, ripping off bands left, right and centre and that was one of their ways to cheat people for their money. Signing to Gama was a very bad choice.
Necronomicon was loved internationally, especially in all Scandinavian countries, USA and South America. Back in the ‘80’s, fanzines were all over the place, and they wrote about the band on a regular basis. This was different in Germany, but it has only changed over the last couple of years – ironically.
In 1988, it seemed the end of the road for Necronomion had come (after only three albums). Band definitely needed to part ways with Gama. But Gama held the rights to all the songs, to band's name, to just about everything. Musicians were practically forced to do nothing at all or change their name (which band did not want to do). So, they had to sit through all this, doing nothing. For the band, there was only one question: are they gonna wait until eternity to put out another Necronomicon album or do they take the risk to get sued by Gama? At this point in time, band got the news that Gama was filing for bankruptcy. So, guys took the risk to record a new album... In 1994, the fourth longplay, “Screams”, was released on CD via D&S Records. Unfortunately, band's liaison with D&S was not very enduring either. It was a rocky way for Necronomicon up until the present day...
Luckily, the rights to the songs had reverted to the band. An odyssey of uncertainty and suffering has come to and end. The present for Necronomicon marks the deluxe re-release of their legendary debut, by many fans still regarded as one the greatest German Thrash Metal records in history.
This album is a fu***ng piece of violent and brutal German Thrash Metal, it has all what an adept of 80s European Thrash Metal want in an album. The first thing that catch our attention when listening the album is the unique sound quality, not quality-wise but rather in rawness, because the album has a somewhat "Punkish" sound on it, which is a pretty damn cool thing! The songwriting on the album is great, they had a lot of great ideas for sure. The musicianship on the album is far from top-notch, but it's still great enough to enjoy everything that is played, especially for a first effort. The mix on the album is pretty much what you would expect from a record with that production work. The main focus on the album is the guitars, because they are somewhat higher in the mix than the other instruments. But in general, the mix is pretty good. The guitar sound has sometimes been compared to that of the mighty (early) Celtic Frost. Volker also had that ultimate crunch in his guitar playing. The drums are well-performed, using basic Thrash technic. The vocals of Freddy are basically a worship of Schmier, they have a really similar tone (which is a good thing for Destruction's fans). Another interesting thing on the album is the kind of riffs we have. Yes, the type of riffs are similar to those of Destruction, but Necronomicon made great additions to it, by expanding even more what they did before. You will also hear the typical fancy guitar solos like in Destruction. The most popular song is indeed "Possessed by Evil", which is a unique original piece of the German Thrash scene and is mainly considered a classic.
Overall, this is not the catchiest album ever, but songs like "Blind Destruction" or "Iron Charm" has solid choruses, this is the kind of songs that will get stuck in your head for a bit of time. There's no bad tracks on this album at all, each track have their great moments and killer riffs! It's obviously recommend people to give the album a few listens. This is the kind of album that needs to grow in you before appreciating its evil art, but once you're into it, you will dig it and see its catchiness. If you're a 80s German Thrash Metal fan, especially fan of Destruction, then you need to look up to it!! This is an undeniable classic German Thrash Metal album!!!
Limited to 100 copies double Gold Vinyls with 7 bonus tracks, including "Blind Destruction" demo (1985), housed in gatefold embossed  425 gsm heavy cardboard cover with insert.
High Roller Records, 1986/2010 (HRR 115). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech. Gold vinyl.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Dark Land 6:42
2. Possessed By Evil 4:17
3. Bloody Revenge 3:36
4. Insanity 3:00

Side B
5. Blind Destruction 3:50
6. Hades Invasion 4:30
7. Magic Forest 5:44
8. Iron Charm 5:34

Side C
9. Iron Charm
10. Possessed By Evil
11. Insanity
12. Blind Destruction

Side D
13. Bloody Revenge
14. Possessed By Evil
15. Blind Destruction

Tracks A1-B4 taken from "Necronomicon" LP 1986;

Tracks C1-D1 taken from "Blind Destruction" Demo 1985, remastered;
Tracks D2-D3 taken from "Break Out - German Metal Tracks No. 2" compilation LP 1986.

 

Second re-release of the debut full-length album by the cult German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon is one of those German Thrash Metal bands that never got the attention they actually deserved. They always walked through the shadows of the three main bands of the German scene, which are Kreator, Destruction and Sodom - all three are Thrash Metal legends. They all had solid label backing, played nationwide tours and full-colour advertisements for their records were to be seen in all the Metal papers of the day. But what about Necronomicon? Necronomicon had had the same luck as the above mentioned three in signing a deal with one of the prominent German labels in the mid-‘80’s. But instead of securing a deal with Steamhammer (like Sodom and Destruction), Noise (Kreator) or even Roadrunner, Necronomicon ended up with... Wave Records. A very obscure label with a very obscure name. Wave Records was something like the distribution arm of Gama Records or at least that’s how they wanted to make it look like to the public. Gama always was a very dodgy label, ripping off bands left, right and centre and that was one of their ways to cheat people for their money. Signing to Gama was a very bad choice.
Necronomicon was loved internationally, especially in all Scandinavian countries, USA and South America. Back in the ‘80’s, fanzines were all over the place, and they wrote about the band on a regular basis. This was different in Germany, but it has only changed over the last couple of years – ironically.
In 1988, it seemed the end of the road for Necronomion had come (after only three albums). Band definitely needed to part ways with Gama. But Gama held the rights to all the songs, to band's name, to just about everything. Musicians were practically forced to do nothing at all or change their name (which band did not want to do). So, they had to sit through all this, doing nothing. For the band, there was only one question: are they gonna wait until eternity to put out another Necronomicon album or do they take the risk to get sued by Gama? At this point in time, band got the news that Gama was filing for bankruptcy. So, guys took the risk to record a new album... In 1994, the fourth longplay, “Screams”, was released on CD via D&S Records. Unfortunately, band's liaison with D&S was not very enduring either. It was a rocky way for Necronomicon up until the present day...
Luckily, the rights to the songs had reverted to the band. An odyssey of uncertainty and suffering has come to and end. The present for Necronomicon marks the deluxe re-release of their legendary debut, by many fans still regarded as one the greatest German Thrash Metal records in history.
This album is a fu***ng piece of violent and brutal German Thrash Metal, it has all what an adept of 80s European Thrash Metal want in an album. The first thing that catch our attention when listening the album is the unique sound quality, not quality-wise but rather in rawness, because the album has a somewhat "Punkish" sound on it, which is a pretty damn cool thing! The songwriting on the album is great, they had a lot of great ideas for sure. The musicianship on the album is far from top-notch, but it's still great enough to enjoy everything that is played, especially for a first effort. The mix on the album is pretty much what you would expect from a record with that production work. The main focus on the album is the guitars, because they are somewhat higher in the mix than the other instruments. But in general, the mix is pretty good. The guitar sound has sometimes been compared to that of the mighty (early) Celtic Frost. Volker also had that ultimate crunch in his guitar playing. The drums are well-performed, using basic Thrash technic. The vocals of Freddy are basically a worship of Schmier, they have a really similar tone (which is a good thing for Destruction's fans). Another interesting thing on the album is the kind of riffs we have. Yes, the type of riffs are similar to those of Destruction, but Necronomicon made great additions to it, by expanding even more what they did before. You will also hear the typical fancy guitar solos like in Destruction. The most popular song is indeed "Possessed by Evil", which is a unique original piece of the German Thrash scene and is mainly considered a classic.
Overall, this is not the catchiest album ever, but songs like "Blind Destruction" or "Iron Charm" has solid choruses, this is the kind of songs that will get stuck in your head for a bit of time. There's no bad tracks on this album at all, each track have their great moments and killer riffs! It's obviously recommend people to give the album a few listens. This is the kind of album that needs to grow in you before appreciating its evil art, but once you're into it, you will dig it and see its catchiness. If you're a 80s German Thrash Metal fan, especially fan of Destruction, then you need to look up to it!! This is an undeniable classic German Thrash Metal album!!!
Limited to 150 copies black vinyl with poster, 425 gsm heavy cardboard cover and insert.
High Roller Records, 1986/2014 (HRR 340). Made in Germany. Pressed in Czech. 


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Dark Land 6:42
2. Possessed By Evil 4:17
3. Bloody Revenge 3:36
4. Insanity 3:00

Side B
5. Blind Destruction 3:50
6. Hades Invasion 4:30
7. Magic Forest 5:44
8. Iron Charm 5:34

Total playing time: 37:13 min.

 

Third re-release of the debut full-length album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon is one of those German Thrash Metal bands that never got the attention they actually deserved. They always walked through the shadows of the three main bands of the German scene, which are Kreator, Destruction and Sodom - all three are Thrash Metal legends. They all had solid label backing, played nationwide tours and full-colour advertisements for their records were to be seen in all the Metal papers of the day. But what about Necronomicon? Necronomicon had had the same luck as the above mentioned three in signing a deal with one of the prominent German labels in the mid-‘80’s. But instead of securing a deal with Steamhammer (like Sodom and Destruction), Noise (Kreator) or even Roadrunner, Necronomicon ended up with... Wave Records. A very obscure label with a very obscure name. Wave Records was something like the distribution arm of Gama Records or at least that’s how they wanted to make it look like to the public. Gama always was a very dodgy label, ripping off bands left, right and centre and that was one of their ways to cheat people for their money. Signing to Gama was a very bad choice.
Necronomicon was loved internationally, especially in all Scandinavian countries, USA and South America. Back in the ‘80’s, fanzines were all over the place, and they wrote about the band on a regular basis. This was different in Germany, but it has only changed over the last couple of years – ironically.
In 1988, it seemed the end of the road for Necronomion had come (after only three albums). Band definitely needed to part ways with Gama. But Gama held the rights to all the songs, to band's name, to just about everything. Musicians were practically forced to do nothing at all or change their name (which band did not want to do). So, they had to sit through all this, doing nothing. For the band, there was only one question: are they gonna wait until eternity to put out another Necronomicon album or do they take the risk to get sued by Gama? At this point in time, band got the news that Gama was filing for bankruptcy. So, guys took the risk to record a new album... In 1994, the fourth longplay, “Screams”, was released on CD via D&S Records. Unfortunately, band's liaison with D&S was not very enduring either. It was a rocky way for Necronomicon up until the present day...
Luckily, the rights to the songs had reverted to the band. An odyssey of uncertainty and suffering has come to and end. The present for Necronomicon marks the deluxe re-release of their legendary debut, by many fans still regarded as one the greatest German Thrash Metal records in history.
This album is a fu***ng piece of violent and brutal German Thrash Metal, it has all what an adept of 80s European Thrash Metal want in an album. The first thing that catch our attention when listening the album is the unique sound quality, not quality-wise but rather in rawness, because the album has a somewhat "Punkish" sound on it, which is a pretty damn cool thing! The songwriting on the album is great, they had a lot of great ideas for sure. The musicianship on the album is far from top-notch, but it's still great enough to enjoy everything that is played, especially for a first effort. The mix on the album is pretty much what you would expect from a record with that production work. The main focus on the album is the guitars, because they are somewhat higher in the mix than the other instruments. But in general, the mix is pretty good. The guitar sound has sometimes been compared to that of the mighty (early) Celtic Frost. Volker also had that ultimate crunch in his guitar playing. The drums are well-performed, using basic Thrash technic. The vocals of Freddy are basically a worship of Schmier, they have a really similar tone (which is a good thing for Destruction's fans). Another interesting thing on the album is the kind of riffs we have. Yes, the type of riffs are similar to those of Destruction, but Necronomicon made great additions to it, by expanding even more what they did before. You will also hear the typical fancy guitar solos like in Destruction. The most popular song is indeed "Possessed by Evil", which is a unique original piece of the German Thrash scene and is mainly considered a classic.
Overall, this is not the catchiest album ever, but songs like "Blind Destruction" or "Iron Charm" has solid choruses, this is the kind of songs that will get stuck in your head for a bit of time. There's no bad tracks on this album at all, each track have their great moments and killer riffs! It's obviously recommend people to give the album a few listens. This is the kind of album that needs to grow in you before appreciating its evil art, but once you're into it, you will dig it and see its catchiness. If you're a 80s German Thrash Metal fan, especially fan of Destruction, then you need to look up to it!! This is an undeniable classic German Thrash Metal album!!!
Limited to 500 copies (250 black + 250 transparent ultra-clear) vinyl with poster, insert and 425gsm heavy cardboard cover. 
High Roller Records, 1986/2018 (HRR 340). Made in Germany.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Dark Land 6:42
2. Possessed By Evil 4:17
3. Bloody Revenge 3:36
4. Insanity 3:00

Side B
5. Blind Destruction 3:50
6. Hades Invasion 4:30
7. Magic Forest 5:44
8. Iron Charm 5:34

Total playing time: 37:13 min.

 

First time on vinyl, the seventh full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Old-school Thrash Metal with a modern production! Band got a hell of a lot more pedigree than a lot of people realize. After hitting the scene during the first wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, alongside their more famous contemporaries Destruction and Kreator, these guys seemed to fade very quickly into near-total obscurity. It wasn’t for a lack of output, rather it was a lack of the luck. They’ve been nothing if not persistent though, because aside from a hiatus at the latter end of the 90s, Necronomicon have diligently plugged away at supplying a steady string of always respectable releases over the years. Amongst them, this 2012 effort ranks quite highly indeed.
What becomes quickly evident when listening to "Invictus" is how much more refined the new Necronomicon's approach is. This album certainly represents the zenith of the progression they have undergone over the years. Gone is the rough appeal, and in its place you'll find first-rate songwriting and a highly professional, up-to-date production style. What’s impressive is that in the process, they have managed to retain most of the manic energy that German Thrash Metal is so renowned for, even if it has become a little watered down by influences from the American Bay Area scene. The trade-off actually results in a much more interesting album. Stylistically speaking, this is straight-up Thrash Metal!!
"Invictus" is the album that manages to hold its own against some of the best Thrash Metal releases of the past years!!!
Pressed on Black (200 copies), Blue Translucent (200 copies) and Surprise-Colored (100 copies) Vinyl. Comes in Gatefold cover with a hard-paper colour innersleeve.
Total Metal Records/G.U.C. Records, 2022 (TMR035-167/LP | G.U.C. 040-21). Made in Germany. First press.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Invictus 06:46
2. Unleashed 04:07
3. Bloody Bastards 04:05
4. Thoughts Running Free 05:51
5. Unconquered 05:58
Running time: 26:48 min.

Side B
6. Upon Black Wings 04:42
7. Face to the Wall 05:18
8. Pandora’s Box 04:05
9. Before the Curtain Falls 04:44
10. Possessed by Evil 2011 05:02
Running time: 23:52 min.

Total playing time:  50:40 min.



 

Tour Edition remixed re-release of the eighth full-length studio album by legendary German Heavy/Speed/Thrash Metal band.
Probably, the less Thrash and more Euro Metal album of the band, with a little hint of Power Metal, "Pathfinder… Between Heaven And Hell" still sound like German Thrash Metal, but this time they have produced a more ambitious album.
Starting with spoken word, setting the scene for the title track and a brilliant start to the song, the second song starts faster and angrier, then track three even faster... Even with the mid-album slow down, there is enough going on to keep it interesting. Vocals are powerful, no nonsense guitars, bass is pounding and drums are precise. From time to time, the guitars sound like they do on the "Painkiller" album. There are also hints of the Halford solo album "Resurrection" in the songs.
"Pathfinder…" is a typical middle of the road Teutonic come Euro Metal release. It’s got the riffs, got the vocals, got the attitude in parts, but it doesn’t stick to one distinct style. It’s a release worth listening to, as you will definitely find something that’ll stick with you!
Selfreleased, 2015/2017. Made in Germany.


Tracklist:
1. Pathfinder... Between Heaven And Hell 7:14
2. Betrayed 4:09
3. Inside The Fire 5:34
4. Reborn 6:27
5. Under The Gun 5:15
6. We Are The League 4:43
7. Alone In The Dark 8:08
8. Farewell To A Friend 5:59
9. Monster 7:32
10. Out Of Hell 8:48
11. Killing Pain 4:10
Total playing time: 69:46 min.

The ninth full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
Necronomicon regarded as one of the most exciting Thrash Metal bands to have emerged from Germany. The German style of Thrash Metal well known for its fierce brutality and ferocious attitude, and with their new album, Necronomicon deliver fifty-one minutes of stunning savagery… a savagery only Thrash masters Kreator can better.
"Unleashed Bastards" is a wild piece of work, delivering Thrash Metal that partly reminds of bands like Destruction, and combines an old-school vibe with a modern sound. A relentless, up-tempo Thrashing masterpiece from start to finish, the album is an excellent hybrid of the barbaric, ultra-fast, ultra-violent musical style of late 80s Thrash Metal, combined with the capabilities of modern-day production. With frontman Volker "Freddy" Fredrich's harsh blackened vocals, the driving rhythm section, thundering double bass, and screaming guitar riffs and leads, that incorporate some Neo-Classical elements, the band have developed a precise, and technical chemistry together as musicians that speaks for itself.
The pace, power and energy oozing from this album is simply stunning. "Unleashed Bastards" is an adrenaline pumping thrill ride, a ride that cracks on that any other on offer. "Unleashed Bastards" is an exhilarating album, jam packed with full on Thrash Metal of the most brutal nature you’re ever likely to hear. "Unleashed Bastards" is a well-crafted Thrash Metal album that has enough power to end up in many Metal collections!
El Puerto Records GbR, 2018 (EPR 014-2). Made in Germany. Pressed in Austria. First press.


Tracklist:
1. Burn And Fall 3:23
2. Leave The Lights On 3:53
3. Total Rejection 3:18
4. Malevolent 6:09
5. We Did We Do 4:11
6. Imperial Hunger 3:04
7. My Name Is Vengeance 5:08
8. Forbid Me From Living 5:04
9. Unleashed 4:19
10. Religion Live Fast 4:23
11. Personal Enemy 4:04
12. The Nightmare Continues 4:20
Total playing time: 51:18 min.

The tenth full-length studio album by legendary German Thrash Metal band.
If you like Thrash Metal fuelled by aggression, devastatingly heavy, and played at a ferocious pace, then you’ve come to the right place. The band's previous album, "Unleashed Bastards", was a fiery ride of aggressive Thrash Metal – this time around, the band are an explosive blend of aggression and attitude. 
"The Final Chapter" is as good, as fast, as dark, and as heavy as anything they have ever done. The band got line-up changes again. Most notably Rik Charron, former drummer of legendary Exciter. He also brought his old buddy from Mind Assassin on bass, Glen Reed.
Necronomicon has always shifted easily between genres the heaviest of Classical Metal, bursts of Speed, lots of Thrash Metal, but old-school Thrash, when bands would have a few slow parts or acoustic parts scattered in the songs. 
"Unleashed bastards" was arguably Necronomicon's heaviest and most uncompromising album since their heavyweight, legendary debut album. Now, "The Final Chapter" marks a new chapter for the band. The overall sound is more international and massive. The songs on are hard-hitting, full of speed and power all in one. Again, the album carries the distinctive and unmistakable sound of Achim Köhler, who was responsible for the mixing and mastering. This album will tear the roof down with this sonic assault and its energy!
A breathtaking Thrash Metal storm, delivering a savage barrage of bone snapping, skull crushing, neck breaking!!
El Puerto Records, 2021 (EPR 032-2). Made in Germany. First press.


Tracklist:
1. I Am The Violence 3:06
2. The Final Chapter 2:40
3. Wall Of Pain 3:41
4. Purgatory 3:59
5. Burning The Fury 3:41
6. Spilling Blood 4:35
7. Selling Nightmares 3:46
8. World On Fire 3:49
9. The Devil's Tears (Tribute To Anne Clark) 4:48
10. The Unnamed 3:32
11. Me Against You 2:55
12. The Stormreaper 5:30
Total playing time: 46:04 min.

Original guitar pick by Necronomicon’s bass player Marco Lohrenz.
Made in Germany for Necronomicon’s The Final Chapter Tour 2022.