Mekong Delta - The Music of Erich Zann. 1988 Germany

The Music of Erich Zann is a huge improvement on their muddled debut. The music is still raw, but the production gives the instruments clarity. And when you play as complex and fast as Mekong Delta does, then this aspect of their overall sound is highly important. Perhaps 'True Lies' is the ultimate example of this era of Mekong Delta. Complicated, thrashy, yet melodic. In control. 'Interludium' was my initial introduction to the band, as it was played - perhaps unbelievably - on a local radio station in Dallas back in 1988 (!!). It was one of their first collaborations with orchestra and highly successful at that. And the Dead Can Dance styled closer 'Epilogue' is disarming. Overall, a definitive statement in the progressive thrash genre. Definitely a good place to start with this excellent band.

Ownership: LP: 1988 Steamhammer. Single sleeve.

CD: 2002 Zardoz

1988; 8/20/14 (new entry)