Description
Very rare original Triple X records 1991 release Rigor Mortis was officially formed in 1983 by three high-school friends: who all shared a common fascination with horror/gore movies and extremely heavy music. In 1986 Rigor Mortis recorded their first demo and released it in 1000 copies. Eventually, Rigor Mortis signed a deal with Capitol Records in late 1987 and in January 1988 they begun recording their debut album at Dallas Sound Lab. Released later that year, the record proved to be a great success on the metal scene, especially in Dallas, the album was promoted with an extensive tour across America (with few Canadian shows at the end) alongside Death Angel. With the release of their next album, Freaks (1989; this time under the wing of Metal Blade records), the group managed to crossover into the punk scene they were the first thrash metal band! In 1991 Rigor Mortis signed a deal with Triple X Records for their third album, which they provocatively named vs. The Earth. The first thing that catches the listeners attention is the flawless production, a few steps ahead of the one heard in the debut. The album is also much more varied than the previous offerings Rigor Mortis finally surfaced their punk influences, with tracks such as Throwback, The Rack or SOG being the best examples, next to the surprising cover version of The Ramones song Psychotherapy. The band, however, didnt forget about their thrash origin songs such as the outstanding Mummified, Asphyxia, Contagious Contamination or City in Fear deliver a heavy blow that will be instantly loved by any heavy music enthusiast. What is interesting, the vocal duties are split between Doyle Bright, who sings all the thrash metal tunes and Casey Orr, who takes up most of the punk-oriented tracks. Despite what the given song is, however, all lyrics are concentrated on the same themes of violence, mayhem and intestines just as on all of Rigor Mortis past releases. Unfortunately, after releasing vs. The Earth, Mike Scaccia left the group to become a full member of the industrial metal legend Ministry. Track listing: 1. Dying In My Sleep 2. Mummified 3. Throwback 4. Contagious Contamination 5. The Rack 6. Psychotherapy-Ramones cover 7. City In Fear 8. Asphyxia 9. Dead Fish 10. SOG 11. Speedwhore 12. After Of A Midget (S.Y.G.D.P.)