CHASTAIN Mystery of Illusion LP 1985 Shrapnel SH-1018 ORIG. 1st Press Black VG+
$
34
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Description
You are looking at an original 1985 US first pressing of Chastain's debut album Mystery of Illusion on Shrapnel Records (SH-1018) — one of the most celebrated albums in US power metal and shred guitar history, on the original black label pressing.
FIRST PRESSING VERIFICATION
- SHRAPNEL RECORDS BLACK LABELS WITH SILVER TEXT — confirmed original first US pressing. Later pressings have different label designs.
- Catalog: SH-1018
- Year: 1985
- Recorded at Prairie Sun Studios, Cotati, California
- Mastered at Fantasy Studios by George Horn
- Executive Producer: Mike Varney (Shrapnel Records)
- Matrix runouts etched: A SH 1018 A / A SH 1018 B
THE LINEUP ON THIS RECORD
- David T. Chastain — Guitars
- Leather Leone — Lead Vocals
- Mike Skimmerhorn — Bass
- Fred Coury — Drums (later of Cinderella)
WHY THIS RECORD MATTERS
Mystery of Illusion is the debut album from one of the great cult heavy metal bands of the 1980s. David T. Chastain was the engine — a technically gifted guitarist who combined the shred sensibility of Shrapnel's roster with genuine heavy metal songwriting. But the secret weapon was Leather Leone, whose powerful, commanding voice elevated every track and made this record stand out from the sea of 1985 guitar hero albums.
The album was produced by Mike Varney — the same man behind Steeler, Alcatrazz, Yngwie Malmsteen, and countless other Shrapnel guitar legends — and features nine tracks of energetic, anthemic US power metal. Black Knight opens the record with an immediate statement of intent. Endlessly is the melodic highlight. Mystery of Illusion itself is the progressive centerpiece.
Drums on this record are courtesy of Fred Coury — who went on to become the drummer for Cinderella, one of the biggest glam metal bands of the late 1980s. This is one of his earliest recordings.
CONDITION
VINYL: VG+ approaching Excellent — Clean, deep grooves with excellent sheen. Plays with outstanding clarity. Light signs of age consistent with a 40-year-old record, nothing that detracts from the listening experience. This copy has been carefully preserved.
COVER: VG+ — The stunning fantasy artwork by Lionel Baker II is vivid and bold. Light corner and edge wear consistent with age. No splits, no writing, no water damage.
I grade conservatively using Goldmine standards.
TRACK LISTING
Side One:
1. Black Knight
2. When the Battle's Over
3. Mystery of Illusion
4. I've Seen Tomorrow
5. Endlessly (listed as "Endlessly" — note: "Night of the Gods" is listed on some pressings)
Side Two:
1. Fear No Evil
2. Night of the Gods
3. We Shall Overcome
4. The Winds of Change
SHIPPING
Carefully packed in a rigid mailer with full corner protection. Record and sleeve shipped separately in poly sleeves to prevent seam splits. Domestic $10. International $20. Insurance available on request. Returns accepted within 3 days if item is not as described.
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