Danzig (1988) - Danzig

 

Danzig's self-titled debut album, released on August 30, 1988, marked a significant moment in heavy metal history, introducing the band's dark and brooding sound to the world. Produced by Rick Rubin, this album was the inaugural release on his Def American Recordings label.

Tracklist:

1. Twist of Cain
2. Not of This World
3. She Rides
4. Soul on Fire
5. Am I Demon
6. Mother
7. Possession
8. End of Time
9. The Hunter
10. Evil Thing

The album's cover art features a distinctive skull, originally drawn by artist Michael Golden for a Marvel comic book, which Glenn Danzig adapted for the band's imagery. Notably, Metallica's James Hetfield provided uncredited background vocals on "Twist of Cain" and "Possession" due to contractual obligations. 

Commercially, the album achieved significant success, reaching number 125 on the Billboard 200 and earning a gold certification in 1994, eventually achieving platinum status. The track "Mother" became a standout hit, especially after its live version gained popularity in the early '90s, further cementing the band's legacy. 

Critically, Danzig has been lauded for its fusion of bluesy metal with Glenn Danzig's distinctive vocals, drawing comparisons to Elvis Presley and Jim Morrison. In 2017, Rolling Stone ranked it 23rd on their list of "The 100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time," underscoring its enduring impact on the genre. 

In celebration of its 35th anniversary, Glenn Danzig announced a series of live performances in 2023, where the band played the album in its entirety, reaffirming its lasting significance in the heavy metal canon.