TESTAMENT live at eindhoven 780226-1/K7802261

Thrash Metal History: Testament’s ‘Live At Eindhoven’ (780 226-1)

Today’s entry highlights a pivotal moment in thrash metal history. We are looking at the 1987 European vinyl pressing of Live At Eindhoven by Testament, released on Megaforce/Atlantic Records with the catalog number 780 226-1.

The Dynamo Breakthrough

Recorded on June 8, 1987, this EP captures the Bay Area thrashers at the legendary Dynamo Open Air Festival in Eindhoven, Holland. This performance is widely cited as the moment Testament broke through to the European market. The energy is palpable as the classic lineup—Chuck Billy, Alex Skolnick, Eric Peterson, Greg Christian, and Louie Clemente—tears through tracks from their debut The Legacy. Side A features the anthems “Over The Wall” and “Burnt Offerings,” while Side B includes the furious “Apocalyptic City” and the non-album track “Reign Of Terror.”

European Pressing Details

Manufactured in Germany by Record Service GmbH (Alsdorf), this 12-inch EP is a standard-bearer for 80s metal production. The runout grooves bear the “R / S Alsdorf” stamp, along with the “sf/atl” etching, indicating that the lacquer was cut by Sam Feldman at Atlantic Studios in New York.

Collector’s Hype Sticker

This specific copy retains a key piece of 1980s music culture: a hype sticker on the front cover warning that it “Contains lyrics which some people may find offensive.” It serves as a great artifact from the era when thrash metal was still considered dangerous by the mainstream.