MANOWAR kings of metal 781930-1
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Artist = MANOWAR
Title = kings of metal
Label = ATLANTIC
Catalog# = 781930-1
Barcode = 075678193019
Release = GERMANY
Year =
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
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The Coronation of the Kings: Manowar’s ‘Kings Of Metal’ (781 930-1)
Today’s entry bows before the album that not only defined a band but gave them their eternal moniker. We are looking at the 1988 European pressing of Kings Of Metal by Manowar, released on Atlantic Records with the catalog number 781 930-1.
The Definitive Statement
Released in 1988, Kings Of Metal is widely considered the band’s magnum opus and the commercial peak of their “classic” era. It was the final album to feature founding guitarist Ross The Boss before his departure, marking the end of the original lineup’s evolution. The album pushed the boundaries of what heavy metal could be, incorporating massive orchestral arrangements and digital production techniques to create a sound that was larger than life.
Key Tracks & Production
The album is a relentless parade of anthems. It opens with the scorching speed of “Wheels Of Fire” and the self-titled party anthem “Kings Of Metal” (featuring crowd noise recorded live at the Thirsty Whale in Illinois).
However, the album is most famous for its epic ambition. “The Crown And The Ring (Lament Of The Kings)” features the 100-voice Canoldir Male Choir, recorded at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Birmingham, England, creating a heavy metal hymn of unparalleled grandeur. Side B features the fan-favorite “Hail And Kill” and the narrative “The Warriors Prayer,” featuring the voice of Arthur Pendragon Wilshire.
Collector’s Details
Mastering: Like its predecessor, this album was recorded and mixed digitally. The vinyl was cut using DMM (Direct Metal Mastering) at Masterdisk in New York by the legendary Howie Weinberg. This ensures that the massive dynamic range—from the quietest narration to the loudest orchestral blasts—is preserved. Runout Grooves: Collectors should look for the stamped “R/S Alsdorf” in the dead wax. Packaging: The album comes with a lyrics-printed inner sleeve and features one of Ken Kelly’s most iconic cover paintings, depicting the faceless warrior that would become the band’s mascot.This European pressing was manufactured in Germany (by TELDEC/Record Service Alsdorf) for distribution across the continent.
781 930-1 is an essential cornerstone for any heavy metal vinyl collection, representing the moment Manowar truly claimed their throne.