MASS - NEW BIRTH: ANNIVERSARY REMASTERS EDITION (2011, Retroactive) Christian Metal
Packaging: CD / 6 panel digipak with tray
ABOUT THE ALBUM
Originally released on cassette and vinyl in 1985 on RCA Records, this album was nearly impossible to find through the 1990's up until 2007 when the Nevada based secular metal reissues label Retrospect Records finally put out a CD reissue. While legions of fans were thrilled to have this metal classic available on CD for the first time, the 2007 reissue featured significant packaging and mastering issues that left fans frustrated that it did not reflect the magnificence and perfection of the music on the album. So in 2011, the Iowa based Christian label, Retroactive Records has reissued this heavy metal gem with impeccable packaging faithful to the original vinyl release (6 panel digipak with lyrics and a special message from vocalist Louis St. August). Retroactive and the band also went to great lengths to have the album mastered from the original tapes for the first time ever, opting for the magic of the ten original tracks and leaving off the poorly recorded bonus track from the 2007 reissue. New Birth (Anniversary Remasters Edition) ensures this album has never sounded so clear, so powerful, and so pristine giving the reissue the audio perfection it deserves - for the first time ever. Musically, New Birth is one of the heaviest Mass albums. NoLifeTilMetal music critics describe the album as ??100% heavy metal.? There is a slight pop influence that runs throughout, but it's more in line with bands like Kiss, Starz or Sweet. Vocalist Louis St. August has a high, soaring vocal style that is perfect for this style of melodic heavy metal. "Do You Love Me" was the single for the album, even getting them some play on MTV. However, it's the heavier material like the title track, "Too Far Gone" and "Crying Alone" that feature smokin' guitar work, pounding drums and plenty of aggression. The album was produced by Tony Platt who had worked with bands such as Uriah Heep, AC/DC, Motorhead and Iron Maiden, so New Birth is actually produced better than a lot of other lesser known metal bands from the mid-80's. For fans of Kiss, Quiet Riot, Stryper, Whitecross, and Barren Cross!
