Description
Iced Earth - Night of the Stormrider
35th Anniversary Remix (Limited Edition Vinyl & CD)
Iced Earth's seminal second album, Night of the Stormrider, returns in a newly remixed and remastered form for its 35th anniversary. Originally released in 1991 (Europe) / 1992 (US) via Century Media, this concept album remains one of the band's most intense and enduring statements--a dark, aggressive power/thrash metal epic that helped define their early sound.
Written primarily by founder and rhythm guitarist Jon Schaffer, the album follows a man betrayed by religion who turns away in rage. Dark forces claim him as their vessel of vengeance and destruction, transforming him into the Stormrider. He brings apocalypse to the earth before accepting his fate in eternal damnation. The narrative unfolds across tracks that blend furious riffing, galloping rhythms, atmospheric passages, and soaring melodies, from the explosive opener "Angels Holocaust" and the title track "Stormrider" through the haunting "Desert Rain", the relentless "Pure Evil", and the epic closer "Travel in Stygian".
This is the only Iced Earth album to feature vocalist John Greely (whose powerful, theatrical delivery ranges from growls to high screams) and drummer Richey Secchiari, alongside Schaffer, lead guitarist Randy Shawver, and bassist Dave Abell. Recorded at Morrisound Studios in Tampa, it captured the band at a pivotal period of songwriting intensity and ambition.
For the 35th anniversary, the album has been freshly remixed and remastered by Zeuss, bringing greater clarity, punch, and depth to the original recordings while preserving the raw power and atmosphere that made it a classic. This edition arrives as limited vinyl pressings, CD's, cassettes, and reel to reel tapes, giving longtime fans and new listeners a definitive modern presentation of one of Iced Earth's foundational works.
A landmark of early '90s American metal, Night of the Stormrider stands as a testament to Schaffer's vision and the band's uncompromising early fire--now sounding more vital than ever.
Jon Schaffer states "This is by far the best sounding and best packaging yet for the Night of the Stormrider album. Zeuss did an amazing job on the remix and remaster of this classic Iced Earth record. We secured the license from Century Media Records and are excited to be able to bring great quality products to the fans. Stay tuned for many great things to come."