SHAH - Emperors of the East, Moscow’s first and finest thrash group, destined to open new horizons for Soviet Metal.

In 1985, the Soviet Ministry of Culture officially recognized Heavy Metal, the most popular kind of music at that time in Russia, declaring it equal to all the other musical forms.

Antonio Garcia formed SHAH the same year. At that time, although ranked amongst Russia’s top guitarists, he actually graduated from Moscow’s Jazz School as a drummer. His percussive background explains the exceptionally tight arrangements. Andrey Sazonov, an Art student and total drum addict who practiced up to 8 hours a day, joined him. The original bassist/vocalist Mikhail Zhemchuzhniy completed the trio.

SHAH’s debut gig in a small Moscow club in December 1986 triggered a rapid surge of popularity and, within a year, they were one of the capital’s hottest cult acts. Garcia’s fine innovative style and total mastery of sound led to comparisons with Metallica, whose music he had never heard until the rumors reached him that SHAH had a Western counterpart. Spotted playing live by Valery Gaina of Russian Metal mega-act KRUIZ, SHAH were offered a support slot playing arena sized venues and a management deal shortly followed.

SHAH debuted with a 1988 cassette album titled ‘Escape From Mind’. Upon completion of the ‘Escape From Mind’ recordings, Zhemchuzhniy exited, leaving Garcia to take over lead vocal responsibilities. (дальше)