By early-1984, guitar virtuoso David T. Chastain had moved on from his hard rock outfit, Spike, to form the more metal-centric CJSS with the intention of exploring a direction more true to his musical vision. However, before CJSS would go on to achieve success of their own, David caught the attention of Shrapnel Records founder Mike Varney, who wanted to construct a new project around his accomplished musicianship. The #1 prospect to front the band was Rude Girl vocalist Leather Leone, who — alongside Spike and CJSS bassist Mike Skimmerhorn and future Cinderella drummer Fred Coury — cemented the initial lineup of the new project, christened simply: Chastain. A highly prolific writer, David had stockpiled a wide assortment of tracks to choose from for the group's nine-song debut, "Mystery of Illusion" — from catchy, high-energy salvos to more melodic compositions, to the slower, almost Black Sabbath-like approach. Recorded by Steve Fontano at Prairie Sun Recording Studios in November/December of 1984, “Mystery of Illusion” was released on Lp and cassette through Shrapnel in 1985, with Roadrunner handling vinyl in Europe. Chastain's magic combination of David's anthemic songwriting with Leather's soaring vocal power opened the floodgates for the legendary careers for which both artists are now known. JRR is proud to present a new edition of Chastain debut album, first Lp reprint since 1985! Audio fully restored and remastered by Patrick W. Engel (Temple of Disharmony). A Heavy Metal 80's masterpiece, should not miss in any metalhead collection.
1. BLACK KNIGHT
2. WHEN THE BATTLE'S OVER
3. MYSTERY OF ILLUSION
4. I'VE SEEN TOMORROW
5. ENDLESSLY
6. I FEAR NO EVIL
7. NIGHT OF THE GODS
8. WE SHALL OVERCOME
9. THE WINDS OF CHANGE
10. MYSTERY OF ILLUSION (Demo, CD Bonus Track)
11. THE WINDS OF CHANGE (Demo, CD Bonus Track)