Chastain

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—resulting in catchy, high-energy salvos such as "When the Battle's Over"; more melodic compositions like "Endlessly" with especially excellent lead work; and the slower, almost Black Sabbath-like approach of "Night of the Gods." 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 the LP 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.

Decades later, Divebomb Records is ecstatic to present this 35th anniversary edition of CHASTAIN's heralded Mystery of Illusion. Fully remastered by Jamie King Audio, the CD will be packaged alongside a 20-page booklet featuring original artwork and lyrics, classic press clippings, and a retrospective interview with David T. Chastain and Leather Leone. For the fans, by the fans!

David T. Chastain has gained a reputation over the last 35+ years as a powerful, progressive guitarist whose music has been centered around his melodic and technically fluent fretboard mastery. Besides David's virtuoso style, the other major attribute to CHASTAIN's instantly distinct sound is vocalist Leather Leone's superior and ultimately commanding presence.

Ever since his recording debut in 1983 David Chastain has been wowing fans with his innovative and technically superb guitar playing. Originally released in 1990 on Roadrunner Records, CHASTAIN's fifth album, For Those Who Dare, was yet further proof that David T. Chastain was not just a great player, but also a talented songwriter and band leader with an exceptional group of collaborators to help make his visions a reality. That being said, the album had been remixed by the label without the group's involvement, resulting in an overly dry, unpolished sound. To date, the original band-approved mix has never been granted an official CD release.

That all changes now, as Divebomb Records is excited to present the 30th Anniversary edition of For Those Who Dare, adhering to CHASTAIN's original intent by restoring Steve Fontano's (Prairie Sun Studios) more balanced mix—as well as additional background vocals, ad libs, and "ear candy" that have long been missing from the Roadrunner release. As usual, the disc has also been remastered by Jamie King Audio, and will be packaged alongside a detailed booklet—revised and expanded from Divebomb's initial 2010 reissue to include additional photographs and a retrospective interview with David T. Chastain and Leather Leone. For the fans, by the fans!