Heresy  by Paradox

The Heresy - released in 1989 - by Paradox is considered one of the top albums of German thrash metal, combining the speed of the genre with an intense melodic and technical approach. In fact, the style of the album moves between thrash, speed, and power metal.

Compared to their debut, Heresy showcased more mature composition with complex riffs and fast solos, and their sound is often compared to the "Bay Area" scene. It is a concept album dealing with the Albigensian Crusade of the 13th century. The lyrics of the songs narrate the effort of the Roman Catholic Church to eradicate the Cathar heresy in Southern France (!) The album was recorded between January and July 1989 at Music Lab Studios in West Berlin. The production was done by the legendary Harris Johns, known for his work with Sodom, Kreator, and Helloween.

Heresy remains Paradox's best-selling album to date. It is considered a "cult classic" and one of the most underrated gems of German thrash. It established the band as a member of the "first national team" of the genre in Germany. Despite its success, the band disbanded shortly afterward due to internal issues and health problems, returning to discography after 11 years.