title: The 1st Chapter (album)
text: # The 1st Chapter (album)
  
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  The 1st Chapter is the debut album by the Norwegian progressive metal band, Circus Maximus. The 1st Chapter was released on May 14, 2005 in Norway and on June 7, 2005 in the United States. The ongoing theme of The 1st Chapter is about "the journey" to salvation expressed through the lyrics. Musically, it sports a circus-like theme (that actually can be heard) playing throughout the album.
  
  The lyrics to the song "Glory of the Empire" refer heavily to the 2000 film, Gladiator.
  
  The 1st Chapter contains the longest running Circus Maximus song with "The 1st Chapter" running for 19 minutes and 7 seconds.
  
  ## Personnel
  
  * Michael Eriksen – vocals
  * Mats Haugen – guitars
  * Truls Haugen – drums, backing vocals
  * Glen Cato Møllen – bass guitar
  * Espen Storø – keyboards
  
  ## Production
  
  * Produced by Circus Maximus
  * Mixed and mastered by Tommy Hansen (Jailhouse Studios)
  * Artwork by Mattias Norèn (Progart Media)
  * Layout and logo by Claus Jensen (Intromental Design)
  