Hanging in the Balance is the fifth album by American heavy metal band Metal Church, released in 1993. It was Metal Church's last album before their two-year break up from 1996 to 1998, and the last to feature vocalist Mike Howe for more than two decades until his return to the band in 2015. It is also their last studio album with longtime guitarist Craig Wells and drummer Kirk Arrington (until his return on 2004's The Weight of the World). Track listing Personnel Metal Church Mike Howe – vocals Craig Wells – lead guitar John Marshall – rhythm guitar Duke Erickson – bass Kirk Arrington – drums Additional musicians Kurdt Vanderhoof – additional guitars Jerry Cantrell – lead guitar on "Gods of Second Chance" Randy Hansen – lead guitar on "Conductor" Joan Jett, Allison Wolfe, Kathleen Hanna – backing vocals on "Little Boy" Production Thom Panunzio – producer, engineer, mixing at The Hit Factory, New York Kenny Laguna – producer Paul O'Neill – producer on tracks 1, 5, 6, 10, musical director, arrangements with Kurdt Vanderhoof and Metal Church Adam Kasper, Chuck Johnson, Glen Robinson, John Aiosa, Lee Anthony, Thom Cadley – assistant engineers Greg Calbi – mastering at Sterling Sound, New York References 1993 albums Metal Church albums Albums produced by Paul O'Neill (rock producer) Blackheart Records albums SPV/Steamhammer albums Albums produced by Thom Panunzio