RAINBOW - Rising FOC Gatefold English Heavy Metal / Hard Rock Vinyl Album Gallery #vinylrecords

Album Description & Collectors information:

Gatefold (FOC) cover design with artwork / photos on the inside cover pages

Martin Birch Martin Birch was an English music producer and engineer who was active from the late 1960s to the early 2000s. He was born on 26th June 1948 in East Molesey, England, and began his career as a producer and engineer in the late 1960s, working with several notable British bands of the time, including Deep Purple , Iron Maiden , Rainbow and others.

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Birch's biggest contributions to music came in the 1970s and 1980s, when he worked as a producer and engineer for several of the most influential and popular heavy metal bands of the era, including Black Sabbath, Rainbow, and most notably, Iron Maiden. He was an important figure in the development of the heavy metal genre, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential and important producers of heavy metal music.

Birch's approach to production was characterized by his use of powerful and dynamic sound, which helped to define the sound of heavy metal in the 1970s and 1980s. He was known for his ability to bring out the best in the musicians he worked with, and for his willingness to experiment and take risks in the studio. He was also known for his commitment to quality and his attention to detail, which helped to ensure that the albums he produced had a timeless quality and still sound great decades after their original release.

Birch worked with Iron Maiden for over two decades, producing several of the band's most iconic and enduring albums, including "The Number of the Beast," "Powerslave," and "Somewhere in Time." He was an important part of the band's creative process, and helped to shape the band's sound and style.

Martin Birch retired from music production in the early 2000s, but his legacy lives on through the music he produced and the countless musicians he inspired and influenced. He is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of heavy metal music, and his contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated and revered.

Martin Birch's production style was known for its clarity, power and dynamic sound. He was an early adopter of using multi-track recording and employed innovative recording techniques, such as creating layered soundscapes by recording and re-recording guitar parts multiple times, to achieve his desired sound. He was also known for his use of echo and reverb to create a sense of depth and space in his recordings.

Birch was known for his ability to bring out the best in the musicians he worked with and his hands-on approach to production. He was often involved in the arrangements and would often suggest changes to the songs to enhance their impact. He was also known for his attention to detail, taking the time to get the sound just right, and his dedication to quality, always striving to make each album sound as good as it could.

Aside from his work with Iron Maiden, Birch also produced albums for several other influential heavy metal bands, including Judas Priest , Black Sabbath and Rainbow . He was also sought after by other musicians from outside of the heavy metal genre, and worked with artists such as Fleetwood Mac , The Move, and Deep Purple .

Birch was awarded with several gold and platinum records for his work, and was recognized for his contributions to the heavy metal genre with induction into the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame in 2006.

Although Martin Birch retired from music production in the early 2000s, his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians and producers today. He is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in the history of heavy metal music, and his work continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans of the genre around the world.

Music Genre:	English Heavy Metal / Hard Rock
Album Production information: The album: "RAINBOW - Rising FOC Gatefold" was produced by: Martin Birch This album was recorded at: Musicland Studios, 1976 Album cover painting: Ken Kelly Ken W. Kelly is an American fantasy artist and illustrator who has made a significant impact on the world of visual arts with his breathtaking creations. Born on 19 October 1946, in New London, Connecticut, Ken's early fascination with art and imagination laid the foundation for his illustrious career. more... From a young age, Kelly exhibited a natural talent for drawing and painting. He found inspiration in the works of renowned artists such as Frank Frazetta and Roy Krenkel, who had a profound influence on his artistic style. Ken's passion for fantasy and science fiction genres grew, fueling his desire to bring the realms of the imagination to life through his artwork. In the early 1970s, Ken W. Kelly gained recognition for his remarkable talent when he was commissioned to create cover art for rock albums. His iconic artwork graced the covers of albums for legendary bands such as KISS, Manowar, and Rainbow. These album covers became synonymous with the music and helped shape the visual identity of these bands, cementing Ken's reputation as a master of fantasy art. Ken's artwork is characterized by its vibrant colors, dynamic compositions, and attention to detail. His ability to capture the essence of fantastical creatures, landscapes, and heroic figures brought his illustrations to life, captivating viewers and transporting them to otherworldly realms. Ken's unique artistic vision and technical prowess made him a sought-after illustrator for book covers, role-playing games, and collectible card games. Throughout his career, Ken W. Kelly has collaborated with numerous renowned authors and publishers, including working on covers for novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Robert E. Howard, and Michael Moorcock. His artwork has adorned the covers of fantasy and science fiction novels, immersing readers in the worlds created by these talented authors. Beyond his contributions to the realms of music and literature, Ken's artwork has been featured in galleries and exhibitions worldwide. His work continues to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts and aspiring artists alike. Ken's ability to convey the essence of epic battles, mythical creatures, and heroic adventures has left an indelible mark on the world of fantasy art. Ken W. Kelly's achievements and contributions to the field of fantasy art have garnered him a dedicated fan base and numerous accolades. His artwork remains timeless, inviting viewers to step into the fantastical worlds he brings to life on canvas. As a visionary artist, Ken W. Kelly's legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and enthusiasts, ensuring that his imagination and creativity endure in the world of fantasy art history. His ability to transport viewers to realms of awe-inspiring beauty and imagination has solidified his place as one of the most celebrated fantasy artists of his time. Ken W. Kelly has created artwork for several notable album covers, including: 1. KISS - "Destroyer" (1976): Ken W. Kelly's artwork for this album cover features the iconic KISS band members in a post-apocalyptic setting, surrounded by flames and destruction. 2. KISS - "Love Gun" (1977): Ken W. Kelly's cover art for this album showcases the KISS band members as superheroes, with Gene Simmons as "The Demon", Paul Stanley as "Starchild", Ace Frehley as "Spaceman", and Peter Criss as "Catman". 3. KISS - "Rock and Roll Over" (1976): Ken W. Kelly's artwork for this album cover features a close-up of the iconic KISS logo, with each band member's face appearing within the letters. 4. Manowar - "Hail to England" (1984): Ken W. Kelly's artwork for this album cover depicts a warrior raising his sword in triumph, surrounded by a battlefield and an epic sky. 5. Rainbow - "Rising" (1976): Ken W. Kelly's cover art for this album features a powerful and majestic rainbow rising over a mountain landscape, with stormy clouds and lightning. These album covers are just a few examples of Ken W. Kelly's contribution to the world of music and his ability to create captivating imagery that perfectly complements the spirit and essence of the music contained within. Album cover photography: Fin Costello Fin Costello is a renowned pop and rock photographer who has made a significant impact on the music industry with his captivating images of numerous bands and artists. Known for his work in the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal scene, Costello has captured iconic moments and immortalized the essence of some of the most influential bands in history. more... Born with a passion for photography, Fin Costello developed a keen eye for capturing the raw energy and emotion of live performances. His journey in the world of music photography began in the late 1960s when he started photographing emerging rock bands and artists in his hometown. With dedication and a genuine love for the music, he quickly established himself as a sought-after photographer. Costello's breakthrough came in the 1970s when he started working with some of the biggest names in rock and metal. His unique ability to capture the intensity and personality of the musicians made him a trusted photographer among bands and their management. His portfolio grew rapidly, and he became known for his exceptional talent in capturing dynamic live performances and intimate behind-the-scenes moments. Among the notable bands and artists Costello has photographed, the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal genre holds a special place in his career. His collaborations with bands like Deep Purple, Ozzy Osbourne, Rainbow, and King Diamond have resulted in some of his most iconic and widely recognized images. Through his lens, he has managed to capture the essence of these artists, immortalizing their stage presence and capturing the spirit of their music. Over the years, Fin Costello's work has been featured in numerous music magazines, album covers, and promotional materials, establishing him as one of the most respected photographers in the industry. His images have graced the pages of publications such as Rolling Stone, Kerrang!, and Metal Hammer, among others, contributing to his widespread recognition and acclaim. Beyond his work in the music industry, Costello's passion for photography extends to other genres as well. He has explored various styles and subjects, showcasing his versatility as a photographer. However, it is his contributions to the rock and metal scene that have left an indelible mark on music history. Throughout his career, Fin Costello's photographs have not only captured the moments that defined an era but also preserved the spirit and energy of the artists who have shaped the landscape of popular music. His dedication, artistic vision, and technical prowess have made him an influential figure in the world of music photography. Today, Fin Costello's photographs continue to inspire and resonate with music enthusiasts and artists alike. His body of work stands as a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the enduring impact of rock and metal music. Whether it is a high-energy live performance or an intimate portrait, Costello's photographs serve as a window into the soul of the musicians he has captured with his lens, immortalizing their artistry for generations to come.
Record Label Information:	Oyster 2391 224
Media Format:	12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 280 gram
Year & Country:	1976 Made in Germany

Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: RAINBOW - Rising FOC Gatefold

Jimmy Bain
Jimmy Bain (1947-2016) was a renowned musician, best known for his exceptional skills as a bassist and keyboardist. Born on 19 December 1947, in Newtonmore, Scotland, James Stewart Bain showed a profound interest in music from an early age. His fascination with rhythm and melody led him on a lifelong journey that would leave a lasting impact on the rock and metal music scenes.

Bain's musical journey began when he picked up the guitar at the age of 7, inspired by his father's love for music. However, it was the bass guitar that truly captivated him as a teenager. By the time he was 15, he had mastered the instrument, demonstrating an innate talent that set him apart from his peers. His passion for music also extended to keyboards, and he quickly became proficient in playing both instruments.

In the late 1960s, Jimmy Bain's musical career took a significant turn when he joined the progressive rock band Harlot, which later changed its name to Rainbow. The band was formed by guitar virtuoso Ritchie Blackmore, formerly of Deep Purple. With Bain's powerful bass lines and complementary keyboard work, Rainbow gained prominence in the rock music landscape. He contributed significantly to their early albums, such as "Rising" and "Long Live Rock 'n' Roll".

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In 1983, Jimmy Bain's career reached new heights when he joined forces with legendary heavy metal vocalist Ronnie James Dio to form the band Dio. Alongside drummer Vinny Appice and guitarist Vivian Campbell, the band released their debut album, "Holy Diver", which was met with critical acclaim. Bain's thunderous bass playing became a defining element of Dio's sound, and he continued to be an integral part of the band for several years, playing on subsequent albums like "The Last in Line" and "Sacred Heart".

After parting ways with Dio in the late 1980s, Jimmy Bain remained active in the music industry, collaborating with various artists and bands. He worked with acts such as Gary Moore, WWIII, and Wild Horses, displaying his versatility as a musician and his ability to adapt to different musical styles.

In the 2000s, Bain reunited with Ronnie James Dio, joining the band Heaven & Hell, which also featured Tony Iommi and Vinny Appice, former members of Black Sabbath. Together, they released the highly acclaimed album "The Devil You Know" in 2009, reaffirming their place in the world of heavy metal history.

Tragically, on 23 January 2016, the music world lost Jimmy Bain at the age of 68. He passed away while aboard Def Leppard's Hysteria on the High Seas Cruise, just a few days before the event was set to conclude. The cause of death was reported as lung cancer.
Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple)

Ritchie Blackmore, born Richard Hugh Blackmore on April 14, 1945, in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, England, is an iconic English guitarist known for his contributions to the world of rock music. With a career spanning several decades, Blackmore has left an indelible mark on the genre and has been a driving force behind legendary bands such as Deep Purple and Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow.

Born to parents Lewis J. Blackmore and Violet Short, Ritchie Blackmore showed a passion for music from an early age. He began playing the guitar as a teenager and quickly developed his skills, drawing inspiration from various musical styles. His dedication to the instrument paid off when he joined the band Shades of Deep Purple in 1968, which later became simply Deep Purple.

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As the lead guitarist of Deep Purple, Blackmore played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound and achieving commercial success. During his time with Deep Purple, from 1968 to 1994, Blackmore contributed his distinctive guitar playing to numerous albums, including "In Rock" (1970), "Machine Head" (1972), and "Made in Japan" (1972). These albums showcased his exceptional talent for crafting powerful riffs, melodic solos, and intricate guitar arrangements that became hallmarks of Deep Purple's music.

In 1994, after years of creative differences and lineup changes within Deep Purple, Ritchie Blackmore decided to leave the band to explore new musical horizons. He formed his own rock band called Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, which allowed him greater creative freedom. With Rainbow , Blackmore continued to captivate audiences with his guitar prowess and released several successful albums, including "Rising" (1976) and "Straight Between the Eyes" (1982).

However, in 1997, Blackmore made a surprising shift in musical direction. He transitioned from rock to folk rock and embarked on a new journey with his girlfriend and later wife, Candice Night. Together, they formed the duo Blackmore's Night, fusing elements of Renaissance music, folk, and rock. With Blackmore's masterful guitar playing and Night's enchanting vocals, the duo garnered a loyal following and released a string of albums, including "Shadow of the Moon" (1997) and "Ghost of a Rose" (2003).

Ritchie Blackmore's ability to adapt to different musical styles and his unwavering commitment to his craft have solidified his status as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history. Known for his electrifying live performances and his unique blend of blues, classical, and hard rock influences, Blackmore has inspired generations of musicians and continues to be revered as a guitar virtuoso.

Throughout his life, Blackmore has been married multiple times. He married Margit Volkmar sometime between 1965 and 1969, Bärbel between 1969 and 1971, and Amy Rothman between 1981 and 1983. However, his most notable and enduring marriage has been to Candice Night, whom he married on May 8, 2008, when he was 63 years old and Night was 37 years old.

Ritchie Blackmore's musical journey has been one of constant exploration and reinvention. From his influential years with Deep Purple to the establishment of Rainbow and his subsequent foray into folk rock with Blackmore's Night, he has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. His virtuosity, innovative playing style, and enduring passion for music have earned him a rightful place among the legends of rock guitar.

Candice Night, While best known for her enchanting vocals and lyrical contributions to Blackmore's Night, Candice Night is an accomplished singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who adds a captivating element to every project she touches.

From Long Island to a Renaissance Fair of the Heart

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Born in Long Island, New York, Candice Night's early life included a brief stint as a model. Music, however, was her true calling. A fateful meeting with legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore in 1989 led to not only a romantic connection, but the seeds of what would become their long-running collaborative project, Blackmore's Night.

Blackmore's Night: A Journey Through Time

Blackmore's Night has crafted a unique sonic blend merging Renaissance and folk influences with modern instrumentation. Night's ethereal vocals and poetic lyrics are central to their sound. She often plays woodwind instruments like the pennywhistle, adding another layer of delicate beauty to songs like "Shadow of the Moon" and "Under a Violet Moon." Blackmore's Night has released over ten studio albums, transporting listeners to a simpler time with their enchanting music.
Tony Carey - keyboards
Tony Carey (Full-name: Anthony Lawrence Carey was born in Watsonville, Santa Cruz County, California, United States on 16 Oct 1953.

During 1976 Carey's work on the album included the keyboard introduction to the opening track "Tarot Woman", and an extended keyboard solo on "A Light in the Black", the last cut on the album in "Rising", Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow . He was 22 years old at that point. During 1977 he works as a keyboards in "On Stage", Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow . He was 23 years old at that point. His occupation is Keyboard player.
Ronnie James Dio - Vocals

Ronald James Padavona, better known as Ronnie James Dio, was born on 10 July 1942, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He would later become one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of heavy metal music. Dio's powerful vocals, distinct stage presence, and songwriting abilities earned him the title of the "King of Heavy Metal".

Dio's musical journey began in 1957 when he formed his first band called The Vegas Kings, where he showcased his talents as a lead singer. Over the next few years, he went on to perform with various bands, including Ronnie and the Rumblers and Ronnie and the Redcaps. These early experiences helped him develop his vocal skills and stage persona.

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In 1961, Dio joined Ronnie and the Prophets, a band that gained some local popularity. During this time, he experimented with different musical styles and expanded his repertoire. In 1967, the band changed its name to The Electric Elves and later simply The Elves. As The Elves, they played a blend of rock and blues, laying the groundwork for Dio's future ventures.

In 1972, the band transformed once again and became known as ELF. Their music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of hard rock and progressive rock. ELF released three studio albums, showcasing Dio's exceptional vocal range and his ability to captivate audiences.

Dio's big breakthrough came in 1975 when he joined the British rock band Rainbow, founded by former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. With Dio as the lead vocalist, Rainbow gained international recognition and released several critically acclaimed albums. Dio's powerful vocals and poetic lyrics contributed to the band's success, and he quickly became a respected figure in the rock music scene.

In 1979, Dio made yet another significant move in his career by joining Black Sabbath, replacing the band's original vocalist, Ozzy Osbourne. With Dio, Black Sabbath released the classic albums "Heaven and Hell" (1980) and "Mob Rules" (1981), which revitalized the band's sound and solidified their place in heavy metal history.

In 1982, Dio formed his own band, simply named DIO, and embarked on a highly successful solo career. The band released numerous albums, including the critically acclaimed "Holy Diver" (1983) and "The Last in Line" (1984), which showcased Dio's songwriting abilities and his powerful vocals.

Dio reunited with Black Sabbath for a brief period from 1991 to 1992 and again from 2006 to 2010 under the name Heaven & Hell. The band released the album "The Devil You Know" (2009) before Dio's untimely death in 2010.

Throughout his career, Ronnie James Dio influenced countless musicians and fans with his distinctive voice, theatrical stage presence, and unwavering passion for heavy metal. His lyrics often explored fantasy and mythology, adding depth and a unique dimension to his music.
Cozy Powell - Drums

Cozy Powell, born as Colin Flooks, was a renowned British drummer hailing from Cirencester, Gloucestershire. He left an indelible mark on the music industry through his exceptional drumming skills and his contributions to numerous hard rock and heavy metal bands. Powell's career spanned from 1968 to 1998, during which he showcased his talent and versatility in over two dozen bands, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.

Born on 29 December 1947, Powell developed an early interest in music and began playing drums at a young age. He honed his skills through dedication and practice, eventually gaining recognition for his technical proficiency and powerful playing style.

Powell's breakthrough came in the late 1960s when he joined the band Bedlam, marking the beginning of his professional career in the music industry. From there, he embarked on a remarkable journey, collaborating with some of the most notable acts in hard rock and heavy metal.

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One of Powell's notable achievements was his association with Black Sabbath, one of the pioneering bands in the heavy metal genre. He lent his drumming expertise to their album "Tyr" in 1990, contributing to the band's legacy. Powell's collaborations with other prominent bands included his work with the Michael Schenker Group, Rainbow, and Whitesnake.

Throughout his career, Powell displayed his versatility by adapting to different musical styles and bands. His drumming prowess added depth and energy to each project he worked on. Powell was not only a skilled drummer but also a sought-after collaborator, thanks to his ability to seamlessly blend with various musicians and bring out the best in their performances.

Apart from his work with bands, Powell also ventured into solo projects. He formed the band Cozy Powell's Hammer and released several albums showcasing his musical vision and drumming expertise. Powell's solo work allowed him to explore his creativity and demonstrate his capabilities as a bandleader.

Powell's contributions extended beyond the stage and recording studio. He was known for his charismatic stage presence and energetic performances, captivating audiences around the world. His dynamic drum solos became a highlight of his live shows, earning him admiration and respect from fans and fellow musicians alike.

Tragically, Powell's career was cut short on 5 April 1998, when he passed away in a car accident at the age of 50. His untimely demise shocked the music community, and the loss of his talent left a void that is still felt today.