VIRGIN STEELE – Self-Titled Debut Album 12" Vinyl LP Album

- ;olten riffs and wild anthems igniting the birth of Music For Nations’ heavy metal empire

Large Album Front Cover Photo of VIRGIN STEELE – Self-Titled Debut Album

Virgin Steele's eponymous 1982 debut album, released on 12" Vinyl LP (MFN 1) via Music For Nations, captivates with a diverse sonic journey. From the electrifying "Danger Zone" to the anthemic "Dead End Kids" and the heartfelt ballad "Still In Love With You," the record showcases the band's raw power and musical versatility, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal.

Essential Album Information For: VIRGIN STEELE – Self-Titled Debut Album

"Virgin Steele Self-Titled" Album Description:

In the world of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal history, certain albums stand as pivotal markers, setting the stage for a band's trajectory and contributing to the evolving landscape of the genre. One such landmark release is "Virgin Steele," the eponymous debut album by the American Hard Rock and Heavy Metal ensemble Virgin Steele. Unleashed upon the musical realm in 1982, this LP not only marked the band's formal introduction but also became the maiden venture for the record label Music For Nations, distinguished by the catalog number "MFN 1."

The Birth of Virgin Steele:

Formed in 1981, Virgin Steele was the brainchild of charismatic vocalist and songwriter David DeFeis, alongside guitarist Jack Starr. With a vision to craft music that transcended conventional boundaries, the band's self-titled debut emerged as a testament to their artistic ambition and innovation within the burgeoning Hard Rock and Heavy Metal scenes.

Musical Landscape:

The album's sonic tapestry weaves together elements of classic Hard Rock with the burgeoning intensity of Heavy Metal. Guitars, led by Jack Starr's skilled fretwork, dominate the landscape, delivering riffs that range from melodic to blistering. David DeFeis's distinctive vocal prowess adds a layer of theatricality and grandiosity, setting Virgin Steele apart from their contemporaries.

Production and Vinyl Experience:

"Virgin Steele" benefits from a production that, while rooted in the analog era, manages to capture the raw energy of the band's live performances. The 12" Vinyl LP format enhances the listening experience, allowing enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the warm analog tones and appreciate the album as a cohesive artistic statement.

JACK STARR: A GUITAR HERO'S JOURNEY THROUGH METAL AND BLUES
Album Description:

Jack Starr's name resonates through the annals of heavy metal and blues, a testament to his enduring influence and musical versatility. His journey as a guitarist and songwriter has spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on both genres.

Starr's ascent to prominence began in the early 1980s when he joined Virgin Steele , a rising force in the emerging New Wave of American Heavy Metal movement. His contributions to the band's first two albums, their self-titled debut and "Guardians of the Flame", showcased his exceptional guitar skills and songwriting prowess.

In 1984, Starr embarked on a solo career, forming his own band, Burning Starr. Their debut album, "Out of the Darkness", immediately established Starr as a force to be reckoned with. The album's potent blend of heavy metal and hard rock, coupled with Starr's fiery guitar work, resonated with audiences worldwide.

Burning Starr's subsequent releases, including "Rock the American Way", "No Turning Back", and "Blaze of Glory", further solidified the band's reputation as purveyors of high-octane heavy metal. Starr's guitar playing, characterized by its technical proficiency, melodic sensibility, and raw energy, became a hallmark of the band's sound.

After Burning Starr's dissolution in the late 1980s, Starr continued to explore new musical avenues. He released an all-instrumental album, "A Minor Disturbance", which showcased his diverse influences and instrumental virtuosity. He also briefly joined the band Strider, contributing to their self-titled debut album.

In the 1990s, Starr delved into his blues roots, forming the Jack Starr Blues Band. This project allowed him to express his love for electric blues and blues-rock, showcasing a different facet of his musical personality.

Starr's career resurgence came in the early 2000s with the formation of Guardians of the Flame, a band that featured a reunion of sorts with former Burning Starr members. Their album, "Under a Savage Sky", was well-received by fans and critics alike.

In recent years, Starr has continued to create and perform, releasing albums with Burning Starr and collaborating with other artists. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences, a testament to his enduring legacy as a guitar hero and musical visionary.

Production & Recording Information:

Music Genre:

Hard Rock / Heavy Metal

Label & Catalognr:

Music For Nations MFN 1

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:

1982 Europe

Producers:
  • Al Falcon – Producer
  • David DeFeis – Producer
Sound & Recording Engineers:
  • Frank Zummo – Sound Engineer
  • Bruce Bantin – Sound Engineer
Album Cover Design & Artwork:
  • Robert Schmucker – Cover Painting
  • Robert Schmucker & David DeFeis – Back Layout
  • Odile Starr – Graphics & Logo
    Odile Starr was the graphic designer behind the Virgin Steele logo and visual style on their 1982 debut album. Her work gave the band a distinctive identity at the start of their career. She is not related to guitarist Jack Starr, despite sharing the same surname.
Photography:
  • Bill Pickering – Photography
  • Agnes Boussion – Photography
  • Carmine Fergo – Solo photo of David and Natalia
Additional Credits:
  • Natalia Munacò – Girl Model
  • Mike Peritski & Billy Passanante – Lights
  • Frank, Mike, Joe, Eddie and Darrin – Road Crew
In Memoriam

This album is dedicated to the memory of Damon DeFeis and Richard Julian.

  • Damon DeFeis – younger brother of vocalist and keyboardist David DeFeis, whose early passing deeply influenced David’s music and outlook.
  • Richard Julian – a close friend of the band during their formative Long Island years, remembered for his support and camaraderie.

Music For Nations and the Legacy of MFN 1

When British record executive Martin Hooker founded Music For Nations in 1983, his vision was clear: to bring the burgeoning wave of heavy metal and hard rock acts from the United States and mainland Europe into the UK and wider European markets. At the time, many of these bands were overlooked by major labels, yet had a growing fanbase thanks to the underground tape-trading scene and fanzines. Music For Nations quickly became a powerhouse, signing and licensing some of the most important names in metal history – from Metallica and Manowar to Mercyful Fate and W.A.S.P.

The First Release: MFN 1

The label’s very first release, carrying the catalog number MFN 1, was the self-titled debut album by the American band Virgin Steele. Originally issued in 1982 in the U.S. by Mongol Horde Records, this release was licensed to Music For Nations in Europe, marking both the band’s international breakthrough and the starting point of the label’s iconic catalog numbering system.

As MFN 1, the Virgin Steele album holds a special place in collector circles: it symbolizes the birth of Music For Nations as a brand. The album itself – with its blend of U.S. power metal, hard rock energy, and the operatic vocals of David DeFeis – set the tone for the kind of ambitious, genre-defining artists the label would continue to promote throughout the 1980s.

The Importance of Music For Nations

Within just a few years, Music For Nations became synonymous with heavy metal excellence. Releases such as Metallica’s Kill ’Em All (MFN 7) , Ride the Lightning (MFN 27) to name a few cemented the label’s reputation. Collectors often identify MFN pressings by their unique catalog numbers, which have since become an index of classic heavy metal history. Visit my collection of Music For Nations Records

For Virgin Steele, being chosen as the inaugural release gave them a foothold in Europe and aligned them with a label that would become legendary in heavy metal culture. For Music For Nations, MFN 1 was the spark that lit a fire – a statement of intent that this was a label dedicated to the loud, the epic, and the uncompromising.

Collector’s Perspective

Today, original vinyl pressings of MFN 1 – Virgin Steele are highly sought after. The early MFN numbers are revered by collectors not only for the music, but also for what they represent: the emergence of heavy metal as a global force, carried across borders by an independent label with an ear for greatness. Owning MFN 1 is to hold a piece of both Virgin Steele’s history and the birth certificate of Music For Nations.

Band Members / Musicians:

Band Line-up:
  • David DeFeis – Lead Vocals, Keyboards,
    David DeFeis also worked under the pseudonyms "Damien Rath" and "The Lion" on Exorcist’s "Nightmare Theatre". His sister Danielle DeFeis sang in the Power/Speed Metal band "Original Sin".
  • Jack Starr – Guitar.

    Jack Starr is an American guitarist and a founding member of the heavy metal band Virgin Steele. Known for his neo-classical and hard rock influences, he has also led the bands Jack Starr's Burning Starr and Guardians of the Flame. A prolific musician, Starr's career spans several decades, beginning in the late 1970s. He is considered a notable figure in the American power metal scene. Jack Starr

  • Joe O’Reilly – Bass Guitar,
    Joe O’Reilly recorded as "Jamie Locke" on Exorcist’s "Nightmare Theatre" and as "Pandora Fox" in Original Sin.
  • Joey Ayvazian – Drums

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Danger Zone – 4:20
  2. American Girl – 2:48
  3. Dead End Kids – 3:46
  4. Drive On Thru – 3:03
  5. Still In Love With You – 5:49
Video: Virgin Steele - Danger Zone
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Children Of The Storm – 5:47
  2. Pictures On You – 3:22
  3. Pulverizer – 2:05
  4. Living In Sin – 3:41
  5. Virgin Steele – 4:27
Video: Virgin Steele- Children Of The Storm

Trivia & Legacy

The Virgin Steele debut album (1982, catalog Music For Nations MFN 1) is composed entirely of original songs written by David DeFeis and Jack Starr. There are no cover versions of other artists’ work on this record.

Unlike later Virgin Steele classics such as Noble Savage or Invictus, none of the debut’s songs have been officially covered by other bands. Still, tracks like “Children of the Storm” and “Danger Zone” remain enduring fan favorites and occasionally resurface in the band’s live setlists, highlighting the raw energy of their earliest sound.

Album Front Cover Photo
The front cover artwork of Virgin Steele’s self-titled debut album from 1982 shows a surreal fantasy battle scene painted in vivid detail. A fiery orange and red sky fades into deep shadows, framing a misty landscape with twisted trees and oversized flowers. Two armored knights with golden helmets and swords, clad in futuristic armor, confront a massive blue serpent that rears up and roars, pierced by beams of energy. Behind them, a silver spacecraft marked 'Virgin Steele' emerges from the mist. The dramatic artwork by Robert Schmucker combines fantasy, sci-fi, and mythic elements, reflecting the theatrical spirit of early heavy metal. Music For Nations MFN 1 release.

The front cover of Virgin Steele’s 1982 self-titled debut album explodes with fantastical imagery. A blazing orange sky sets the backdrop for a mist-filled battlefield, where shadows and twisted foliage give way to surreal landscapes and an oversized, vibrant flower.

At the heart of the scene, two armored knights—gleaming in gold helmets and futuristic chestplates—advance with swords drawn. Their opponent is a colossal blue serpent, jaws wide and spitting energy beams, locked in a dramatic clash that embodies epic myth and raw power.

Adding to the surreal mix, a sleek spacecraft emerges from the mist behind them, boldly inscribed with the name Virgin Steele. The striking artwork, painted by Robert Schmucker, merges elements of science fiction, fantasy, and heavy metal mythology to capture the theatrical essence of the band’s sound and the spirit of the early 1980s metal movement.

Album Back Cover Photo
The back cover of Virgin Steele’s self-titled debut album from 1982 features a stark black-and-white layout. In the center, a live performance photo of the band captures David DeFeis on vocals, with Jack Starr, Joe O’Reilly, and Joey Ayvazian playing on stage. Surrounding the central shot are individual portraits of each member: DeFeis bare-chested with wristbands, Starr wielding his guitar, O’Reilly with a leather vest and bass, and Ayvazian with drumsticks. Another smaller photo depicts two armored figures posing with swords. At the bottom, the track listings for Side I and Side II are displayed with songwriting credits and timings. The right-hand section lists detailed production credits, including engineers, photographers, graphics, and artwork by Robert Schmucker. A dedication reads: “This album is dedicated to the memory of Damon DeFeis and Richard Julian.” Music For Nations MFN 1 branding and logo appear in the top corner.

The back cover of Virgin Steele’s debut album embraces a striking black-and-white design. At the center, a live concert photograph shows the band in full performance, with vocalist David DeFeis commanding the stage alongside Jack Starr on guitar, Joe O’Reilly on bass, and Joey Ayvazian on drums.

Surrounding this central stage shot are individual portraits: DeFeis bare-chested with wristbands, Starr gripping his guitar, O’Reilly in a leather vest holding his bass, and Ayvazian standing confidently with drumsticks. An additional smaller image shows two armored figures in a dramatic sword pose, echoing the fantasy themes of the front cover.

Below, the track listings for Side I and Side II are laid out with precise timings and songwriting credits. Production credits line the right-hand side, naming sound engineers, photographers, designers, and Robert Schmucker’s role in artwork and layout. The page closes with a solemn dedication to Damon DeFeis and Richard Julian, while the Music For Nations MFN 1 logo asserts its mark at the top corner.

Side One Close up of record’s label
A close-up view of Side One of Virgin Steele’s self-titled debut album on Music For Nations, catalog number MFN 1. The cream-colored label features the iconic red-and-black Music For Nations logo with a muscular figure holding a flag. Printed details include track titles for Side One: Danger Zone, American Girl, Dead End Kids, Drive On Thru, and Still In Love With You. Songwriting credits highlight David DeFeis and Jack Starr. The label also states the record’s speed as 33 RPM and clearly marks Side One. Production credits note David DeFeis and Al Falcon, with copyright © 1983 Music For Nations Ltd. The pressing origin Made in France is indicated, and a legal disclaimer encircles the outer rim.

This close-up captures the Side One center label of Virgin Steele’s debut LP, issued on Music For Nations with catalog number MFN 1. The design features the label’s iconic logo: a bold red banner with a muscular figure raising a flag in defiance.

The track list for Side One is printed in detail: Danger Zone, American Girl, Dead End Kids, Drive On Thru, and Still In Love With You. Writing credits appear alongside, naming David DeFeis and Jack Starr as the creative forces.

Additional information includes the 33 RPM speed, Side One designation, and production credit for David DeFeis and Al Falcon. © 1983 Music For Nations Ltd is listed at the bottom, with pressing details confirming the record was manufactured in France. A legal rights statement runs along the rim, reserving usage rights.

Close up of Side two record’s label
A close-up view of Side Two of Virgin Steele’s self-titled debut album on Music For Nations, catalog number MFN 1. The cream-colored center label features the red and black Music For Nations logo depicting a muscular figure holding a flag. The text includes track listings for Side Two: Children of the Storm, Pictures on You, Pulverizer, Living in Sin, and Virgin Steele. Songwriting credits list David DeFeis, Jack Starr, Joe O’Reilly, and Joey Ayvazian. Additional text credits producers David DeFeis and Al Falcon, with copyright © 1983 Music For Nations Ltd. The 33 RPM speed and Side Two marking appear on the right side, and the pressing notes state Made in France. The outer rim text carries standard rights reservation against unauthorized use.

This close-up reveals the Side Two center label of Virgin Steele’s debut album, issued on Music For Nations under catalog number MFN 1. The cream background is contrasted by the label’s bold red-and-black logo, showing a muscular figure raising a flag.

The track list is clearly printed: Children of the Storm, Pictures on You, Pulverizer, Living in Sin, and the self-titled track Virgin Steele. Songwriting credits name DeFeis, Starr, O’Reilly, and Ayvazian, reflecting the band’s collaborative work.

The label specifies 33 RPM, Side Two, and includes production credits for David DeFeis and Al Falcon. Copyright © 1983 Music For Nations Ltd is marked at the bottom, alongside manufacturing details that indicate the record was pressed in France. A rights statement encircles the label’s edge, reinforcing usage restrictions.

Index of Virgin Steele and Exorcist Album Cover Gallery & 12" Vinyl LP Discography Information
VIRGIN STEELE – Self-Titled album front cover vinyl record
VIRGIN STEELE – Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP

Virgin Steele's eponymous 1982 debut album, released on 12" Vinyl LP (MFN 1) via Music For Nations, captivates with a diverse sonic journey. From the electrifying "Danger Zone" to the anthemic "Dead End Kids" and the heartfelt ballad "Still In Love With You," the record showcases the band's raw power and musical versatility, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal.

EXORCIST - Nightmare Theatre album front cover vinyl record
EXORCIST - Nightmare Theatre 12" Vinyl LP

Exorcist - Nightmare Theatre, the 1986 Virgin Steele 12" vinyl LP, delivers a dark and captivating heavy metal experience. With haunting melodies, powerful performances, and memorable songwriting, it remains a must-have for metal enthusiasts. The album's ominous atmosphere and occult themes make it a standout in the genre, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.