The Swiss pressing of Krokus's 1975-78 compilation LP unveils the band's early days in the dynamic 1970s rock scene. This vinyl artifact, featuring the rare track "MAJALE," captures the essence of their formative years. Reflecting the craftsmanship of the time, the album serves as a sonic time capsule, transporting listeners to an era where hard rock was evolving, and Krokus was boldly shaping its destiny.
In the midst of the 1970s, a burgeoning musical landscape was witness to the rise of a Swiss rock band that would eventually carve its name into the annals of hard rock history. Krokus, with roots tracing back to 1975, embarked on a musical journey that would span decades, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. This retrospective glimpse into the early days of Krokus, encapsulated in their first compilation album spanning 1975-78, unveils a fascinating chapter in the band's evolution.
The year 1975 marked the inception of Krokus, and it was a time when the global rock scene was undergoing dynamic shifts. As the echoes of the psychedelic era faded away, a new wave of hard-hitting rock emerged, drawing inspiration from blues, metal, and a rebellious spirit. Krokus, like many of their contemporaries, embraced this sonic revolution, contributing their unique sound to the era.
The compilation album in question, pressed in Switzerland, stands as a testament to the band's formative years. Vinyl, the medium of choice during this period, added a distinct warmth and character to the listening experience. Each groove on the 12" LP told a story, capturing the essence of Krokus's early sonic experiments.
Among the gems within this compilation is the rare song "MAJALE," extracted from their inaugural LP. This track, like a musical artifact, provides a glimpse into the band's embryonic stage, showcasing their raw talent and evolving sound. It serves as a bridge between their early days and the musical prowess they would later exhibit.
The production of this Swiss pressing exemplifies the craftsmanship of the time. The meticulous attention to detail in the album cover, the choice of vinyl, and the mastering process reflected the dedication of artists and producers to deliver a tangible piece of art. The artwork, a visual representation of the music within, often became iconic, adding an additional layer to the overall experience.
Exploring Krokus's early discography offers a window into a bygone era when rock music was undergoing a metamorphosis. The sonic landscape painted by the band during these formative years not only contributed to their own legacy but also played a role in shaping the broader trajectory of hard rock.
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Music Genre: |
Swiss Hard Rock / Heavy Metal |
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Record Label Information: |
Mercury 6326 801 |
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Media Format: |
12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: |
1980 Made in Switzerland |
Complete Track-listing of the album "KROKUS - Early Days" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "KROKUS - Early Days" is:
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8 12" LP ALBUM VINYL
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
"Early Days 1975-78 by KROKUS" Blue Colour Mercury Record Label Details: MERCURY 6326 801, Made in Switzerland +SUISA+ ℗ 197/78 Sound Copyright
Krokus is a Swiss rock band formed in 1975 in Solothurn, Switzerland. The band has released 18 studio albums, sold over 14 million copies worldwide, and is considered one of the most successful Swiss rock bands. Krokus is known for their hard-hitting, high-energy sound, and their dynamic stage presence.
History:
Krokus was founded by guitarist Tommy Kiefer and drummer Chris von Rohr in 1975. The band's early years were marked by frequent lineup changes, but in 1979, they released their third album, "Metal Rendez-vous," which became a huge commercial success in Switzerland and launched the band's international career. The album featured the hit single "Bedside Radio" and showcased Krokus' hard-rocking sound and catchy melodies. The band continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s, including "Hardware" (1981), "One Vice at a Time" (1982), and "Headhunter" (1983).
Krokus' success in the 1980s was due in part to their ability to blend elements of classic hard rock with the emerging heavy metal genre. The band's sound was characterized by heavy guitar riffs, pounding drums, and catchy choruses. Krokus' lyrics often dealt with themes of rebellion, independence, and freedom, and their music was popular with audiences who were looking for an escape from the pressures of everyday life.
In the late 1980s, Krokus' popularity began to wane, and the band went through a series of lineup changes. In 1995, the band released "To Rock or Not to Be," which marked a return to their hard-rock roots. The album was a commercial success in Switzerland, but it failed to reignite the band's international career. Krokus continued to release albums throughout the 2000s and 2010s, but their popularity remained largely confined to Switzerland and other European countries.
Musical Style and Achievements:
Krokus' musical style is characterized by their high-energy hard-rock sound, which incorporates elements of heavy metal, blues, and classic rock. The band's guitar-heavy sound is driven by Tommy Kiefer's virtuosic playing, which is often compared to that of AC/DC's Angus Young. Krokus' lyrics often deal with themes of freedom, rebellion, and independence, and the band's music is known for its catchy choruses and sing-along hooks.
Krokus' commercial success in the 1980s made them one of the most successful Swiss rock bands of all time. The band's album "Headhunter" sold over 2 million copies worldwide and was certified platinum in the United States. Krokus' live performances were also highly regarded, and the band played sold-out shows in stadiums and arenas around the world.
Impact on the Swiss and Global Rock Music Scene:
Krokus' success in the 1980s paved the way for other Swiss rock bands to gain international recognition. The band's high-energy sound and dynamic stage presence inspired a generation of young Swiss musicians, many of whom went on to form their own bands and pursue careers in rock music. Krokus' impact on the Swiss music scene is still felt today, and the band is considered a national treasure.
Krokus also had a significant impact on the global rock music scene. The band's high-energy sound and catchy hooks influenced countless other bands, and their music remains popular with fans of classic hard rock and heavy metal. Krokus' legacy is evident in the many tribute bands and cover bands