In 1981, Krokus, the Swiss heavy metal force, released "Hardware," their eighth album. Produced in collaboration with Ariola Canada, the vinyl LP encapsulates the raw energy of the era's heavy metal scene. Marking a pivotal moment in the genre's evolution, the album's tracks showcase Krokus's musical prowess. The Canadian release, with its distinctive cover art, remains a cherished collector's item, embodying the essence of early '80s heavy metal culture.
The year was 1981, a time marked by the vibrant pulse of the heavy metal scene, and amidst the musical tapestry, Krokus, the Swiss rock powerhouse, released their eighth studio album, "Hardware." This vinyl LP, a product of Ariola Canada, encapsulated the essence of an era defined by the roaring guitars and thunderous beats that characterized the golden age of heavy metal.
"Hardware," with its release, contributed to the evolving landscape of metal music in the early '80s. The album's production reflected the advancements in recording technology of the time, capturing the raw energy and intense sound that defined Krokus's signature style. The analog warmth of vinyl added an extra layer of authenticity to the listening experience, making it a cherished artifact for fans and collectors alike.
In the realm of heavy metal, 1981 was a pivotal year. Bands were pushing the boundaries of sound, incorporating new elements into their music, and solidifying their positions in the global metal hierarchy. Krokus, with "Hardware," showcased their ability to adapt to the changing winds of the music industry while staying true to their roots.
The album's tracklist unfolded like a sonic journey, each song contributing to the overall narrative of "Hardware." From the anthemic opener to the blistering guitar solos and pounding rhythms, Krokus demonstrated their prowess in crafting a cohesive and impactful record. The fusion of melody and aggression on tracks like [specific track names] exemplified the band's musical dexterity.
Ariola Canada's role in producing and distributing the Canadian release of "Hardware" played a crucial part in making the album accessible to fans across the Great White North. The vinyl LP, adorned with its distinct cover art and packaging, became a collector's item, a tangible piece of the band's legacy etched into the annals of heavy metal history.
Beyond the music itself, the artwork, promotional materials, and cultural context surrounding the release of "Hardware" painted a vivid picture of the early '80s heavy metal culture. The album cover, a visual representation of the band's aesthetic, often became iconic in its own right, resonating with fans and becoming a symbol of the era.
Heavy Metal, Hard Rock
Ariola Records America OL 1508
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1981 Made in Canada
Krokus - Producer
Mark Dearnley - Sound Engineer
Mark Dearnley a Sound Engineer from the USA having engineered on albums for Krokus, Loudness, V2, Wrathchild America and others.
Nick Rogers - Sound Engineer -
Ian Cooper - Mastering Engineer
This album was recored at Roundhouse Studios, London. Nov-Dec 1980, Engineer
Mastered at the Townhouse
Forty Morell - Album Cover Design
Christophe Vorlet - Album Cover Design
Sulzer and Simon Fowler - Photography
Simon Fowler is a British photographer mainly known for photographing "Iron Maiden". For the album "Piece of Mind" he was called: Simon "Bullseye" Fowler.
Christoph "Chris" von Rohr (hristoph von Rohr is a Swiss music producer and one of the most influential figures in the Swiss music industry. Born in Switzerland, von Rohr's interest in music began at an early age. He started playing the guitar as a teenager and soon became a member of a local band.music scene.
In 1971, von Rohr moved to Zurich to study philosophy and German literature. He continued to play music on the side and eventually formed a new band called Toad. The band gained popularity in Switzerland and was signed to a record label in Germany, which allowed them to tour throughout Europe.music scene.
After Toad disbanded, von Rohr turned his attention to producing. In 1980, he founded a recording studio in Zurich and began working with a number of Swiss musicians, including the hard rock band Krokus. von Rohr produced several of Krokus' albums, which helped the band achieve international success.music scene.
In the late 1980s, von Rohr began working with the band Gotthard, which would become one of Switzerland's most successful rock bands. von Rohr produced several of Gotthard's albums, including their debut album, which sold over 250,000 copies in Switzerland alone.music scene.
Throughout his career, von Rohr has been recognized for his contributions to the Swiss music industry. He has won several awards for his work as a producer and has been instrumental in shaping the sound of Swiss rock music. Today, von Rohr continues to work as a producer and is considered a living legend in the Swiss music scene.
Marc Storace, born in Malta in 1951, is a Swiss vocalist best known for his iconic work with the hard rock and heavy metal band Krokus . His powerful vocals, passionate delivery, and impressive range have made him a legend in the music industry.
Early Career and Rise to Fame:
Storace's musical journey began in the 1960s with various bands, including TEA, before joining Krokus in 1979. His arrival marked a turning point for the band, leading them to their most successful era. With his instantly recognizable voice, he became the face and voice of Krokus, contributing to their global success with albums like "Metal Rendez-vous" (1980), "Hardware" (1981), and "One Vice at a Time" (1982).
Chart-topping Hits and International Recognition:
Singles like "Bedside Radio," "Long Stick Goes Boom," and "Screaming in the Night" became international hits, solidifying Krokus' place in rock history. Storace's electrifying stage presence and captivating vocals made him a fan favorite, earning them a dedicated following worldwide.
Brief Departure and Return to Krokus:
In the early 1990s, Storace embarked on a solo project called "Storace," releasing an album and performing under that name. However, he reunited with Krokus in 2002, leading them to renewed success with albums like "Rock the Block" (2003) and "Hoodoo" (2010).
In 2021, Storace launched his solo career under the moniker "STORACE," releasing his debut album "Live and Let Live" to critical acclaim. He continues to tour extensively, both as a solo artist and with Krokus, captivating audiences with his timeless vocals and undeniable stage presence.
Krokus' vinyl discography is a wild ride through the '80s hard rock/heavy metal scene. From their early raw power on "Metal Rendez-vous" to the anthemic hits of "Headhunter" ("Screaming in the Night," "Eat the Rich"), each album is a sonic punch to the gut. Their live energy translates onto vinyl, capturing the charisma of frontman Marc Storace and the band's arena-ready sound. Whether it's the sleaze of "One Vice at a Time" or the polished metal of "The Blitz," Krokus' vinyl collection is a testament to their enduring influence on the genre.
This album arrived at a crossroads in Krokus' career. While they had enjoyed considerable success in the early 80s with hits like "Heatstrokes" and "Bedside Radio," the mid-80s saw a shift in the musical landscape. Hair metal was on the rise, challenging traditional hard rock bands to adapt or fade away.
Alive and Screamin' 12" Vinyl LPFounded in 1975, Krokus swiftly ascended the ranks of the music scene, blending the grit of hard rock with the ferocity of heavy metal. The Swiss outfit, consisting of seasoned musicians, carved a niche for themselves with their energetic performances and unapologetic sound.
Change of Address 12" Vinyl LPThe 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.
Early Days 12" Vinyl LPIn 1981, Krokus, the Swiss heavy metal force, released "Hardware," their eighth album. Produced in collaboration with Ariola Canada, the vinyl LP encapsulates the raw energy of the era's heavy metal scene. Marking a pivotal moment in the genre's evolution, the album's tracks showcase Krokus's musical prowess.
- Hardware (1981, Canada) - Hardware (1981, France) - Hardware (1981, Holland) - Hardware Swiss Pressing (1981, Switzerland)Headhunter is the seventh album by Krokus and was released in 1983. It achieved Gold status in the United States. The track "Screaming in the Night" was the band's biggest hit to date, and is still played on classic rock radio stations. Headhunter is the only Krokus album to feature "Steve Pace" on drums
Headhunter 12" Vinyl LPBy the time "Heart Attack" was released, Krokus had already established themselves as a prominent force in the hard rock and heavy metal scene. However, internal conflicts and commercial challenges had taken a toll on the band, leading them to the brink of dissolution.
Heart Attack 12" Vinyl LPIn the realm of heavy metal, certain albums stand as milestones, shaping the genre's landscape and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans. Krokus' "Metal Rendez-Vous" is undeniably one such album. Released as a 12" vinyl LP, this iconic record not only marked the band's ascent in the world of metal
Metal Rendez-Vous 12" Vinyl LPIn 1983, the Swiss rock band Krokus unveiled their iconic album "One Vice at a Time" through an original Swiss pressing on a 12" LP vinyl. Distinguished by the +ML+ mark on the record label, this release captures the essence of its time period, encapsulating the fervor of the 1980s rock scene.
- One Vice at a Time (1982, Europe) - One Vice at a Time (1982, Switzerland)The emergence of Krokus and their influential hard rock sound during the late 1970s and early 1980s marked a significant chapter in Swiss music history. The Swiss hard rock scene, while not as widely recognized as those of the United States or the United Kingdom, produced notable acts such as Krokus
Painkiller 12" Vinyl LPSwiss heavy metal band Krokus made a significant impact on the metal scene with their third full-length album, "Pay It In Metal". Released in 1978, this album showcased the band's raw power and established them as a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy metal. With its memorable riffs
Pay It In Metal 12" Vinyl LP"The Blitz" marked Krokus' seventh studio album and was released on March 7, 1984. The album continued the band's journey into a more polished and radio-friendly sound compared to their earlier, rawer works. This evolution in their musical style was partly influenced by the producer Bruce Fairbairn
- The Blitz (1984, Germany) - The Blitz (1984, USA)