This is the release for the French market ( Made in West Germany ) of the 1981 album "Hardware" by the Swiss Heavy Metal"Krokus", it was recorded at Roundhouse Studios, London. Album cover photography was by Simon Fowler and Sulzer.
In the electrifying year of 1981, Swiss hard rock outfit Krokus unleashed "Hardware," an album that solidified their place as a formidable force in the global rock scene.
Released at the height of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, "Hardware" arrived at a time when hard rock was experiencing a resurgence. Bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Judas Priest were dominating the charts, and Krokus, with their own brand of melodic hard rock, was ready to stake their claim.
"Hardware" showcased Krokus' musical exploration within the hard rock genre. The album was a powerhouse of anthemic rockers like "Easy Rocker" and "Rock City," balanced with more melodic tracks like "Celebration" and "She's Got Everything." This diverse range demonstrated their ability to write catchy hooks while maintaining their hard-hitting edge.
While "Hardware" received critical acclaim, it wasn't without its controversies. Some critics accused the band of sounding too similar to AC/DC, particularly in their guitar riffs and vocal stylings. Others praised their ability to create their own unique sound within a well-established genre. Regardless of the differing opinions, "Hardware" sparked a passionate debate among rock fans.
Recorded at Roundhouse Studios in London, "Hardware" captured Krokus' raw energy and tight musicianship. The band consisted of Marc Storace on vocals, Fernando von Arb and Tommy Kiefer on guitars, Chris von Rohr on bass, and Freddy Steady on drums. Each member contributed their unique talents, creating a sound that was both powerful and melodic.
At the forefront of Krokus was their charismatic frontman, Marc Storace. His powerful vocals, ranging from soaring highs to gritty lows, were a defining feature of the band's sound. Storace's stage presence and undeniable charisma further solidified his status as a rock icon.
"Hardware" marked a turning point in Krokus' career. It catapulted them onto the international stage and cemented their place as one of the leading hard rock bands of the era. While the album sparked some controversy, it ultimately showcased Krokus' musical prowess and unwavering commitment to their craft.
Music Genre: Heavy Metal / Hard Rock |
| Album Production information: The album: "KROKUS - Hardware incl custom inner sleeve" was produced by: Krokus Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Mark Dearnley, Nick Rogers Mark Dearnley a Sound Engineer from the USA having engineered on albums for Krokus, Loudness, V2, Wrathchild America and others Mastered by Ian Cooper at the Townhouse This album was recorded at: Roundhouse Studios, London. Nov-Dec 1980, Engineer Album cover design: Forty Morell , Christophe Vorlet Album cover photography: Sulzer and Simon Fowler Simon Fowler is a British photographer mainly known for photographing "Iron Maiden". For the album "Piece of Mind" he was called: Simon "Bullseye" Fowler. |
Record Label Information: Arabella 203 322 Arabella - A French Record label parented by "Ariola Eurodisc GmbH" |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1981 Made in West Germany ( see rim-text on the record's label ) |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: KROKUS - Hardware (France) |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "KROKUS - Hardware (France)" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "KROKUS - Hardware (France)" is:
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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 ).
Photo of the Krokus band on the album back cover
"Krokus" Record Label Details: Arabella 203 322, Made in West Germany, SACEM SDRM ℗ 1981 Sound Copyright
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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
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