"KROKUS - Hardware" stands as a testament to Swiss rock prowess, encapsulating the essence of its time. This original Swiss pressing on 12" vinyl LP showcases the band's raw energy. The distinctive +ML+ label and "Swiss Made" stamper code, adorned with the iconic Swiss-crossbow, authenticate its origin. A collector's gem, this album melds musical artistry with Swiss precision, enriching the era's rock landscape.
| Album Description:
The 1981 KROKUS album, "Hardware", specifically focusing on the original Swiss pressing of the 12" vinyl LP. Notably, the pressing bears the unique distinction of displaying a +ML+ label and a stamper code labeled "Swiss Made" adorned with an iconic Swiss-crossbow symbol. Through a comprehensive analysis of the album's musical content, historical context, and collectible attributes. The 1981 KROKUS album, "Hardware", stands as a seminal work in the world of hard rock and heavy metal music. Amidst the album's various pressings, the original Swiss release holds a special place of fascination among collectors and enthusiasts. Notably, the +ML+ label and the "Swiss Made" stamper code featuring the Swiss-crossbow symbol distinguish this pressing as a remarkable artifact of musical history. "Hardware" showcases KROKUS at the height of their musical prowess, blending heavy riffs, catchy hooks, and dynamic vocals. Tracks like "Celebration", "Easy Rocker", and "Rock City" epitomize the band's signature sound, characterized by powerful guitar work and hard-hitting rhythms. The album's diverse range of songs encompasses anthems, ballads, and fast-paced rockers, making it a dynamic listening experience. Released during a thriving era for hard rock and heavy metal, "Hardware" solidified KROKUS' reputation as a force to be reckoned with. The album resonated with fans worldwide, garnering critical acclaim and commercial success. Against the backdrop of the 1980s music scene, "Hardware" exemplified the band's ability to craft energetic and memorable songs, cementing their position in rock music history. The original Swiss pressing of "Hardware" presents collectors with an intriguing blend of musical excellence and cultural uniqueness. The +ML+ label, indicative of the pressing plant or record company, adds an element of authenticity and exclusivity to the album. |
Music Genre: 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. |
Album Production: Original black and white custom inner sleeve with album details, and photos. Includes flyer to join the Krokus Fan-club |
| Record Label: Ariola 203 322 (203322) |
| Vinyl Record Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone Record |
| Year & Country 1981 Made in Switzerland |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: KROKUS - Hardware incl custom inner sleeve |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "KROKUS - Hardware incl custom inner sleeve" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "KROKUS - Hardware incl custom inner sleeve" 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 ).
Lyrics of all the songs on Hardware printed on the original custom inner sleeve
Full page black and white photo of the KROKUS band
"Hardware " Light Blue Colour Ariola Record Label Details: Ariola 203 322 +ML+ ℗ 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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