"KROKUS - Pay It In Metal" is the Swiss Heavy Metal band's third full-length album, boasting diverse releases with distinct album covers. Originally titled "Pain Killer," the 12" Vinyl LP showcases KROKUS's signature sound, delivering a heavy metal experience. Released in a pivotal era, the album captures the essence of the band's musical evolution, contributing to the rich tapestry of European metal during its time.
Swiss 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, energetic performances, and catchy hooks, "Pay It In Metal" remains a beloved classic among metal enthusiasts.
One notable aspect of "Pay It In Metal" is the existence of multiple releases, each featuring a different album cover. This gave fans the opportunity to choose their favorite artwork, making the album a collector's item. The album has also been known as "Pain Killer", adding to the mystique and intrigue surrounding its release.
Recorded at Manor Studios in Oxford, England, "Pay It In Metal" showcases the band's intense energy and powerful musicianship. From the opening track to the closing notes, Krokus delivers a relentless barrage of heavy metal goodness. The album features a mix of blistering guitar solos, pounding drums, and soaring vocals, all combining to create an explosive listening experience.
"Pay It In Metal" is an album that exemplifies the classic sound of early heavy metal. It draws inspiration from the likes of Judas Priest, AC/DC, and other pioneering bands of the genre, while also infusing Krokus's unique style and energy. The album captures the rawness and energy of a band on the rise, hungry to make their mark in the metal world.
Released in the Netherlands in 1978, "Pay It In Metal" quickly gained a devoted following and helped establish Krokus as one of the leading forces in European heavy metal. The album's release marked a turning point in the band's career and set the stage for their subsequent success.
This album was recorded at: Manor Studios, Oxford
Heavy Metal, Hard Rock
Mercury – 6326 800
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1978 Netherlands
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 ).
"Pay It In Metal by Krokus" Blue Colour Mercury Record Label Details: Mercury – 6326 800, Made in Holland ℗ 1978 PolyGram Records 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