"Power of the Night" is the third album by the heavy metal band Savatage and was released in 1985. This record was produced by the hot producer of the time, Max Norman, who became better known as the producer of Megadeth's 1992 hit album Countdown to Extinction. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.
Released in 1985, Savatage's third studio album, "Power of the Night," marked a significant turning point in the band's career and the broader landscape of heavy metal. Emerging during a decade dominated by glam metal and hairspray-laden rock, Savatage carved a unique niche with their blend of aggressive riffs, operatic vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics.
Historical Context
The mid-1980s was a time of intense competition in the metal scene. While many bands catered to commercial appeal, Savatage's "Power of the Night" delved into darker themes, exploring topics like violence, social unrest, and personal struggles. This approach resonated with fans seeking music with greater substance and emotional depth.
Musical Exploration
"Power of the Night" showcased Savatage's evolution as musicians. The album featured a tighter, more focused sound than their previous releases, with intricate guitar work by Criss Oliva and powerful vocals by his brother, Jon Oliva. The songs ranged from hard-hitting anthems like the title track to the more introspective "In the Dream." This diversity demonstrated the band's versatility and willingness to experiment within the heavy metal genre.
The Studio and the Band
"Power of the Night" was recorded at Bearsville Studios in Woodstock, New York, with producer Max Norman, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and Megadeth. The band's lineup for the album included:
Jon Oliva: Lead vocals, keyboards
Criss Oliva: Guitars
Keith Collins: Bass
Steve Wacholz: Drums
Frontman: Jon Oliva
As the band's frontman and primary songwriter, Jon Oliva's distinctive voice and theatrical stage presence became synonymous with Savatage. His ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability through his vocals set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
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Music Genre: Progressive Heavy Metal Music |
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Collector's info: Due to sexual metaphors in the lyrics of "Hard for Love" and "Skull Session" this album was banned in several record outlets |
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Album Production Information: Produced and engineered by Max Norman for on Yer Bike Ltd. Legendary engineer Max Norman shaped iconic metal albums. Discover his story: Ozzy, Megadeth, and beyond! Recorded at Bearsville Recording Studios, Bearsville, N.Y.Ken Lonas - Sound Engineer Bob Defrin - Art Direction Bob Defrin, a prominent figure in the world of graphic design and album cover art, is best known for his significant contributions as the director, graphic designer, and head of art for Atlantic Records. Born on April 13, 1946, Defrin's creative journey began in Brooklyn, New York, where he developed a passion for art from an early age. Defrin's career in the music industry took off in the 1980s, a pivotal era for Heavy Metal music. His unique artistic vision and ability to capture the essence of a band's sound through visual imagery made him a sought-after figure among musicians and record labels. As a director and graphic designer at Atlantic Records, Defrin played a pivotal role in shaping the visual identities of numerous Heavy Metal bands during this period. One of Defrin's notable accomplishments was his work on album covers. He understood the power of album artwork in conveying the spirit and energy of a band's music. Defrin's ability to translate the raw power and intensity of Heavy Metal into captivating visuals earned him widespread recognition and accolades. His designs often featured bold, eye-catching imagery, intricate details, and striking typography, perfectly complementing the music within. Defrin's portfolio boasts an impressive array of iconic album covers. Among his most renowned works are the covers for AC/DC's "Highway to Hell" (1979), "Back in Black" (1980), and "For Those About to Rock We Salute You" (1981). These covers captured the band's energy, attitude, and electrifying sound, becoming iconic symbols of Heavy Metal culture. Additionally, Defrin's artistic contributions extended beyond AC/DC. He collaborated with numerous other influential bands, including Twisted Sister, Bon Jovi, Krokus, and Skid Row, among others. Each album cover he designed encapsulated the essence of the respective band's music, making a lasting impact on the visual landscape of Heavy Metal. Bob Defrin's expertise in graphic design and his ability to understand and interpret the musical vision of Heavy Metal bands made him an invaluable asset to Atlantic Records. He left an indelible mark on the music industry, helping to shape the visual identities of some of the most influential Heavy Metal acts of the 1980s. Beyond his work with Atlantic Records, Defrin's influence continued to resonate in the field of graphic design. His unique style and contributions left a lasting impression on album cover art, inspiring generations of designers to think creatively and push the boundaries of visual storytelling. Bob Defrin's legacy as a director, graphic designer, and head of art for Atlantic Records endures as a testament to his immense talent and profound impact on the Heavy Metal genre. His ability to merge music and visual artistry has forever left an indelible mark on the history of album cover design.
Andy Unangst - Photography |
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Record Label Information: Atlantic Recording Corp. 781 247-1 (781247) |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone |
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Year & Country: 1985 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: Savatage Power of the Night |
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Track Listing of: Savatage Power of the Night |
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Learn more