the Visual Symphony: 'Blackout' USA Release! White Canvas, Black Lyrics
Scorpions' "Blackout" (USA Release, 1982) not only marked a zenith in the band's career but also showcased a visual twist with its custom inner sleeve – a white canvas with black lyrics. The album, overcoming challenges, resonated with hits like "No One Like You," becoming a symbol of Scorpions' resilience and artistic evolution.
Scorpions, the iconic rock band, left an indelible mark on the music landscape with their 1982 album "Blackout." The USA release, adorned with a custom inner sleeve, added a distinctive touch to the album's visual and lyrical experience.
Genesis of "Blackout"
"Blackout" emerged during a pivotal period for Scorpions, both creatively and commercially. Released in 1982, the album showcased the band's evolution, fusing hard rock with melodic elements. The title track, "Blackout," became an anthem, symbolizing the energy and resilience of the era.
Custom Inner Sleeve: A Visual Contrast
What set the USA release apart was the custom inner sleeve. Unlike its European counterparts with a black background and white lyrics, the US version featured a striking white background with lyrics in black. This aesthetic contrast created a visual dynamic that mirrored the album's diverse musical range.
The Making of "Blackout"
The recording sessions for "Blackout" were not without challenges, notably Klaus Meine's vocal cord troubles. Despite these hurdles, the band persevered, crafting an album that explored themes of excess, freedom, and the turbulence of the times. Rudolf Schenker's distinctive guitar work and Matthias Jabs' solos added layers to the album's sonic landscape.
Release and Impact
The USA release of "Blackout" hit the shelves, capturing the essence of Scorpions' musical prowess. Tracks like "No One Like You" and "Dynamite" resonated with fans, propelling the album to commercial success. The custom inner sleeve became a talking point, emphasizing the album's global identity while acknowledging regional nuances.
Album Description & Collectors information: Blackout is the eighth studio album by the German heavy metal band Scorpions, released in 1982 and this is the USA release on Mercury Records.
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Blackout is the eighth studio album by the German heavy metal band Scorpions, released in 1982 on EMI Germany Records and Mercury Records. After losing his voice during the writing of the album, lead vocalist Klaus Meine had to undergo surgery on his vocal cords and it was uncertain whether he would be able to record it. Rudolf Schenker could not choose between his guitar solos on "China White", so the US and European releases differed in this small detail. A self-portrait of artist Gottfried Helnwein is featured on the cover of the album. Rudolf Schenker portrays this character in the "No One Like You" music video. . |
Music Genre: |
German Heavy Metal / Hard Rock |
Album Production information:
The album: "SCORPIONS - Blackout (USA) incl custom Inner Sleeve" was produced by: Dieter Dierks for Breeze Music Dieter Dierks: Producer behind the Scorpions' sting, and many others Discover his iconic work
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Gerd Rautenbach This album was recorded at: Dierks recording Mobile Album cover design: Gottfried Heinwein Album cover photography: Robert Ellis Robert Ellis is a highly accomplished British photographer renowned for his exceptional work in the field of music photography. With a career spanning several decades, Ellis has captured iconic moments and personalities in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on the visual representation of music culture. His work has been prominently featured in esteemed publications such as NME (New Musical Express), Melody Maker, Kerrang, and Sounds, earning him widespread recognition and acclaim. Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Robert Ellis developed an early passion for photography and music. In the 1970s, he embarked on his professional journey as a photographer, immersing himself in the vibrant music scene of the era. Ellis quickly established himself as a talented and versatile photographer, capturing the energy, spirit, and raw emotion of live performances. Ellis's keen eye and ability to capture the essence of musicians in their element soon caught the attention of leading music-related publications. His work became highly sought after, and he started receiving assignments from prestigious magazines, including NME, Melody Maker, Kerrang, and Sounds. These publications were instrumental in shaping the music culture and disseminating information about emerging and established artists, making Ellis's photographs an integral part of the narrative. Throughout his career, Robert Ellis had the opportunity to photograph numerous influential musicians, bands, and artists. From capturing intimate portraits of legendary figures such as David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, and Mick Jagger to documenting the explosive energy of performances by bands like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and The Clash, Ellis consistently delivered stunning images that resonated with audiences worldwide. One of Ellis's notable strengths as a photographer was his ability to establish a rapport with his subjects, putting them at ease and capturing their authentic selves. His photographs often reflected the deep connection he formed with the artists, revealing the vulnerability and passion behind their public personas. Whether in the chaos of a live concert or the stillness of a backstage moment, Ellis's images told stories that transcended the music itself, creating a visual legacy that would endure for years to come. |
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Record Label & Catalognr: MERCURY SRM-1-4039 / 6337 218 |
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Packaging: This album "SCORPIONS - Blackout (USA) incl custom Inner Sleeve" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos | |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1982 Made in USA |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: SCORPIONS - Blackout (USA) incl custom Inner Sleeve |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "SCORPIONS - Blackout (USA) incl custom Inner Sleeve" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "SCORPIONS - Blackout incl custom innrer Sleeve (DE)" is:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "SCORPIONS - Blackout (USA) incl custom Inner Sleeve" |
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Inner Sleeve of "SCORPIONS - Blackout (USA) incl custom Inner Sleeve" Album |
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |