SPELLBOUND - Rockin' Reckless - 12" Vinyl LP Album

Spellbound is a Heavy Metal band from Uppsala, Sweden and during the 1980's they have released two official full-length albums: "Breaking the Spell" in 1984 and"Rockin' Reckless" in 1985.

 

Group photo of the Spellbound band on the front cover

Album Description:

This web-page delves into the iconic 12" vinyl LP album, "Rockin' Reckless," by the Swedish Heavy Metal band Spellbound. Released in 1985, this album showcases the band's raw talent, powerful instrumentation, and captivating energy. We explore the production details, the band members' contributions, and the impact of this album within the Heavy Metal genre during the 1980s.

The 1980s witnessed an explosion of Heavy Metal music, with bands around the world pushing the boundaries of sound and performance. Among them, Spellbound, hailing from Uppsala, Sweden, established their presence with their two official full-length albums, "Breaking the Spell" and "Rockin' Reckless." This paper focuses on the latter, highlighting its significance within the Heavy Metal landscape.

Album Production
"Rockin' Reckless" was produced by the acclaimed Vic Maile, known for his work with bands like Motörhead and Girlschool. The album was recorded at Riverside Studio in London, England. The production quality of the album plays a crucial role in capturing the band's dynamic and electrifying performance.

Sleeve and Innersleeve Design
The album includes a custom inner sleeve featuring essential album details and intriguing baby photos of the band members. The sleeve and innersleeve design were crafted by Dan Ahlqvist, reflecting the band's visual aesthetic and adding to the overall appeal of the album.


Influence and Legacy
"Rockin' Reckless" played a significant role in establishing Spellbound's presence within the Heavy Metal genre. The album showcased their unique blend of powerful instrumentation, intense vocals, and experimental saxophone elements. Its impact resonated within the Metal community, inspiring and influencing future generations of musicians.

Music Genre:

  Swedish Heavy Metal Glamrock Music
Description / Collector's info: 

This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, and baby photos of Spellbound

Album Production information:

 

Produced by Vic Maile

Vic Maile , born on 27 March 1943, was a highly respected British sound engineer and record producer who played a significant role in shaping the sound of rock and roll. With his remarkable talent and passion for music, Maile made a lasting impact on the industry, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and artists alike.

  more...

Maile's journey in music began during his formative years, where he developed a deep fascination with sound and its manipulation. As a teenager, he immersed himself in the world of electronics and sound engineering, constantly experimenting with audio equipment and exploring new ways to capture and enhance musical performances.

In the 1960s, Maile emerged as a sought-after sound engineer, working with numerous bands and artists in the thriving British music scene. His technical proficiency and ability to understand the intricacies of sound quickly earned him a reputation for excellence. Artists and producers recognized Maile as someone who could elevate their music to new heights through his expertise in the recording studio.

Throughout his career, Maile had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse range of bands and musicians, each with their unique styles and sonic signatures. Some of the notable names he worked with include:

1. Dr. Feelgood: Maile's partnership with Dr. Feelgood in the mid-1970s proved to be a pivotal moment in both his career and the band's success. He played a vital role in capturing the band's raw, high-energy pub rock sound, contributing to the creation of their influential debut album, "Down by the Jetty" (1975).

2. Motörhead: One of Maile's most iconic collaborations was with the legendary heavy metal band Motörhead. His production work on their seminal albums, such as "Overkill" (1979) and "Ace of Spades" (1980), helped define their distinctive and aggressive sound. Maile's ability to capture the band's raw intensity and sheer power in the studio cemented their status as one of the genre's most influential acts.

3. Girlschool: Maile's partnership with the all-female heavy metal band Girlschool yielded exceptional results. He worked closely with them on albums like "Hit and Run" (1981) and "Screaming Blue Murder" (1982), crafting a sound that balanced their fierce energy with melodic hooks. His production skills showcased the band's musical prowess and contributed to their rise in the male-dominated rock landscape.

4. The Quireboys: Maile collaborated with The Quireboys for their debut album, "A Bit of What You Fancy" (1990). With his guidance, the band achieved a blend of classic rock and roll swagger with a contemporary edge, resulting in a critically acclaimed record that earned them commercial success.

Vic Maile's talent as a sound engineer and record producer extended far beyond these notable collaborations. His contributions to the rock and roll genre are immeasurable, as he worked with a myriad of artists who trusted him to translate their artistic vision into captivating sonic experiences.

Recorded in Riverside Studio, London, England.

Sleeve and Innersleeve - Dan Ahlqvist

Record Label & Catalognr:

  Sonet SNTF-952

Media Format:

  12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record 

Year & Country:

  1985 Made in UK / EEC
Band Members and Musicians on: Spellbound Rockin' Reckless
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • J.J. Marsh - Guitars

    J.J. Marsh is a highly skilled guitarist known for his exceptional technical abilities and distinctive playing style. His guitar work on "Rockin' Reckless" showcases his mastery of heavy riffs, shredding solos, and melodic passages. Marsh's contributions to the band's sound helped define Spellbound's unique brand of Heavy Metal.

  • Hans Froberg - Lead vocals

    Hans Froberg's powerful and dynamic vocals served as the frontman for Spellbound. His ability to seamlessly transition between gritty, high-energy vocals and soulful, emotive melodies added depth and intensity to the band's music. Froberg's captivating stage presence and passionate delivery made him a standout performer within the Heavy Metal scene.

  • Thompson - Bass

    Thompson provided the solid foundation of the band's sound with his commanding basslines. His rhythmic precision and deep, resonant tones created a powerful and driving force within Spellbound's music. Thompson's contributions were crucial in establishing the band's heavy and energetic sound.

  • Axe Strandberg - Saxophone

    Axe Strandberg's inclusion of the saxophone in a Heavy Metal band was a unique and daring choice. His saxophone solos and melodies added a distinct flavor to Spellbound's music, expanding the boundaries of the genre. The combination of his saxophone with the heavy guitars and intense vocals created a truly original and captivating sound.

  • Ola Strandberg - Drums

    Ola Strandberg's drumming skills were essential in driving Spellbound's relentless rhythm section. His powerful and precise drumming provided the backbone of the band's sound, creating a solid and energetic groove. Ola's ability to navigate complex rhythms and deliver thunderous beats elevated the band's performances to new heights.

  • Al Strandberg - Guitars

    Al Strandberg's guitar work complemented J.J. Marsh's playing, contributing to Spellbound's layered and harmonious sound. Al's melodic guitar lines and intricate harmonies added depth and texture to the band's compositions. Together with Marsh, they formed a formidable guitar duo that created a powerful sonic tapestry.

Track Listing of: Spellbound Rockin' Reckless
    Side One:
  • Rockin' Reckless
  • My Kinda Girl
  • Love on the Run
  • Drinking Alone
  • Shot of Love

    Side Two:
  • Streetprowler
  • Dying for the Tough
  • Mistreated Heart
  • Heat it Up
  • Sing YOu Goodbye

 

Front Cover Photo Of SPELLBOUND - Rockin' Reckless 12" Vinyl LP Album

Group photo of the Spellbound band on the front cover

Group photo of the Spellbound band on the front cover

 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 Back Cover SPELLBOUND - Rockin' Reckless 12" Vinyl LP Album

Five individual photos of the Spellbound band-members

Five individual photos of the Spellbound band-members

First Photo Of Custom Inner Sleeve SPELLBOUND - Rockin' Reckless 12" Vinyl LP Album

A collage of Spellbound band photos

A collage of Spellbound band photos

Second Photo Of Custom Inner Sleeve SPELLBOUND - Rockin' Reckless 12" Vinyl LP Album

A collage of baby photos of the Spellbound band members

A collage of baby photos of the Spellbound band members

Close up of Side One record's label SPELLBOUND - Rockin' Reckless 12" Vinyl LP Album

"Rockin' Reckless" Record Label Details: SONET SNTF-952

"Rockin' Reckless" Record Label Details: SONET SNTF-952