"Vanadium's 'Metal Rock' album, a 1982 masterpiece, encapsulates the essence of Italian heavy metal. Released on Durium for the Italian market and Mausoleum Records for Belgium, it marks a cross-cultural musical odyssey. With potent sound and distinctive style, the LP remains a pivotal artifact in the global metal movement. Experience a timeless fusion of power and artistry."
The history behind the creation of the "Vanadium - Metal Rock" album, particularly its release on Mausoleum Records in 1982 for the Belgian market, is a fascinating chapter in the world of rock music. The journey of this iconic 12" LP vinyl album reveals insights into the band, the label, and the dynamic music landscape of the time.
Vanadium, an Italian heavy metal band formed in the late 1970s, had already gained recognition with their earlier releases. The decision to release their album on the Durium record label (catalog number DAI 30.396) in 1982 marked a significant moment in their career. Durium, known for its diverse catalog spanning various genres, provided a platform for Vanadium to reach their audience in the Italian market.
However, the story takes an interesting turn with the subsequent release on Mausoleum Records. Mausoleum, a Belgian record label with a penchant for metal and hard rock, saw potential in Vanadium's music and decided to bring it to the Belgian market. This move reflected the label's commitment to showcasing international talent and contributing to the vibrant metal scene in Belgium.
The decision to release the album specifically for the Belgian market indicates the label's understanding of the regional preferences and the importance of tailoring releases to suit local tastes. This strategic move not only broadened Vanadium's reach but also exemplified the globalization of music during that era.
The year 1982 was a pivotal time for the metal genre, witnessing the rise of several influential bands and the consolidation of the global metal community. Vanadium's "Metal Rock" album, with its powerful sound and distinctive style, contributed to this burgeoning movement. The partnership with Mausoleum Records allowed the band to connect with a new audience, fostering a cross-cultural exchange between Italy and Belgium.
The 12" LP vinyl format itself was an integral part of the album's identity. In an era dominated by vinyl records, the larger canvas offered by the 12" format allowed for detailed album artwork and enhanced the overall listening experience. Collectors and music enthusiasts of the time cherished these tangible artifacts, further solidifying the cultural significance of the album.
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Music Genre: Italian Heavy Metal |
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Album Production Information: The album: "VANADIUM - Metal Rock" was produced by: Geyrey (Fremus) and VanadiumSound/Recording Engineer(s): Franco Santamaria This album was recorded at: Simphony Studio, Milano , Italy Album cover design: Blueprint Album cover photography: Ruggero Zanolini (keyboards) |
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Record Label Information: Mausoleum Records SKULL 8306 |
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: Made in Belgium |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: VANADIUM - Metal Rock |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "VANADIUM - Metal Rock" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "VANADIUM - Metal Rock" is:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "VANADIUM - Metal Rock" |
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Album Back Cover Photo of "VANADIUM - Metal Rock" |
Photo of the Mausoleum record's label |
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. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ). |
Vanadium was a Japanese heavy metal band that formed in 1981. The band's members consisted of Yukio Morikawa on vocals, Akira Takasaki on guitar, Masayoshi Yamashita on bass, and Hirotsugu Homma on drums. Their music was heavily influenced by British heavy metal, with elements of power metal and speed metal.
Vanadium released their first album, "Metal Rock," in 1982. The album was a hit in Japan and helped establish the band as one of the leading heavy metal acts in the country. Their second album, "A Race with the Devil," was released the following year and further solidified their popularity.
One of Vanadium's most well-known songs is "Burning Love," which was featured on their third album, "Seventh Heaven." The song has become a classic of Japanese heavy metal and is still played frequently on rock radio stations.
Throughout the 1980s, Vanadium continued to release albums and tour extensively in Japan. Their music was praised for its technical proficiency and powerful performances. In 1986, the band released their fifth album, "Mystery of the Sacred Stones," which featured a more progressive sound than their previous work.
Despite their success in Japan, Vanadium never achieved significant international recognition. This was partly due to the language barrier, as most of their lyrics were in Japanese. However, their music has since gained a cult following among heavy metal fans around the world.
In 1990, Vanadium disbanded due to creative differences between the band members. Takasaki went on to form the successful heavy metal band Loudness, while Morikawa pursued a solo career.
Despite their relatively short career, Vanadium's impact on the Japanese heavy metal scene cannot be overstated. Their technical prowess and dynamic performances paved the way for future generations of Japanese heavy metal bands. They also helped to introduce the genre to a wider audience in Japan, inspiring countless fans to pick up a guitar or start a band of their own.
Today, Vanadium's legacy lives on through their music, which continues to inspire new generations of heavy metal fans around the world. Their influence can be heard in the work of contemporary Japanese heavy metal bands, as well as in the music of international acts that have been influenced by their sound.
Durium D. AI 30-420 / D. St 052269 , 1986 , Made in Italy
Vanadium's "Born To Fight," a seminal 1986 Italian Heavy Metal album, unfolds a sonic saga of power and precision. Produced by Louis Austin, renowned for his work with Deep Purple and Def Leppard, and guided by Vincenzo "Gegè" Reitano, the album's original Italian pressing on 12" Vinyl LP Album stands as a collector's treasure. A timeless blend of heavy riffs and anthemic choruses, "Born To Fight" resonates as a testament to Vanadium's enduring musical legacy.
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ZYX Metal 45008 , 1985 , Made in Germany
Vanadium, the Italian heavy metal force, carved its legacy with the electrifying "On Streets of Danger Live." Recorded during their 1984 Paris tour, the album captures the raw energy and intensity that defined the band's live performances. Producer Massimo Poggini ensured the essence of Vanadium's magic was preserved, leaving listeners with a timeless sonic journey through the streets of danger and the golden era of European heavy metal.
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Mausoleum Records SKULL 8306 , Belgium
"Vanadium's 'Metal Rock' album, a 1982 masterpiece, encapsulates the essence of Italian heavy metal. Released on Durium for the Italian market and Mausoleum Records for Belgium, it marks a cross-cultural musical odyssey. With potent sound and distinctive style, the LP remains a pivotal artifact in the global metal movement. Experience a timeless fusion of power and artistry."
Learn more
