In the heart of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) explosion of the early 1980s, Denmark's Witch Cross unleashed their debut and only full-length album, "Fit For Fight." Released in 1984, this 12" vinyl LP marked a significant moment for Danish heavy metal, showcasing a band unafraid to explore the genre's sonic boundaries.
Emerging in a scene dominated by British bands, Witch Cross brought a unique Scandinavian flavor to their heavy metal sound. Their music was a potent blend of galloping riffs, soaring vocals, and intricate song structures, drawing inspiration from NWOBHM stalwarts like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest while infusing their own distinct identity.
A Sonic Exploration
"Fit For Fight" showcased Witch Cross's musical versatility, ranging from the thunderous opener, "Nightflight to Tokyo," to the epic, anthemic closer, "Alien Savage." The album's tracklist explored a variety of themes, from fantasy and mythology to social commentary and personal struggles.
The band's willingness to experiment with different sounds and textures was evident throughout the album. Songs like "Face of a Clown" featured intricate guitar harmonies and melodic vocal lines, while "Axe Dance" showcased a heavier, more aggressive side of the band's sound.
Controversial Artwork
While "Fit For Fight" was praised for its musicality and songwriting, it also courted controversy due to its provocative album artwork. The cover depicted a scantily clad woman wielding an axe, a visual that some found offensive and exploitative.
This controversy, however, did not overshadow the album's musical merits. "Fit For Fight" was well-received by critics and fans alike, solidifying Witch Cross's position as one of Denmark's leading heavy metal bands.
The Creative Minds Behind the Music
"Fit For Fight" was recorded at Easy Sound Recording in Copenhagen, a studio that had also produced other notable Danish metal acts like Mercyful Fate. The album was produced by Ivan Horn, a veteran producer known for his work with Danish rock bands.
The band's lineup featured Alex Savage on vocals, Mike Wlad and Cole Hamilton on guitars, "Little" John Field on bass, and A.C. on drums. Savage's powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence were a key component of Witch Cross's appeal, while the band's twin guitar attack and thunderous rhythm section provided a solid foundation for their sonic explorations.
