- Canadian Release
Killers is the second album by IRON MAIDEN. It was the first of their albums to feature guitarist Adrian Smith, and the last to feature vocalist Paul Di'Anno, who left the band mid-tour due to problems with alcohol and cocaine. This was also the first album produced by veteran producer Martin Birch who went on to produce their next eight albums before retiring after Fear of the Dark in 1992
From the depths of London's historic Battery Studios in 1981 emerged a sonic maelstrom destined to carve its name into the annals of heavy metal. Iron Maiden, the New Wave of British Heavy Metal's rising stars, unleashed their sophomore album, "Killers," upon the Canadian masses, a sonic testament to their growing prowess and unyielding spirit.
Produced by the legendary Martin Birch, who had previously helmed iconic works by Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, "Killers" showcased a band on the precipice of greatness. Birch's deft touch, along with the engineering expertise of Nigel Hewitt, captured the raw energy and intricate musicianship that would become Iron Maiden's signature.
The album's cover art, a chilling masterpiece by Derek Riggs, featured the band's iconic mascot, Eddie, lurking in the shadows, a menacing figure ready to strike. The imagery perfectly encapsulated the album's dark themes of murder, revenge, and the macabre.
Musically, "Killers" was a relentless assault of galloping rhythms, soaring vocals, and intricate guitar harmonies. Tracks like "Wrathchild," "Murders in the Rue Morgue," and the title track itself became instant anthems, their infectious energy resonating with metalheads across the nation. The album's historical context is significant, as it marked a pivotal moment in Iron Maiden's career. It solidified their position as one of the leading forces in the burgeoning heavy metal scene, setting the stage for their subsequent rise to global stardom.
The Canadian release of "Killers" on the Capitol Harvest label was a landmark event, introducing a new audience to the band's unique brand of metal. The album's raw power and uncompromising spirit struck a chord with Canadian fans, who embraced Iron Maiden with open arms.
While "Killers" was not without its controversies, with some critics deeming the lyrics too violent or graphic, the album's impact was undeniable. It cemented Iron Maiden's reputation as a force to be reckoned with, paving the way for a string of classic albums that would define the genre for decades to come.
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Music Genre: NWOBHM New Wave of British Heavy Metal |
Album Production Information: The album: "IRON MAIDEN - Killers Netherlands" was produced by: Martin Birch
Martin Birch's: The man behind the soundboard, shaping iconic rock and metal anthems. His journey from sound engineer to legendary producer is a testament to passion and innovation.
Read on his career
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Martin Birch, Nigel Hewitt Nigel Hewitt a British Sound Engineer who has (during the 1980s) engineered vinyl albums for heavy metal bands like: Def Leppard, Iron Maiden, Dio, Mammoth and others. This album was recorded at: Battery Studios, London Battery Studios London a recording studio located in London, England. Established in the late 1970s, it has been a popular destination for musicians, producers and engineers seeking a top-notch recording facility. The studio is equipped with state-of-the-art recording gear and technology, and is known for its spacious, acoustically treated rooms, which provide ideal conditions for capturing great-sounding recordings. Battery Studios has played host to a wide range of musicians and artists over the years, and has been the site of many iconic recordings. From rock and pop to Bhip-hop and electronic music, the studio has seen its share of diverse and talented musicians come through its doors. The studio is also known for its commitment to quality and its friendly and professional staff, who are dedicated to ensuring that each recording session is a success. Whether you are an up-and-coming artist or an established performer, Battery Studios provides a world-class recording experience, and the chance to capture your music in the best possible light. Album cover design: Derek Riggs Derek Riggs is a British artist best known for creating the iconic mascot Eddie for the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. His distinctive style, blending sci-fi, horror, and fantasy, has defined the band's visual identity since their debut album in 1980. Riggs’ artwork has appeared on numerous album covers, singles, and merchandise. Learn more about his work on this page .
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 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: Capitol Harvest ST-12141 |
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Record Format 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: xxx gram |
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Year & Country 1981 Made in Canada |
Band Members and Musicians on: IRON MAIDEN Killers |
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Complete Track Listing of: IRON MAIDEN Killers |
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Description
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Record Label Details: Capitol Harvest ST-12141 © 1981 Capitol Records Copyright ℗ EMI Records Ltd Sound Copyright
