IRON MAIDEN - KILLERS 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Genuine French release from 1981

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  

 

IRON MAIDEN - Killers France Release 12" LP ALBUM VINYL album front cover

In a blaze of glory, from the battlefields of 1981, emerges a heavy metal's nascent power: Iron Maiden's Killers.
Album Description:

This French vinyl pressing, a relic from a time when New Wave of British Heavy Metal was carving its name into the annals of rock history, captures the raw energy and unbridled ambition of a band on the cusp of greatness.

Historical Context:

The early 80s was a time of social unrest and political turmoil, and "Killers" reflects this zeitgeist in its aggressive sound and rebellious lyrics. The album stands as a defiant middle finger to the establishment, an anthem for the disaffected youth of the era.

Musical Exploration:

"Killers" is a masterclass in heavy metal songwriting, showcasing the band's signature galloping rhythms, soaring vocals, and intricate guitar harmonies. The album's diverse soundscape ranges from the breakneck speed of "Wrathchild" to the haunting melodies of "Murders in the Rue Morgue," demonstrating Iron Maiden's willingness to experiment within their chosen genre.

Genre:

This album is a quintessential example of New Wave of British Heavy Metal, a subgenre that emerged in the late 70s and early 80s, characterized by its fast tempos, aggressive guitar riffs, and often dark lyrical themes. "Killers" helped to define and popularize this sound, paving the way for countless bands that followed in Iron Maiden's footsteps.

Production Team and Recording Studio:

"Killers" was produced by Martin Birch, a legendary figure in the world of rock production, who would go on to work with Iron Maiden on several of their most iconic albums. The album was recorded at Battery Studios in London, a facility known for its warm, analog sound, which perfectly complements the band's raw energy.

Controversies:

While "Killers" was not as overtly controversial as some of Iron Maiden's later albums, its dark lyrical themes and aggressive sound did raise some eyebrows at the time. The album's title track, with its graphic depiction of violence, was particularly divisive, but it also helped to establish Iron Maiden's reputation as a band that was not afraid to push boundaries.

Collectors information:

 

This album should include the black original custom inner sleeve

Music Genre:

New Wave of British Heavy Metal, NWOBHM 

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 is a legendary recording hub for rock, pop, and more since the 1970s. Discover its iconic sessions, top-tier gear, and legacy Read more.

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 renowned music photographer celebrated for capturing iconic live performances and behind-the-scenes moments of legendary rock and metal bands. His compelling visual storytelling has appeared in countless magazines and album sleeves. Discover more through this dedicated profile.

Record Label & Catalog number: 

EMI 2C 070-07.450  

Media Format:

12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1981 Made in France  
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: IRON MAIDEN KILLERS FRANCE
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Clive Burr - Drums

    From East End kid to Iron Maiden's rhythmic engine, Clive Burr pounded his way into metal history. A whirlwind career, cut short by tragedy, but his thunderous legacy lives on. Read it Here

  • Dave Murray - Guitars
    Dave Murray, born 1956, is the melodic mastermind behind Iron Maiden‘s signature twin-guitar attack. A founding member, his fluid, expressive solos and harmonized leads have defined the band’s sound since 1975. With impeccable technique and a bluesy yet electrifying style, he’s a pillar of heavy metal guitar. Learn more about his journey here.
  • Paul Di'Anno - Lead Vocals

    Follow the tumultuous journey of Paul Di'Anno (1958-2024), the fiery frontman who shaped Iron Maiden's early sound. From metal glory to personal struggles, his story is one of passion, rebellion, and resilience. Read it Here

  • Steve Harris
    Steve Harris, born 1956, is the mastermind behind Iron Maiden’s galloping bass lines and epic compositions. Founding the band in 1975, his songwriting shaped metal anthems like The Trooper and Hallowed Be Thy Name. A pioneer of NWOBHM, his legacy as a bassist and visionary is untouchable. Discover his journey here.
  • Adrian Smith
    Adrian Smith, born 1957, is the riff architect behind Iron Maiden’s most electrifying anthems. Since joining in 1981, his intricate solos and melodic sensibility have shaped classics like Two Minutes to Midnight and The Trooper. A master of tone and technique, his legacy in metal is unmatched. Explore his story here.
Complete Track-listing of the album "IRON MAIDEN KILLERS FRANCE "

The detailed tracklist of this record "IRON MAIDEN KILLERS FRANCE " is:

    Track-listing :
  1. The Ides of March
  2. Wrathchild
  3. Murders in the Rue Morgue
  4. Another Life
  5. Genghis Khan
  6. Innocent Exile
  7. Killers
  8. Prodigal Son
  9. Purgatory
  10. Drifter

IRON MAIDEN - Vinyl Records Discography Home Page