IRON MAIDEN - Killers 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Germany 2nd Pressing

Iron Maiden's sophomore album, "Killers," explodes with raw energy and showcases the band's evolution towards a more melodic, powerful sound. Brace yourself for classics like "Wrathchild" and the title track, along with the driving instrumentals that perfectly set the album's thrillingly dark tone. This is Iron Maiden solidifying their place as heavy metal masters.

IRON MAIDEN - Killers Germany 2nd Release 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

"Killers" Album Description

Iron Maiden's sophomore release, "Killers," stormed the world in 1981, showcasing the band's evolution towards a tighter, more melodic heavy metal sound. While the initial UK release is iconic, the German 2nd release holds a special place in Maiden's discography due to its sonic refinements and an intriguing track change.

Sonic Evolution

Produced by the legendary Martin "Headmaster" Birch, "Killers" on the German 2nd release demonstrates a noticeable improvement in sound quality compared to the initial UK release. This enhanced production allows instruments to cut through the mix with greater clarity. Paul Di'Anno's vocals feel more dynamic, while Steve Harris's signature basslines punch through with more definition. Adrian Smith's guitar work, now a vital component of Iron Maiden's dual guitar attack, soars with melodic leads and propulsive rhythms.

The Track Shift

A key difference in the German 2nd release is replacing the original instrumental opener, "The Ides of March," with the powerhouse track "Twilight Zone." This swap adds a strong, vocal-driven song to the album's start, kicking off the experience with greater melodic weight. "The Ides of March" still holds a place in Iron Maiden history as a showcase of the band's early instrumental prowess, but "Twilight Zone" delivers a more instant punch that's suited to the album's overall feel.

Seminal Heavy Metal

Beyond production and track listing tweaks, the core of "Killers" remains a testament to Iron Maiden's raw energy and expanding songwriting chops. Songs like "Wrathchild," "Murders in the Rue Morgue," and the title track are high-octane classics, filled with pummeling rhythms and singalong choruses. The album also unveils Iron Maiden's more nuanced side with tracks like "Prodigal Son," showcasing their ability to meld intricate musicianship with epic storytelling.

Featured Song: "Wrathchild" Explained

Iron Maiden's "Wrathchild" is a high-octane anthem that captures the raw energy and frustration of teenage rebellion.

The song explodes with galloping drums and Steve Harris's signature bassline, creating a sense of urgency that perfectly complements vocalist Paul Di'Anno's aggressive snarl. Di'Anno embodies the character of a restless youth, railing against societal constraints and yearning for freedom. Lyrics like "Gonna break all the rules" and "Got a hunger, gotta rage" resonate with anyone who's ever felt stifled by authority.

"Wrathchild" isn't just about teenage angst, though. It hints at a darker side, with lines like "Maybe destruction's what I need." This ambiguity adds depth to the song, suggesting the potential for the protagonist's anger to turn destructive.

Musically, "Wrathchild" is a masterclass in early Iron Maiden. Twin guitar harmonies soar over the rhythm section, creating a powerful and memorable soundscape. The song's breakneck pace and catchy chorus make it a live favorite, ensuring its place as a cornerstone of Iron Maiden's legacy.

Listen to Wrathchild:
 Genre: Metal, NWOBHM

 Album Production: Information

  Produced by Martin "Headmaster" 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

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.

more...

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.

Cover art: Derek Riggs.

Discover the man behind the monster: Derek Riggs, the artist who brought Iron Maiden's Eddie to life. Explore his artistic journey beyond heavy metal. Read it Here

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.

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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.

 Record Label: EMI Records Ltd 1C 064-07 450 (064-07450) LC 0542  

 Album Packaging: 

Original custom black inner sleeve  

Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record 

Year & Country:

  1981 Made in Germany  
Band Members and Musicians on: IRON MAIDEN - Killers
Complete Track Listing of: IRON MAIDEN - Killers

    Tracks:
  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

 

Front Cover Photo Of IRON MAIDEN - Killers Germany 2nd Release 12" Vinyl LP Album

 

IRON MAIDEN - Killers Germany 2nd Release 12" Vinyl LP Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

 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 ).

Close up of record's label IRON MAIDEN - Killers Germany 2nd Release 12" Vinyl LP Album Side One

"Killers" Record Label Details: EMI Records Ltd 1C 064-07 450 (064-07450) LC 0542   ℗ 1981 EMI Records Sound Copyright

"Killers" Record Label Details: EMI Records Ltd 1C 064-07 450 (064-07450) LC 0542   ℗ 1981 EMI Records Sound Copyright
 

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