- Fame Germany Release
This is the FAME Records release of "Killers" and has the FAME logo printed in the top right of the cover ( just below "Killers" ). 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
Heavy metal history was forged when Iron Maiden unleashed their sophomore album, "Killers," in 1981. While the album's UK release remains the standard, the German "Fame" edition on vinyl offers a unique perspective on this metal masterpiece.
The Fame Factor
Released under the EMI subsidiary "Fame," this German edition boasts enhanced audio quality compared to the original UK pressing. The instruments cut through with more bite, showcasing the band's tighter, more ferocious sound. Di'Anno's vocals feel sharper, while the rhythm section of Harris and drummer Clive Burr packs a stronger punch. This sonic upgrade breathes new life into heavy metal anthems like "Wrathchild" and the relentless title track.
Iron Maiden's Raw Power
Beyond its production refinements and altered sequencing, the German "Killers" is a potent reminder of Iron Maiden's ascendence. The album's raw energy and expanding melodic sensibilities are encapsulated in tracks like "Murders in the Rue Morgue" and the haunting "Prodigal Son".
Iron Maiden's "Killers" isn't just another heavy metal anthem. It's a heart-pounding descent into the mind of a deranged stalker.
The song opens with a chilling atmosphere, punctuated by Steve Harris's bassline mimicking the rhythmic rumble of a subway train. Paul Di'Anno's vocals then take center stage, adopting a menacing tone as he describes the killer's predatory gaze, fixated on an unsuspecting victim.
As the song progresses, the music intensifies, mirroring the rising tension. Guitars screech with a sense of urgency, while Clive Burr's drumming evokes the frantic heartbeat of the hunted. Di'Anno's lyrics become increasingly graphic, detailing the brutal act and the chilling aftermath.
"Killers" isn't just about violence, though. It delves into the psychological horror of being stalked. The constant shift between first and third-person narration creates a sense of disorientation, mirroring the victim's terror.
By weaving a chilling narrative into a powerful metal soundscape, Iron Maiden's "Killers" remains a classic of the genre, a testament to their ability to explore dark themes with both musical fury and unsettling detail.
Heavy Metal, NWOBHM
EMI 1C 038-15 7593 1
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1981 Made in Germany
Martin Birch - Producer
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
Martin Birch - Sound Engineer
Nigel Hewitt - Sound Engineer
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.
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
Robert Ellis - Photographer
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.
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
Explore the life and musical journey of Dave Murray, a guitar virtuoso who shaped the sound of Iron Maiden and left an indelible mark on heavy metal. Read it Here
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
Discover the man behind Iron Maiden's galloping basslines and epic anthems. From football dreams to heavy metal legend, Steve Harris's journey is as captivating as his music. Read it Here
Discover the journey of Adrian Smith, the melodic maestro behind Iron Maiden's iconic sound. From humble beginnings to heavy metal stardom, explore his passion for music, songwriting prowess, and enduring legacy. Read it Here
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 )