"Heartbeat City" Album Description:
The year was 1984, and the music scene was pulsating with a distinct blend of synthesizers, catchy melodies, and an undeniable energy. It was against this vibrant backdrop that The Cars, an American rock band, released their fifth studio album, "Heartbeat City." This expository article delves into the time period's context, the production details, and the creative minds behind this iconic 12" vinyl LP.
The 1980s Music Landscape:
The 1980s witnessed a transformative period in the music industry, marked by the widespread adoption of synthesizers and electronic production techniques. Genres like new wave, synth-pop, and rock fused together to create a sound that defined the era. "Heartbeat City" arrived right in the midst of this musical evolution, showcasing The Cars' ability to adapt and innovate.
Production Maestros:
The album's production was a collaborative effort between The Cars themselves and the renowned Robert John "Mutt" Lange. Known for his work with iconic artists like AC/DC and Def Leppard, Lange brought his expertise to "Heartbeat City." The synergy between the band's creative vision and Lange's production finesse resulted in a sonic masterpiece.
The sound and recording engineers, Nigel Green and Mike Shipley, played pivotal roles in shaping the album's sonic landscape. Their meticulous approach ensured that each note, each beat, resonated with precision. The decision to record at Battery Studios in London, England, added a touch of international flair to the album. The subsequent remixing at Electric Lady Land Studios in New York City further enriched the sonic palette.
Visual Aesthetics:
An album is not only an auditory experience but also a visual one. The cover of "Heartbeat City" is a testament to this belief. The album cover painting, titled "Art-O-Matic Loop Di Loop," was crafted by the talented Peter Philips. The design, credited to HSU, Cathy Henszey, and David Robinson, encapsulated the spirit of the 1980s with its vibrant and dynamic visuals. Doris Kloster and George Holz, the photographers behind the album cover, captured the essence of The Cars' music through their lens.
Music Genre:
New Wave, 80s Pop-Rock |
Album Production Information:
The album: "THE CARS - Heartbeat City" was produced by:The Cars & Robert John "Mutt" Lange
Sound/Recording Engineer(s):
Nigel Green, Mike shipley
This album was recorded at:
Battery Studios, London, England.
Battery Studios (London) – Recording studioNorthwest London’s quiet hit-factory: born as Morgan Studio 3 & 4, rebranded by Zomba in 1980, and suddenly everybody wanted in. Read more... Battery Studios (London), Battery Studios — a Willesden Green workhorse that learned new tricks fast. Built as Morgan Studio 3 & 4 in the early ’70s, it got re-badged in 1980 when Zomba bought it and started feeding it Jive/Zomba projects, then the rest of London followed. Inside, the vibe was part office, part laboratory: in-house guns like Mutt Lange and Martin Birch drifting through, bookings ringing off the hook. Remember the tech flex: Fairlight CMI, SSL desks, and that 32-track Mitsubishi when most rooms still smelled like spooled oxide. Listen to the timeline: Iron Maiden (Nov 1980–82), Def Leppard (1981–82), The Cars (1984), Billy Ocean (1984–88), The Stone Roses (Jun 1988–Feb 1989), and even Bryan Adams with Lange (1991). Remixed: Electric Lady Land Studios, New York City
Album coer painting : Peter Philips "Art-O-Matic Loop Di Loop"
Album cover design:
HSU, Cathy Henszey, David Robinson
Album cover photography: Doris Kloster, George Holz
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Record Label & Catalognr: Elektra Asylum 960 296 |
| Packaging:
Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design with artwork / photos on the inside cover pages
This album "THE CARS - Heartbeat City" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photosby "The Cars"
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 280 gram |
Year & Country:
1984 Made in Germany |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: THE CARS - Heartbeat City |
Band-members, Musicians and Performers
- Ric Ocasek – rhythm guitar, synthesiser, lead vocals on 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 10
- Elliot Easton – lead guitar, backing vocals
- Greg Hawkes – keyboards, Fairlight programming, backing vocals
- Benjamin Orr – bass guitar, lead vocals on 4, 5, 7
- David Robinson – drums, percussion, Fairlight programming
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