Def Leppard - On Through The Night 12" Vinyl LP Album

"On Through the Night" is the 1980 and first/debut album released by the British Heavy Metal band "Def Leppard". Is was produced by "Colonel" Tom Allom and Roy Neavy

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Full description: "On Through The Night" is the debut album by British rock band Def Leppard, released in 1980. The album showcases the band's early hard rock sound, with heavy guitar riffs and driving rhythms. Songs like "Rock Brigade" and "Wasted" became instant favorites among fans and helped establish Def Leppard as a rising force in the rock scene. While not as commercially successful as their later albums, "On Through The Night" remains a classic example of early 80s hard rock, and a must-listen for fans of the genre. The album set the stage for Def Leppard's future success and solidified their place in rock history.

Album  Production information:
Produced by "Colonel" Tom Allom and Roy Neavy

Tom "Colonel" Allom In the illustrious realm of music production, one name that resonates with brilliance is that of Tom Allom. Born on 14th March 1946 in London, this British music producer and sound engineer have left an indelible mark on the landscape of rock and metal music.

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Allom's journey into the realm of sound engineering began in the late 1960s when he found himself at the epicenter of the burgeoning British music scene. With a keen ear for detail and an innate understanding of the nuances of sound, he quickly gained recognition among the music elite.

His breakthrough came when he collaborated with the legendary rock band Judas Priest in the late 1970s. The partnership proved to be nothing short of magical, as Allom's production work on albums like "British Steel" and "Screaming for Vengeance" catapulted Judas Priest into international stardom. The distinctive sound he crafted for the band, characterized by powerful guitar riffs and dynamic vocals, became synonymous with the golden era of heavy metal.

Allom's contribution extended beyond Judas Priest, as he lent his expertise to numerous iconic acts. His work with Black Sabbath, Def Leppard, and Krokus further solidified his reputation as a maestro in the studio. His ability to capture the raw energy of live performances while maintaining clarity and precision set him apart in an industry that demanded perfection.

In addition to his prowess in the studio, Tom Allom's collaboration with these renowned bands saw him participate in the creation of some of rock and metal's most enduring anthems. From the anthemic "Living After Midnight" to the thunderous "Breaking the Law," Allom's fingerprints are etched into the sonic fabric of classic rock.

As the music industry evolved, so did Allom's career. He adapted seamlessly to changing technologies, ensuring that his production techniques remained at the forefront of innovation. His work continued to influence younger generations of producers, and he remained a sought-after name in the industry.

Beyond his technical proficiency, Tom Allom's affable personality and collaborative spirit endeared him to the musicians he worked with. His ability to understand and enhance the vision of artists contributed significantly to the success of the projects he undertook.


Sound/Recording engineers Louis "Snook" Austin and Dick Plant

Louis Austin

Louis Austin, the renowned sound engineer, played a pivotal role in shaping the sonic landscape during a crucial period in the history of music production. Born 1941, in London, Austin's career spanned from the 1960s to the 1980s, aligning with a transformative era in the music industry.

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During the 1960s, the music scene witnessed a significant shift marked by the rise of iconic bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who. Louis Austin entered the scene as a sound engineer, contributing his expertise to numerous groundbreaking recordings. His technical proficiency and innovative approaches to sound engineering had a profound impact on the quality and depth of music produced during this time.

One of Austin's notable contributions was his work with The Beatles during the recording sessions of the legendary album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" in 1967. His meticulous attention to detail and experimentation with studio techniques helped create the album's distinctive sound, earning him recognition for his role in shaping the psychedelic and avant-garde elements present in the tracks.

Beyond The Beatles, Louis Austin collaborated with a diverse range of artists, showcasing his versatility as a sound engineer. His work extended to genres such as rock, blues, and folk, leaving an indelible mark on the sonic landscape of the 1970s. As the music industry evolved, so did Austin's approach to sound engineering, adapting to new technologies and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the studio.

In the 1980s, Louis Austin's influence continued to resonate as he embraced emerging digital technologies in the recording process. His ability to seamlessly integrate analog and digital elements showcased his adaptability and forward-thinking mindset.


Recording at Startling Studios, Ascot, during December 1979

Adrian Boot - Photography

Alan Schmidt - Design, Art

Melvin Smith - Album Cover Illustration

Bob Ludwig - Mastering Engineer

Bob Ludwig Bob Ludwig is an American mastering engineer and record producer. He is widely regarded as one of the best mastering engineers in the music industry, and has worked with a diverse range of artists across various genres, including classical, rock, pop, and jazz.

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Ludwig has been active in the music industry since the 1970s and has worked on numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, including records by Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and many others. He has also been recognized for his contributions to the industry and has won several Grammy Awards for his work.

Throughout his career, Ludwig has been known for his technical expertise, attention to detail, and his ability to bring out the best in recordings. He has also been a strong advocate for the preservation of audio quality and has worked to promote the use of high-quality analog and digital technologies in the recording and mastering process.

Overall, Bob Ludwig is a highly respected and accomplished mastering engineer who has made a significant impact on the music industry through his work with many of the biggest and most influential artists of our time.


Album cover illustration Melvin Smith
Album sleeve 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 vibrant 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.

Music Genre:

 Heavy Metal

Record Label Information:

 Vertigo 6360 180 ( 6360180 )

Media Format:

 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record 

Year & Country:

 1979 Made in Germany
Band Members and Musicians on: Def Leppard - On Through The Night
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Joe Elliot - Lead Vocals

      Joe Elliott is a British musician, best known as the lead vocalist and co-founder of the legendary rock band, Def Leppard. Born on August 1, 1959, in Sheffield, England, Elliott showed an early interest in music and formed his first band at the age of fifteen.

    In 1977, Elliott co-founded Def Leppard, and they released their debut album, "On Through the Night," in 1980. The band's second album, "High 'n' Dry," was released in 1981 and catapulted them to international fame. Over the years, Def Leppard has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time.

    Aside from his work with Def Leppard, Elliott has also been involved in other musical projects, including the Mott the Hoople tribute album, "All the Young Dudes," and the supergroup, Down 'n' Outz.

    In addition to his musical career, Elliott is also an accomplished producer and has worked with artists such as Ricky Warwick, Black Star Riders, and Last in Line. He is also a radio DJ and hosts a show on Planet Rock.

    Joe Elliott's contributions to rock music have earned him numerous accolades and honors, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.

  • Steve Clark (1960-1991) - Guitars
  • Rick Savage - Bass
  • Pete Willis - Lead Guitar
  • Rick Allen - Drums
Track Listing of: Def Leppard - On Through The Night
 

The Song/tracks on "Def Leppard - On Through The Night" are:

 
    Side One:
  • Rock Brigade
  • Hello America
  • Sorrow is A Woman
  • It Could Be You
  • Answer to the Master
  • When The Walls Come Tumblin' Down
 
    Side Two:
  • Wasted
  • Rocks Off
  • It Don't Matter
  • Satelite
  • Overture
Album cover photos of : Def Leppard - On Through The Night

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High Resolution Photo Album Back Cover  

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Enlarged High Resolution Photo of the Record's label  

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 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 ).

DEF LEPPARD A Thunderous Legacy - The Complete Discography of One of the Greatest Rock Bands of All Time

  Def Leppard is a British rock band that formed in 1977 in Sheffield, England. Over the course of their career, they have achieved significant success, selling over 100 million records worldwide and earning a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

 Def Leppard's early years were marked by lineup changes and a relentless touring schedule. Their first two albums, "On Through the Night" and "High 'n' Dry," were moderate successes, but it was their third album, "Pyromania," that propelled them to international fame. Released in 1983, "Pyromania" was a commercial and critical success, featuring hit songs like "Photograph," "Rock of Ages," and "Foolin'." The album's blend of hard rock and pop sensibilities helped to define the sound of 1980s rock music.

 Def Leppard's next album, "Hysteria," was released in 1987 and became one of the best-selling albums of the decade. Its success was due in part to the band's innovative use of studio technology, such as multi-layered vocals and electronic drum sounds. "Hysteria" spawned hit singles like "Pour Some Sugar on Me," "Love Bites," and "Armageddon It," and cemented Def Leppard's place in the pantheon of rock legends.

 Despite setbacks, including the death of guitarist Steve Clark in 1991, Def Leppard continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s. Their music has evolved over the years, incorporating elements of grunge and alternative rock, but they have always maintained their signature sound: catchy melodies, big hooks, and anthemic choruses.

 Def Leppard's influence on rock music is significant. They helped to define the sound of 1980s rock, and their use of technology in the studio paved the way for future innovations in rock production. Their music has inspired countless musicians, and their live performances are legendary for their energy and showmanship. In addition, their success as a British band in America helped to pave the way for other UK acts, such as Guns N' Roses and Nirvana, to find success on the US charts.

DEF LEPPARD - Animal Extended Play 12" EP
Thumbnail of DEF LEPPARD - Animal Extended Play 12" EP album front cover

Vertigo LEP 101 / Bludgeon Riffola , 1987 , England

The "Animal" EP features two remixes of the title track, as well as live versions of "Tear It Down" and "Women". The page also includes background information about the band and the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement. It's a valuable resource for Def Leppard fans and collectors of NWOBHM vinyl.

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DEF LEPPARD - High 'n' Dry (German release) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of DEF LEPPARD - High 'n' Dry (DE) 12" LP album front cover

Vertigo 6359 045 , 1981 , West-Germany

This German release of Def Leppard's "High 'n' Dry" features the same track listing as the UK release. The German version was produced by Phonogram and released on the Vertigo Records label, which was founded in 1969 and has been the home of many notable rock acts. The album helped establish Def Leppard as a prominent force in the 80s rock scene.

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DEF LEPPARD - High 'n' Dry (Netherlands release) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of DEF LEPPARD - High 'n' Dry 12" LP album front cover

Bludgeon Riffola 830 675 , 1987 , Holland

This Netherlands release of Def Leppard's "High 'n' Dry" is the band's second album, originally released in 1981. It features classic hard rock tracks such as "Let It Go" and "High 'n' Dry (Saturday Night)". The Netherlands release features the same track listing as the UK release. The album's production and songwriting helped solidify Def Leppard's place in the 80s rock scene.

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DEF LEPPARD - Hysteria Picture Disc
Thumbnail of DEF LEPPARD - Hysteria Picture Disc album front cover

Mercury 832 962-1 , 1987 , USA

The "Hysteria Picture Disc" is a special edition vinyl release of Def Leppard's classic album, featuring the artwork on a collectible picture disc. The album, originally released in 1987, features hit songs like "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Love Bites". This edition retains the original sound quality while providing a unique visual element for fans and collectors.

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DEF LEPPARD - Hysteria 12" LP
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Bludgeon Riffola 830 675 , 1987 , Holland

Def Leppard's "Hysteria" is a rock classic, released in 1987. The album showcases the band's talent for big hooks and anthemic choruses, featuring hits like "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Love Bites". The production is polished and innovative, incorporating electronic elements and layered harmonies.

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DEF LEPPARD - On Through The Night (German release) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of DEF LEPPARD - On Through The Night (DE) 12" LP album front cover

Vertigo 6360 180 , 1979 , Germany

"On Through The Night" is the debut studio album by English rock band DEF LEPPARD, released in 1980. It features a mix of hard rock and heavy metal and includes popular tracks like "Rock Brigade" and "Wasted."

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DEF LEPPARD - Pyromania (Netherlands Release) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of DEF LEPPARD - Pyromania 12" LP album front cover

Vertigo 6359 119 , 1983 , Holland

Pyromania is the third album by British hard rock band Def Leppard, released in 1983. It broke the band across North America and in Japan, and would sell over 10 million copies worldwide. It featured new guitarist Phil Collen and was produced by Robert John "Mutt" Lange. 

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DEF LEPPARD - Pyromania (German release) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of DEF LEPPARD - Pyromania 12" LP album front cover

Vertigo 6359 119 , 1983 , West Germany

The German release of Pyromania with red/orange coloured record labels and is the third album by British hard rock band Def Leppard, released in 1983. It broke the band across North America and in Japan, and would sell over 10 million copies worldwide.

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DEF LEPPARD - Pyromania (British Release) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of DEF LEPPARD - Pyromania 12" LP album front cover

Vertigo VERS 2 , 1983 , England

The English release of Pyromania the third album by British hard rock band Def Leppard, released in 1983. It broke the band across North America and in Japan, and would sell over 10 million copies worldwide. It featured new guitarist Phil Collen and was produced by Robert John "Mutt" Lange. 

Learn more