"Ethel the Frog" was a heavy metal band formed in 1976 in Hull, England. They are notable for being a part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement. The band's unusual name was taken from a Monty Python sketch about the "Piranha Brothers"
This album "ETHEL THE FROG" is the only official album released by this band.
Emerging during the fertile New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) scene in the early 1980s, Ethel the Frog's self-titled debut album stands as a testament to the era's raw energy and musical diversity. Released in 1981, the album captured the band's unique blend of hard rock, punk, and proto-metal influences.
Historical Context and Genre
Ethel the Frog's debut arrived at a time when the NWOBHM was in full swing. Bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Saxon were gaining international recognition, while countless other groups were vying for their place in the spotlight. Ethel the Frog carved a niche for themselves with their unpolished sound and eclectic musical approach. While firmly rooted in the NWOBHM, the band's sound incorporated elements of punk rock's aggression and garage rock's raw simplicity. This unique blend set them apart from their contemporaries and garnered them a dedicated following among underground music fans.
Musical Exploration
The self-titled album showcases Ethel the Frog's willingness to experiment within the heavy metal framework. Tracks like "Fight Back" and "Don't Do It" are fueled by punk-infused energy, while "Whatever Happened To Love" and "Fire Bird" reveal a softer, more melodic side. The album's diversity reflects the band's refusal to be confined by genre limitations.
Lyrically, the album tackles themes of social unrest, disillusionment, and the struggles of everyday life. This relatable content resonated with audiences who were experiencing the harsh realities of the early 1980s.
Production and Recording
The album's production was intentionally lo-fi, reflecting the DIY ethos of the NWOBHM scene. The band recorded the album in a small, independent studio, prioritizing raw energy over polished perfection. This approach captured the band's live sound and contributed to the album's authenticity.
Controversies
Ethel the Frog's self-titled album did not generate any significant controversies. However, the band's uncompromising attitude and anti-establishment lyrics may have ruffled a few feathers among more conservative audiences. This only served to solidify their reputation as a band that refused to conform to mainstream expectations.
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Music Genre: Heavy Metal, NWOBHM |
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Album Production Information: The album: "ETHEL THE FROG" was produced by: Doug Sheppard Album cover design: David Dragon |
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Record Label & Catalognr: White Label EMI EMC 3329 |
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1980 Made in Gt Britain |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: ETHEL THE FROG |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "ETHEL THE FROG" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "ETHEL THE FROG" is:
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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 ).
"Ethel The Frog" White Colour Record Label Details: White Label EMI EMC 3329 ℗ 1980 Original Sound Recording Sound Copyright
