- 1981 German Release
"No Sleep 'til Hammersmith" was Motörhead's first live album. The recordings were almost exclusively from three shows: (Leeds, March 28, 1981 and Newcastle March 29 and March 30, 1981). This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
In the tumultuous year of 1981, amidst strikes, riots, and a palpable sense of social unrest, Motörhead unleashed their sonic fury upon the world with "No Sleep 'til Hammersmith", a live album that captured the raw, unadulterated energy of their legendary concerts. This wasn't just another live recording; it was a declaration of war, a testament to the band's unwavering commitment to their signature brand of high-octane rock and roll.
Recorded during their "Short, Sharp, Pain in the Neck" tour, the album featured performances from three iconic venues: Leeds Queens Hall, Newcastle City Hall, and, of course, the Hammersmith Odeon in London. The production team, led by Vic Maile, known for his work with artists like Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and The Kinks, faced the daunting task of capturing the band's live intensity on tape. Maile's approach was simple: keep it raw, keep it real, and let Motörhead's sonic assault speak for itself.
"No Sleep 'til Hammersmith" wasn't a studio-polished affair; it was a visceral, in-your-face experience. From the opening chords of "Ace of Spades" to the final notes of "Motörhead," the album was a relentless onslaught of speed, aggression, and unapologetic rebellion. Lemmy's gravelly vocals snarled over a maelstrom of distorted guitars and thunderous drums, creating a sonic landscape that was both exhilarating and terrifying.
The album's tracklist was a carefully curated selection of Motörhead's most iconic songs, spanning their entire career up to that point. From the breakneck pace of "Overkill" to the anthemic "Bomber," each song was a testament to the band's enduring power and influence. It was a reminder that Motörhead wasn't just a band; they were a force of nature.
Despite its undeniable power, "No Sleep 'til Hammersmith" wasn't without its controversies. Some critics argued that the album's sound was too raw, too unpolished, while others lamented the absence of certain fan favorites. There were also concerns about the album's sequencing, with some feeling that it lacked a cohesive flow. However, these criticisms paled in comparison to the album's sheer sonic force.
British Heavy Metal, Hard Rock, NWOBHM
Bronze 203 801 (203801)
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1981 Germany
The original custom inner sleeve contains photos of Motorhead on stage
Vic Maile - Producer
Vic Maile , born on 27 March 1943, was a highly respected British sound engineer and record producer who played a significant role in shaping the sound of rock and roll. With his remarkable talent and passion for music, Maile made a lasting impact on the industry, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and artists alike.
Maile's journey in music began during his formative years, where he developed a deep fascination with sound and its manipulation. As a teenager, he immersed himself in the world of electronics and sound engineering, constantly experimenting with audio equipment and exploring new ways to capture and enhance musical performances.
In the 1960s, Maile emerged as a sought-after sound engineer, working with numerous bands and artists in the thriving British music scene. His technical proficiency and ability to understand the intricacies of sound quickly earned him a reputation for excellence. Artists and producers recognized Maile as someone who could elevate their music to new heights through his expertise in the recording studio.
Throughout his career, Maile had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse range of bands and musicians, each with their unique styles and sonic signatures. Some of the notable names he worked with include:
1. Dr. Feelgood: Maile's partnership with Dr. Feelgood in the mid-1970s proved to be a pivotal moment in both his career and the band's success. He played a vital role in capturing the band's raw, high-energy pub rock sound, contributing to the creation of their influential debut album, "Down by the Jetty" (1975).
2. Motörhead: One of Maile's most iconic collaborations was with the legendary heavy metal band Motörhead. His production work on their seminal albums, such as "Overkill" (1979) and "Ace of Spades" (1980), helped define their distinctive and aggressive sound. Maile's ability to capture the band's raw intensity and sheer power in the studio cemented their status as one of the genre's most influential acts.
3. Girlschool: Maile's partnership with the all-female heavy metal band Girlschool yielded exceptional results. He worked closely with them on albums like "Hit and Run" (1981) and "Screaming Blue Murder" (1982), crafting a sound that balanced their fierce energy with melodic hooks. His production skills showcased the band's musical prowess and contributed to their rise in the male-dominated rock landscape.
4. The Quireboys: Maile collaborated with The Quireboys for their debut album, "A Bit of What You Fancy" (1990). With his guidance, the band achieved a blend of classic rock and roll swagger with a contemporary edge, resulting in a critically acclaimed record that earned them commercial success.
Vic Maile's talent as a sound engineer and record producer extended far beyond these notable collaborations. His contributions to the rock and roll genre are immeasurable, as he worked with a myriad of artists who trusted him to translate their artistic vision into captivating sonic experiences.
Lemmy - bass, lead vocals
"Fast" Eddie Clarke - guitar, backing vocals
("Fast" Eddie Clarke was a British guitar player and music producer, better known for the period he performed with Motorhead from 1976 until 1982 and as producer of several Tank records.)
Phil "Philthy Animal" Taylor - drums
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 )
Recorded Live in England surrounded by Maniacs 1981 except Iron Horse 1980
RONZE 203 801 LC 2313 Record Label Details: GEMA ℗ 1981 Bronze Records Ltd