RAVEN Wiped Out LP incl 7" SINGLE British Heavy Metal, NWOBHM Album Cover Photos & Detailed Description 12" LP Vinyl Record #vinylrecords

Raven's "Wiped Out": A NWOBHM Classic Fueled by Raw Energy

Album Description:

Released in 1982 on Neat Records, "Wiped Out" marks a pivotal moment in the career of the British heavy metal trio Raven. The album embodies the raw energy, technical prowess, and uncompromising attitude that defined the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement.

Historical Context and Genre

"Wiped Out" arrived at a time when the NWOBHM was exploding onto the global music scene. Bands like Iron Maiden and Def Leppard had already achieved mainstream success, but a vibrant underground scene was still thriving, with countless bands playing in pubs and clubs across the UK. Raven, with their energetic live shows and unique blend of heavy metal and punk influences, quickly became a leading force in this scene.

The album's music is a relentless assault of speed, aggression, and melody. The Gallagher brothers' guitar work is fast and furious, with intricate solos and harmonized riffs. Mark Gallagher's basslines are thunderous and driving, while Rob "Wacko" Hunter's drumming is a whirlwind of energy. The band's vocals are a unique blend of screams, shouts, and melodic harmonies, creating a sound that is both powerful and catchy.

Musical Exploration

"Wiped Out" is a masterclass in NWOBHM songwriting and performance. The album features a diverse range of tracks, from the fast-paced "Faster Than the Speed of Light" and "Bring the Hammer Down" to the more melodic "Don't Need Your Money" and "All for One." The band's willingness to experiment with different sounds and tempos, while maintaining their signature energy and aggression, makes for a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

Lyrically, the album explores themes of rebellion, social commentary, and the rock and roll lifestyle. The lyrics are often tongue-in-cheek and irreverent, reflecting the band's rebellious spirit and their disdain for authority.

Production and Recording

The album was recorded at Impulse Studios in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, a renowned recording facility for NWOBHM bands. The production team, led by engineer Keith Nichol, captured the band's raw energy while ensuring a professional sound that met the standards of the time.

The Single: "Crash Bang Wallop"

The album's lead single, "Crash Bang Wallop," became an instant fan favorite. The song's catchy chorus, driving riff, and energetic performance perfectly captured the band's signature sound. The accompanying music video, featuring the band's chaotic live show, further solidified their reputation as one of the most exciting live acts in the NWOBHM scene.

Raven's "Wiped Out": A Deep Dive into NWOBHM's Rebellious Spirit

Album Review:

Raven's 1982 album "Wiped Out" is not just a collection of hard-hitting metal anthems; it's a thematic exploration of the cultural and social landscape of the early 1980s, as seen through the lens of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). The album delves into three core themes that resonated with a generation of disenfranchised youth and cemented Raven's place in heavy metal history.

Live Performance Energy:

"Wiped Out" is a sonic snapshot of Raven's electrifying live shows. The album's raw production and unbridled energy capture the band's chaotic stage presence and their ability to whip audiences into a frenzy. Songs like "Live at the Inferno" and "Battle Zone" serve as anthems for the mosh pit, celebrating the communal experience of headbanging and letting loose. This theme reflects the importance of live performance in the NWOBHM scene, where bands honed their skills and built their following through countless gigs in pubs and clubs across the UK.

Speed and Power of Heavy Metal:

The album is a testament to the NWOBHM's emphasis on speed, power, and technical skill. Tracks like "Faster Than the Speed of Light" and "Bring the Hammer Down" showcase the band's lightning-fast tempos, intricate riffs, and soaring vocals. This focus on speed and aggression resonated with a generation that felt alienated and frustrated by the social and economic challenges of the time. Heavy metal provided an outlet for their anger and a sense of empowerment through its sheer intensity and sonic force.

Rebellion and Defiance:

"Wiped Out" is infused with a rebellious spirit that defied authority and challenged societal norms. Songs like "Read All About It" and "Chain Saw" are anthems for the disenfranchised, expressing a sense of frustration with the status quo and a desire for change. This theme of rebellion resonated with a generation that felt overlooked and misunderstood. Heavy metal provided a voice for their discontent and a platform for their anger.

Listen to "Crash Bang Wallop":

Album Fact Sheet: RAVEN - Wiped Out LP incl 7" SINGLE

Music Genre:

British Heavy Metal, NWOBHM

Album Production information:

The album: "RAVEN - Wiped Out " was produced by: Keith Nichol

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Keith Nichol

This album was recorded at: Impulse Studios, Newcastle, England

Record Company / Catalog number / Label:

NEAT 1004

Record Media Format:

12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 280 gram

Year & Country:

1982 Made in Italy

Collector notes:

Keith Nichol, Producer, Sound Engineer, ( Guest ) musician has been in-house producer for the NEAT Record label. He has been responsible for the production and sound engineering of many NWOBHM bands during the 1980s. Most notable these bands include: Atomkraft, Blitzkrieg, Fist, Raven, Venom, Warfare, and many others.

On Warfare's album "A Conflict of Hatred", Keith Nichol takes care of the production, sound engineering and as guest musician playing violin and keyboards.

John Gallagher (GBR) - during the 1980s "John Gallagher" has been playing bass and singing with the "Raven (GBR) band, during this period they recorded 7 full-length albums. John Gallagher is the brother of "Mark Gallagher" who is also a band-member of the Raven band. Both John and Mark Gallagher have spent their entire musical career (since 1974) with the Raven band.

Mark Gallagher (GBR) - during the 1980s "Mark Gallagher" has been playing guitars and occasionally singing with the "Raven (GBR) band, during this period they recorded 7 full-length albums. Mark Gallagher is the brother of "John Gallagher" who is also a band-member of the Raven band. Both Mark and JOhn Gallagher have spent their entire musical career (since 1974) with the Raven band.