The year was 1980. The New Wave of British Heavy Metal was in full swing, a sonic maelstrom of leather, denim, and guitar solos that threatened to shake the foundations of the music industry. Amidst this cacophony of sound, a band named Samson emerged, fronted by a charismatic singer with a mane of golden hair that would make a lion jealous. That singer was Bruce Dickinson, who would later achieve legendary status as the frontman of Iron Maiden. But before his Iron Maiden days, Dickinson was part of Samson, and their 1980 album "Head On" was a head-banging testament to the raw power and unbridled energy of the NWOBHM.
"Head On" was a sonic assault on the senses, a relentless barrage of heavy riffs, thunderous drums, and Dickinson's soaring vocals. The album was produced by the legendary Tony Platt, who had previously worked with AC/DC and Motörhead, and his production captured the raw energy of Samson's live performances. The album was recorded at the infamous Roundhouse Studios in London, a converted railway shed that had become a haven for heavy metal bands. The Roundhouse's cavernous acoustics added a sense of epic grandeur to the album's sound, making it feel like a sonic battle cry.
The album's title track, "Head On," was a blistering anthem that perfectly encapsulated the band's sound. It was a fast-paced, high-energy rocker with a catchy chorus that would become a staple of the band's live shows. Other standout tracks included "Take It Like a Man," a swaggering rocker with a driving rhythm section, and "Vice Versa," a slower, more melodic track that showcased Dickinson's vocal range.
Samson's music was heavily influenced by classic rock bands like Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, but they also incorporated elements of punk and glam rock into their sound. This eclectic mix of influences gave them a unique sound that set them apart from their contemporaries. They were not afraid to push boundaries and experiment with different styles, and this willingness to take risks was evident throughout "Head On."
However, Samson's career was not without its controversies. The band's image was often criticized for being too overtly sexual, and their lyrics were sometimes accused of being misogynistic. This led to some backlash from critics and feminists, but it also helped to solidify their image as rebellious rock and roll outlaws.
Despite the controversies, "Head On" was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish Samson as one of the leading lights of the NWOBHM. The album's raw energy and unbridled passion captured the spirit of the times, and it remains a classic of the genre to this day. It was a testament to the power of heavy metal, and it helped to pave the way for the countless bands that would follow in Samson's footsteps.
"Head On" was a landmark album that showcased the raw power and unbridled energy of the NWOBHM. It was a sonic assault on the senses, a relentless barrage of heavy riffs, thunderous drums, and soaring vocals. It was a testament to the power of heavy metal, and it remains a classic of the genre to this day. So if you're looking for an album that will make your head spin and your heart race, then look no further than Samson's "Head On." It's a hair-raising rock and roll riot that will leave you breathless.
