In the heart of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) explosion in 1981, Vardis released their debut studio album, "The World's Insane." This 12" LP vinyl album served as a bold introduction to the band's raw energy and unique take on heavy metal.
Historical Context
Emerging during a time when British heavy metal was experiencing a resurgence, Vardis found themselves among a wave of bands redefining the genre. With their debut album, they embraced the NWOBHM spirit of rebellion and raw power, while also incorporating elements of blues and hard rock.
Musical Exploration
"The World's Insane" is a no-frills, hard-hitting collection of songs that showcase Vardis' signature sound. The album is characterized by Steve Zodiac's fiery guitar riffs, Alan Selway's driving basslines, and Gary Pearson's thunderous drumming. Zodiac's distinctive vocals, ranging from raspy shouts to soaring wails, add another layer of intensity to the music.
The album's tracklist is a mix of originals and covers. Standout tracks like "Power Under Foot," "Money Grabber," and the title track "The World's Insane" highlight Vardis' songwriting prowess and ability to craft catchy, anthemic tunes. Their cover of Hawkwind's "Silver Machine" is a testament to their versatility and ability to put their own spin on classic material.
Production and Personnel
"The World's Insane" was produced by Nicholas Raymonde and engineered by Nick Smith. The album was recorded at Rock City - Shepperton Studios in London, England, during January and February of 1981.
The core members of Vardis on this album were:
Steve Zodiac: Lead vocals, lead guitar
Alan Selway: Bass, backing vocals
Gary Pearson: Drums
The album also features contributions from other musicians, including Judd Lander on bagpipes and harmonica, and Andy Bown on piano.
Frontman: Steve Zodiac
As the frontman of Vardis, Steve Zodiac was a charismatic and energetic performer. His wild stage presence and powerful vocals made him a captivating figure in the NWOBHM scene. Zodiac's songwriting was also a driving force behind Vardis' sound, and his lyrics often explored themes of rebellion, power, and social commentary.
