"Follow the Blind" is the second full-length album from the German metal band Blind Guardian. It was released in 1989 and is more in the vein of speed metal, compared to the style that would later define the band's unique sound. According to guitarist Marcus Siepen, "When we were doing "Follow the Blind" we were listening to a lot of thrash metal bands like Testament or Forbidden, and that's why Follow the Blind was a bit heavier".
In 1989, amidst the burgeoning German heavy metal scene, Blind Guardian released their second studio album, "Follow the Blind". Emerging in the wake of their debut "Battalions of Fear", this album marked a significant step in their evolution, showcasing a heavier, speed metal-infused sound that set the stage for their future musical exploration.
Historical Context and Musical Exploration
"Follow the Blind" was a product of its time, heavily influenced by the thriving thrash metal scene. Bands like Testament and Forbidden were cited as inspirations by guitarist Marcus Siepen, explaining the album's pronounced shift towards a heavier, more aggressive sound compared to their previous work. This period marked a transitional phase for Blind Guardian, as they experimented with their sound and honed their craft, eventually leading them towards the unique power metal identity they are known for today.
Music Genre
While "Follow the Blind" is often categorized as speed metal, it also contains elements of thrash metal and traditional heavy metal. The album's fast tempos, aggressive riffing, and Hansi Kürsch's powerful vocals exemplify the speed metal style, while the complex song structures and melodic elements foreshadow their later power metal sound. This blend of genres gives the album a distinct identity within Blind Guardian's discography.
Production Team and Recording Studio
"Follow the Blind" was recorded at Karo Musikstudio in Germany and produced by Kalle Trapp, a renowned figure in the German metal scene. Trapp's production expertise contributed to the album's raw, powerful sound, capturing the band's energy and intensity. His work on the album laid a solid foundation for Blind Guardian's future success and solidified his reputation as a talented producer.
Controversies
"Follow the Blind" wasn't without its share of controversy. The album's original cover art, featuring a demonic figure, was deemed too controversial by their record label and was replaced with a less provocative image. While this change may have been a disappointment to some fans, it ultimately had little impact on the album's reception or legacy.
Music Genre: German Power Metal, Speed Metal |
Album Production information: The album: "BLIND GUARDIAN - Follow the Blind " was produced by: Kalle Trapp, Charly Rinne Kalle Trapp, a legendary German producer and musician, revolutionized heavy metal production with his iconic Karo Studio. Renowned for shaping the sound of Blind Guardian, Destruction, Iron Angel, and many more, his innovative engineering techniques defined the power and aggression of 80s & 90s European metal.
Discover more about his groundbreaking work at Kalle Trapp’s Biography.
Charly Rinne, a pivotal figure in German heavy metal, shaped the scene as Metal Hammer’s first Chief Editor and the founder of No Remorse Records. His work as a producer and photographer defined the look and sound of bands like Scorpions, Helloween, and Kreator, creating legendary album covers and editorial influence.
Read Charly's Story
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Kalle Trapp Kalle Trapp, a legendary German producer and musician, revolutionized heavy metal production with his iconic Karo Studio. Renowned for shaping the sound of Blind Guardian, Destruction, Iron Angel, and many more, his innovative engineering techniques defined the power and aggression of 80s & 90s European metal.
Discover more about his groundbreaking work at Kalle Trapp’s Biography.
This album was recorded at: Karo Musikstudio, Munster, January and February 1989 Album cover design: Van Waay Design |
Record Label & Catalognr: NRR No Remorse Records NR 1005 |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1989 Made in Germany |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: BLIND GUARDIAN - Follow the Blind |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "BLIND GUARDIAN - Follow the Blind " |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "BLIND GUARDIAN - Follow the Blind " is:
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Blind Guardian's album Follow the Blind. It depicts a fantasy scene where two hooded figures, resembling wizards or elves, look out from a stone archway towards a mysterious robed figure walking across a rocky path over water under a glowing green sky. The older figure holds a staff, while the younger one appears cautious, casting a wary glance. The vibrant colors and mystical elements enhance the album's fantasy theme.
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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 )
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No Remorse Records NRR 1006 Record Label Details: GEMA
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