"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 Studios 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: The Music Producer Who Shaped a Generation – Discover His Story!" Charly Rinne is a prominent figure in the world of German heavy metal as a producer, photographer, and former Chief Editor of the esteemed magazine "Metal Hammer" and founder of the "No Remorse" record company. Read Charly's Story Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Kalle Trapp This album was recorded at: Karo Studios, 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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Blind Guardian is a German power metal band that formed in 1984. Known for their intricate and symphonic approach to heavy metal music, the band has become one of the most influential and respected groups in the genre. With their unique sound, powerful lyrics, and innovative approach to songwriting, Blind Guardian has left a lasting impact on the world of heavy metal music.
Blind Guardian's sound is characterized by complex musical arrangements that often feature multiple vocal and instrumental layers. The band's music is heavily influenced by classical music and fantasy literature, and their lyrics often deal with epic themes like mythology, folklore, and fantasy. This combination of intricate musical arrangements and powerful lyrics has helped to set Blind Guardian apart from other power metal bands, and has made them one of the most respected groups in the genre.
One of the key elements of Blind Guardian's sound is the powerful vocals of lead singer Hansi Kürsch. Kürsch is known for his powerful and soaring vocal range, and his unique singing style has become one of the defining features of the band's sound. The band's intricate musical arrangements are often centered around Kürsch's vocals, and his powerful voice serves as the centerpiece of many of their songs.
Blind Guardian's music is also characterized by the use of multiple vocal harmonies, and the band is known for their intricate vocal arrangements. The band often uses multiple vocalists to sing different parts of the same song, and this helps to create a rich and complex sound that is unlike anything else in the heavy metal genre. In addition to the vocal harmonies, Blind Guardian also uses a variety of instrumental elements, including keyboards, orchestras, and choirs, to create a rich and epic soundscape that is both powerful and memorable.
One of the defining features of Blind Guardian's music is the band's innovative approach to songwriting. The band is known for their complex and intricate arrangements, and they often take a symphonic approach to their music, incorporating elements of classical music into their songs. This has helped to set Blind Guardian apart from other power metal bands, and has made them one of the most respected groups in the genre.
Nuclear Blast – NB 4322-1 , 2018 , Europe
Blind Guardian's 1988 debut, "Battalions of Fear," now on limited-edition light blue vinyl, is a speed metal time capsule. Before elves and epic tales, this was raw, youthful fury. Production may be rough, but the energy is undeniable. Hansi Kürsch's vocals soar over galloping riffs, hinting at the power metal
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NRR No Remorse Records NR 1005 , 1989 , Germany
In 1989, Blind Guardian unleashed "Follow the Blind," a pivotal album in their career. Marking a heavier turn towards speed metal, this record solidified their presence in the German heavy metal scene while hinting at the epic power metal sound they'd later become known for.
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No Remorse Records – NRR 1014 , 1990 , Germany
Blind Guardian's 1990 "Tales from the Twilight World" marked a turning point, showcasing their evolving power metal sound. Blending intricate arrangements, literary themes, and mythological narratives, the album solidified their status as genre pioneers.
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