- Music For Nations Records, Netherlands Release
"Long Live the Loud" is the third studio album by the Canadian speed metal band Exciter, released through Music For Nations in 1984 and rereleased through Megaforce Records in march 2005 with the EP Feel the Knife. All songs were written by Dan Beehler, except "Victims of Sacrifice" by Johnson and Beehler.
In 1985, the Canadian speed metal maniacs known as Exciter unleashed their third studio album, "Long Live the Loud," upon an unsuspecting world. This sonic assault, released on Music For Nations in the Netherlands, was a relentless barrage of riffs, screams, and pummeling drums that cemented Exciter's reputation as one of the most ferocious bands of the era. Notably, the album marked a turning point for the band, as it was their first release on a major European label, expanding their reach beyond North America.
The historical context surrounding "Long Live the Loud" was one of escalating intensity in the metal scene. Thrash metal was on the rise, pushing the boundaries of speed and aggression. Exciter, with their roots in the NWOBHM, found themselves at a crossroads, embracing elements of thrash while retaining their signature speed metal sound. This musical exploration resulted in an album that was both familiar and fresh, a testament to the band's evolution without sacrificing their core identity. The album's heavier sound and more complex song structures resonated with fans who were craving something faster and more aggressive than traditional heavy metal.
Recorded at the legendary Britannia Row Studios in London, "Long Live the Loud" was helmed by producer Guy Bidmead, known for his work with Motörhead. The album's production was a marked improvement over Exciter's earlier releases, boasting a cleaner, more powerful sound that captured the band's raw energy without sacrificing clarity. This sonic upgrade allowed Exciter's breakneck tempos and intricate riffing to shine through, making "Long Live the Loud" an exhilarating listening experience. Fans and critics alike praised the album's improved production quality, which helped to elevate Exciter's sound to new heights.
The album's title track is an instant classic, a fist-pumping anthem that epitomizes Exciter's signature sound. Other standouts include the frenetic "Fall Out," the menacing "I Am the Beast," and the epic "Beyond the Gates of Doom," which showcases the band's ability to create sprawling compositions without sacrificing their trademark intensity. These songs quickly became fan favorites and staples of Exciter's live shows.
"Long Live the Loud" wasn't without its controversies. Some critics accused Exciter of being a one-trick pony, churning out the same brand of speed metal without innovation. Others took issue with Dan Beehler's high-pitched vocals, which were undoubtedly an acquired taste. Yet, for many metalheads, these very elements were what made Exciter so appealing. Their unwavering commitment to their sound, coupled with Beehler's unmistakable wail, solidified their status as cult heroes. The album's polarizing nature only fueled its notoriety, sparking debates among fans and critics alike.
In the grand scheme of heavy metal history, "Long Live the Loud" stands as a testament to Exciter's unwavering dedication to their craft. It's a relentless assault on the senses, a testament to the raw power and primal energy that made metal so exciting in the 1980s. While it may not have garnered mainstream acclaim, its impact on the underground metal scene was undeniable, influencing countless bands and inspiring generations of headbangers. The album's enduring popularity is evident in its continued presence on vinyl and CD, as well as its frequent inclusion on "best of" lists for speed and thrash metal.
So crank up the volume, let your hair down, and prepare to be swept away by the sheer sonic force of Exciter's "Long Live the Loud." It's a wild ride, full of twists and turns, and it's guaranteed to leave you breathless.
Speed Metal ( Canada )
Music For Nations RR 9782
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1985 Made in Holland
This album includes the black and white Custom Inner Sleeve , with on one side a collage with photos of the Exciter band-members and on the other side lyrics of all the songs of this album
Guy Bidmead for Hooligan Productions - Producer
Guy Bidmead - Sound Engineer
Laura Boisseau - Assistent Sound Engineer
Laura Boisseau was assistent to Guy Bidmead as sound engineer for the recording of "Long live the Loud" and "Feel the Knife" by Exciter.
This album was recorded at: Britannia Row Studios, London, February 1985
Alan Craddock - Album Cover Artwork
Lorraine Burns - Photography
John Ricci - this is John Ricci from Canada, not to be confused with the American John Ricci. He has been playing guitar in Hellrazor from 1978-1980 and Exciter from 1980-Present, with a break from 1985-1990 while playing in the "Blackstar" band.
Dan Beehler - drummer in Hellrazor (Canada) from 1978 until 1980. In 1980 the Hellrazor band was renamed into "Exciter". Around 1993 Dan started his own band: "Beehler".
Allen James Johnson (Bass) started in 1977 in a band called "Jett Black" and joined Beehler in the Hellrazor, Exciter and Beehler bands.
Roadrunner RR 9710 / Shrapnel , 1986 , Netherlands
"EXCITER - Heavy Metal Maniac" is the electrifying debut album by Canadian Thrash Metal pioneers, Exciter. Originally known as "Hell Razor", this 12" vinyl LP encapsulates the raw power and intensity of the band's early sound. Released with relentless speed and aggression, this iconic album showcases Exciter
Heavy Metal Maniac 12" Vinyl LPMusic For Nations RR 9782 , 1985 , Netherlands
In 1985, the Canadian speed metal maniacs known as Exciter unleashed their third studio album, "Long Live the Loud," upon an unsuspecting world. This sonic assault, released on Music For Nations in the Netherlands, was a relentless barrage of riffs, screams, and pummeling drums that cemented Exciter
Long Live the Loud (MFN, Netherlands) 12" Vinyl LP Long Live the Loud (UK) 12" Vinyl LPMusic For Nations MFN 61 , 1986 , France
"EXCITER - Unveiling the Wicked" is a thrilling 12" vinyl LP released in 1986 by Canadian Heavy Metal band Exciter. Published under the MFN Music for Nations label and manufactured in France, this album showcases the band's evolution, blending powerful riffs, blistering solos, and intense vocals.
Unveiling the Wicked 12" Vinyl LPRoadrunner RR 9870 , 1983 , Netherlands
"Violence and Force" by Exciter has been produced by Carl 'The Sacred One' Canedy and released in 1984. It has been recorded at the "Pyramid Sound Recording Studios" (this studio was four years later used by "Overkill" to record "Under the Influence"),
Violence & Force 12" Vinyl LP