"New England" was an American rock band that was mainly active from 1978-1982. "Walking Wild" is the 1981 and the third studio album released by the American Rock band "New England". It was also their final album released during 1989 until they resurrected in 1998.
The year 1981 marked a significant chapter in the musical history of the American rock band, New England. Having emerged on the scene in 1978, the band garnered attention for its distinctive sound and dynamic performances. The release of their third studio album, "Walking Wild," became a pivotal moment in their career, encapsulating the essence of their musical prowess.
The Genesis of New England
New England, originally formed in 1978, comprised John Fannon (vocals, guitar), Hirsh Gardner (drums, vocals), Jimmy Waldo (keyboards, vocals), and Gary Shea (bass, vocals). The band quickly gained recognition for their energetic performances and melodic rock style. With influences ranging from progressive rock to power pop, New England carved a niche for themselves in the vibrant music landscape of the late '70s and early '80s.
Crafting "Walking Wild"
Released in 1981 under the Elektra Red Label, "Walking Wild" showcased New England's evolution as musicians. The album featured a compelling mix of rock anthems, ballads, and experimental tracks, highlighting the band's versatility. Tracks like "Hello, Hello, Hello" and "Holdin' Out on Me" became instant favorites, with their catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.
The recording process was a collaborative effort, with each band member bringing their unique style to the table. Producer Mike Stone, known for his work with other iconic bands like Queen and Journey, played a pivotal role in capturing the essence of New England's sound. The studio sessions were filled with creative energy, resulting in an album that resonated with both longtime fans and newcomers to the band's music.
The Journey Beyond 1981
"Walking Wild" not only marked a creative peak for New England but also became a bridge to their subsequent endeavors. Unfortunately, it was the band's final studio album until their unexpected resurrection in 1998. The hiatus saw members exploring individual projects, each contributing to the diverse musical landscape of the time.
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Music Genre: American Rock |
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Album Production Information: The album: "NEW ENGLAND Walking Wild" was produced by: Todd RundgrenTodd Rundgren is a multi-talented American musician, singer, songwriter, producer, and visionary in the world of rock music. Born on 22 June 1948, in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, he has left an indelible mark on the music industry through his diverse skills and creative endeavors. Throughout his career, Rundgren has embraced various genres, experimenting with his sound and forging a reputation as an innovative and influential artist. Early Life and Musical Beginnings: Todd Harry Rundgren was raised in a middle-class family, and from an early age, he showed a keen interest in music. He began playing guitar as a teenager and quickly honed his skills, drawn to the burgeoning rock 'n' roll scene of the 1960s. He formed his first band, The Nazz, in 1967, which quickly gained a local following. The Nazz released three studio albums, showcasing Rundgren's early songwriting prowess. Solo Career and Commercial Success: In 1970, Rundgren decided to pursue a solo career and released his debut album, "Runt". The album received critical acclaim, but it was his third solo effort, "Something/Anything?" (1972), that catapulted him to commercial success. This double album featured hit songs like "I Saw the Light", "Hello, It's Me", and "Couldn't I Just Tell You", showcasing his diverse musical talent and mastery of various instruments. Following the success of "Something/Anything?", Rundgren continued to release a series of well-received albums throughout the 1970s, such as "A Wizard, a True Star" (1973), "Todd" (1974), and "Faithful" (1976). His music combined elements of rock, pop, soul, and psychedelia, making him a unique and innovative figure in the music world. Utopia and Collaborations: During the mid-1970s, Rundgren formed the progressive rock band Utopia, which allowed him to explore more experimental and progressive sounds. Utopia released several albums, with Rundgren often taking a collaborative approach to songwriting and production. They gained a dedicated fanbase and became known for their electrifying live performances. Apart from his solo and Utopia work, Rundgren earned acclaim for his collaborations as a producer and engineer. He worked with numerous prominent artists, including Meat Loaf ("Bat Out of Hell"), The Band ("Stage Fright"), XTC ("Skylarking"), and New York Dolls ("New York Dolls"). Innovation and Technological Contributions: Rundgren's musical journey was accompanied by his fascination with technology. He was an early adopter of computer-based music production and video technology, experimenting with interactive concerts and virtual reality shows long before they became mainstream. He continued to push the boundaries of technology and music throughout his career. Later Career and Legacy: The 1980s saw Rundgren explore synth-pop and new wave elements in albums like "Hermit of Mink Hollow" (1982) and "A Cappella" (1985). While he may not have achieved the same commercial success as in the 1970s, his artistic integrity and influence remained strong. In the following decades, Todd Rundgren maintained a consistent output of albums and continued to tour, attracting both loyal fans and new admirers. His live performances were known for their energy, musical proficiency, and willingness to revisit his classic hits alongside new material. Rundgren's influence extended beyond music. His innovative spirit and artistic vision made him a pioneer in various creative fields. He received recognition from the music industry and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, cementing his place as an essential figure in the history of rock music. |
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Record Label Information: Elektra 6E-346 |
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Media Format: 12" 33rpm Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1981 Made in USA |
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "NEW ENGLAND Walking Wild" |
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Close-up Photo of "NEW ENGLAND Walking Wild" Record Label |
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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. |