"Head First" Album Description:
In the musical landscape of the early 1980s, Uriah Heep, the esteemed British rock band, made a significant contribution with their 15th studio album, "Head First." Released in 1983 under the banner of Gerry Bron's esteemed UK label, Bronze Records, the album marked a notable chapter in the band's extensive discography.
Produced by Ashley Howe for Diamond Cut Productions, "Head First" showcased Uriah Heep's resilience and adaptability in an ever-evolving music scene. The album was a testament to the band's enduring creativity and ability to stay relevant in a period where musical tastes were rapidly evolving.
The recording process took place at the iconic Manor Studios, with sound engineers Ashley Howe, Keith Nixon, and Roundhouse Recording Studios contributing to the album's production. This attention to detail in the recording studio underscored Uriah Heep's commitment to delivering a polished and sonically rich musical experience.
In the context of the European music scene of 1983, "Head First" encapsulated the spirit of the era. The album resonated with the prevailing sounds and trends, while simultaneously showcasing Uriah Heep's distinctive style that had garnered them a dedicated fan base over the years.
Musically, "Head First" ventured into various territories, blending elements of hard rock and progressive rock that were characteristic of Uriah Heep's signature sound. Tracks like "The Other Side of Midnight" and "Weekend Warriors" exemplified the band's ability to craft anthemic, guitar-driven compositions that could captivate audiences and stand the test of time.
Moreover, the album's release in 1983 placed it in a specific cultural and social context. The world was witnessing a dynamic period of change, both politically and culturally. Uriah Heep's "Head First" became a soundtrack to these times, offering listeners a sonic escape while also providing a commentary on the issues of the day.
Album Summary:
Rock, Prog Rock
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Album Production Information:
Produced by Ashley Howe for Diamond Cut Productions,
Recorded at the Manor, Oxford,
Sound
engineer Ashley Howe , Keith Nixon, Nick Rogers, Roundhouse Recording Studios Jan/Feb/March 1983
Mastered at Sterling Sound, New York,
Illustration Peter Goodfellow
Band Photography: Fin Costello
Fin Costello – Art Direction, Photography
Fin Costello is the guy behind the lens who made loud bands look even louder—caught mid-stride, mid-sweat, mid-myth. I always pay extra attention when his photos are printed on album covers and inner sleeves.
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Fin Costello hit my radar the way the best photographers do: not with a signature, but with a feeling. You’re staring at a sleeve and suddenly you can hear the room. Hot lights. Hair stuck to foreheads. That thin layer of sweat that says the set is only halfway done.
He comes out of late-1960s London photojournalism—learn the craft fast, get close, don’t ask the moment to repeat itself. And when the rock caravan starts dragging its cables across Europe, he’s already in the right place. Deep Purple (1972–1975) looks like volume you could measure with a broken window. Rainbow (1975–1977) looks sharper, richer, a little more dangerous in the fantasy costume. Then Ozzy Osbourne (1980–1983) arrives like a headline that won’t calm down.
The thing I like is that Costello doesn’t “capture legends.” He catches people working. There’s a difference. Legends pose. Working musicians forget you’re there—until the flash reminds them, and even then he’s already moved on.
Art Direction and back cover photograph Martin Poole
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Label & Catalognr Information:
Bronze 205 474
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Media Format:
12" Vinyl LP Record
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Year & Country:
1983 Made in EEC
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