1982

"Assault Attack" is an album by the Michael Schenker Group (MSG), released in 1982. This album is often highlighted as one of the strongest in Michael Schenker's career due to its powerful hard rock and heavy metal compositions, showcasing Schenker's exceptional guitar skills. Michael Schenker, a former guitarist for UFO and Scorpions, formed MSG in 1979, and his group became known for its high-caliber rock music. "Assault Attack" is notable for featuring Graham Bonnet on vocals, who was previously with Rainbow. His powerful voice combined with Schenker's guitar work makes this album a standout in the rock and metal genres. The title track "Assault Attack," along with songs like "Dancer" and "Desert Song," are highlights of the album, offering a mix of fast-paced rock and melodic interludes. The production quality of the album, managed by Martin Birch (known for his work with Iron Maiden and Deep Purple), ensures that the intricate guitar work and dynamic vocals are prominently featured, making it a favorite among audiophiles and fans of the genre. Owning "Assault Attack" on vinyl is particularly appealing to collectors and enthusiasts of rock and metal music for several reasons: Sound Quality: The analog nature of vinyl records can enhance the depth and warmth of the album's sound, which is crucial for appreciating Schenker's guitar tones and the overall dynamic range of the music. Historical Value: This album represents a significant period in Michael Schenker's career and the early '80s rock scene. Artwork and Packaging: Vinyl albums often feature iconic artwork and additional liner notes, which are of interest to collectors.

"Invisible People" is an album by False Prophets, a punk rock band known for their influence in the 1980s New York City punk scene. The band was recognized for their politically charged lyrics, experimental sound, and their role in the hardcore punk and post-punk movements. The album "Invisible People" likely features tracks that reflect the band's engagement with social and political issues, delivered through their distinctive punk rock lens. False Prophets' music often challenges societal norms and addresses themes of alienation, resistance, and critique of mainstream culture. Vinyl releases from bands like False Prophets are particularly valued by collectors and fans of punk music for their raw energy and the authenticity of the vinyl sound. Such albums capture the spirit of an era when punk was not just a musical style but also a form of social commentary.

1975

"Hair of the Dog" is a seminal album by the Scottish rock band Nazareth, released in 1975. This album is one of Nazareth's most successful releases, featuring a harder rock sound that helped define the band's musical identity and gained them international fame. The album's title track, "Hair of the Dog," is particularly famous for its catchy chorus and memorable riff. Another standout track is "Love Hurts," a cover of the Everly Brothers' song, which became a hit single and is often considered one of the greatest rock ballads of the 1970s. Other tracks, like "Miss Misery" and "Whiskey Drinkin' Woman," showcase the band's blend of hard rock and blues influences. The original vinyl release of "Hair of the Dog" is highly prized among collectors and fans of classic rock. The vinyl format enhances the gritty textures and dynamic range of the music, making it a favorite for those who appreciate the richer sound quality that vinyl can provide.

1973

"Hello!" is an album by Status Quo, released in 1973. It marks a significant point in the band's history, as it was their first album to reach No. 1 in the UK charts. The album solidifies Status Quo's distinctive rock sound, characterized by their straightforward, driving rock-and-roll rhythm and blues style. One of the standout tracks from the album is "Caroline," which became one of Status Quo's biggest hits and a staple of their live performances. Other tracks on the album, like "Roll Over Lay Down" and "Blue Eyed Lady," also showcase the band's robust and rhythmic rock style. The vinyl release of "Hello!" is particularly sought after by collectors and fans of classic rock. Owning this album on vinyl not only provides the listener with the authentic, rich sound associated with vinyl records but also offers the tactile experience of handling the record and appreciating its artwork, which is often a significant aspect of vinyl collecting.

1973

"Pink Floyd - The Dark Side of the Moon" is one of the most iconic and influential albums in the history of rock music. Released in 1973, this album is a masterpiece of progressive rock, known for its complex musical arrangements and thematic depth. It explores themes of conflict, greed, the passage of time, and mental illness, all underscored by its pioneering use of studio effects and synthesisers. The album features tracks like "Money," "Time," "Us and Them," and "The Great Gig in the Sky." It is notable for its innovative use of analog synthesizers and sound effects, including the VCS 3 synthesizer, tape loops, and multitrack recording techniques. "The Dark Side of the Moon" was a commercial and critical success, staying on the charts for an unprecedented 950 weeks and selling over 45 million copies worldwide. For vinyl enthusiasts, owning this album is particularly special due to the warmth and depth that analog sound provides. The album's original vinyl release included distinctive gatefold packaging and posters, making it a cherished item for collectors. If you are interested in specific details about different vinyl pressings or special editions, I can help you find more information!

1969

Mott the Hoople was a British rock band known for their blend of glam rock and roll with strong R&B roots. They gained prominence in the early 1970s, and their music remains influential and popular among classic rock enthusiasts. When discussing Mott the Hoople's vinyl records, there are a few notable albums to consider: Mott the Hoople (1969) - This is their debut album, featuring a blend of hard rock and progressive elements. It includes some covers as well as original songs.

1969

"Tommy" is one of the most celebrated albums by The Who, released in 1969. This album is a rock opera that tells the story of Tommy Walker, a "deaf, dumb, and blind" boy who becomes a pinball champion and religious leader. The concept was largely composed by Pete Townshend and is considered a landmark in the history of rock music. The album includes iconic tracks such as: "Pinball Wizard" "I'm Free" "See Me, Feel Me" "The Acid Queen" "Tommy" has been released in various formats over the years, including multiple reissues and remastered versions. The original vinyl release is highly prized among collectors for its rich analog sound and the dynamic range that vinyl provides, which is particularly suited to the album's complex arrangements and variety of musical motifs. The artwork and packaging of the original vinyl are also of interest to collectors. It typically features a tri-fold cover with artwork that reflects the opera's themes, adding a visual element to the musical content.

"All the Girls in the World Beware!!!" is an album by Grand Funk Railroad, also known simply as Grand Funk, released in 1974. This album showcases the band's classic rock sound and includes a blend of hard rock and soulful melodies, characteristic of their style during the peak of their popularity. The album features some notable tracks such as "Some Kind of Wonderful," which became one of their most famous songs, and "Bad Time," another hit that received significant radio play. The cover of the album is distinctive, featuring band members' faces superimposed on muscular bodies, reflecting some of the humorous and theatrical elements of 70s rock album artwork.

1971

"Dog of Two Head" is the fourth studio album by the English rock band Status Quo, released in November 1971. The album is known for its blend of boogie rock and hard rock styles, featuring tracks like "Mean Girl" and "Gerdundula." Despite not being an immediate hit, "Mean Girl" later gained popularity and charted in the UK in 1973. This album represented a pivotal point for the band, marking a move towards the heavier sound that would define their later successes​. The album was initially released under Pye Records and included tracks like "Umleitung" and "Something's Going on in My Head." It has since been reissued in various formats, including a notable reissue in 2003 which included early mixes and BBC session tracks as bonus content​ .

1973

"Aerosmith" is the debut studio album by American rock band Aerosmith, released in January 1973. This album marked the beginning of Aerosmith's long and illustrious career in rock music, featuring a raw and energetic sound that captured the essence of early 1970s hard rock. Album Details: Artist: Aerosmith Title: Aerosmith Format: Vinyl LP Release Year: 1973 Label: Columbia Records Genre: Hard Rock, Blues Rock Notable Tracks on the Album: "Dream On" — One of Aerosmith's most famous songs, and a staple of classic rock. It's known for its powerful vocals and memorable piano segments. "Mama Kin" — Another fan favorite that showcases the band's bluesy rock style. "Walkin' the Dog" — A R&B cover that Aerosmith infuses with their signature gritty rock sound. The debut album is particularly noted for its raw production and the youthful energy of the band, features that have endeared it to fans for decades. Vinyl Details: The vinyl edition of Aerosmith's debut album is sought after by collectors due to its historical significance as the band's first major release. Collectors often look for original pressings, which can be identified by specific markings and labels unique to the initial Columbia Records distribution.

1975

"Return to Fantasy" is the eighth studio album by British rock band Uriah Heep, released in June 1975. This album marked a return to the band's earlier, more fantastical and progressive elements, and was the first to feature John Wetton as the bass player. Notable tracks include the title track "Return to Fantasy" and "Prima Donna." The album explores themes of fantasy and escapism, and is known for its rich, organ-heavy sound that blends hard rock and progressive rock elements. The album was initially released with a gatefold sleeve and has since seen various reissues with bonus tracks such as "Shout It Out" and "The Time Will Come." These editions have expanded the original material with alternate demo versions of tracks and extended versions, enhancing the listening experience for fans and collectors. "Return to Fantasy" was generally well-received and performed decently on international charts, reflecting its enduring appeal in Uriah Heep's discography. It continues to be celebrated for its classic rock ethos and is a significant part of the band's musical legacy.

1973

The album "Loud 'N' Proud" by Nazareth, released in 1973, is known for its robust blend of hard rock and classic rock elements. This album, released under the label Mooncrest in the UK and A&M Records in North America, features influential tracks like "This Flight Tonight," which notably helped elevate the band's prominence in the rock scene. The album is marked by its energetic rock vibes and engaging guitar work, making it a staple in Nazareth's discography. The vinyl release of "Loud 'N' Proud" includes several iconic tracks, with contributions from notable figures like Roger Glover, who produced the album. The production took place in studios like The Ganghut and Apple Studios, with engineering by Geoff Emerick among others. This album is notable for its gatefold sleeve and is available in various pressings, including some that are highly sought after by collectors for their unique mastering and the quality of their pressings.

1972

"Piledriver" is a pivotal album by Status Quo, marking their transition towards a harder rock sound when it was released in 1972. This was the first album they produced themselves and also the first on the Vertigo label. Notably, it reached number five in the UK charts and features tracks that became staples in their live performances, like "Paper Plane" and "Big Fat Mama." The album's robust production and heavy guitar-driven sound set a new direction for the band, moving away from their earlier psychedelic style to a more mainstream rock appeal, which helped define their sound for the next decades. "Piledriver" is celebrated for its straightforward rock approach, characterized by its boogie-woogie piano, powerful guitar riffs, and catchy melodies. Several reissues of the album have enhanced its legacy, offering additional live tracks and BBC session recordings from the early '70s, which showcase the band's energetic live performances during that era. These reissues and the critical reception over the years underline the album's importance in Status Quo's discography and its influence on the rock genre​

1974

Suzi Quatro's vinyl records, especially her albums from the 1970s, are well-regarded in the rock music scene. One of her most famous albums, "Quatro," released in 1974, showcases a blend of hard rock and glam styles. This album features notable tracks like "The Wild One," "Devil Gate Drive," and "Too Big," which are characteristic of her energetic rock style. The album has been reissued in various formats over the years, including a green vinyl edition in 2023 as part of Record Store Day, highlighting its enduring popularity​ (Discogs)​​ (Discogs)​​ (Discogs)​​ (Discogs)​. Suzi Quatro has made significant contributions to the rock genre, not just with her music but also with her strong stage presence and influence as a female rock musician. Her records are collected not only for their musical value but also as a celebration of her impact in the rock and roll world​ (Discogs)​​ (Discogs)​. If you're looking to explore more about her vinyl releases or collect some of her iconic albums, platforms like Discogs offer a comprehensive list of her discography with various editions and pressings​ (Discogs)​.

1981

"**The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent**" is an album by the British hard rock band UFO, released in 1981. This album represents a transitional period for the band, showcasing a blend of hard rock and melodic elements that pointed towards a more accessible sound compared to their earlier, heavier work. **Key Features of the Album:** - **Musical Style:** The album features a mix of hard rock and melodic rock, incorporating catchy hooks and memorable choruses. This shift was partly due to changes in the band's lineup, with Paul Chapman firmly on guitar duties after Michael Schenker's departure. - **Standout Tracks:** Songs like "**Lonely Heart**," "**Couldn't Get It Right**," and the title track "**The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent**" are notable for their robust rock rhythms and lyrical guitar solos. These tracks exemplify the band's knack for combining rock's energy with melodic sensibility. - **Critical Reception:** While not as commercially successful as some of their previous albums like "**Lights Out**" or "**Obsession**," this album was well-received for its solid rock craftsmanship and is often considered a gem in UFO’s discography. **Vinyl Edition:** The vinyl release of this album is sought after by collectors and fans of UFO, particularly those who appreciate the rich sounds of analog recordings, which can enhance the depth and warmth of the rock music from this era. The album cover, featuring an evocative and somewhat surreal painting, reflects the album's themes of freedom and rebellious spirit, adding to its appeal as a collector's item. For enthusiasts of the band or the rock genre from the late 70s and early 80s, owning "The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent" on vinyl offers not just a nostalgic listening experience but also a piece of rock history that showcases the evolution of UFO as they navigated the changes within the band and the broader musical landscape.

1974

"Secret Treaties" is considered one of Blue Öyster Cult's most acclaimed albums, released in 1974. This album solidified their status in the rock world with its compelling mix of hard rock, heavy metal, and intricate lyricism. Known for its thematic depth and sophisticated musical arrangements, "Secret Treaties" has often been regarded as a high point in the band's career. The album features some of Blue Öyster Cult's key tracks, including "Career of Evil," "Subhuman," and "Astronomy." These songs showcase the band's unique blend of mystique, sophisticated wordplay, and powerful guitar riffs. "Astronomy" in particular is celebrated for its narrative depth and has been a staple in the band's live performances, later covered by Metallica in their 1998 album "Garage Inc." The vinyl edition of "Secret Treaties" is highly sought after by collectors. The album cover features distinctive artwork, with a black and white drawing of an airplane and mysterious figures, which has become iconic among fans. The cover art complements the album's themes of conspiracy and darkness, adding to the overall allure for vinyl enthusiasts. Collecting this album on vinyl not only offers the rich, full sound that many aficionados cherish but also serves as a collector's item that captures a seminal moment in the evolution of rock music. The tactile experience of handling the vinyl and viewing the artwork up close enhances the nostalgic enjoyment of Blue Öyster Cult's powerful and evocative music.

Foreigner's "Agent Provocateur" is the fifth studio album by the British-American rock band, released in December 1984. Known for blending rock with elements of pop and synthesizers, this album marked a high point in the band's commercial success, particularly with the hit single "I Want to Know What Love Is," which became a global phenomenon. Album Details: Produced by Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin, "Agent Provocateur" showcases Foreigner's ability to craft rock songs with strong melodic hooks and lush production. The album veers between hard rock, pop rock, and softer ballads, highlighting the band's versatility and the distinctive voice of lead singer Lou Gramm. Key Tracks: "I Want to Know What Love Is": This power ballad, featuring a gospel choir and an emotional vocal performance by Gramm, topped the charts in multiple countries and remains one of Foreigner's most beloved tracks. "That Was Yesterday": Another hit from the album, it features catchy lyrics and a strong synthesizer presence. "Reaction to Action": A more up-tempo rock song that showcases the band’s classic rock roots. "Down on Love": A ballad that highlights Foreigner’s softer, more introspective side. Reception: "Agent Provocateur" received mixed reviews from critics at the time of its release but was a commercial success. It was particularly well-received in the UK, where it reached the top of the charts. The album's blend of rock and pop elements, along with the massive success of "I Want to Know What Love Is," helped to cement Foreigner's status as a major arena rock band of the 1980s. Vinyl Collectibility: As a vinyl record, "Agent Provocateur" holds significant appeal for collectors and fans of 1980s rock music. The iconic cover art and the inclusion of several hit songs make it a desirable piece for those collecting vinyl from this era. The record is often sought for its nostalgic value and for the high-quality production that shines through on the analog format. Overall, "Agent Provocateur" represents a key period in Foreigner's career, capturing the band at a commercial peak with a polished sound that bridged the gap between rock and emerging pop trends of the mid-1980s.

Deep Purple's "Perfect Strangers" is an album that marked the highly anticipated reunion of the classic Deep Purple lineup — Ian Gillan (vocals), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Roger Glover (bass), Jon Lord (keyboards), and Ian Paice (drums). Released in 1984, this was the band's first studio album together since 1973’s "Who Do We Think We Are." Album Overview: "Perfect Strangers" represented a triumphant return to the rock music scene for Deep Purple, bringing together the band's signature mix of hard rock and heavy metal with a modern twist. It was a commercial success, re-establishing the band as one of the leaders in the rock genre after a decade apart. Key Tracks: The title track, "Perfect Strangers," is one of the album’s highlights, known for its powerful melody, mystical lyrics, and dramatic organ sounds. Another notable track is "Knocking at Your Back Door," which features catchy riffs and showcases the band's tight musical coordination and the dynamic voice of Ian Gillan. Musical Style: The album blends heavy guitar riffs with Jon Lord’s classical-influenced keyboard arrangements and Ian Paice’s intricate drumming. This blend of instruments and styles is what initially helped cement Deep Purple’s place as pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal, and it remains evident in "Perfect Strangers." Reception: Critically, the album was well-received for its ability to recapture the classic Deep Purple sound without sounding dated. Fans welcomed the reunion, and new listeners were drawn to the band’s robust and sophisticated sound. "Perfect Strangers" confirmed that Deep Purple still had significant creative energy and could produce relevant and vibrant music, aligning with the expectations of both old and new generations of rock fans. This album is often highlighted as a key example of how a rock band can successfully return after a long hiatus, maintaining their core essence while adapting to contemporary musical landscapes.

Night Moves

Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band is an American rock band led by singer-songwriter, guitarist, and pianist Bob Seger. Formed in 1974, the band became known for its blend of heartland rock with roots, rock, and blues influences. Bob Seger's raspy, shouting voice and the band's powerful, straightforward rock sound resonated with a wide audience, making them one of the cornerstone acts of the classic rock genre. Bob Seger himself had been a fixture in the Detroit music scene since the early 1960s, achieving regional success with various bands. It was the formation of The Silver Bullet Band that brought national fame, largely due to their breakthrough album, "Live Bullet," released in 1976. This live album captured the energy of Seger's performances and included renditions of his earlier hits, helping to cement his status as a rock icon. The band's follow-up studio album, "Night Moves" (1976), was a commercial success and included hits like the autobiographical title track "Night Moves," "Mainstreet," and "Rock and Roll Never Forgets." These songs showcased Seger's talent for storytelling and his ability to blend introspective lyrics with infectious rock melodies. Over the following years, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band released several more successful albums, including "Stranger in Town" (1978), "Against the Wind" (1980), which won two Grammy Awards and was Seger’s first and only number one album on the Billboard album chart, and "Like a Rock" (1986). Songs like "Hollywood Nights," "Still the Same," "We've Got Tonight," and "Like a Rock" became rock staples. Despite taking a hiatus in the 1990s, Seger and his band remained popular in concert circuits and continued to influence many artists across different genres. The band's music is characterized by its rootsy, rock-and-roll ethos and Seger’s distinctive voice, making them enduring figures in American music.

10 Tracks

Foreigner is a British-American rock band formed in New York City in 1976 by veteran musician and producer Mick Jones, ex-King Crimson member Ian McDonald, and American vocalist Lou Gramm. Known for its blend of hard rock, pop, and AOR (Album-Oriented Rock), Foreigner became one of the best-selling bands of the late 1970s and 1980s. The band's music features a combination of strong guitar riffs, extensive keyboard work, and memorable melodies, complemented by Gramm's powerful vocal delivery. Foreigner's self-titled debut album was released in 1977 and was an immediate hit, featuring classics like "Feels Like the First Time" and "Cold as Ice." This success continued with subsequent releases, including "Double Vision" (1978), "Head Games" (1979), and the massively successful "4" (1981), which included hits like "Urgent," "Juke Box Hero," and the ballad "Waiting for a Girl Like You." One of their most iconic songs, "I Want to Know What Love Is," came from the 1984 album "Agent Provocateur." The song topped the charts in multiple countries and remains a staple on classic rock stations. Over the years, Foreigner has seen numerous lineup changes, with Mick Jones being the only original member continuously involved in the band. Despite these changes, the band has maintained its popularity, continuing to tour and record new music. Their enduring appeal is marked by a catalog of hit songs and a reputation for energetic live performances.