KROKUS - The Blitz - OIS 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

- Krokus’ polished metal assault on America with radio-ready anthems and iconic Swiss power

KROKUS - The Blitz Incl Original Custom Inner Sleeve 12" LP ALBUM VINYL front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

Released in 1984, "The Blitz" by Swiss heavy metal band Krokus marked a commercial breakthrough, particularly in the U.S., with the hit single “Midnite Maniac” becoming the first track by a Swiss band to enter the Billboard Hot 100. Produced by Bruce Fairbairn and engineered by Bob Rock at Little Mountain Sound Studios in Vancouver, the album features a polished yet energetic sound blending heavy metal with hard rock hooks. Highlights include the infectious cover of “Ballroom Blitz” and the anthemic “Ready to Rock.” With Marc Storace's powerhouse vocals and Fernando von Arb’s riff-driven guitars, "The Blitz" captures Krokus at their most accessible and radio-friendly, paving their way into mainstream rock recognition during the mid-1980s.

"The Blitz" by Krokus Album Description:

Released in 1984, "The Blitz" stands as one of the iconic albums in the discography of the Swiss hard rock band Krokus. Known for their powerful and energetic sound, Krokus reached new heights with this album, which was produced by the renowned Bruce Fairbairn.

The Band:

Before delving into the album's creation, let's take a brief look at Krokus. Formed in 1975, the band underwent several lineup changes before solidifying into a quintet featuring Marc Storace (vocals), Fernando von Arb (guitar), Mark Kohler (guitar), Chris von Rohr (bass), and Freddy Steady (drums). Krokus gained recognition in the late 1970s and early 1980s for their energetic live performances and a sound that blended hard rock with elements of metal.

The Blitz Era:

"The Blitz" marked Krokus' seventh studio album and was released on March 7, 1984. The album continued the band's journey into a more polished and radio-friendly sound compared to their earlier, rawer works. This evolution in their musical style was partly influenced by the involvement of producer Bruce Fairbairn, a Canadian known for his work with notable bands like Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, and AC/DC.

Bruce Fairbairn:

Bruce Fairbairn's collaboration with Krokus on "The Blitz" was not his first venture into the hard rock scene. Hailing from Vancouver, Canada, Fairbairn had previously worked with The Scorpions, contributing to the success of their album "Blackout." His experience and knack for bringing out the best in rock bands made him a perfect fit for Krokus during this crucial phase of their career.

Sound Engineering and Mastering:

Working alongside Fairbairn in the studio was sound/recording engineer Bob Rock, who later became a renowned producer in his own right. Rock's technical expertise played a crucial role in capturing the powerful and dynamic essence of Krokus' music during the recording sessions. The mastering engineer for "The Blitz" was none other than George Marino, a highly respected figure in the music industry known for his work with artists like Led Zeppelin and Metallica.

Album Details:

"The Blitz" is not just a collection of songs; it's an experience. The original custom inner sleeve included with the album features intricate details, complete lyrics for all songs, and captivating artwork and photos. This attention to detail enhances the listener's connection with the music, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the sonic world created by Krokus.

Production & Recording Information:

Music Genre:

Swiss Heavy Metal Rock 

Label & Catalognr:

Arista 206 494 / LC 3484

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram 

Year & Country:

1984 Made in Germany / Holland (Gema / Stemra)

Producers:
  • Bruce Fairbairn – Producer
Bruce Fairbairn was a Canadian record producer who rose to prominence in the 1980s for shaping the sound of hard rock and metal. Known for his polished, radio-friendly production style, he worked with major acts like Krokus, Loverboy, Bon Jovi, and Aerosmith. His ability to blend heavy riffs with commercial appeal made him a key figure in '80s rock production.
Sound & Recording Engineers:
  • Bob Rock - Sound Engineer
Bob Rock invites you to explore his legendary contributions to rock music — visit his webpage to learn more!
Recording Location:

Little Mountain Sound, Vancouver - Recording Studio

Little Mountain Sound Studios in Vancouver was the creative hub where producer Bruce Fairbairn and engineer Bob Rock forged a powerful partnership during the 1980s. Fairbairn led production while Rock handled recording and mixing, shaping the sound of major rock acts like Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, and Krokus. Fairbairn also mentored Rock, who later rose to fame as a top producer.

Mastering Engineer & Location:
  • George Marino - Mastering Engineer
George Marino was a legendary mastering engineer whose expertise shaped the sound of countless iconic albums. Born in 1947, he honed his craft at Capitol Records before joining Sterling Sound in 1973. His mastering work on albums by AC/DC, Metallica, and Guns N' Roses defined rock and metal's sonic power. His legacy endures through his meticulous audio craftsmanship. Learn more

Band Members / Musicians:

Band Members, Musicians:
  • Marc Storace - Lead Vocals

    Marc Storace, born in Malta in 1951, is a Swiss vocalist best known for his iconic work with the hard rock and heavy metal band Krokus . His powerful vocals, passionate delivery, and impressive range have made him a legend in the music industry.

    more...

    Early Career and Rise to Fame:

    Storace's musical journey began in the 1960s with various bands, including TEA, before joining Krokus in 1979. His arrival marked a turning point for the band, leading them to their most successful era. With his instantly recognizable voice, he became the face and voice of Krokus, contributing to their global success with albums like "Metal Rendez-vous" (1980), "Hardware" (1981), and "One Vice at a Time" (1982).

    Chart-topping Hits and International Recognition:

    Singles like "Bedside Radio," "Long Stick Goes Boom," and "Screaming in the Night" became international hits, solidifying Krokus' place in rock history. Storace's electrifying stage presence and captivating vocals made him a fan favorite, earning them a dedicated following worldwide.

    Brief Departure and Return to Krokus:

    In the early 1990s, Storace embarked on a solo project called "Storace," releasing an album and performing under that name. However, he reunited with Krokus in 2002, leading them to renewed success with albums like "Rock the Block" (2003) and "Hoodoo" (2010).

    In 2021, Storace launched his solo career under the moniker "STORACE," releasing his debut album "Live and Let Live" to critical acclaim. He continues to tour extensively, both as a solo artist and with Krokus, captivating audiences with his timeless vocals and undeniable stage presence.

  • Fernando Von Arb – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
  • Mark Kohler – Bass Guitar
  • Jeff Klaven – Drums
    Jeff Klaven is an American drummer best known for his work in the early-to-mid 1980s hard rock and heavy metal scene. Before joining Krokus, he was a member of the band Cobra, a short-lived but notable American hard rock group featuring vocalist Jimi Jamison, who later joined Survivor. Cobra released one album, "First Strike" (1983), which gained a cult following for its energetic and melodic hard rock sound.
    Klaven joined Krokus in time to record "The Blitz" (1984), stepping in after the departure of drummer Steve Pace. His drumming brought a tighter, more American-style hard rock feel to the band's rhythm section. He also played on Krokus's 1986 follow-up album, "Change of Address."

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Midnite Maniac
  2. Out of Control
  3. Boys Nite Out
  4. Our Love
  5. Out To Lunch
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Ballroom Blitz
  2. Rock the Nation
  3. Hot Stuff
  4. Ready to Rock

Headbanging through the Years: The Vinyl Discography of Krokus

Krokus' vinyl discography is a wild ride through the '80s hard rock/heavy metal scene. From their early raw power on "Metal Rendez-vous" to the anthemic hits of "Headhunter" ("Screaming in the Night," "Eat the Rich"), each album is a sonic punch to the gut. Their live energy translates onto vinyl, capturing the charisma of frontman Marc Storace and the band's arena-ready sound. Whether it's the sleaze of "One Vice at a Time" or the polished metal of "The Blitz," Krokus' vinyl collection is a testament to their enduring influence on the genre.

KROKUS - Alive and Screamin'
KROKUS - Alive and Screamin' album front cover vinyl record

This album arrived at a crossroads in Krokus' career. While they had enjoyed considerable success in the early 80s with hits like "Heatstrokes" and "Bedside Radio," the mid-80s saw a shift in the musical landscape. Hair metal was on the rise, challenging traditional hard rock bands to adapt or fade away.

Alive and Screamin' 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - Change of Address
KROKUS - Change of Address album front cover vinyl record

Founded in 1975, Krokus swiftly ascended the ranks of the music scene, blending the grit of hard rock with the ferocity of heavy metal. The Swiss outfit, consisting of seasoned musicians, carved a niche for themselves with their energetic performances and unapologetic sound.

Change of Address 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - Early Days 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - Early Days album front cover vinyl record

The year 1975 marked the inception of Krokus, and it was a time when the global rock scene was undergoing dynamic shifts. As the echoes of the psychedelic era faded away, a new wave of hard-hitting rock emerged, drawing inspiration from blues, metal, and a rebellious spirit.

Early Days 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - Hardware (Multiple International Versions)
KROKUS - Hardware (Multiple International Versions) album front cover vinyl record

In 1981, Krokus, the Swiss heavy metal force, released "Hardware," their eighth album. Produced in collaboration with Ariola Canada, the vinyl LP encapsulates the raw energy of the era's heavy metal scene. Marking a pivotal moment in the genre's evolution, the album's tracks showcase Krokus's musical prowess.

- Hardware (1981, Canada) - Hardware (1981, France) - Hardware (1981, Holland) - Hardware Swiss Pressing (1981, Switzerland)
KROKUS - Headhunter
KROKUS - Headhunter album front cover vinyl record

Headhunter is the seventh album by Krokus and was released in 1983. It achieved Gold status in the United States. The track "Screaming in the Night" was the band's biggest hit to date, and is still played on classic rock radio stations. Headhunter is the only Krokus album to feature "Steve Pace" on drums

Headhunter 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - Heart Attack
KROKUS - Heart Attack album front cover vinyl record

By the time "Heart Attack" was released, Krokus had already established themselves as a prominent force in the hard rock and heavy metal scene. However, internal conflicts and commercial challenges had taken a toll on the band, leading them to the brink of dissolution.

Heart Attack 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - Metal Rendez-Vous
KROKUS - Metal Rendez-Vous album front cover vinyl record

In the realm of heavy metal, certain albums stand as milestones, shaping the genre's landscape and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans. Krokus' "Metal Rendez-Vous" is undeniably one such album. Released as a 12" vinyl LP, this iconic record not only marked the band's ascent in the world of metal

Metal Rendez-Vous 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - One Vice at a Time (European and Swiss Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - One Vice at a Time (European and Swiss Releases) album front cover vinyl record

In 1983, the Swiss rock band Krokus unveiled their iconic album "One Vice at a Time" through an original Swiss pressing on a 12" LP vinyl. Distinguished by the +ML+ mark on the record label, this release captures the essence of its time period, encapsulating the fervor of the 1980s rock scene.

- One Vice at a Time (1982, Europe) - One Vice at a Time (1982, Switzerland)
KROKUS - Painkiller
KROKUS - Painkiller album front cover vinyl record

The emergence of Krokus and their influential hard rock sound during the late 1970s and early 1980s marked a significant chapter in Swiss music history. The Swiss hard rock scene, while not as widely recognized as those of the United States or the United Kingdom, produced notable acts such as Krokus

Painkiller 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - Pay It In Metal
KROKUS - Pay It In Metal album front cover vinyl record

Swiss heavy metal band Krokus made a significant impact on the metal scene with their third full-length album, "Pay It In Metal". Released in 1978, this album showcased the band's raw power and established them as a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy metal. With its memorable riffs

Pay It In Metal 12" Vinyl LP
KROKUS - The Blitz (German and USA Releases)
KROKUS - The Blitz (German and USA Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Released in 1984, "The Blitz" is Krokus' seventh studio album and a milestone in Swiss heavy metal. Featuring the hit "Midnite Maniac"—the first Swiss song to enter the Billboard Hot 100—it blends slick, arena-ready sound with driving riffs and catchy hooks. This LP marks Krokus’ peak in U.S. popularity and radio-friendly appeal.

- The Blitz (1984, Germany) - The Blitz (1984, USA)