Album Info
| Artist: | Def Leppard |
| Album: | On Through The Night |
| Released: | USA & Europe, 20 Mar 2020 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Rock Brigade | |
| A2 | Hello America | |
| A3 | Sorrow Is A Woman | |
| A4 | It Could Be You | |
| A5 | Satellite | |
| A6 | When The Walls Came Tumbling Down | |
| B1 | Wasted | |
| B2 | Rocks Off | |
| B3 | It Don't Matter | |
| B4 | Answer To The Master | |
| B5 | Overture |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
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Description
Def Leppard's debut album, On Through the Night, released on March 14, 1980, is a fascinating snapshot of a young band on the cusp of greatness. Hailing from Sheffield, England, Def Leppard were part of the burgeoning New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, and this record captures their raw energy and ambition as they began to carve out their own identity in the rock world.
From the opening track, "Rock Brigade", it's clear that Def Leppard had a knack for crafting catchy, riff-driven rock songs. The album is packed with youthful exuberance and a sense of urgency, as if the band were eager to prove themselves to the world. Tracks like "Hello America" and "Wasted" showcase their ability to blend hard rock with melodic hooks, a formula that would later become their signature sound. The production, handled by Tom Allom, who had worked with Judas Priest, gives the album a polished yet gritty edge that suits the material well.
One of the standout aspects of On Through the Night is the musicianship. Guitarists Steve Clark and Pete Willis deliver some impressive riffs and solos, while Rick Savage's bass lines and Rick Allen's drumming provide a solid foundation. Joe Elliott's vocals, though not as refined as they would become on later albums, are full of passion and charisma. The band's chemistry is evident throughout the record, and their enthusiasm is infectious.
While On Through the Night received mixed reviews upon its release, it has since been recognised as an important stepping stone in Def Leppard's career. It laid the groundwork for their subsequent albums, which would see them refine their sound and achieve massive commercial success. Songs like "Rock Brigade" and "Wasted" remain fan favourites and are often included in the band's live performances.
The album also reflects the band's influences, with nods to classic rock and heavy metal acts like Led Zeppelin, Thin Lizzy, and UFO. However, Def Leppard were already beginning to develop their own style, characterised by tight arrangements, anthemic choruses, and a focus on melody. This combination of elements set them apart from many of their NWOBHM peers and hinted at the more polished, radio-friendly direction they would take in the years to come.
On Through the Night is not without its flaws. Some of the songs feel a bit derivative, and the band was still finding their voice. However, these imperfections are part of what makes the album so endearing. It's a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the early days of a band that would go on to become one of the biggest names in rock music.
In retrospect, On Through the Night is a testament to Def Leppard's potential and determination. It's a record that captures the spirit of a young band hungry for success, and it's a must-listen for fans who want to explore the roots of their sound. While it may not have the polish or the hits of their later albums, it remains an essential part of their discography and a reminder of where it all began.
