DRACULA'S TEABAGS

Hi again people, we're back again with some more overlooked tasty truffles for ya, as rooted out by my own fair snout from rock'n'roll's leaf covered forest floor. My metaphors are getting worse aren't they? So what do we have then? Four kick ass relics recorded between 1979 and 1985, that's what. Three from the UK, one from the States. A discography completed, and another advanced, a one-off and a compilation. Let's get started shall we?
The NWOBHM movement gave us dozens of lesser known bands that are well worth checking out, one worth a special mention is DRAGSTER. The band were active between 1979 and 1983, and during their lifetime they released a lone 7", "Ambitions" in 1981 on the Heavy Metal Records label. Dragster's sound was very much a product of its time, having a very NWOBHM, DIAMOND HEAD meets SAXON flavour. What they lacked in originality, they more than made up for in pure energy. To date, this album, 1999's 19 song "NWOBHM Revisited - the Very Best of Dragster" is the only collection of Dragster material officially available. Hard charging rock/metal anthems with plenty of speed and a surprising amount of melody, exactly what you want blasting from your speakers as you're cruising down the highway with your speedometer in the red. These recordings were culled from a variety of sessions recorded between 1979 and 1983. Grab it with both hands.

DRAGSTER - NWOBHM Revisited : The Best Of Dragster (1979-1983) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/189956456/DRAGSTER_-_NWOBHM_Revisited_-_The_Very_Best_Of__UK-79-83_.rar

Next, The all black SOUND BARRIER evolved from the demise of the R&B oriented, seven-piece COLOUR in 1979. COLOUR had steadily become more Rock oriented thanks to the recruitment of New Jersey born guitarist Spacey T. However, alongside COLOUR drummer Dave Brown, Spacey formed the Metal band he had always longed for in SOUND BARRIER. The first line-up of the group included bassist Keith Roster in a group that, initially, went for more of a Progressive feel until Roster departed and was replaced with Stanley E., rounding out a line-up fronted by vocalist Bernie K. SOUND BARRIER cut a four track demo with producer Neftali Santiago, which landed them a deal with MCA Records. Despite laudable press for the debut album, 1983's 'Total Control', and valuable support slots to no less than VAN HALEN, sales were not forthcoming and SOUND BARRIER was duly dropped by MCA. Undaunted, retained they kept the momentum going with the independent mini LP "Born To Rock" on Pitbull Records which contained a cover of STEPPENWOLF's "Born To Be Wild". The band was picked up by Metal Blade for their third release "Speed Of Light", by which time Stanley E., had been succeeded by ex-TERRIF bassist Emil Lech Brando. The album included a cover of THIN LIZZY's "Hollywood (Down On Your Luck)". The band fell apart once Italian six string hotshot ALEX MASI got into the band and set about taking control leaving the remaining original members no option but to quit the SOUND BARRIER ship. Soon enough the band evolved into MASI. Both Dave Brown and Bernie K. appeared on the 1987 debut MASI release 'Fire In The Rain'. After a period in late 1986 working with BLACK SHEEP bassist Willie Basse in SPACEY T'S LIBERTY, original SOUND BARRIER guitarist Spacey T briefly joined MOTHER'S FINEST in the early 90's on their initial European touring stint in support of the 'Black Radio Won't Play This Record' album. However, he had been replaced by a keyboard player by the time they returned. Lech turned up in JOSHUA whilst Brown formed TOTAL ECLIPSE with ex-BUSBOYS guitarist Victor Johnson, who had guested on the 'Speed Of Light' album. By 1998 Johnson was a member of SAMMY HAGAR's touring band THE WABORITAS. Spacey T. joined FISHBONE.

SOUND BARRIER - Born To Rock Mini LP (1984) USA

http://rapidshare.com/files/189926315/SOUND_BARRIER_-_Born_To_Rock_Mini_LP__USA-1984_.rar

A brief review from Sounds magazine now, from 02/08/1980.
"Lady fronted hard rockers CANIS MAJOR have their debut single issued by Gem Records this week. The single features two self penned songs, 'Freeway Rock' b/w 'Fire', and both tracks were produced by ex-WISHBONE ASH and DEEP PURPLE producer Derek Lawrence. The band's first Gem album 'Butterfly Queen' is set for October release."
The "Freeway Rock" 7" failed to set the charts alight, but undeterred, Gem released the eight song "Butterfly Queen" LP late in 1980 to little response. The music itself is well played hard rock/aor with some pomp/prog rock pretensions. Jacquie Bodimead, it has to be said, sounds very different here to her later CHER-like style. Andy Sears replaced Gary Wise just after the LPs release. After the commercial failure of the single & album, the band were dropped by their label and split up in 1981. Singer Jacquie Bodimead would later go on to join SHE, and later GIRLSCHOOL, (as "Jackie" Bodimead). As a member of GIRLSCHOOL Jackie recorded the album "Running Wild", in 1984, and toured heavily with the band for the next two years before moving on. Following her departure from GIRLSCHOOL, Jacquie teamed up again with her brother Tony (also of CANIS MAJOR) in new band HARMONIC 228. Jackie later fronted IF ONLY, appearing on their "Destiny" album, and in 1996 released a solo album entitled "Don't Believe In Love", which featured members of FASTWAY. Canis Major's co-vocalist Andy Sears would join Neo-Prog outfit TWELFTH NIGHT in 1983, recording the albums "Art & Illusion" and "Twelfth Night", with them, before leaving the band in late 1986. He reunited with the reformed TWELFTH NIGHT for a series of dates in 2007, and there are strong rumours that they will record a new album together in 2009.

CANIS MAJOR - Butterfly Queen (1980) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/189965780/CANIS_MAJOR_-_Butterfly_Queen__UK-1980_.rar

Finally, the last piece of an ongoing discography. Cheltenham, Gloucestershire NWOBHM band CHATEAUX had formed originally under the title of STEALER, but switched to CHATEAUX with their first vinyl appearance, a track on the 1982 Ebony Records compilation 'Metal Maniaxe'. The group was promptly signed by Ebony to an album deal and the first release, preceded by the 'Young Blood' single, was recorded with original vocalist and bassist Alec Houston, whilst Andre Baylis contributed drums. Released in 1983, 'Chained And Desperate', also featured session lead vocals by MEDUSA and GRIM REAPER's Steve Grimmett. Both Baylis and Houston were to quit after 'Chained And Desperate's release and were duly replaced by ex-CONFESSOR vocalist / bassist Krys Mason and former WOLFBANE, SAM THUNDER and ARAGORN drummer Chris Dadson. Second album 'Fire Power', also produced by Darryl Johnston, arrived in 1984 with third album 'Highly Strung' delivered in 1985. Mason was to leave in 1986, with the band folding the following year. Sanctuary Records compiled a two disc anthology set entitled 'Fight To The Last!' in 2003.

CHATEAUX - Highly Strung (1985) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/189971509/CHATEAUX_-_Highly_Strung__UK-1985_.rar

So that's it for this week, hope there's something here to get yer heads bobbin' or at least set yer toes a-tappin'. Please keep the comments, positive or negative coming, that's what keeps me goin' here, and the response to last week's post was particularly disheartening. It takes ages to rip or source this music, find info on the releases, hunt down art and then post this stuff. It takes a couple of minutes to share your thoughts, recollections or feelings on the subjects at hand, and that gives me a better idea of the stuff you want to see here. Let's get typin' people.
If you need more archive sounds try my other blog here, to get yer extra fix, and we'll meet again here real soon. Until then, toodles!

THE SIX-PACK GRIP

Howdy people, it's that time again. Thanks, as always for your comments on last weeks selection, it seems some of them brought back happy memories for you, i'm hoping this weeks selection will please you all just as much.
Most pleasantly surprising of all the comments was the one from Bryon, better known to many of you here as Time Traveller, the original author of this very blog, after being MIA for the best part of a year.
Bryon mate, it was great to hear from you again, glad to hear things are going better, and excited that you're considering a return to full blogging action.
Very pleased too that you seem to be enjoying and approving of the work i've been doing in your absence. I learned from the best, what can i say?
You can still get in touch through my old e-mail address my friend, please do so when you get the chance, it'll be good to catch up.
So, back to tonight's post then:
Paul Birch founded Wolverhampton based Heavy Metal Records as a vehicle to promote HANDSOME BEASTS, the Nuneaton boogie band he managed at the time, when an initial demo was rejected by all the major labels. Having formed as early as 1973, they finally debuted with the "All Riot Now" single in 1980, following it up with the "Breaker" EP and the "Sweeties" single, all issued by Heavy Metal Records. The band finally released a full blown album, "Beastiality" in 1982. Regrettably the band is remembered more for frontman Gary Dalloway's corpulence than their music, a problem not helped by the album's tasteless cover. The next album from the band was to be 1990's "The Beast Within", with bass now being handled by Mark Knight, although the album sleeve notes mistakenly list his name as 'Wright'. In the latter days of the band guitarist Phil Aston was a member (and went on to join ROGUE MALE and TANTRUM) and a third album was recorded during 1993 and, although finalised, was never released due to Heavy Metal Records going bankrupt. Surprisingly, HANDSOME BEASTS are still a going concern, reuniting annually for a one off gig to appease their fans. By 2004 the band, now including CHEVY drummer Ted Duggan, was plotting a new album, released on the Heavy Rock label as "04".
Recordings conducted during 2006 found PETE WAY of UFO & WAYSTED and Spike of THE QUIREBOYS guesting. Tragically, Garry Dalloway died from a fatal heart attack on August 20th that year. Nevertheless, Dalloway had apparently already appointed his successor, Simon "Mongo" Hall, and he debuted with the band at the British Steel festival. The band released a new album in 2007, "Rock & A Hard Place", which was released by Q Records. In 2008, "Mongo" left the band, and his recently announced replacement is none other than Rocky Shades formerly of TITAN, WRATHCHILD, DISCHARGE and ONE TRACK AND DIRTY.

THE HANDSOME BEASTS - The Beast Within (1990) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/184640025/THE_HANDSOME_BEASTS_-_The_Beast_Within__UK-1990_.rar

ORPHAN ALLIES were a female fronted Heavy Metal/Hard Rock quintet formed in Chicago, Illinois, USA in 1982. Their only release was the full length "Running From The Law" LP, released by French label Dream Records in 1986. The outstanding vocals of Little Orphan E.V. are the most impressive aspect of the bands sound, she may have been petite, but her voice was absolutely huge. There are several good songs spread throughout the record, but the poor production does the record no favours, giving the tracks a samey feel. Even so, it's become a much sought after collectors piece, with copies going at around $60-$80 US nowadays.

ORPHAN ALLIES - Running From The Law (1986) USA


http://rapidshare.com/files/184647794/ORPHAN_ALLIES_-_Running_From_The_Law__USA-1986_.rar

STILLWATER were a seven piece Southern Rock band formed in 1973. Signed to the legendary Capricorn Records label in 1976, their self titled debut album was released the following year.
A single from the album, "Mindbender", became a minor hit for the band, and two live tracks appeared on the compilation album, "Hotels, Motels and Roadshows". With these successes and tours with the ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND & ATLANTA RHYTHM SECTION under their belts, the future looked rosy for Stillwater. Second album "I Reserve The Right", came out in 1979, but instead of being able to capitalize on their early momentum, the band were scuppered by the bankruptcy of their label instead. The band kept gigging, playing with the likes of BLACKFOOT & THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND, and decided to finance the recording of a new album themselves, which they would then shop to record labels. However, the band ran into financial and personal difficulties during the 1983 recording sessions, leading to Stillwater's dissolution. Out of the blue however, in 1998, a new Stillwater album appeared, entitled "Running Free". Guitarist Bobby Golden explained the release to www.sweethomemusic.fr : "The "Runnin' Free", album was a real labour of love. We set out to complete the album we were working on in 1983 when we disbanded. We went into the studio in 1998 and recorded the few songs that had not been completed in 1983 with producer Rodney Mills (38 SPECIAL), and finished the album by remixing the 1983 tapes. We remained close friends after 1983 playing Reunion Concerts in Macon Georgia at Christmas time every year (we still do)." And on the subject of the film "Almost Famous", which was about a fictional band also called Stillwater. "Steven Spielberg's company, Dreamworks, contacted Sebie Lacey, our singer, to establish a deal concerning the use of the band's name. The young Cameron Crowe saw us in the '70's, in Macon, Georgia, at a concert organized by Capricorn Records, when he wrote for Rolling Stones. Even if the film is not devoted to us, it brings back good memories of our ten years of touring and recording when we were almost famous."

STILLWATER - Runnin' Free (1983) USA

http://rapidshare.com/files/184629681/STILLWATER_-_Runnin__Free__USA-1983_98_.rar

The all black SOUND BARRIER evolved from the demise of the R&B oriented, seven-piece COLOUR in 1979. COLOUR had steadily become more Rock oriented thanks to the recruitment of New Jersey born guitarist Spacey T. However, alongside COLOUR drummer Dave Brown, Spacey formed the Metal band he had always longed for in SOUND BARRIER. The first line-up of the group included bassist Keith Roster in a group that, initially, went for more of a Progressive feel until Roster departed and was replaced with Stanley E., rounding out a line-up fronted by vocalist Bernie K. SOUND BARRIER cut a four track demo with producer Neftali Santiago, which landed them a deal with MCA Records. Despite laudable press for the debut album, 1983's 'Total Control', and valuable support slots to no less than VAN HALEN, sales were not forthcoming and SOUND BARRIER was duly dropped by MCA. Undaunted, retained they kept the momentum going with the independent mini LP "Born To Rock" on Pitbull Records which contained a cover of STEPPENWOLF's "Born To Be Wild". The band was picked up by Metal Blade for their third release "Speed Of Light", by which time Stanley E., had been succeeded by ex-TERRIF bassist Emil Lech Brando. The album included a cover of THIN LIZZY's "Hollywood (Down On Your Luck)". The band fell apart once Italian six string hotshot ALEX MASI got into the band and set about taking control leaving the remaining original members no option but to quit the SOUND BARRIER ship. Soon enough the band evolved into MASI. Both Dave Brown and Bernie K. appeared on the 1987 debut MASI release 'Fire In The Rain'. After a period in late 1986 working with BLACK SHEEP bassist Willie Basse in SPACEY T'S LIBERTY, original SOUND BARRIER guitarist Spacey T briefly joined MOTHER'S FINEST in the early 90's on their initial European touring stint in support of the 'Black Radio Won't Play This Record' album. However, he had been replaced by a keyboard player by the time they returned. Lech turned up in JOSHUA whilst Brown formed TOTAL ECLIPSE with ex-BUSBOYS guitarist Victor Johnson, who had guested on the 'Speed Of Light' album. By 1998 Johnson was a member of SAMMY HAGAR's touring band THE WABORITAS. Spacey T. joined FISHBONE.

SOUND BARRIER - Speed Of Light (1986) USA

http://rapidshare.com/files/184060136/SOUND_BARRIER_-_Speed_Of_Light__USA-1986_.rar

So that's it for another week, hope you enjoy tonight's booty folks, keep 'em comments a-comin' please. If you still need more vintage music remember to check out my other blog here. I'll be upping some more vintage 1980's Hard Rock and Heavy Metal albums from Scandinavia (mostly Sweden) and Europe too, if not tonight, then tomorrow at the latest over there. Like the sound of that selection? You know where to go and what to do then, don't you.
Until next time, be good.
If you can't be good, be really bad.
If you can't be bad, be yourself.
If you can't be yourself, be somebody else.
If that doesn't work, then, my friends you're totally fucked, but i wish you well anyway. From me, that's it.
Over & out!

DROWNING THE CHOCOLATE SLUGS

Brothers & sisters, here we go again with another batch of 24 karat, 100% Proof, high octane, vintage arse kickery.
A couple of under appreciated NWOBHM albums, a classic slice of cult U.S. Metal and, by request, a repost for an excellent KISS tribute album that died waaaay too quick when it was initially uploaded.
So, let's get on with it then.
For starters, Paul Birch founded Wolverhampton based Heavy Metal Records as a vehicle to promote THE HANDSOME BEASTS, the Nuneaton band he managed at the time, when an initial demo was rejected by all the major labels. Having formed as early as 1973, they finally debuted with the "All Riot Now" single in 1980, following it up with the "Breaker" EP and the "Sweeties" single, all issued by Heavy Metal Records. The band finally released a full blown album, "Beastiality" in 1982. Regrettably the band is remembered more for frontman Gary Dalloway's corpulence than their music, a problem not helped by the album's tasteless cover. The next album from the band was to be 1990's "The Beast Within", with bass now being handled by Mark Knight, although the album sleeve notes mistakenly list his name as 'Wright'. In the latter days of the band guitarist Phil Aston was a member (and went on to join ROGUE MALE and TANTRUM) and a third album was recorded during 1993 and, although finalised, was never released due to Heavy Metal Records going bankrupt. Surprisingly, HANDSOME BEASTS are still a going concern, reuniting annually for a one off gig to appease their fans. By 2004 the band, now including CHEVY drummer Ted Duggan, was plotting a new album, released on the Heavy rock label as "04". Recordings conducted during 2006 found PETE WAY of UFO & WAYSTED and Spike of THE QUIREBOYS guesting. Tragically, Garry Dalloway died from a fatal heart attack on August 20th that year.
Nevertheless, Dalloway had apparently already appointed his successor, Simon "Mongo" Hall, and he debuted with the band at the British Steel festival. The band released a new album in 2007, "Rock & A Hard Place", which was released by Q Records. In 2008, "Mongo" left the band, and his recently announced replacement is none other than Rocky Shades formerly of TITAN, WRATHCHILD, DISCHARGE and ONE TRACK AND DIRTY.

THE HANDSOME BEASTS - Beastiality (1981) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/181935229/HANDSOME_BEASTS_-_Beastiality__UK-1981_.rar

Next, by popular request, we're happy to bring you the various artists collection, "LARGER THAN LIFE 4", another in the long running and excellent series of albums paying tribute to KISS. This one features well known names like BATHORY, GALACTIC COWBOYS and JAMES LAST (!!!), rubbing shoulders with unknowns like PASTEL VESPA, ASS and JIM STEINE, and contributions from bands featuring former members of HADES, BRITNEY FOX, DIAMOND DOGS, TESTAMENT, NON-FICTION and BRUCE DICKINSON's BAND. The one thing they all have in common? An obvious love for the original versions of the songs, and the musical ability to stamp their own identity on these classic tracks. You wanted the best? You Got It.

VARIOUS : LARGER THAN LIFE 4 - The KISS Tribute (2006)

http://rapidshare.com/files/181920815/Various_-_LARGER_THAN_LIFE_4_-_KISS_Tribute__2006_.rar

AFTER DARK were a NWoBHM era act formed in Berkshire in 1979 by guitarist/singer Steve Annetts. Annetts had previously fronted the IAN GILLAN managed band HEARTBREAKER in the early '70's, and briefly headed up Zak Starkey's band THE NEXT. AFTER DARK issued two singles, 1980's "Evil Woman" and the promotional picture disc release "Deathbringer" in 1983.
An album entitled "Masked By Midnight" was recorded in 1984 and was due to be released by Lazer Records, but before this could happen the label folded. Disheartened by events, After Dark folded in 1985. Vocalist Steve Annets and guitarist Michael Hare then formed DANGEROUS AGE who released the album "Troubled Times" in 1995. Annets also served time with MORITZ, whilst Hare held IRONHEART credentials and drummer Jon Metcalfe played with DEAD MEAT. Thanks to the European Art Of Music label the unreleased After Dark album "Masked By Midnight' finally emerged on cd in 1995. Annetts still plays music with a new band called HIGHWAY.

AFTER DARK - Masked By Midnight (1984) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/181944049/AFTER_DARK_-_Masked_By_Midnight__UK-1984_.rar

Finally, Previously known simply as SLAYER, this San Antonio, Texas based band prefixed their title with the name of their home city when confusion arose with the more prominent Los Angeles Thrashers of the same name. Famously, both SLAYER's - the Los Angeles version and the San Antonio version, shared a stage in 1985 at the Cameo Theater in San Antonio with support from MILITIA. Guitar players Art Villareal and Bob Catlin were both previously members of BLITZKRIEG. Art Villareal, who played on the 'Prepare To Die' mini-album, released through Rainforest Records in 1983, was replaced by Ron Jarzombek who recorded the 'Go For The Throat' LP in 1984. At this juncture the shadow of their more famous Californian counterparts loomed large and a consideration was made to re-brand these recordings under the band billing SCYTHIAN PREY. However, the album finally emerged in 1988 credited to S.A. SLAYER. Following the albums, Jarzombek recorded with studio project the HAPPY KITTIES with his brother Bobby on drums. A mostly instrumental demo had been recorded with Jason McMaster of WATCHTOWER guesting on 'Hammer At The Ready' and Mike Grotheus of WINTERKAT on 'In Mind'. Bassist Don Van Stavern forged the MARK REALE PROJECT with RIOT guitarist Mark Reale. This project then became known as NARITA, as vocalist Steve Cooper and drummer Dave McClain also became involved. Von Stavern would join RIOT once Reale had resurrected his cult outfit. The bassist's later works included SUITE 16, including drummer Bobby Jarzombek and ex-WINTERKAT and DIRTY WATER guitarist Jonathan Grell issuing an album, and JACK RUBY, again alongside Bobby Jarzombek and his erstwhile S.A. SLAYER colleague Art Villareal on guitar, for a three song demo. Former guitarist Art Villareal forged KARION, recruiting original SLAYER vocalist Chris Kronk, bassist Pete Perez, and drummer Frank Ferreira. KARION folded in 1986. Following on from his NARITA tenure, Cooper briefly joined East Coast Progressive Metal outfit EXPLORER (a.k.a. EXXPLORER), post the 'Symphonies Of Steel' album. He also sang on the second JUGGERNAUT album, 'Trouble Within.' Dave McClain's subsequent NARITA stops would be CATALEPSY, the TURBIN band of ex-ANTHAX singer NEIL TURBIN, MURDERCAR and MINISTERS OF ANGER in alliance with a pre-DAMN THE MACHINE's Dave Clemmons, the latter act featuring on the 'Metal Massacre 'XI' compilation album. Guitarist Ron Jarzombek reared his head again in 1997 with the SPASTIK INK album 'Ink Complete'. Don Van Stavern turned up in 1992 as one of the instigators behind the Industrial Techno outfit PITBULL DAYCARE. Drummer Dave McClain later journeyed through SACRED REICH and MACHINE HEAD. S.A. SLAYER vocalist Steve Cooper died in the early morning hours of May 14th 2006 at a San Antonio, Texas hospital. A diabetic, Cooper had been in ill health and on kidney dialysis for several years prior to his untimely passing.

S.A. SLAYER - Go For The Throat (1984) USA

http://rapidshare.com/files/181952535/S.A._SLAYER_-_Go_For_The_Throat__USA-1984_.rar

Right then, that's yer lot for tonight. Hope you enjoy our fine hand picked selection. If your ears need more abuse in a vintage fashion, get your neckbraces on and go check out my latest post at the other blog, located here, featuring Scandinavian and European Heavy Metal and Hard Rock LPS, spanning the years 1981-1983.
Nice stuff.
Until we "meet" again, take care and be lucky.

GET UP THEM STAIRS

Howdy folks. Well, here we are in a brand new year, 2009 no less! I'd just like to take this opportunity to wish all of you visitors here a happy, healthy and prosperous new year and raise a glass to you all.
So how are we celebrating this new year musically? With a quartet of stone cold kick ass classics from days of yore, that's how.
We still slay the old way.
Up first, the PINK FAIRIES.
Recorded at London's legendary Roundhouse venue, this PINK FAIRIES live album features the classic "Kings Of Oblivion" line up, joined for this occasion by former vocalist/drummer Twink. This was to be the band's farewell concert, but proved to be anything but, with sporadic Fairies activity continuing right up to the present day. The band were always best appreciated in the live setting, and this raw document proves the point in spades. From the tough speed fuelled biker rawk of opener "City Kids", (later re-recorded by MOTORHEAD during Wallis' stint in the band), to the cosmic fire fight of "Uncle Harry's Last Freakout", this is the sound of the Fairies firing on all six. A shame they never quite managed to harness their power in the studio, ("Kings Of Oblivion" excepted), this is a tantalising glimpse of what might have been.

PINK FAIRIES - Live At The Roundhouse (1975) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/178867785/PINK_FAIRIES_-_Live_At_The_Roundhouse__UK-1975_.rar

Next, EXXPLORER were a Keansburg, New Jersey Heavy Metal band that made a lasting impression with their 1985 debut "Symphonies Of Steel", issued through the French Black Dragon label. However, the group were formed circa 1982. The band comprised singer Lenny Rizzo, guitarists Kevin Kennedy and Ed LaVolpe, bassist Jimmy Gardner with Mike Moyer on drums. A self-titled demo preceded this release. EXXPLORER split with vocalist Lennie Rizzo in early 1987 and replaced him with female singer Melissa Cahne. The band planned to begin work on a follow-up album, tentatively titled "Beg, Borrowed And Steel" for Black Dragon. However, the record was never released. Successive re-issues of 'Symphonies Of Steel', officially through HHH records and Metal Blade Records plus a bootleg on Reborn Classics, all sported differing artwork.

EXXPLORER - Symphonies Of Steel (1985) USA

http://rapidshare.com/files/178861485/EXXPLORER_-_Symphonies_Of_Steel__USA-1985_.rar

Newcastle upon Tyne Heavy Metal band FIST were signed to Neat Records mere weeks after their formation under the original handle of AXE in 1980 and subsequently found themselves on major label MCA Records following an inter-label deal. In addition to a crop of singles, FIST also contributed a track to the Neat Records compilation 'Lead Weight' and the band supported UFO on their British January 1981 tour. In 1982 Keith Satchfield and John Wylie left as FIST re-signed to Neat Records after their flirtation with MCA, during which time they had released debut album, "Turn The Hell On". Vocalist Glenn Coates, who had previously been a member of HOLLOW GROUND, was added with ex-THRUST man Jon "Pop" Appleby and second guitarist John Paul Roach of MYTHRA also joining. The band's new line up recorded the second album, "Back With A Vengeance", which was issued in 1982. Further changes ensued when Coates was sacked in favour of a slimmed down four piece line-up with "Pop" singing in 1983. Dave Irwin subsequently deputized for Mantas on VENOM's 1985 American tour when the guitarist fell ill.
After a lengthy hiatus FIST regrouped during 2002. Joining original members Harry Hill and Keith Satchfield would be erstwhile HOLLOW GROUND guitarist Martin Metcalfe and DEATHWISH bass player Big Al. FIST got back to touring across the UK and issued a four track EP comprising remixed versions of 'The Vamp', 'Axeman', 'Terminus' and naturally 'Name Rank And Serial Number'. A new album, entitled 'The Storm', emerged on Demolition Records in 2004.

FIST - Back With A Vengeance (1982) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/178854979/FIST_-_Back_With_A_Vengeance__UK-1982_.rar

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire NWOBHM band CHATEAUX had formed originally under the title of STEALER, but switched to CHATEAUX with their first vinyl appearance, a track on the 1982 Ebony Records compilation 'Metal Maniaxe'. The group was promptly signed by Ebony to an album deal and the first release, preceded by the 'Young Blood' single, was recorded with original vocalist and bassist Alec Houston, whilst Andre Baylis contributed drums. Released in 1983, 'Chained And Desperate', also featured session lead vocals by MEDUSA and GRIM REAPER's Steve Grimmett. Both Baylis and Houston were to quit after 'Chained And Desperate's release and were duly replaced by ex-CONFESSOR vocalist / bassist Krys Mason and former WOLFBANE, SAM THUNDER and ARAGORN drummer Chris Dadson. Second album 'Fire Power', also produced by Darryl Johnston, arrived in 1984 with third album 'Highly Strung' delivered in 1985. Mason was to leave in 1986, with the band folding the following year.
Sanctuary Records compiled an anthology set entitled 'Fight To The Last!' in 2003.

CHATEAUX - Fire Power (1984) UK

http://rapidshare.com/files/178873557/CHATEAUX_-_Firepower__UK-1984_.rar

So that's yer wack for tonight folks, hope you find something to tickle yer fancy. If you need more vintage rawk don't forget to check my other blog here.
Oh, and my many thanks again to TheDevilToPay for hooking me up, it's much appreciated.