Another magnificent band to originate from the ultimate epicenter from which U.K. heavy metal bands have traditionally been born and bred, Birmingham's Dark Star formed in 1978, toured with Budgie in 1979 and released the famous \"Lady of Mars\" single the following year, and the song was also included on the second installment of the noted \"Metal for Muthas\" compilation. Thus they were at the peak of their powers and creativity in January and February of 1981, when they recorded their one and only self-titled full-length proper for Avatar Records, and the record being reviewed.
Wow! It's rare that you find an album that is so captivating and classy from beginning to end but here it is, this is just what \"Dark Star\" is. The band combines the pomp and grandeur of '70s rock with the newfound rawness and aggression that was characteristic of NWOBHM music of this time period, and this LP was recorded during the movement's absolute peak. Opener \"Kaptain Amerika\" pummels with guitarist Dave Harrison's 50-megaton heavy rock riff and vocalist Rik Staines' raw reverbed delivery. Following that is \"Backstreet Killer,\" which is a feel good '70s-stye rocker with molten riffage where you could potentially burn a joint during its 7-minute+ runtime and bask in its euphoria. Closing out side one of the LP is of course \"Lady of Mars,\" and it's a track I first heard on Castle's 2005 3-CD \"Lightnin' to the Nations\" set, that left me wanting more. That need is more than fulfilled with the band's ultimate masterpiece, track number seven of this CD \"Lady Love.\" Man oh man is this a classic song! The vocal harmonies are as beautiful as any song by the Beatles, but it is definitely NWOBHM of the highest order, with a nice early Tygers of Pan Tang vibe going on. Once you listen to it, its chorus will not leave your head for days. This album was rightfully a success that eventually went on to garner classic status and earned the band a tour that same year with the likes of Magnum, Chevy and Limelight.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for \"fair use\" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
I do not own any clips or music. All clips and music belong to their respectful owners. I do not earn any money with this video. This video is for enjoyment purposes only.
