Description
Raven – All Systems Go – Compact Disc
Raven’s All Systems Go is a high-energy album released in 1983 that exemplifies the band’s blend of speed metal, NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal), and an almost punk-like intensity. Raven, formed in 1974 in Newcastle, England, is known for their raw, adrenaline-fueled sound that played a significant role in shaping the early thrash and speed metal scenes.
By the time All Systems Go was released, Raven had already established themselves as one of the key bands in the NWOBHM movement, which also included bands like Iron Maiden, Saxon, and Def Leppard. Raven, however, leaned more towards a faster and more aggressive style, often referred to as ‘athletic rock’ due to their intense live performances and the physicality they brought to their music.
The album All Systems Go is actually a compilation album, not a standalone studio album. It was released by the independent label Metal-Is Records and includes tracks from the band’s earlier works, such as Rock Until You Drop (1981) and Wiped Out (1982), both of which were critical in establishing Raven’s reputation. The compilation serves as a great introduction to Raven’s early sound and highlights their contribution to the development of speed and thrash metal.
The tracks on All Systems Go showcase Raven’s signature sound: fast, heavy, and unrelenting. The music is characterized by high-speed guitar riffs, aggressive drumming, and John Gallagher’s distinctive, high-pitched vocals. The band’s approach to metal was both intense and fun, combining technical proficiency with a sense of reckless abandon.
The songs are typically fast-paced, with an emphasis on speed and power. Raven’s music is often seen as a precursor to thrash metal, influencing bands like Metallica and Slayer who would take this speed and aggression even further. The production on these tracks is raw and unpolished, capturing the energy of the band’s early recordings. This gives the music an authentic, gritty feel that matches the intensity of their live performances.
Many of the tracks have an anthemic quality, with shout-along choruses and memorable riffs that are designed to energize and engage the audience. Raven’s music was meant to be experienced live, and this energy translates well to the recordings included on All Systems Go.
Key Tracks:
‘Faster Than the Speed of Light’: A standout track that epitomizes Raven’s influence on speed metal. The song is driven by a relentless pace and features blistering guitar work and powerful vocals, making it one of the most iconic tracks of the era.
‘Crash Bang Wallop’: This track is a perfect example of the band’s mix of heavy metal and punk energy, with its fast tempo and raw, unfiltered sound. The title itself reflects the chaotic, high-energy nature of Raven’s music.
‘Live at the Inferno’: An anthem for Raven’s fans, this track captures the intensity of their live performances. The song’s title and lyrics pay homage to the band’s reputation as a powerful live act, with a riff that’s both catchy and heavy.
‘Take Control’: A mid-tempo track that still retains the band’s trademark heaviness. The song has a more traditional NWOBHM sound but with the added intensity that Raven brought to their music.
‘Seek And Destroy’: Another track that highlights Raven’s ability to craft memorable metal anthems. The lyrics reflect the band’s rebellious attitude and their commitment to the metal genre.
All Systems Go is a great snapshot of Raven’s early years and their role in the evolution of heavy metal. Although the compilation itself may not be as widely recognized as their individual studio albums, it offers a concise introduction to the band’s sound and influence during the early 1980s.
Raven’s music, particularly from this era, had a significant impact on the development of thrash and speed metal, influencing a generation of metal bands that would rise to prominence in the mid-to-late 1980s. Their raw energy, fast tempos, and aggressive sound were integral to the genre’s evolution.
For fans of NWOBHM, speed metal, or early thrash, All Systems Go is a valuable compilation that captures the essence of Raven’s contribution to heavy metal. It’s a reminder of the band’s role as trailblazers in a genre that continues to thrive.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal
Metal-Is Records
Track Listing
1. Don’t Need Your Money
2. Wiped Out
3. Hard Ride
4. Crazy World
5. Hell Patrol
6. Rock Until You Drop
7. Medley: Hellraiser/Action
8. Tyrant Of The Airways
9. Crash, Bang, Wallop
10. Fire Power
11. Rock Hard
12. Faster Than The Speed Of Light
13. Live At The Inferno
14. UXB
15. Born To Be Wild
16. Inquisitor
17. Take Control
18. All For One
19. Break The Chain
20. Seek And Destroy
