Description
Samson – Head On – Compact Disc
Samson’s Head On is the second studio album by the British heavy metal band, released on June 27, 1980, through Gem Records. This album is a cornerstone of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, blending raw energy with melodic sensibilities and introducing Bruce Dickinson—then known as ‘Bruce Bruce’—as the band’s new lead vocalist. His powerful performance on the album foreshadowed his future success as the frontman of Iron Maiden.
Samson was formed in 1977 by guitarist Paul Samson, who quickly established the band as part of the burgeoning NWOBHM scene. Following their debut album, Survivors (1979), Head On marked a significant step forward, showcasing a more polished sound and a greater focus on songwriting. The addition of Bruce Dickinson, along with drummer Thunderstick (famed for wearing a mask and performing in a cage), gave the band a distinct edge, combining theatricality with technical skill.
Head On blends the raw energy of NWOBHM with blues-influenced hard rock, featuring Paul Samson’s riff-heavy guitar work and Dickinson’s soaring, operatic vocals. The album balances fast, aggressive tracks with mid-tempo rockers, and its production captures the unfiltered energy of the band’s live performances.
Lyrically, the album explores themes of rebellion, desire, and mysticism, often delivered with a tongue-in-cheek attitude that reflects the era’s love of theatricality.
Track Listing:
‘Hard Times’ – A gritty, hard-rocking opener with a driving riff and Dickinson’s powerful vocals.
‘Take It Like a Man’ – A fast-paced anthem with an infectious chorus and energetic guitar work.
‘Vice Versa’ – A standout track featuring dynamic shifts in tempo and tone, showcasing Dickinson’s vocal range.
‘Manwatcher’ – A mid-tempo track with a bluesy swagger and sharp lyrics.
‘Too Close to Rock’ – A classic NWOBHM track with punchy riffs and a rebellious spirit.
‘Thunderburst’ – An instrumental piece featuring dramatic guitar and percussion, demonstrating the band’s technical prowess.
‘Hammerhead’ – A high-energy track with galloping rhythms and a memorable riff.
‘Hunted’ – A slower, atmospheric piece that builds tension and highlights Dickinson’s emotive delivery.
‘Take Me to Your Leader’ – A quirky, experimental track with a mix of hard rock and theatrical elements.
‘Walking Out on You’ – A fast and furious rocker with a blistering guitar solo.
‘Angel with a Machine Gun’ – A bonus track on some reissues, adding to the album’s hard-hitting energy.
The album’s lyrics capture the spirit of NWOBHM, with themes of rebellion (‘Hard Times’), mysticism (‘Vice Versa’), and over-the-top storytelling (‘Take Me to Your Leader’). Samson balances these themes with humor and theatricality, creating a dynamic listening experience that reflects the adventurous nature of the NWOBHM movement.
Head On was praised for its high-energy performances and strong songwriting. It helped establish Samson as one of the leading bands in the NWOBHM scene and set the stage for Bruce Dickinson’s rise to fame. Tracks like ‘Vice Versa’ and ‘Hard Times’ became fan favorites, showcasing the band’s ability to combine technical skill with infectious hooks.
Although Samson never achieved the commercial success of contemporaries like Iron Maiden or Judas Priest, Head On remains a cult classic, celebrated for its role in defining the sound and attitude of NWOBHM. The album’s influence can be heard in the work of later heavy metal and hard rock bands.
Head On is a quintessential NWOBHM album that captures the raw energy and innovation of the genre. With Bruce Dickinson’s commanding vocals, Paul Samson’s fiery guitar work, and a collection of memorable tracks, it remains a vital piece of heavy metal history. For fans of classic metal and the NWOBHM movement, Head On is an essential listen that showcases Samson at their peak.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal
Sanctuary Records
Track Listing
1. Hard Times
2. Take It Like A Man
3. Vice Versa
4. Manwatcher
5. Too Close To Rock
6. Thunderburst
7. Hammerhead
8. Hunted
9. Take Me To Your Leader
10. Walking Out On You
11. (untitled) – (Interview With Bruce Dickinson)
