Description
Girlschool – Screaming Blue Murder – Vinyl Record
Girlschool – Screaming Blue Murder is the third studio album by British heavy metal band Girlschool, released in 1982. Known as one of the pioneering all-female bands in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), Girlschool brought a blend of raw power, punk energy, and hard rock sensibility to the genre. With Screaming Blue Murder, the band continued to develop their hard-hitting sound, balancing catchy riffs, fierce vocals, and an aggressive style that defined their place in heavy metal history.
The album showcases the powerful, no-nonsense rock style that Girlschool was known for, marked by punchy guitar work, strong basslines, and anthemic choruses. Screaming Blue Murder captures the essence of Girlschool’s rebellious spirit and solidifies their influence on both metal and rock music.
By the time they recorded Screaming Blue Murder, Girlschool had already gained popularity as trailblazers in the heavy metal scene, having toured with Motörhead and other big names in the genre. The band—featuring Kim McAuliffe (rhythm guitar and vocals), Kelly Johnson (lead guitar and vocals), Enid Williams (bass and vocals), and Denise Dufort (drums)—wanted to continue evolving their sound and capturing the energy of their live performances.
The album is a blend of heavy metal and hard rock, with an emphasis on catchy hooks and powerful riffs. Girlschool’s punk roots can still be heard in the raw, unfiltered production style, which adds to the album’s gritty edge. Known for their straightforward, intense sound, Screaming Blue Murder features fast tempos, aggressive guitar work, and strong, raspy vocals, encapsulating the high-energy vibe that the band was famous for.
Key Tracks
‘Screaming Blue Murder’ – The title track kicks off the album with a fast-paced, high-energy riff and aggressive vocals. The song’s relentless rhythm and catchy chorus make it an anthem, highlighting the band’s raw power and defiant attitude.
‘Live with Me’ – A cover of The Rolling Stones’ song, Girlschool puts a hard rock spin on the classic track, infusing it with their own heavy sound. This version showcases their ability to reinterpret rock standards with a heavier, edgier feel.
‘When Your Blood Runs Cold’ – With a darker tone, this track is slower but heavier, adding a menacing atmosphere to the album. The intense guitar riff and gritty vocals bring an ominous vibe, showing the band’s versatility.
‘Hellrazor’ – This track features pounding drums and fierce, driving guitar riffs. It’s a straightforward heavy metal song that captures Girlschool’s rebellious spirit, with lyrics that celebrate a freewheeling lifestyle.
‘Don’t Call It Love’ – With a melodic edge, this track has a catchy, singable chorus while maintaining the band’s hard rock essence. The song balances melody and heaviness, giving it a unique place on the album.
‘Wildlife’ – This song brings a playful energy with its upbeat tempo and infectious riff. ‘Wildlife’ reflects the band’s punk-influenced side, adding an element of fun to the album.
‘Turns Your Head Around’ – This track features punchy guitar work and a powerful rhythm section, with lyrics about taking charge and refusing to back down. The intensity of the song highlights the band’s strong, assertive identity.
Girlschool – Screaming Blue Murder is marked by themes of independence, resilience, and a rebellious approach to life and love. The album’s lyrics celebrate freedom, strength, and a refusal to be held back. Girlschool’s sound is unapologetic and fierce, with an attitude that speaks to their place in the male-dominated world of heavy metal.
Produced by Nigel Gray (best known for his work with The Police), the album captures the band’s raw, aggressive sound with a clear but unpolished production style. Gray’s production keeps the focus on the guitars and vocals, enhancing the driving rhythm section and delivering a straightforward sound that mirrors the intensity of their live performances.
Screaming Blue Murder received positive reviews from critics and fans, who praised Girlschool’s powerful sound and their commitment to heavy metal. As one of the few all-female metal bands of the era, Girlschool’s impact extended beyond music, inspiring future generations of female rock and metal musicians. Songs like ‘Screaming Blue Murder’ and ‘Hellrazor’ became fan favorites, helping to solidify the album’s reputation as a classic in the NWOBHM movement.
Girlschool’s influence, especially on women in rock and metal, has endured over the years, and Screaming Blue Murder remains a key part of their legacy. The album captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of early 1980s metal, highlighting the band’s talent and their defiance of gender expectations in a genre known for its male dominance.
Girlschool – Screaming Blue Murder stands as a defining album for both Girlschool and the NWOBHM era, showcasing a pioneering all-female band making waves in heavy metal. The album’s high-energy, unrefined sound captures a moment in rock history where metal was raw, direct, and powerfully defiant. Girlschool’s influence is felt across the genre, inspiring bands and breaking down barriers for women in rock and metal. Screaming Blue Murder is celebrated as an essential part of Girlschool’s discography and a testament to their lasting impact on rock music.
Gatefold Jacket
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Screaming Blue Murder
Live With Me
Take It From Me
Wildlife
It Turns Your Head Around
I Like It Like That
Don’t Call It Love
Hellrazor
When Your Blood Runs Cold
You Got Me
Flesh And Blood
Don’t Stop
