Label: Universal Music Recordings
Genre: Classic Rock
The 4-CD / Blu Ray Box tracklisting is as below
CD One: Album Re-Mastered
Rock Rock (Til You Drop)
Photograph
Stagefright
Too Late for Love
Die Hard the Hunter
Foolin’
Rock Of Ages
Comin’ Under Fire
Action! Not Words
Billy’s Got a Gun
CD Two: Rarities
No You Can’t Do That – Out-Take
Untitled 1 – Demo
Untitled 2 – Demo
Untitled 3 – Demo
Untitled 4 – Demo
Untitled 5 – Demo
Untitled 6 – Demo
Rock Rock (Til You Drop) – Demo
Too Late for Love – Demo
Comin’ Under Fire – Demo
Billy’s Got a Gun – Demo
No You Can’t Do That – Demo
Rock Rock (Til You Drop) – Rough Mix Version
Photograph – Rough Mix Version (Unfinished Vocal)
Stagefright – Rough Mix Version
Too Late for Love – Rough Mix Version
Die Hard the Hunter – Rough Mix Version
Foolin’ – Rough Mix Version
Rock Of Ages – Rough Mix Version
Comin’ Under Fire – Rough Mix Version
Action! Not Words – Rough Mix Version (Chorus Only)
Billy’s Got a Gun – Rough Mix Version
CD Three: Live Westfalen Halle, Dortmund, Germany / 18th December 1983
Rock Rock (Til You Drop)
Billy’s Got a Gun
Foolin’
Rock of Ages
Let It Go
Wasted
CD Four: Live at the LA Forum / 11th September 1983
Rock Rock (Til You Drop)
Rock Brigade
High And Dry (Saturday Night)
Another Hit and Run
Billy’s Got a Gun
Mirror Mirror (Look into My Eyes)
Foolin’
Photograph
Rock Of Ages
Bringing Back the Heartache
Switch 625
Let It Go
Wasted
Stage Fright
Travellin’ Band
Blu Ray: Atmos / 5.1 / New Stereo / Instrumental
Rock Rock (Til You Drop)
Photograph
Stagefright
Too Late for Love
Die Hard the Hunter
Foolin’
Rock Of Ages
Comin’ Under Fire
Action! Not Words
Billy’s Got a Gun
Videos
Photograph – Official Video
Rock Of Ages – Official Video
Foolin’ – Official Video
Too Late for Love – Official Video / Supersonic (Historia)
Rock Rock (Til You Drop) – Official Video / Japanese Show (Historia)
The significance of releases such as this lies in the value they provide discerning enthusiasts. Def Leppard’s seminal ‘Pyromania’ is a cornerstone of rock history, widely acknowledged even among the most ardent fans. While ‘Hysteria’ often commands attention, the profound impact of its precursor in 1983 is undeniable. Selling over 10 million copies in the US alone, ‘Pyromania’ propelled the band to global acclaim, a status solidified by ‘Hysteria,’ ensuring Def Leppard’s enduring presence as arena headliners.
Complementing the musical offerings, the release features a comprehensive booklet, meticulously crafted liner notes, and an illuminating interview with esteemed rock journalist Paul Elliott. However, the pièce de résistance undoubtedly lies in the inclusion of Dolby Atmos mixes on the Blu-ray edition. Helmed by Giles Martin, these immersive mixes, alongside 5.1/Stereo and instrumental renditions, elevate the listening experience from nostalgic indulgence to indispensable sonic immersion. A truly remarkable achievement.
The meticulously remastered original album, curated under the stewardship of Joe Elliott, delivers a contemporary, yet faithful rendition that preserves the essence of the original recordings. However, it is the expansive 4-CD set that truly captivates aficionados, offering a wealth of previously unreleased material. Unearthed demos, notably the previously undisclosed “No You Can’t Do That,” along with two captivating live performances from renowned venues in the US and Germany, stand out as noteworthy highlights.
While personal preferences may vary, live recordings may hold less appeal for some due to the absence of firsthand experience. Nonetheless, discerning collectors, particularly overseas, demonstrate a keen appetite for such archival offerings, underscoring the robust market demand, particularly within Def Leppard’s expansive fanbase.
Reviewed by: Adrian Hextall
Score: 9/10
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