Rock Until You Drop was legendary first release from Raven. It kickstarted the band’s career back in 1981, and they are still with us, stronger than ever! This album was absolutely outstanding for its time, the songs still get the blood boiling. What we have here is a an amazing reissue, clearly a labor of love on the part of the label and the band.
This little boxset is absolutely sensational, and by far the most definite version of Rock Until You Drop. There are several versions out, but this is the one you need! The box includes the album with some great bonus tracks, all on one CD. The 2nd disc digs deep into the demo stages of Raven. There are demos from 1980, but there are even older tracks, dating back to 1978. You are hearing an absolute history here. Yeah, the quality may very here and there, but you are on the road very few had travelled. Pure gold here for sure.
The other two discs include two live shows from 1982. One from Bologna, Italy, and the other one from Manchester, England. Here’s a chance of witnessing Raven in the early stages as a professionally signed live band. Both shows are very dynamic, and display a lot of energy, much of which is still present with Raven today. Historically, this is another outstanding find from band’s own private archives. If that wasn’t enough, there is a radio interview with the boys from the same time frame. You hear pure Newcastle band talking in their natural environment. Not only is it awesome, it is fun.
The booklet includes very detailed noted from John Tucker. The band was clearly involved in putting this feature together. I simply love the attention to detail here! Tucker leaves no stone unturned as far as Rock Until You Drop is concerned. Visually, the package includes some great photos, many of them were never seen by the wider audience. Once again, historical finds dominate this release.
This is the most complete, most comprehensive, and best sounding version of Rock Until You Drop. It’s a real joy to listen to this material, and investigate the early days of Raven from the notes and photos. This is very likely a limited release, so grab yours while you still can. It has a collector’s item written all over it.
Mark Kadzielawa
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