This week In ‘Hard & Metal Throwback’ 01/52

1 . Aerosmith . Mama Kin

Released as part of Aerosmith’s self-titled debut album in 1973, “Mama Kin” was written by lead vocalist Steven Tyler and marked one of the most enduring tracks of the band’s early catalog.

While the song did not chart upon its initial release, it gained prominence due to the band’s consistent inclusion of it in live performances, including their groundbreaking 1975 performance at New York’s Central Park, which was pivotal in building their live reputation.

The track is notable for its raw, blues-rock style and features a distinct saxophone section played by David Woodford, an element that added to the song’s signature sound.

“Mama Kin” gained further attention when iconic rock band Guns N’ Roses covered the song on their 1986 debut EP “Live ?!*@ Like a Suicide” and later included it in their 1988 album “G N’ R Lies,” amplifying its reach among a new generation of listeners.

In December 1975, Aerosmith opened their own music club in Boston and named it “Mama Kin Music Hall” after the track, further linking the song to their branding.

The song has been included in Aerosmith’s live album “Classics Live I” (1986) and featured in video games like “Guitar Hero: Aerosmith.” It remains a concert staple, performed during major tours such as their “Back in the Saddle” tour in 1984 and the “Global Warming Tour” in 2012, highlighting its enduring presence in Aerosmith’s career.

Lifted from : Columbia Records publish ‘Aerosmith’ their eponymous debut album featuring ‘Dream On’ (1973)

2 . Dio . Stand Up And Shout

“Stand Up and Shout,” the opening track of Dio’s debut studio album “Holy Diver,” released on May 25, 1983, showcases Ronnie James Dio’s powerful vocals and Vivian Campbell’s dynamic guitar work.

Written by Ronnie James Dio and Jimmy Bain, the song emphasizes a fast-paced heavy metal sound that became a signature of the band.

The album “Holy Diver” peaked at number 56 on the Billboard 200 chart and later achieved Platinum status by the RIAA in 1989.

“Stand Up and Shout” became a standout anthem of the 1980s heavy metal era and was a staple in Dio’s live performances, including the band’s 1986 concert at The Spectrum in Philadelphia, which was released as part of the live video “Intermission.” The track has been featured in several media, including the 2001 video game “Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories” and the 2009 film “Rockstar” starring Mark Wahlberg.

Notably, the song was performed alongside other hits during the 2005 “We Rock” tribute concert honoring Ronnie James Dio.

Though it was not released as a single, “Stand Up and Shout” remains one of Dio’s most enduring tracks, solidifying its place in heavy metal history.

Lifted from : Dio rocks Hollywood (1984)

3 . Led Zeppelin . Communication Breakdown

“Communication Breakdown” is a track by Led Zeppelin, featured as the ninth song on their self-titled debut album released on January 12, 1969, under Atlantic Records.

Written by Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, and John Paul Jones, the song is recognized for its fast, aggressive tempo and Page’s use of a Fender Telecaster guitar alongside a “trainwreck” Vox Super Beatle amplifier for its signature tone.

It is often considered one of the precursors to the punk rock genre due to its simplicity and raw energy.

The song was regularly performed live during the band’s early tours, including their first North American tour in December 1968.

Although it was not initially released as a single in the UK or US, “Communication Breakdown” gained radio airplay and was later issued as a B-side to the “Good Times Bad Times” single in some regions.

The song appeared on major compilations, such as “Led Zeppelin Remasters” (1990) and the live album “BBC Sessions” (1997) which featured a version recorded for the BBC in March 1969.

The track was also included in the setlist during Led Zeppelin’s famous performances, such as their appearance at the Fillmore West in 1969.

Music clips of “Communication Breakdown” played a significant part in showcasing the band’s early heavy rock sound, influencing future generations of artists.

Lifted from : As we wish John Paul Jones, Led Zeppelin bassist, . Happy Birthday, the day is perfect for . ‘Led Zeppelin at their bests’ post

4 . The Hives . Main Offender

Released in 1997 as part of The Hives’ debut EP “Barely Legal,” “Main Offender” is a track written by the band members—Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist (vocals), Vigilante Carlstroem (guitar), Nicholaus Arson (guitar), Dr. Matt Destruction (bass), and Chris Dangerous (drums).

The song gained further attention when it was later included in the compilation album “Your New Favourite Band,” released in 2001, which helped the band reach wider audiences internationally.

“Main Offender” also appeared in various media, including the video game “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3” released in 2001.

It was performed live during their notable appearance at the 2002 MTV Video Music Awards, contributing to their dynamic stage presence recognition.

Though it did not chart individually as a single in most countries, “Your New Favourite Band,” which featured the song, entered the UK Albums Chart at #7.

The music video for “Main Offender,” directed by Hives collaborators Kalle Haglund and Fredrik Karlsson, showcases the band’s energetic aesthetic and has accumulated significant views on platforms like YouTube.

Lifted from : The Hives travel to Sydney (2009)

5 . Marilyn Manson . Heart Shapped Glasses

“Heart-Shaped Glasses (When the Heart Guides the Hand)” by Marilyn Manson is the lead single from his sixth studio album, “Eat Me, Drink Me,” released on June 5, 2007.

The song was co-produced by Manson and Tim Sköld, who also co-wrote the track.

It debuted at No.36 on the UK Singles Chart and reached No.16 on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart.

The music video, directed by Manson and James Cameron-collaborator James G.

Boyle, features Manson’s then-girlfriend Evan Rachel Wood, gaining attention for its visually provocative content and rumors surrounding its production.

The title is inspired by the iconic heart-shaped glasses worn by the character Lolita in Stanley Kubrick’s 1962 adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov’s novel.

The track premiered live during Marilyn Manson’s “Rape of the World” tour, which began in 2007.

No awards were directly tied to the single itself, but “Eat Me, Drink Me” received nominations at both the Kerrang! and Shockwaves NME Awards.

A booklet included with the album release mentions that the song was influenced by Manson’s personal experiences and relationships during the album’s production.

Lifted from : Happy Birthday Marilyn Manson. ‘Accomplished’

6 . Zakk Wylde . I Don’t Know

Zakk Wylde’s performance of “I Don’t Know,” originally written and released by Ozzy Osbourne as the opening track of the 1980 album “Blizzard of Ozz,” has been featured prominently in live settings throughout Wylde’s career, particularly during his tenure as Osbourne’s touring guitarist and as part of live tributes to Osbourne’s work.

The original track, co-written by Osbourne, Randy Rhoads, Bob Daisley, and Lee Kerslake, charted modestly but is a staple of Osbourne’s live performances, celebrated for its iconic guitar riff and virtuosic solos.

Zakk Wylde’s renditions of “I Don’t Know” are noted for his distinctive guitar style, featuring pinch harmonics and powerful vibrato, which he incorporated during numerous tours, including Osbourne’s “No More Tears” and “Ozzfest” series.

Fun fact: Wylde has performed “I Don’t Know” at historic venues such as Budokan, which was recorded for the live album and DVD “Live at Budokan,” released in 2002, though the track itself often alternates in live setlists.

Wylde has also been seen performing the song in memorable collaborations featuring other Ozzy Osbourne band members and guests during tribute concerts, including those honoring Randy Rhoads.

Video recordings of Wylde interpreting “I Don’t Know” can be found on platforms such as YouTube, capturing his signature blend of technical mastery and energetic stage presence.

Lifted from : Zakk Wylde gives . private concert (1993)

7 . Rancid . Maxwell Murder

“Maxwell Murder” is the opening track on Rancid’s second studio album, “…And Out Come the Wolves,” released on August 22, 1995, via Epitaph Records.

Written by band members Tim Armstrong, Matt Freeman, Lars Frederiksen, and Brett Reed, the song is notable for Freeman’s intricate bass solo, a hallmark of the track’s punk rock composition.

The album peaked at No.45 on the Billboard 200 and achieved platinum certification by the RIAA.

“Maxwell Murder” was not released as a single but exists as a fan-favorite for showcasing Freeman’s technical skills.

The album itself produced several hits, including “Ruby Soho” and “Time Bomb,” which performed well on alternative charts.

“…And Out Come the Wolves” is often associated with Rancid’s 1996 appearances on prominent platforms like MTV’s “120 Minutes” and high-profile festivals such as Lollapalooza.

Although “Maxwell Murder” did not chart individually, it has been a staple of the band’s live performances, including notable renditions such as during the Warped Tour in the late 1990s.

The album is frequently included on lists citing influential punk rock records of the 1990s, further raising the visibility of tracks like “Maxwell Murder.”

Lifted from : Rancid punkify San Francisco (2016)

8 . Dio . Straight Through The Heart

“Straight Through The Heart” is a track from Dio’s debut studio album “Holy Diver,” released on May 25, 1983, through Warner Bros.Records.

Written by Ronnie James Dio and guitarist Vivian Campbell, the song features Dio’s powerful vocals and Campbell’s prominent guitar work, elements that define the album’s heavy metal sound.

“Holy Diver” reached No.56 on the US Billboard 200 chart, and though “Straight Through The Heart” was not released as a single, it remains a fan favorite and a staple of Dio’s live performances.

The album itself achieved RIAA platinum certification in the United States and is considered one of the most influential releases in heavy metal history.

Dio first performed “Straight Through The Heart” live during the Holy Diver Tour, which began in 1983, and it has since been included in the setlists of concerts across multiple world tours.

Notably, the song was performed by many prominent artists at the 2014 “This Is Your Life” tribute album dedicated to Ronnie James Dio, highlighting its lasting influence.

Additionally, VH1 included “Holy Diver” in their 2005 documentary special, giving attention to songs such as this for shaping the genre.

The album cover, featuring the iconic devil and chains imagery, has been a highly recognizable component of the song’s association.

Lifted from : Dio rocks Hollywood (1984)

9 . Destroy All Monsters . TV Eye

Destroy All Monsters’ rendition of “TV Eye” is a reinterpretation of The Stooges’ iconic track from their 1970 album “Fun House.” This version by Destroy All Monsters showcases the band’s lineup at the time, which notably included Ron Asheton of The Stooges on guitar and Mike Kelley on bass, along with other members such as Niagara (vocals) and Michael Davis from the MC5.

The song symbolizes the band’s connection to Detroit’s influential proto-punk scene, with Asheton’s prominent guitar work directly linking it to its origins.

Recorded during the late 1970s, their interpretation was released on several underground compilations, such as in the single series by Cherry Red Records and later reissues spotlighting Michigan punk.

Destroy All Monsters frequently performed “TV Eye” live during their concerts, gaining a following in Detroit and other cities for their energetic stage presence and provocative visual art elements incorporated by the band.

Although “TV Eye” under Destroy All Monsters did not enter mainstream charts, it remains a key piece in chronicling the crossover of punk rock and avant-garde art movements of the era.

Lifted from : We Remember Ron Asheton

10 . Donna Grantis . Trashformer

Donna Grantis’ “Trashformer” is an instrumental track featured on her debut solo album “Diamonds & Dynamite,” released on March 22, 2019, via eOne Music.

The song showcases Grantis’ signature fusion of rock and jazz influences, heightened by her mastery of the electric guitar, which gained prominence during her tenure as lead guitarist for Prince’s backing band, 3RDEYEGIRL.

“Diamonds & Dynamite” reached #1 on iTunes Canada in the Jazz category shortly after its release.

“Trashformer” was recorded with an ensemble of acclaimed musicians, including bassist Cody McKinney and drummer JT Bates, adding to its intricate and dynamic instrumental layering.

The album was produced by Donna Grantis herself in Minneapolis, a nod to her time working within Prince’s creative fold.

While the track did not chart individually, it has been performed live in various settings, including the album’s official launch event at the Dakota Jazz Club.

Clips of live renditions can be found from performances shared through Grantis’ social media platforms, exhibiting her technical prowess and on-stage interaction with her band.

Lifted from : Donna Grantis shreds in NYC (2019)

11 . Asheton, Asheton, Mascis & Watt . Down On The Street

The track “Down On The Street” by Asheton, Asheton, Mascis & Watt is a live reinterpretation of The Stooges’ song from their 1970 album “Fun House.” This rendition was recorded for the album “Martin + Me” released in 1995, which featured J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr. in collaboration with Ron Asheton and Scott Asheton, former members of The Stooges, alongside bassist Mike Watt of Minutemen and fIREHOSE fame.

The performance is notable for preserving the raw garage rock energy of the original while showcasing the distinctive guitar style of Mascis.

This collaboration happened during a period of increased visibility for The Stooges’ legacy, with the Asheton brothers being pivotal figures in the proto-punk genre.

The live version has been performed in various reunion shows, including a notable performance at the All Tomorrow’s Parties festival in 2003, where Watt also played bass in The Stooges’ reunion lineup.

While no major awards were directly tied to this collaboration, it stands as an important moment of intersection between punk pioneers and 1990s alternative rock icons.

Lifted from : We Remember Ron Asheton

12 . The Cult . Nirvana

The song “Nirvana” by The Cult is featured as the opening track on the album “Love,” released on October 18, 1985.

The album is widely noted for its transition from the band’s post-punk roots to a more psychedelic and gothic rock sound, with “Nirvana” being emblematic of this shift.

While not released as a single, “Nirvana” contributed to the album’s significant impact, as “Love” reached No.4 on the UK Albums Chart and achieved considerable commercial success, eventually earning a Silver certification from the BPI in the UK.

The production of “Love” was helmed by Steve Brown, who had produced hits for artists such as Wham! and Elton John.

The song’s distinctive sound is characterized by Billy Duffy’s intricate guitar work, which features his use of a Gretsch White Falcon, a signature element of his playing style, paired with Ian Astbury’s dramatic vocal delivery.

“Love” is regarded as a turning point in the band’s career and was promoted through a performance of album tracks, including “Nirvana,” during the band’s appearance on “The Tube,” a music television show on Channel 4 in the UK in 1985.

The Cult supported “Love” with a major international tour, including sold-out dates in the UK and Europe, further highlighting “Nirvana” as a critical piece in the setlist that underscored the band’s evolving musical identity at the time.

Lifted from : On English TV today, The Cult at ‘Bliss in Concert’ (1986)