By 1979, the Scorpions were in a weird place. Their original lead guitarist Uli Jon Roth had just left the band due to creative differences. And the group needed a new guitar slinger. Enter the writing a recording sessions of ‘Lovedrive.’ The first album that would set the Scorpions on an upward commercial pattern. Eventually peaking with massive commercial success.
Initially the album served as an audition between two lead guitar finalists: Michael Schenker, Scorpions founder Rudolph Schenkers older brother. And Matthias Jabs. An emerging guitar slinger inspired by Eddie Van Halen and the like. Over the course of many songs, different takes on guitar solos and such. It was determined that Jabs was the man for the job. Michael Schenker’s alcohol problem was certainly a determining factor as well. But that didn’t stop the Scorps from releasing one of their finest albums. And the first in a string of records that would solidify the band as all time hard rock legends.
‘Loving You Sunday Morning’ opens things up with the new Scorpions direction. Big arena riffs and rhythms. Big guitar and bass tone. Klaus Meine’s vocals are as epic as they always were. And always would be moving forward. ‘Another Piece of Meat’ is Scorpions at their heaviest. The Herman Rarebell coined track is a prime proto thrash piece that features the best of the band. ‘Always Somewhere’ opens the long string of Scorpions balladry excellence. While the instrumental ‘Coast to Coast’ remains a concert staple.
‘Can’t Get Enough’ is a classic, aggressive arena metal track. Its punk spunk won heavy music fans the world over. The reggae infused ‘Is There Anybody There?’ is truly unique. And displays how Scorpions were able to write songs that were above the typical heavy metal fray. The title track literally ‘drives’ the hard rock narrative that the band was trying to produce. While the album closer, ‘Holiday’ remains one of the greatest ballads of all time. An eternal stadium anthem that will always be on anyones list of greats.
Upon its release, ‘Lovedrive’ immediately put the Scorpions on the map in the US. And started a string of hits that would last for nearly 15 years. Eventually leading to massive top ten success. The band would only refine their newfound stadium sound as the 80’s dawned. With each album becoming stronger than the last. And it all begins with ‘Lovedrive.’ Crank it, live it, love it. Celebrate one of the great heavy albums of all time.
