Motorhead Warpig Bookends (18cm): A Must-Have for Rock and Roll Fans

The Birth of a Legend: Motörhead’s First Album

When it comes to the pantheon of rock and roll, few bands have had the impact and staying power of Motörhead. Known for their loud, fast, and uncompromising sound, Motörhead’s influence can be heard across a wide spectrum of rock and metal genres. To understand the genesis of this powerhouse band, we need to go back to 1977, the year they released their self-titled debut album, “Motörhead.”

The Formation of Motörhead

Motörhead was formed in 1975 by bassist and lead vocalist Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister, after he was unceremoniously fired from the space rock band Hawkwind. Determined to form a band that combined the speed and aggression of punk with the heavy riffs of rock and roll, Lemmy recruited guitarist Larry Wallis and drummer Lucas Fox. This initial lineup was short-lived, with Wallis and Fox being replaced by “Fast” Eddie Clarke on guitar and Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor on drums. This trio would become the classic Motörhead lineup.

Recording the Debut Album

The recording process for Motörhead’s debut album was fraught with challenges. Originally recorded in 1975 as “On Parole,” the album faced numerous delays and was not released until 1979, after the success of their subsequent albums. Frustrated by these delays, the band decided to re-record several tracks in 1977, resulting in the release of the self-titled album “Motörhead.” This album, while not their first recording, marked their official debut and set the stage for their future success.

Track-by-Track Breakdown

1. Motörhead

• The album opens with its titular track, “Motörhead,” which was originally written by Lemmy during his time with Hawkwind. This song became an anthem for the band, encapsulating their ethos with its driving bass line, blistering guitar riffs, and Lemmy’s gravelly vocals. The lyrics, a mix of road tales and rock rebellion, set the tone for the band’s image and music.

1. Vibrator

• Following the high-energy opener, “Vibrator” showcases the band’s punk influences with its rapid tempo and cheeky lyrics. It’s a raw, energetic track that captures the spirit of the 1970s rock scene.

1. Lost Johnny

• “Lost Johnny” is another track carried over from Lemmy’s time with Hawkwind. This song features darker, more introspective lyrics, and its heavy, brooding sound contrasts with the more frenetic tracks on the album.

1. Iron Horse/Born to Lose

• Slowing things down a bit, “Iron Horse/Born to Lose” is a biker anthem that blends bluesy undertones with hard rock riffs. The song’s themes of freedom and rebellion resonate with the biker subculture, a significant part of Motörhead’s fan base.

1. White Line Fever

• Picking up the pace again, “White Line Fever” is a straightforward rock song with a catchy chorus. The lyrics, which reference life on the road and substance use, further solidify the band’s hard-living image.

1. Keep Us on the Road

• With its relentless rhythm and anthemic chorus, “Keep Us on the Road” is a testament to the band’s commitment to their music and their fans. It’s a declaration of their intent to keep pushing forward despite the obstacles they faced.

1. The Watcher

• Another track with roots in Hawkwind, “The Watcher” features a hypnotic bass line and spacey, psychedelic elements that hark back to Lemmy’s previous band. It provides a brief respite from the more aggressive songs on the album.

1. Train Kept A-Rollin’

• Closing the album is a cover of the rock classic “Train Kept A-Rollin’.” Motörhead’s version is faster and heavier, transforming the song into a high-octane finale that leaves listeners wanting more.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, “Motörhead” was met with moderate success, peaking at number 43 on the UK Albums Chart. However, it was only the beginning for Motörhead. The raw energy and unfiltered aggression of the album laid the groundwork for their future releases. Songs like “Motörhead” and “Iron Horse/Born to Lose” became staples in their live performances and are still celebrated by fans today.

The debut album may not have been an instant commercial success, but it established Motörhead’s identity and showcased Lemmy’s vision for the band. It bridged the gap between punk rock and heavy metal, influencing countless bands that followed.

Conclusion

Motörhead’s first album is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a statement of intent. It introduced the world to a band that would go on to become a cornerstone of rock and metal. With its raw power, rebellious spirit, and unapologetic attitude, “Motörhead” set the stage for a career that spanned four decades and left an indelible mark on the music world. Whether you’re a long time fan or a newcomer, revisiting this album is a reminder of the band’s enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of their music.