Name: Faster Than the Speed Of Light and Covers
Brand: Raven

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

HNECD183T

Colour

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2023-05-26

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

Cherry Red (ADA)

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

5013929928329

Total Cap

CDx3

Artist

Raven

Genre GB

Metal

Label GB

HNE is a renowned music label that has been making waves in the industry for years. With a focus on quality and innovation, HNE has become synonymous with groundbreaking music and exceptional talent. The label prides itself on its diverse roster of *artists* who span various genres, including rock, pop, and alternative. From iconic bands to emerging artists, HNE consistently delivers captivating music that resonates with audiences worldwide.

When it comes to the *performers* signed under HNE, they are known for their incredible artistry and unique sound. Each artist brings something special to the table, whether it's powerful vocals or masterful instrumentals. HNE ensures that every release is meticulously crafted to perfection, resulting in albums that are both sonically impressive and emotionally evocative.

With an extensive catalog of releases spanning several decades, HNE continues to be at the forefront of the music industry. Whether you're a fan of classic hits or looking for fresh sounds, this label has something for everyone. When you see the name HNE credited on an album cover or promotional material, you can trust that you're in for a musical journey like no other.

Raven is a heavy metal band hailing from Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Formed in 1974 by brothers John and Mark Gallagher, along with Paul Bowden, the band has been a prominent figure in the genre for over four decades.

The current line-up of Raven consists of *John Gallagher* on vocals and bass, *Mark Gallagher* on guitar, and *Mike Heller* on drums since 2018. Over the years, they have had several former members including Paul Bowden, Pete Shore, Paul Sherrif, Mick Kenworthy, Sean Taylor, Rob "Wacko" Hunter, and Joe Hasselvander.

Known for their energetic live performances and powerful sound, Raven has influenced numerous bands within the heavy metal scene. Some similar artists include Tokyo Blade,
Tygers Of Pan Tang,
Grim Reaper,
Picture,
Jaguar,
Angel Witch,
Cloven Hoof,
Armored Saint,
The Rods,
Diamond Head,
Anvil,
Witchfynde,
Avenger,
Praying Mantis,
Girlschool,Lizzy Borden,Vicious Rumors,Samson Attacker,Omen.

The fledgling Raven were formed by brothers Mark and John Gallagher, playing their first gig in 1975 while building up a loyal following across the North East of England. Coming to the attention of NWOBHM pioneers Neat Records, a power-trio were formed when John Gallagher on bass and vocals and Mark Gallagher on lead guitar, joined forces with drummer Rob “Wacko” Hunter, releasing debut 45 ‘Don’t Need Your Money’ in 1980, followed by debut LP Rock Until You Drop in 1981. Successfully capturing the energy of their live shows, the album picked up instant champions across the influential UK rock press, rewarding them with key features in Kerrang! and Sounds.These would lead to tours with Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake and Motörhead.

These self-styled “athletic rockers” were a huge influence on future thrash and speed metal bands, such as Slayer, Megadeth and early touring partners Metallica. Becoming a big crowd draw, Raven did what they do best, and hit the road, exemplified by their live album, Live At The Inferno, released in 1984. Their last album for Neat Records before signing a major deal with Atlantic Records in the States, Live At The Inferno cherry picks their biggest hitters from their early 45s and first three Neat albums.

Jumping forwards by more than a decade, Destroy All Monsters: Live In Japan (CD2) was recorded in 1995 at Tokyo’s famed rock venue, Club Citta. Though the set does have a concentration of their early New Wave Of British Heavy Metal days, latter rockers such as ‘For The Future’, ‘Architect Of Fear’ and ‘White Hot Anger’ get a well-deserved airing.

As much as Raven had been a huge influence on the metal and thrash of the 1980s, the roots of the band lay in the classic hard rock and even the heavier end of glam of the 1970s. Raven were able to pay homage to their heroes across eleven cover versions on Party Killers (CD3), including the rock classics ‘Fireball’ (by Deep Purple), ‘Bad Reputation’ (by Thin Lizzy) and finishing off with the ‘Ziggy Stardust ‘classic, ‘Hang On To Yourself’ (by David Bowie).

Faster Than the Speed Of Light and Covers

Music GB