Scorpions Taken By Force
LP, 2023, Re-Release, Remastered, 180 Gramm Vinyl, Weißes Vinyl

"Taken By Force" was released on December 04, 1977 and was the last studio album with Uli Jon Roth and the first with the new drummer Herman Rarebell. The newcomer immediately introduced himself as a songwriter and contributed the lyrics to "He's A Woman - She's A Man". Taken By Force" features a number of songs that have since become classics. "Steamrock Fever" is one of those, a typical live smash that was an absolute crowd-pleaser for many years. Then we have "I've Got To Be Free", written by Uli Jon Roth; a high energy and hard rocking piece with great riffs and some guitar wizardry that once again demonstrates Roth's exceptional class. Ultra-heavy riffs and a catchy chorus, on the other hand, are the trademarks of the aforementioned "He's A Woman - She's A Man". A caliber all its own is the masterpiece "The Sails Of Charon", another song by Uli Jon Roth. The most unusual, and often criminally underrated track on the album, however, is "Your Light." A funky bass introduces the track and the song grooves almost like a Motown production. "Your Light" is the perfect counterpart and balance to the more somber and oppressive "The Sails Of Charon" or "The Riot Of Your Time". The ballad "Born To Touch Your Feelings" represents the romantic side of the Scorpions that has established them over the years as the 'Masters of Ballads'. The song is of the same class as the later monster hits "Still Loving You" or "Holiday". Although the musical differences between Uli Jon Roth and the other band members had already become apparent during the recording sessions, "Taken By Force" has become a fascinating album that does not have the slightest weak spot. It is the exquisite culmination of the era with Uli Jon Roth and at the same time a work that should have a significant impact on the future development of heavy metal. "Taken By Force" is now released as a 180g 1LP, pressed on white vinyl.