"Head First" is the 15th studio album released by British rock band Uriah Heep. Released in May 1983, the album was the first one featuring the new lead vocalist Peter Goalby. Other band members included Mick Box, Lee Kerslake, Trevor Bolder, and John Sinclair. Although it was only moderately successful, it is significant because it brought Uriah Heep back into the public eye after experiencing some setbacks in the latter part of the 70's.
The album was produced by Ashley Howe, a notable record producer. Its sound was typical for its era, showing influences of '80s hard rock and arena rock. Musically, the album features a distinct shift from Uriah Heep's progressive rock roots to a more commercial hard rock and AOR style.
As for the songs in the album, it included some notable tracks such as "Straight Through the Heart," "The Other Side of Midnight," and "Lonely Nights," which caught the attention of both fans and critics.
Head First marked a new chapter for the band, showcasing their increased focus on melody and anthemic choruses. Despite the shift in musical style, the album still retains Uriah Heep's signature heavy guitar riffs and organ-driven sound.
Uriah Heep continued to tour and release more albums after "Head First." While the album wasn't a towering commercial success, it did reach number 46 on the UK Albums Chart and spent 15 weeks on the Billboard 200 in the United States.
In summary, "Head First" served as a pivotal transition point for Uriah Heep, reflecting changes in both their lineup and musical direction. While it may not have ignited the charts, it remains a significant part of the Uriah Heep discography for its innovation and the band's continued commitment to their music.
