JAG WIRE made in heaven SPV08-1808 / SH0044

American Metal on German Soil: Jag Wire’s ‘Made In Heaven’ (SH 0044)

Today’s entry spotlights a hidden gem from the mid-80s melodic hard rock scene: the album “Made In Heaven” by the American band Jag Wire. Released in 1985 on the German label Steamhammer, this 12-inch vinyl LP carries the catalog number SH 0044 (also distributed as SPV 08-1808).

While Jag Wire hailed from the burgeoning Los Angeles music scene, their album found its primary release in Europe, making it a somewhat obscure but highly regarded find for collectors today. The band featured a solid lineup including vocalist Art Deresh, guitarist Howard Drossin, keyboardist Vince Gilbert, drummer Carl Elizondo, and notably, bassist Joey Cristofanilli, who is well-known to metal history buffs for his tenure in an early lineup of Ratt.

“Made In Heaven” delivers a polished, radio-ready sound that perfectly encapsulates the era. It blends driving hard rock riffs with the lush keyboards and catchy choruses characteristic of AOR and glam metal. Produced by Liam Sternberg, the album features 8 tracks, including the melodic opener “All My Love,” the driving “Heat Of The Night,” and the anthemic title track.

SH 0044 represents a quintessential slice of LA rock history preserved on German vinyl. For fans of the melodic side of the 80s Sunset Strip sound, Jag Wire’s album is a quality discovery that deserves more attention.