OSBOURNE, OZZY killer of giants JOKE20H0 / JOK2

This 1986 release is a prime example of the high-tier unofficial live documents that circulated during the peak of 1980s heavy metal. Titled Killer Of Giants, this double LP captures Ozzy Osbourne during The Ultimate Sin tour, specifically recorded live at the Metropolitan Sports Center in Minneapolis, USA, on July 9, 1986. This era is particularly beloved by fans for featuring the virtuosic guitar work of Jake E. Lee, whose technical precision and unique style defined Ozzy’s mid-80s sound.

By 1986, Ozzy had fully transitioned into a polished, high-production metal icon. This recording serves as an authentic time capsule of that transition, featuring the heavier, synth-integrated tracks from the new album alongside Sabbath-era staples and Randy Rhoads-era classics. Unlike other unofficial releases with the same title that were recorded in the UK, this Joker Records version provides a raw, energetic look at the North American leg of the tour, complete with the era’s signature drum and guitar solos.

As an unofficial release, this set possesses several unique characteristics that make it a standout for specialized collectors:

- White Wax Vinyl: Both records in this 2LP set are pressed on striking white vinyl, a common trait for premium European bootlegs of the mid-80s intended to increase their “limited edition” appeal.

- Pseudonymous Production: In a classic move to avoid legal scrutiny, the album credits are attributed to colorful aliases: conceived by “The Joker,” realized by “The Rebel,” and produced/mixed by “The Boys” for Pentagon Productions Ltd.

- The “Typos” of Authenticity: The back sleeve is famous among collectors for its numerous spelling errors, including “Sucide Solution,” “Mr. Crowly,” “The Shot In The Dark,” and the particularly amusing “Secret Looser.” Rather than detracting from the value, these quirks are often viewed as hallmarks of the era’s underground pressing culture.

Released under the Joker Records label (catalog number JOK 2) and originating from the UK, the manufacturing quality is surprisingly robust for an unofficial release of this vintage. The runout grooves feature hand-etched matrix numbers (JOK 2A through JOK 2D), confirming its status as a dedicated pressing. For those tracking the evolution of Jake E. Lee’s tenure with the Prince of Darkness, this Minneapolis recording remains one of the most sought-after live documents from the mid-80s.