SCORPIONS animal magnetism RVP-6458

The Scorpions’ Heavy Metal Hypnosis: ‘Animal Magnetism’ White Label Promo (RVP-6458)

Today’s entry features a pristine artifact from the German metal titans’ golden era. We are examining the 1980 Japanese White Label Promo of Animal Magnetism (released in Japan as Denjuu or “Electric Beast”), issued by RVC Corporation with the catalog number RVP-6458.

Cementing the Classic Lineup

Released in 1980, this album served as the crucial bridge between the breakthrough of Lovedrive and the global explosion of Blackout. It was the first album to fully feature Matthias Jabs as the sole lead guitarist, solidifying the classic lineup alongside Rudolf Schenker, Klaus Meine, Francis Buchholz, and Herman Rarebell. Produced by Dieter Dierks, the record is famous for its darker, heavier groove, best exemplified by the menacing title track and the talk-box heavy classic “The Zoo.” The album also includes the melodic anthem “Make It Real” and the sweeping ballad “Lady Starlight.” The provocative cover art was designed by Storm Thorgerson of Hipgnosis.

Rare “Shiro-ban” Promo

This specific copy is a highly collectible White Label Promo (often called “Shiro-ban” by collectors).

- Labels: Instead of the standard RCA labels, the disc features plain white labels with “見本盤” (Sample Disc) printed on them. These initial pressings are sought after for their superior audio fidelity, often representing the earliest run from the stampers.
- Inclusions: The release is complete with the original Obi strip and a 4-page insert featuring English lyrics and liner notes by the renowned Japanese metal critic Masa Ito.

It is a definitive copy of a record that captured the Scorpions at their heaviest and most atmospheric.