HIGH SPIRITS high spirits HRR090

High Energy Rock ‘n’ Roll: High Spirits’ Self-Titled Compilation (HRR 090)

Today’s entry highlights the beginning of one of the most beloved modern bands in the traditional heavy metal scene. We are looking at the 2010 vinyl compilation High Spirits by the Chicago-based band High Spirits, released on High Roller Records with the catalog number HRR 090.

The Professor’s Project
High Spirits is the brainchild of the prolific multi-instrumentalist Chris Black (also known for his work with Dawnbringer, Superchrist, and Pharaoh). This release compiles the band’s earliest recordings—specifically their first two demos from 2009—onto vinyl for the first time. It captures the raw, infectious energy that would go on to define their sound: a perfect blend of 70s hard rock boogie, NWOBHM melody, and pop sensibility.

Key Tracks
The album kicks off with “Torture,” a track that immediately showcases Black’s knack for writing simple, incredibly catchy riffs and vocal hooks. The anthem “High Spirits” serves as a mission statement for the band’s “High Energy Rock” philosophy. Other standouts include the driving “Midnight Lady” and “I Need To Know,” songs that strip heavy metal down to its most fun, essential elements.

Collector’s Details
High Roller Records gave these humble CD-R demos the premium treatment they deserved. This specific entry is the White Vinyl edition, which was pressed in a quantity of 600 copies (a smaller run of 150 black copies also exists). This record is essential for understanding the roots of the band before they released their debut full-length album, Another Night, showing that the hit-making formula was there from the very start.