GIRLSCHOOL screaming blue murder VIP-6814

Queens of Noise: Girlschool’s ‘Screaming Blue Murder’ (VIP-6814)

Today’s entry spotlights the third studio album from the undisputed queens of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, Girlschool. We are looking at the 1982 Japanese pressing of “Screaming Blue Murder,” released on the Bronze label (Victor Musical Industries) with the catalog number VIP-6814. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.

Released in 1982, this album holds a special place in the band’s history as the final full studio recording to feature the classic lineup with guitarist and vocalist Kelly Johnson before the band’s direction shifted on the subsequent “Play Dirty” album. Many fans regard this era as the band’s absolute creative peak.

Produced primarily by Nigel Gray, with key tracks handled by the legendary Chris Tsangarides, the album delivers a potent mix of hard rock grit and heavy metal power. The sound is often described as the perfect answer to hard rock: hard, catchy, simple, and passionate.

The tracklist features some of the band’s most enduring songs. The title track, “Screaming Blue Murder,” and the melodic rocker “Don’t Call It Love” are frequently cited as masterpieces that justify owning the album on their own merits. The album also features a raucous cover of The Rolling Stones’ “Live With Me,” showcasing their rock ‘n’ roll roots.

VIP-6814 is an essential document for NWOBHM collectors. It captures the raw chemistry of Kim McAuliffe, Kelly Johnson, Gil Weston, and Denise Dufort firing on all cylinders, delivering a classic heavy metal album that remains timeless.