I never got into buying singles much, but I was gifted a few dozens of these 12 inch beauties which I received over the years from record labels in Mumbai, namely, Universal and Sony Music. These LP singles were sent by their overseas offices for promotion in Mumbai’s clubs that sadly never used turntables in the time. My collection of 12 inch singles includes artists from various genres. Thereafter, I have always bought the full album releases, if I really needed to lay my hands on any of the albums.

On my recent visit to Italy and hunting around for vinyl record stores, I stumbled on a shop Miller Records that had a variety of vinyl records. When I saw the 12 inch LP version of ‘Let’s Get Rocked’ by Def Leppard, I immediately decided to purchase it, even though it had just three songs on it. It would have been pretty hard to ignore these guys completely when they were at their peak. I just had to get this vinyl.

So what I held in my hands was the first single Let’s Get Rocked from their new album ‘Adrenalize’. A simple title that just about sums up feelings about life.The other tracks Only After Dark is a Mick Robson cover and appears on the B-Side with proceeds going to a fund to help his cancer battle.

Well “Let’s Get Rocked” is part of pop culture, what with its hard hitting chorus instantly recognizable in the same way like We Will Rock You from Queen is. The lyrics are the topper here like integrating them into your daily life and saying let’s get the rock out of here.

Let's Get Rocked single was released in the UK and was the first release by the band since their 1989 album 'Rocket'.  The song was the first release after the death of guitarist Steve Clark in January 1991. It was also the only single to be released as a four piece before the band announced their new guitar player Vivian Campbell.

The other song on Side B is a live version of Too Late for Love Women thatsounds massive.The song was recorded at McNichols Arena in Denver, Colorado, on 12^th and 13^th February 1988.Each snare hit and pulsing bass note, is perfect.Check out the chorus riff with those extra pinch harmonics added. The beauty of playing live and feeding off the energy of the crowd.

The beautifully packaged vinyl is a must for any rock fan.

Format: 12 Inch Vinyl, 45 rpm

Country: Holland

Release: 1992

Genre: Hard Rock

Rating: **** 

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira