THE RESURGENCE in popularity of British hard rock during the early and mid eighties had been fuelled predominantly by the emergence of the NWOBHM, a musical genre that mainly embraced rough hewn riff combos. However, a secondary more melodic movement was also in full swing spearheaded by musicians influenced by the enormous success of US based acts such as Journey, Foreigner and Loverboy. Virginia Wolf were, it must be said, very much at the cutting edge of the counter offensive, weighing in as one of the UK’s most promising new groups.
After years of struggle in their hometown of Manchester they eventually signed to Atlantic Records, by way of Genesis’ music publishing company, and quickly recruited drummer Jason Bonham (fresh from a stint with Airrace, another of the era’s brightest hopes) to record their debut album. Produced by Queen drummer Roger Taylor, the album hit all the right buttons and garnered critical acclaim with ease.
Released in 1986, such was the furore surrounding the project that the band were quickly ushered Stateside to open the bill for guitarist Jimmy Page’s post Led Zeppelin outfit The Firm (featuring Paul Rodgers), a tour that played to thousands every night in cavernous arenas. For a relatively fresh faced band from Manchester this was indeed a moment to cherish.
The Virginia Wolf debut album is regarded as a milestone in melodic hard rock, relying heavily on gifted song writing, together with the stunning vocals of Chris Ousey, a man with one of the most identifiable voices in British rock. It is a simply breathtaking offering.

24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album and a new interview and full involvement from the band. Additional photos and memorabilia spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet.

Track Listing: 1. Are We Playing With Fire 2. Make It Tonight 3. Only Love 4. It’s In Your Eyes 5. Waiting For Your Love 6. Livin’ On A Knife Edge 7. For All We Know 8. Don’t Run Away 9. Take A Chance 10. Goodbye Don’t Mean Forever