Thor Unchained CD (Slipcase, 2025, 2 x double-sided poster, extensive booklet, High Roller Records)

This deluxe High Roller Records reissue presents Thor’s second studio album Unchained in a premium collector-focused edition, housed in a slipcase and accompanied by two double-sided posters and an extensive booklet. The audio has been transferred, restored and mastered by Patrick W. Engel at Temple of Dishamorny in March 2025, ensuring the album sounds more powerful and authoritative than ever.

Jon Mikl Thor is a heavy metal icon in every sense. Known worldwide as a former “Mr. World” and professional bodybuilder, Thor has released an incredible 41 albums across more than five decades as an active musician. Few, however, realize that the foundations of Thor were laid as early as 1973. Influenced by the theatrical vision of artists like Alice Cooper and David Bowie, Thor set out to create a superhero rock concept that fused muscle, spectacle and crushing heavy rock.

Following the Muscle Rock EP released in 1977 under the name Thor & The Imps, Thor’s official debut album Keep The Dogs Away arrived in 1978, just as punk was exploding and the US metal movement was gathering momentum. The album made an immediate impact, drawing attention from both rock and punk audiences thanks to its unique concept and raw power. Thor quickly became known for packing venues across North America while touring relentlessly between 1978 and 1982.

Unchained, originally released in 1983, took the sound in a heavier direction. Intended to be produced by Mountain bassist and legendary producer Felix Pappalardi, the album ultimately saw Thor step into the producer’s role himself following Pappalardi’s tragic death. The result was a raw, riff-driven heavy metal record that resonated strongly with fans and press alike. Its success spread rapidly to the UK, leading to a licensing deal with Albion Records and legendary performances at London’s Marquee Club in 1984, famously earning the Kerrang! headline “He Came, He Thor, He Conquered”.

This High Roller Records edition of Unchained is essential for collectors of classic heavy metal, NWOBHM-era power, and premium archival releases.

Recommended if you like: Manowar, Twisted Sister, Accept, Judas Priest, Dio, Saxon, Grim Reaper, Cirith Ungol, Fateful Breath, Oz, Manilla Road, Heavy Load, Anvil

Artist: Thor
Title: Unchained
Label: High Roller Records
Catalogue Number: HRR1028CD
UPC: 4251267721986
Release Year: 2025
Duration: Album
Format: CD
Packaging Type: Jewel Case, Slipcase
Condition: New & Factory Sealed
Special Attribute: Slipcase, Remastered, poster, extensive booklet, Double-sided Poster

Tracklist:

1. Lightning Strikes Again
2. Anger
3. Rock The City
4. Lazer Eyes
5. When Gods Collide
6. Death March
7. Anger (Original 1982 Version)
8. Lightning Strikes Again (Original 1982 Version)
9. Lazer Eyes (Original 1982 Version)
10. Unchained (When Rises The Moon)