Summary:

In 1977, Foreigner released their self-titled debut album, “Foreigner”. The album was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 on the US album charts, and has since sold over 5 million copies. “Foreigner” features some of the band’s most iconic hits, including “Feels Like the First Time” and “Cold as Ice”.

About the Artist:

Foreigner was formed in 1976 by Mick Jones, the former guitarist of the band Spooky Tooth, and Ian McDonald, a multi-instrumentalist who had previously played with King Crimson. The band also included Lou Gramm on vocals, Al Greenwood on keyboards, Ed Gagliardi on bass, and Dennis Elliott on drums.

Jones had a clear vision for Foreigner’s sound, which he described as “a cross between Led Zeppelin and the Beatles”. He aimed to blend hard rock with pop sensibilities, and this approach would define the band’s music throughout their career.

About the Record:

“Foreigner” marked the beginning of the band’s career, and it established their signature sound. The album features a mix of hard rock and ballads, showcasing the band’s versatility. “Feels Like the First Time” was the lead single from the album and quickly became a hit, reaching the top 10 on the US charts.

The album also includes the iconic track “Cold as Ice”, which features a memorable guitar riff and soaring vocals from Gramm. “Long, Long Way From Home” is another standout track, featuring a driving rhythm section and a catchy chorus.

“Foreigner” received positive reviews upon its release, with critics praising the band’s musicianship and songwriting. The album’s success helped establish Foreigner as one of the biggest rock bands of the late 1970s.

About the Record:

“Foreigner” marked the beginning of the band’s career, and it established their signature sound. The album features a mix of hard rock and ballads, showcasing the band’s versatility. “Feels Like the First Time” was the lead single from the album and quickly became a hit, reaching the top 10 on the US charts.

The album also includes the iconic track “Cold as Ice”, which features a memorable guitar riff and soaring vocals from Gramm. “Long, Long Way From Home” is another standout track, featuring a driving rhythm section and a catchy chorus.

This record has an original inner sleeve.

About the cover:

The cover illustration was made by Alex Gnidziejko and features all members of the band ready to go on a sudden trip, with only two suitcases in front of them.

About the Lyrics & Music:

The lyrics of “Foreigner” cover a range of themes, from love and heartbreak to the struggles of life on the road. Gramm’s vocals are a highlight of the album, with his powerful voice adding emotional depth to the songs.

The music on “Foreigner” is a blend of hard rock and pop, with catchy hooks and memorable guitar riffs. The album also features lush keyboards and intricate harmonies, adding to the band’s signature sound.

“Feels Like the First Time” is a standout track with its infectious chorus and memorable guitar solo. “Cold as Ice” is another highlight, with its driving rhythm section and powerful vocals from Gramm. The album also includes the ballad “I Need You”, which showcases the band’s softer side.

Conclusion:

“Foreigner” is a classic album that established the band’s signature sound and helped define the sound of rock music in the late 1970s. The album features some of the band’s most iconic hits, including “Feels Like the First Time” and “Cold as Ice”, and showcases their versatility as both a hard rock band and balladeers.

For fans of Foreigner, we recommend checking out their follow-up album, “Double Vision”, which features hits such as “Hot Blooded” and “Double Vision”. Other artists in a similar vein include Journey, Styx, and Boston, all of whom blended hard rock with pop sensibilities to create timeless classics.

About the tracklist:

Side one:
Feels like the first time
Cold as ice
Starrider
Headknocker
The damage is done.
Side two:
Long, long way from home
Woman oh woman
At war with the world
Fool for you anyway
I need you.