COUNTRY: Poland
YEAR: 1986
STAND-OUT TRACK(S): Pokolgép, Mindhalálig Rock and Roll
Formed in 1980 (under the name Kommandó) by Gábor Kukovecz and other long-departed members, Pokolgép began writing original songs around 1981, and at this point even had Endre Paksi (later of Ossian fame) on bass. An appearance on Hungarian national TV in 1983 brought them nation-wide recognition, which led to the release of two rare singles in 1983 and 1984. Their first full-length album came out in 1986, and this lineup stayed constant until 1990. A new vocalist, József Rudán, was brought in, who replaced József Kalapács, (who went to form Omen). The band broke up in 1994 and reformed in 1998, and are active today.
Band name literally means "Hell Machine", though the most correct translation is home-made bomb or other remote-detonated explosive
The now legendary appearance on Hungarian national TV in 1983
Total Metal is the first studio album by the band. The album sold 65,000 copies in two months, and a total of about 80,000 copies were sold. Feró Nagy greatly assisted in the release of the album, who also participated in the work as a musical director and lyricist. The album's opening song, A jel, for which a music video was also shot, has now become a classic metal anthem.
OPINION: I always love me some 1980’s metal from the former east-european bloc, although I don’t understand a word they are singing. It’s something about the DIY mentality, setting up shows that the police try to close down. `Rebel music´ in it’s true sense.
Pokolgép from Hungary is good, but not a favorite. I wish they would have speed it up a little more. Too many songs goes at half-speed for my taste. The record goes from faster tracks like ”Pokolgep” and more Early Judas Priest-ish stuff. Like the in Hungary popular opening track ”A Jel” almost feels cheesy.
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