Head First was the 15th studio album from British rock band Uriah Heep. It was released in 1983, on Gerry Bron’s UK label Bronze Records.

Uriah Heep – Head First: Momentum, Melody and Early-80s Confidence

After the revitalized direction introduced on Abominog (1982). Building on that successful reinvention, the album refines the band’s early-1980s sound with a stronger emphasis on melodic hard rock, polished production, and radio-friendly songwriting, while maintaining the power and musicianship associated with the Uriah Heep name.

The album features the same lineup as its predecessor: Peter Goalby (lead vocals), Mick Box (guitar), Bob Daisley (bass), Lee Kerslake (drums), and John Sinclair (keyboards). This stability allowed the band to further develop the modern, tight, and energetic sound that had reestablished their relevance during the MTV era.

Musically, Head First leans toward anthemic choruses, strong hooks, and streamlined arrangements, blending classic hard rock with elements of AOR and early 80s metal. Tracks such as “Stay on Top,” “Lonely Nights,” “Sweet Talk,” and “Loving Silence” highlight the album’s melodic focus, while still delivering punchy riffs and dynamic performances.

Lyrically, the album centers on themes of determination, resilience, emotional struggle, and forward momentum, reflecting both personal and professional renewal. The production is clean and confident, reinforcing the band’s intention to compete in a contemporary rock landscape without abandoning their core identity.

While Head First did not achieve the same commercial impact as Abominog, it is often regarded as a solid and underrated follow-up, appreciated by fans for its consistency, energy, and cohesive sound. Over time, the album has earned recognition as an important chapter in Uriah Heep’s early-1980s resurgence.

Tracks

No.TitleLength
1.“The Other Side of Midnight”3:55
2.“Stay on Top”3:35
3.“Lonely Nights” (Bryan Adams cover)4:07
4.“Sweet Talk”3:51
5.“Love is Blind”3:38
No.TitleLength
6.“Roll-Overture”2:18
7.“Red Lights”2:57
8.“Rollin’ the Rock”5:31
9.“Straight Through the Heart”3:39
10.“Weekend Warriors”3:50

Album Art

Uriah Heep Head First
Uriah Heep Head First

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Uriah Heep is an iconic British rock band that was formed in London in 1969. The band's classic lineup consisted of lead vocalist David Byron, guitarists Mick Box and Ken Hensley, bassist Gary Thain, and drummer Nigel Olsson. Their music is a unique blend of hard rock, heavy metal and progressive rock, and they are known for their prominent use of keyboard instruments such as the Hammond organ and Mellotron. They achieved their greatest commercial success with the album "Look at Yourself" in 1971, which reached number 23 on the UK Albums Chart. Some of the band's most popular and enduring songs include "Easy Livin'," "Stealin'," and "Lady in Black." Uriah Heep continues to tour and release new music to...

              

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