From Shock Rock to Concept Metal: Reviewing W.A.S.P.’s ‘The 7 Savage
Please watch the video above for the full review
Originally out on vinyl, this 7-disc collection covers the band’s formative, and arguably most influential, first decade. Let’s pop open the box and see why it’s such a must-have—whether you’re a longtime W.A.S.P. fan or simply an 80s metal aficionado.
Inside the Box
Hardcover Book
A sturdy, visually stunning 60-page volume filled with rare photos, press clippings, and full cooperation from frontman Blackie Lawless.
Includes all original album artwork, back covers, and lyrics—perfect for anyone who loves the immersive “vinyl experience.”
Seven CDs
W.A.S.P. (debut)
The Last Command
Inside the Electric Circus
Live… In the Raw
The Headless Children
The Crimson Idol
Bonus Tracks & B-Sides featuring covers of Led Zeppelin’s “When The Levee Breaks,” Jethro Tull’s “Locomotive Breath,” and more.
High-Quality Packaging
Madfish is renowned for top-notch box sets, and this one meets their high standard. The paper stock, printing, and layout exude quality from start to finish.
Note: Some sets include a replacement disc for Live… In The Raw due to a pressing error, so check your box or contact Madfish if yours is missing.
A Walk Through the Music
Debut Album (1984)
Kicks off with anthems like “Love Machine” and “I Wanna Be Somebody,” showcasing Blackie Lawless’s raw vocal power and shocking stage image. The controversy started early with the infamous single “Animal (F* Like A Beast)”**, which gained cult status (and parental advisory stickers).
The Last Command (1985)
A step up in production and songwriting maturity. Tracks like “Wild Child” and “Blind in Texas” display more melodic, polished hooks—while still dripping with the band’s metallic bite.
Inside the Electric Circus (1986)
Despite changes in lineup and sound, W.A.S.P. remains unapologetically theatrical. Covers like Humble Pie’s “I Don’t Need No Doctor” reaffirm Blackie’s flair for reinterpretation.
Live… In the Raw (1987)
Captures the live intensity, including cuts like “Manimal” and “Harder Faster.” Proof that W.A.S.P. could whip an audience into a frenzy—while revealing studio-only tracks performed live.
The Headless Children (1989)
Often hailed as a turning point with more profound lyrical content and grander arrangements. Showcases Ken Hensley (ex-Uriah Heep) on keys, along with deeper social commentary on songs like “Mean Man” and “The Heretic.” The cover of The Who’s “The Real Me” is both ballsy and brilliant.
The Crimson Idol (1992)
Considered by many (myself included) to be W.A.S.P.’s finest hour. A concept album on fame and disillusionment with a massive rock-opera feel. Bob Kulick’s jaw-dropping solo on “The Idol” is the stuff of legend, blending Pink Floyd-esque space with classic metal drama.
Rare Tracks & B-Sides
An array of covers and rarities, such as Zeppelin’s “When The Levee Breaks,” Jethro Tull’s “Locomotive Breath,” plus outtakes from the Headless Children sessions. It’s fantastic to have them all in one place, making this set feel truly complete.
Why This Box Set Shines
All the Key Albums: You get the complete arc of early W.A.S.P., from raw shock-rock beginnings to grandiose concept albums.
In short: It’s a meticulously produced box set that reaffirms W.A.S.P.’s spot among the more intriguing 80s/90s heavy metal acts. If you’ve ever shied away from their image, this collection proves that behind the theatrics lies a stellar body of work.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
