Metal for Muthas | Compilation | 1980

## Various Artists – Metal for Muthas | Original 1980 UK EMI Vinyl LP | EMC 3318 | A-1/B-1 First Pressing | VG+ / G

An original **1980 UK first pressing of Metal for Muthas**, the legendary New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) compilation released by EMI Records, catalogue number EMC 3318.

Featuring the highly desirable **A-1/B-1 matrix combination** and the distinctive **FIRST OF MANY** runout inscription, this early British pressing represents an important piece of heavy metal history.

The vinyl is in **exceptionally strong Very Good Plus (VG+) condition, visually approaching Near Mint (NM)**. The original outer sleeve is graded Good (G) due to historic damp-related damage along the bottom edge and spine, although the majority of the artwork remains remarkably well preserved.

Featuring early recordings by **Iron Maiden, Praying Mantis, Samson, Angel Witch, Sledgehammer and other pioneering British metal bands**, this influential compilation helped introduce the emerging NWOBHM movement to a wider audience.

### About the Album

Released by EMI in February 1980, *Metal for Muthas* arrived at a pivotal moment in British rock history.

The late 1970s had witnessed the emergence of a new generation of heavy metal bands, combining the power of established acts such as Black Sabbath, Judas Priest and Deep Purple with the speed, energy and independent spirit of punk rock.

This exciting movement became known as the **New Wave of British Heavy Metal**, and *Metal for Muthas* was one of its earliest and most influential compilation albums.

Particularly significant are the two early **Iron Maiden** recordings, *Sanctuary* and *Wrathchild*, which capture the band before the release of their landmark self-titled debut album.

The compilation also features contributions from Praying Mantis, Samson, Sledgehammer, E.F. Band, Toad the Wet Sprocket and other groups associated with the developing British metal scene.

For collectors of original NWOBHM vinyl, *Metal for Muthas* remains an important historical release, documenting a musical movement that would influence generations of heavy metal musicians.

### Pressing and Release Information

- **Album:** Metal for Muthas
- **Artist:** Various Artists
- **Record Label:** EMI
- **Catalogue Number:** EMC 3318
- **Format:** 12" Vinyl LP, Compilation, Stereo
- **Country:** United Kingdom
- **Released:** 1980
- **Pressing:** Original UK A-1/B-1
- **Genre:** Rock
- **Style:** New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), Heavy Metal, Hard Rock
- **Vinyl Colour:** Black
- **Label Design:** Original Red and Tan EMI Labels
- **Compilation:** Ashley Goodall
- **Sleeve Artwork:** Peter Campbell
- **Art Direction:** Rob Burt

### Matrix / Runout Information

This copy features the original A-1/B-1 matrix configuration, together with the distinctive FIRST OF MANY inscription.

The following details have been transcribed directly from the actual record.

**Side One:**

EMC 3318 A-1 FIRST OF MANY 12 1

**Side Two:**

EMC 3318 B-1 18 2

The A-1/B-1 matrices and FIRST OF MANY inscription are documented characteristics of original UK EMI pressings of this compilation.

The additional stamped numbers help distinguish individual manufacturing variations.

These early matrix details are particularly relevant to collectors seeking original British NWOBHM releases rather than later reissues.

### Track Listing

**Side One**

1. Iron Maiden – Sanctuary
2. Sledgehammer – Sledgehammer
3. E.F. Band – Fighting for Rock and Roll
4. Toad the Wet Sprocket – Blues in A
5. Praying Mantis – Captured City

**Side Two**

1. Ethel the Frog – Fight Back
2. Angel Witch – Baphomet
3. Iron Maiden – Wrathchild
4. Samson – Tomorrow or Yesterday
5. Nutz – Bootliggers

### Condition Report

**Vinyl: Very Good Plus (VG+) – Exceptionally Strong Example**

The vinyl is in excellent visual condition, graded at the very upper end of Very Good Plus and approaching Near Mint.

It presents particularly well for an original 1980 pressing, with minimal visible evidence of previous handling or use.

The conservative VG+ grading reflects our commitment to accurate Goldmine condition assessments rather than overstating the condition of collectable records.

**Original Outer Sleeve: Good (G)**

The original sleeve retains very attractive artwork across the majority of its surface, but unfortunately displays significant historic damp-related deterioration along the bottom edge and spine.

The affected areas show visible surface loss, abrasion, damaged printed artwork and exposed cardboard.

These defects are localised, with the remainder of the sleeve presenting considerably better than its overall Good grading might suggest.

The sleeve has nevertheless been conservatively graded **Good (G)** to reflect the extent of the damage accurately.

**Please examine the photographs carefully**, particularly those showing the affected spine and bottom edge. The damage has been fully considered in the selling price.

### Why This Pressing Is Collectable

Original 1980 UK pressings of *Metal for Muthas* are sought after by collectors of early British heavy metal, particularly because of the inclusion of Iron Maiden's *Sanctuary* and *Wrathchild*.

The album documents a formative period in the development of the NWOBHM movement, before many of the featured bands achieved wider recognition.

This copy benefits from the desirable original A-1/B-1 matrices, the FIRST OF MANY runout inscription and exceptionally well-preserved vinyl.

Although the outer sleeve has suffered historic damp damage, the strong condition of the record itself makes this an attractive opportunity for collectors who prioritise original early pressings and high-quality vinyl.

A fascinating and historically important compilation for enthusiasts of **Iron Maiden, NWOBHM, classic British heavy metal and original 1980s rock vinyl**.

### Important Information

All records sold by **Comfortably Spun Records** are individually inspected and visually graded using the recognised Goldmine grading system.

**Records are visually graded only and have not been play-tested.** Vinyl condition assessments are based on visual inspection and do not guarantee completely noise-free playback.

Every record is professionally cleaned before dispatch and carefully packaged to help ensure safe delivery.

All photographs show the actual record and sleeve offered for sale, not stock images.

**Comfortably Spun Records – Proper Records. Proper Rock.**