“WE WERE ABLE TO KEEP OUR DEMOS, WITH THE SPIRIT INTACT, RATHER THAN HAVING TO REDO THEM TO ACHIEVE A BETTER SOUND QUALITY AND LOSE SOME OF THE SPARK”
DEF LEPPARD’S new album, Diamond Star Halos (Universal UMC), their first since Def Leppard in 2015, is swathed in 1970s influences, from its classic Marc Bolan–quoting title to stomping retro rockers like the lead track, “Kick.” Leppard have never been afraid to proudly wear their influences on their sleeves, whether it be on Yeah!, their 2006 collection of ’70s covers, or their 1994 hit remake of Sweet’s “Action.”
Recorded individually by band members in their own home studios, Diamond Star Halos’ 15 tracks have all the power and glory of the multimillionselling monsters Hysteria and Adrenalize. The group’s extremely stable lineup still features guitarists Phil Collen and Vivian Campbell, singer Joe Elliott, bassist Rick Savage and drummer Rick Allen. Collen took time out to speak with Guitar Player about the making of Diamond Star Halos and reflect on his 40th year in the band. He is understandably excited at the prospect of taking the record out on the band’s first tour since lockdown, headlining at stadiums across the States with Mötley Crüe, Poison and Joan Jett as support acts.
Where would you place in your catalog?
