Def Leppard’s ‘Hysteria’ album stands as one of the band’s pinnacle achievements and a defining piece of 80s rock. Behind its immense success lies a fascinating story of creativity, innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship. In this article, we delve into the gear and individuals who shaped the sound of this iconic record.
According to guitarist Phil Collen, the making of ‘Hysteria’ was no small feat, costing a staggering four and a half million dollars. Yet, this investment paid off handsomely, with the album selling over 20 million copies to date. Central to its production was the acclaimed producer Mutt Lange, whose meticulous approach and innovative techniques left an indelible mark on the record.
Collen’s primary guitar for the album was a 1978 Japanese Fender Stratocaster, affectionately named “Felix.” Paired with a DiMarzio Super Distortion humbucker at the bridge, this Stratocaster contributed to the album’s distinctive tone. Steve Clark, tragically lost to the world in 1991, favored a three-pickup Les Paul with a Kahler bridge, offering a complementary contrast to Collen’s Strat.
In pursuit of a polished and commercial sound, Lange urged the band to depart from their traditional Marshall amps in favor of Rockman units developed by Tom Scholz of Boston. These modified units, tailored to Def Leppard’s specifications, became integral to the album’s guitar sound, delivering a uniform and pristine tone across the board.
Collen revealed that while the Rockman units dominated the album’s sonic landscape, subtle variations were introduced through other amps, such as the Gallien-Krueger amp used on “Love Bites.” This meticulous attention to detail ensured that each guitar part found its place within the dense layers of the album’s production.
Lange’s influence extended beyond production, as he contributed to songwriting and even provided backing vocals, transforming them into an essential element of the band’s sound. Tracks like “Hysteria” showcase Lange’s unconventional recording methods, such as recording the bridge one string at a time, resulting in a distinctive and memorable sound.
One of the album’s standout tracks, “Pour Some Sugar On Me,” owes part of its success to an unexpected source: strippers in Florida. Collen recounted how the song gained popularity after being embraced by the local strip club scene, eventually becoming a chart-topping hit.
‘Hysteria’ stands as a testament to the collaborative effort between Def Leppard and Mutt Lange, combining meticulous production, innovative recording techniques, and undeniable musical talent. It remains a timeless classic in the annals of rock history, showcasing the enduring legacy of Def Leppard and their groundbreaking approach to music production.
