Def Leppard

In November 1981, Def Leppard delivered an electrifying performance at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, riding high on the success of their debut album 'On Through the Night,' released earlier that year. This live recording captures the band during a pivotal moment, just as they were solidifying their reputation as one of the premier acts in the burgeoning hard rock scene. Interestingly, the album featured a blend of explosive guitar riffs and anthemic choruses, which would become the hallmark of their sound. This concert is especially memorable not just for the raw energy but also for the band's youthful exuberance on stage—a testament to the work they had put in leading up to this moment. The show was part of their first U.S. tour, laying the foundation for their meteoric rise in the years that followed.

Watch on YouTube