Change of Address cover

Released 40 years ago

Change of Address

Krokus · 1986

41 min · 9 tracks · hard rock

A high-energy blend of hard rock riffs and melodic hooks that captures the essence of mid-80s heavy metal.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Hot Shot City — This track exemplifies Krokus's ability to merge catchy choruses with heavy guitar riffs, showcasing their signature sound during this era.
  • →
    School’s Out — Krokus's rendition of this classic anthem breathes new life into the original, blending nostalgia with their hard rock edge and drawing attention from both fans and critics.
  • →
    World on Fire — This track stands out for its powerful lyrics and anthemic chorus, encapsulating the band's themes of struggle and resilience while highlighting their musical prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid hard rock elements but lacks standout compositions that elevate it beyond its peers.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast pace, maintaining mid-tempo through the first half before slowing down in the latter tracks.
  • The cover of 'School’s Out' is positioned as the third track, serving as a pivotal moment that shifts the album's energy.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short, punchy songs
  • energetic workout motivation
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • late-night celebratory vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1986, Change of Address marked Krokus's transition into a more mainstream sound following their successful album, Headhunter. By this time, they had solidified their presence in the hard rock scene, building on previous successes to reach a broader audience.
Stylistic neighbors
Accept· Scorpions· Judas Priest

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Say Goodbye

    A poignant moment occurs when the verses shift from reflective musings about loss to a more defiant tone in the chorus.

    The contrast between vulnerability and strength showcases Krokus's lyrical depth, moving beyond typical hard rock themes to explore complex emotions.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Now (All Through the Night) 4:22
  • 2 Hot Shot City 3:48
  • 3 School’s Out 3:16
  • 4 Let This Love Begin 5:01
  • 5 Burning Up the Night 3:44
  • 6 Say Goodbye 5:18
  • 7 World on Fire 6:11
  • 8 Hard Luck Hero 4:13
  • 9 Long Way From Home 5:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata