Victim of Love LP: Your Elton John Disco Album Questions Answered

Quick answer

Buy the Victim of Love LP if you want to hear Elton John fully commit to disco with a crisp 2022 remaster. Skip it if you only connect with his singer-songwriter catalog; this is a Pete Bellotte–produced dance record, not a piano-ballad album.

Why this album sounds different from most Elton John records

Victim of Love is Elton John's thirteenth studio album, released in 1979 at the height of disco. It was recorded with Pete Bellotte and Thor Baldursson, two key collaborators of Giorgio Moroder, and it is the only Elton John album in which he had no hand in writing or producing. That means you won't find his usual piano-led songwriting here. Instead, the album leans on extended dance arrangements and a sleek, synth-driven production style. If you're exploring his catalog chronologically, this is the outlier that shows a different side of his career.

What the 2022 remaster actually changes

The 2022 remastered edition was cut at Lurssen Mastering, a world-renowned facility. For a disco record built on layered synths and steady beats, that remastering can bring out more separation between instruments and a tighter low end. It won't turn the album into something it isn't, but it gives the vinyl a cleaner, more dynamic presentation than older pressings. If you already own an original 1979 copy, this is a worthwhile upgrade for sound quality; if you're new to the album, it's the version to start with.

Who should skip this pressing

If you're looking for the Elton John of 'Your Song' or 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,' this album will likely frustrate you. It's a producer-driven disco project, and Elton's role is as a vocalist rather than a songwriter. Also, if you prefer to collect original pressings for their historical value, the 2022 remaster is a modern reissue, not a vintage copy. Neither point makes it a bad record, but it helps to know what you're buying.

Common questions about the Victim of Love LP

Is this a good first Elton John vinyl?

Only if you already like disco or want a representative example of late-1970s dance music. For a first Elton John record, start with a greatest-hits or a classic early-1970s album instead.

How does the 2022 remaster compare to the original?

The remaster was cut at Lurssen Mastering, which typically yields a more balanced, detailed sound. It's the easier version to find and a solid choice for everyday listening. If you care about original pressings, look for a 1979 copy separately.

Does Elton John sing on every track?

Yes, he provides vocals throughout, but he did not write or produce any of the material. The album was recorded with Pete Bellotte and Thor Baldursson.

Is the vinyl a single LP?

Yes, it's a 1LP edition, so it's a straightforward single-disc purchase with no extra packaging or bonus tracks mentioned in the catalog.

Product facts

• Victim of Love LP: Victim of Love is available on 1LP as a 2022 remastered edition, mastered at Lurssen Mastering. That means you get a modern, clean-sounding pressing without hunting for an original 1979 copy.