Leicester's SPLIT IMAGE proved pivotal in the history of NWoBHM act BLITZKRIEG. During October 1980 Newcastle upon Tyne based singer Brian Ross answered an advert placed by SPLIT IMAGE comprising of guitarists Jim Sirotto and Ian Jones, bassist Steve English and drummer Steve Abbey looking to replace their previous vocalist, Sarah. Ross had previous form with KASHMIR (an act that featured WHITESNAKE's David Coverdale's cousin Kev Stevens on drums) and ANVIL. Upon Ross joining SPLIT IMAGE, a new title of BLITZKRIEG was suggested by Jez Gilman, although various paying club gigs were still for a while performed under the old moniker.

This line-up recorded a 1980 demo plus the landmark 'Buried Alive' / 'Blitzkrieg' 7" single of 1981. Although line-up changes afflicted the BLITZKRIEG membership Sirotto would maintain his presence on the debut album 'A Time Of changes' in 1985.