Rory Gallagher's 1975 album "Against the Grain" is a masterpiece of blues rock that showcases his virtuosic guitar playing and soulful vocals. The 12" vinyl LP version of the album offers a warm and rich sound that transports listeners back to the era of classic rock. From the energetic opener "Let Me In" to the hauntingly beautiful "A Million Miles Away", this album is a must-have for any fan of blues or rock music.
In the vast landscape of rock and blues history, Rory Gallagher's presence looms large, a guitarist whose burning passion and unwavering devotion to his craft left an enduring imprint on the music world. With his 1975 album, Against the Grain, Gallagher continued his odyssey of musical exploration, pushing the boundaries of his blues-rock sound while remaining deeply connected to his roots.
Against the Grain emerged at a critical juncture in Gallagher's career. The Irish guitarist had already solidified his reputation as a formidable force, both as a solo artist and as the leader of the power trio Taste. His earlier albums, such as Rory Gallagher and Deuce, showcased his virtuosity on the guitar and his profound understanding of the blues. But with Against the Grain, Gallagher sought to broaden his sonic horizons, incorporating elements of folk, rock, and even jazz into his music.
The album kicks off with the driving rocker "Let Me In," a song that perfectly embodies Gallagher's raw energy and emotional intensity. His guitar playing is ferocious, his vocals are imbued with grit and determination, and the rhythm section of Gerry McAvoy on bass and Rod de'Ath on drums provides a rock-solid foundation for Gallagher's musical adventures.
Throughout Against the Grain, Gallagher exhibits his versatility as a songwriter and musician. "Cross Me Off Your List" is a bluesy shuffle with a hint of country flavor, while "Bought and Sold" is a hard-hitting rocker that demonstrates Gallagher's knack for crafting unforgettable hooks. "Out on the Western Plain" is a folk-infused ballad that features Gallagher's delicate acoustic guitar playing and soulful vocals. And "All Around Man" is a jazz-tinged instrumental that allows Gallagher to stretch out and explore the outer limits of his guitar playing.
The production on Against the Grain is crisp and clear, capturing the raw energy of Gallagher's live performances while also highlighting the subtle nuances of his playing. The album was recorded at the iconic Rockfield Studios in Wales, with Gallagher himself assuming the role of producer. This hands-on approach allowed Gallagher to maintain complete control over the album's sound, ensuring that it truly reflected his artistic vision.
Against the Grain was not without its controversies. Some critics felt that Gallagher had ventured too far from his blues roots, while others applauded his willingness to experiment and evolve as an artist. But regardless of the critical reception, the album cemented Gallagher's status as one of the most innovative and exciting guitarists of his generation.
In the grand scheme of Rory Gallagher's discography, Against the Grain stands as a monument to his restless spirit and his unwavering commitment to his music. It is an album that defies easy categorization, blending elements of blues, rock, folk, and jazz into a unique and powerful sound. And while it may not be his most commercially successful album, it is undeniably one of his most artistically fulfilling.
For those who crave the raw power and emotional intensity of Rory Gallagher's music, Against the Grain is a must-listen. It is an album that captures the essence of a true artist, a man who was always pushing the boundaries of his craft and refusing to be confined by genre labels. And while Gallagher may be gone, his music continues to inspire and amaze, reminding us of the power of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of a true rock and roll legend.
Music Genre: Irish Blues Rock |
Album Production Information: The album: "Against the Grain" was produced by: Rory Gallagher |
Record Label & Catalognr: Chrysalis 6307 563 |
Packaging: Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design with photography of Rory Gallagher and his band on the inside cover pages. |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 240 gram |
Year & Country: 1975 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: Rory Gallagher Against the Grain |
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Complete Track Listing of: "Against the Grain" |
The Song/tracks on "Against the Grain" are
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Record Label Details: Green and Orange Colour Chrysalis 6307 563 with orange butterfly logo
Against the Grain emerged at a critical juncture in Gallagher's career. The Irish guitarist had already solidified his reputation as a formidable force, both as a solo artist and as the leader of the power trio Taste. His earlier albums, such as Rory Gallagher and Deuce, showcased his virtuosity on the guitar
Against the Grain 12" Vinyl LP
"Calling Card" is the sixth studio release by Irish singer/guitarist Rory Gallagher. A 1976 release, it was his second of four albums released on Chrysalis Records in the 1970s. Deep Purple/Rainbow bass guitarist Roger Glover co-produced with Gallagher:
Calling Card 12" Vinyl LP
By the mid-80s, the flamboyant excesses of hair metal and synth-pop dominated the airwaves, leaving little room for the gutsy, no-frills blues-rock that Gallagher championed. Yet, 'Defender' stands as a defiant middle finger to the prevailing trends, a monument to Gallagher's refusal to compromise
Defender 12" Vinyl LP
'Irish Tour '74' is a testament to Gallagher's electrifying stage presence. Recorded over several nights in January 1974 at various venues across Ireland, the album captures the raw, unbridled energy of his live performances. From the opening chords of 'Messin' With The Kid' to the final notes of 'Bullfrog Blues,'
Irish Tour '74 (1979, EEC Europe) Irish Tour '74 (1974, Germany)
By the time 'Jinx' hit the shelves, Gallagher had already amassed a devoted following, drawn to his incendiary live shows and his albums that crackled with an authenticity that was becoming increasingly rare in the era of MTV and synthesized pop. 'Jinx' was a continuation of this tradition, a no-frills
Jinx 12" Vinyl LP
Rory Gallagher's "Live in Europe," a 1972 double LP, captures the Irish blues-rock guitarist's fiery live performances. Featuring a mix of originals and covers, this album showcases Gallagher's virtuosity and raw energy. Both the English and German releases are highly sought-after by collectors
Live In Europe (1972, England) Live in Europe (1972, Germany)
Rory Gallagher's 1978 album, "Photo-Finish," showcases his signature blend of blues-rock with a harder edge. This 12" vinyl LP features powerful tracks like "Shin Kicker" and the introspective "Last of the Independents." "Photo-Finish" is a must-have for any Rory Gallagher fan or lover of guitar-driven rock music.
Photo-Finish 12" Vinyl LP
Nestled within its gatefold sleeve, the biography (printed in both English and German) offers a glimpse into the man behind the music. Rory Gallagher, hailing from Ballyshannon, Ireland, emerged during a time when blues-rock was reaching its zenith. But unlike many of his contemporaries, Gallagher wasn't content
Pop History Vol XXX 12" Vinyl LP
The self-titled album, often referred to as "Rory Gallagher", showcases the immense talent and raw energy of the young guitarist, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the world of blues and rock music.
RORY GALLAGHER - Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP
Label , Year , Country
In the world of rock and roll, where the line between studio albums and compilations can often blur, Rory Gallagher's self-titled release on Pickwick Records stands as a testament to his raw power and electrifying blues-rock mastery. Released in 1971, this wasn't Gallagher's debut solo album
RORY GALLAGHER - S/T Self-Titled Pickwick 12" Vinyl LP
'Stage Struck' is a monument to Gallagher's relentless touring. These tracks, gathered from shows across the UK, bottle the raw energy and spontaneity of his live performances. Forget slick production and overdubs, this is Gallagher and his band, flaws and all, giving it their everything.
Stage Struck Recorded Live
“The Story of Rory Gallagher” serves as a snapshot of this period, a compilation of studio recordings and live cuts that showcase the complete spectrum of Gallagher’s musical dexterity. From the scorching blues-rock of “Tattoo’d Lady” to the soulful balladry of “A Million Miles Away,” the album is a testament
Story of Rory Gallagher 12" Vinyl LP
In the grand narrative of rock and roll, there are those guitarists who dazzle with flash and those who burn with intensity. Rory Gallagher was the latter, a fiery Irishman whose blues-rock guitar playing was as raw and honest as a punch to the gut. His 1979 album, "Top Priority," captures this essence perfectly
Top Priority 12" Vinyl LP
The self-titled debut album by Taste, featuring the legendary Irish guitarist Rory Gallagher, was released in 1969, marking a significant moment in the blues-rock scene of the late 1960s. It was a time of great musical exploration and experimentation, with bands pushing the boundaries of blues and rock. Taste
TASTE w/RORY GALLAGHER - Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP