Procol Harum's "Broken Barricades," released in 1971 during the transformative era of rock music, showcased the band's progressive style. Produced by Chris Thomas, known for his work with The Beatles and Pink Floyd, the album's sonic brilliance reflects his expertise. The German release on a 12" Vinyl LP adds a unique touch, making it a prized possession for collectors with its distinct packaging and cultural nuances.
Procol Harum, a renowned English rock band, marked its musical legacy with the release of the album "Broken Barricades." This expository article will delve into the time period of the album's production, with a particular focus on the German release of the 12" Vinyl LP, produced by the skilled Chris Thomas.
The Time Period:
"Broken Barricades" emerged during a pivotal period in the history of rock music. The album was released in 1971, a time when the genre was undergoing significant evolution. The 1970s witnessed the emergence of various sub-genres, experimentation with sound, and the exploration of new musical frontiers. Procol Harum, with their progressive and symphonic rock style, contributed to the diverse tapestry of this era.
Production by Chris Thomas:
The artistic direction and sonic brilliance of "Broken Barricades" can be attributed to the esteemed producer Chris Thomas. Known for his work with iconic bands such as The Beatles and Pink Floyd, Thomas brought a wealth of experience to the project. His ability to capture the essence of Procol Harum's musical vision is evident in the album's rich and layered sound.
Thomas' production style is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, innovative use of studio techniques, and a commitment to bringing out the best in the artists he works with. In the context of "Broken Barricades," Thomas played a crucial role in shaping the album's sonic landscape, creating an immersive listening experience for fans.
German Release on 12" Vinyl LP:
The choice of Germany as the release hub for the 12" Vinyl LP adds an interesting dimension to the album's journey. German releases often carried a distinct flavor, with unique cover art, additional liner notes, and sometimes exclusive bonus tracks. This cultural nuance contributed to the global appreciation of music, as fans eagerly sought out these international editions.
Collectors and enthusiasts of vinyl records often find German releases to be prized possessions due to their rarity and the special touches added to the packaging. The decision to release "Broken Barricades" in Germany reflects the band's recognition of the significance of the German music market and their desire to connect with a broader audience.
The title "Broken Barricades" is derived from the lyrics of the album's opening track, also titled "Broken Barricades." The metaphorical use of "broken barricades" suggests the dismantling or overcoming of obstacles, symbolizing a theme of resilience and change. Procol Harum's lyrics often carry poetic and introspective elements, inviting listeners to interpret and connect with the profound themes embedded in their music.
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Music Genre: UK Progressive Rock |
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Album Production Information: Produced by Chris Thomas |
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Record Label & Catalognr: Green Chrysalis 6499 657 |
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
| Country of Origin: Made in Germany |
Complete Track Listing of: Procol Harum Broken Barricades |
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The Song/tracks on "Procol Harum Broken Barricades" are:
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Chrysalis 6499 657 , 1971 , Germany
"Broken Barricades" emerged during a pivotal period in the history of rock music. The album was released in 1971, a time when the genre was undergoing significant evolution.
Broken Barricades ( 1971, Germany ) 12" Vinyl LP
Chrysalis 6307 531 , 1974 , Germany
"Exotic Birds and Fruits" arrived in the midst of a dynamic cultural landscape, where experimentation and artistic freedom were celebrated. The album echoed the prevailing sentiment of the era.
Exotic Birds And Fruits ( 1974, Germany ) 12" Vinyl LP
Pickwick Records SHM 956 , 1969 , England
This superb collection includes many of Procol Harum's best songs and includes "Conquistador" and of course "A White Shade of Pale". It is a must for all devotes of good progressive rock music.
Greatest Hits Vol. 1 ( 1969, England ) 12" Vinyl LP
Polydor 59 122, Essex Music Intern , 1967 , Germany
The 7" single featuring "Homburg" on the A-side and "Good Captain Clack" on the B-side by Procol Harum is a notable piece of musical history that emerged during the vibrant era of the late 1960s.
omburg b/w Good Captain Clack (1967, Germany) 7" Vinyl Single
Chrysalis CHR. 1080 , 1975 , Gt Britain
"Ninth" released in the dynamic period of the late 1970s, this album masterfully fuses progressive rock and symphonic nuances, with introspective lyrics.
Ninth ( 1975, Gt Britain ) 12" Vinyl LP
Polydor 59 293, Essex International , , Austria
Released during the iconic era of the late 1960s, this "Salty Dog" encapsulates the essence of Procol Harum's progressive and experimental style.
A Salty Dog b/w Long Gone Geek (Austria) 7" Vinyl Single
Impact records 6886 555 , , France
In 1966 Gary Brooker had teamed up with lyricist Keith Reid and together they produced some adventurous material. Procol Harum was assembled to perform the Brooker-Reid compositions: their debut single was 'A Whiter Shade Of Pale'
ROCOL HARUM - Self-Titled (Impact Records France) 12" Vinyl LP
DERAM DM-126 , 1967 , England
"A Whiter Shade of Pale" 7" Genuine 1st pressing Single is a coveted collector's item. This vinyl exemplifies the band's breakthrough sound.
Whiter Shade Of Pale Original ( 1967, England ) 7" Vinyl Single
Cube Records 2338 008 , 1967 , Austria
Iconic tracks like "A Whiter Shade of Pale" and the maritime-themed "Salty Dog," Procol Harum's enduring legacy is encapsulated in this two LP's vinyl release
A Whiter Shade Of Pale & Salty Dog (1967, Austria) 12" Vinyl LP
Intercord 25 100-9 , 1967 , Germany
Procol Harum's Germany 2LP Vinyl Album, merging "A Whiter Shade of Pale" and "Salty Dog," epitomizes the band's influence in the transformative late '60s music scene.
A Whiter Shade Of Pale & Salty Dog (1967, Germany, Star-Power Edition) 12" Vinyl LP