STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head 12" Vinyl LP Album

- 1971 French Release with Gatefold Album Cover

 This album "Dog of Two Head" is the 1971 rock album by Status Quo released by Pye Records, their fourth studio album. At the time of recording, the band consisted of Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt, Alan Lancaster and John Coghlan.

 

Album Front Cover Photo of STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )

Quo Vadis? The Dog Days of Status Quo
Album Description:

Too straight, too simple, too... English. But let's crank the volume up on 'Dog of Two Head', and maybe, just maybe, we find a flicker of something worth getting riled up about.

Status Quo weren't exactly reinventing the wheel when this slab of vinyl hit the shelves. They'd already been slogging it out for half a decade, morphing from psychedelic popsters into purveyors of a decidedly un-hip brand of boogie rock. The prevailing winds of '71 were blowing towards prog and glam, but Quo were stubbornly digging their heels in, refusing to let go of the blues-based riffola that would become their trademark.

'Dog of Two Head' is the sound of a band caught between a rock and a hard place. They're not quite ready to embrace the full-throttle, three-chord attack of their later years, but they're also starting to shed the vestiges of their psychedelic past. The album lurches from the proto-metal stomp of the title track to the faux-country shuffle of 'Someone's Learning', and from the Stones-y swagger of 'Railroad' to the meandering, almost proggy instrumental 'Gerdundula'. It's a messy, uneven record, but there's a raw energy and a sense of restless experimentation that makes it strangely compelling.

Of course, none of this would matter if the songs weren't any good. And while 'Dog of Two Head' isn't exactly packed with classics, there are a few nuggets worth digging for. The title track is a bona fide stomper, with a riff that burrows its way into your brain and refuses to let go. 'Umleitung' is a frantic instrumental workout that shows off the band's chops, while 'Nanana' is a surprisingly catchy slice of pop-rock. Fans often debate the merits of deeper cuts like the melancholic 'Mean Girl' and the extended jam of 'Gerdundula', showcasing the band's range even in their early years.

The production, courtesy of John Schroeder, is a mixed bag. The guitars are thick and crunchy, but the drums sound a bit flat and lifeless. The overall mix is muddy and cluttered, which doesn't do the songs any favors. Some audiophiles argue that the album's raw sound adds to its charm, while others lament the missed opportunity for a cleaner, more polished recording. And let's not even talk about the album cover, a psychedelic monstrosity that looks like it was designed by a committee of acid casualties. The cover art, while divisive, has become iconic in its own right, sparking countless conversations and parodies over the years.

Controversy? Not really. Status Quo were never the kind of band to court scandal. They were too busy honing their craft and building a loyal following. But there was a sense, even back then, that they were swimming against the tide. The critics largely ignored them, and the hipsters sneered at their lack of sophistication. But Quo didn't care. They were in it for the long haul, and they knew that their time would come.

'Dog of Two Head' is not a great album, but it's an important one. It's a snapshot of a band in transition, finding their footing and forging their own path. It also marks the departure of original bassist Alan Lancaster, adding another layer of intrigue to the album's legacy. It's also a reminder that sometimes the most unfashionable music can be the most enduring. So let's raise a glass to Status Quo, the perennial underdogs who refused to roll over and play dead.

Quo's Canine Caper: A Closer Look at 'Dog of Two Head''s Top Tracks
Tracks Review:

Even within an album as transitional and exploratory as 'Dog of Two Head', certain songs have resonated more strongly with Status Quo fans over the years. Let's delve into three of the most popular tracks, and see what makes them tick.

1. Umleitung

Kicking off the album with a bang, 'Umleitung' is a seven-minute epic that showcases Status Quo's evolving sound. It's a dynamic and exhilarating journey, full of twists and turns, showcasing the band's ability to blend intricate arrangements with raw energy. The interplay between the dueling guitars of Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt is particularly thrilling, while Alan Lancaster's driving bassline and John Coghlan's powerful drumming provide a solid foundation. Rossi's vocals, though somewhat buried in the mix, add a layer of urgency and intensity to the song's powerful climax. 'Umleitung' is a testament to the band's instrumental skills and their willingness to push boundaries, even within the confines of their hard-rock sound.

2. Gerdundula

Another standout track, 'Gerdundula' is a more laid-back and atmospheric piece, but no less captivating. It features a hypnotic, bluesy riff that weaves its way through the song, punctuated by bursts of fiery guitar solos. The song's extended length allows the band to explore different textures and dynamics, creating a sense of space and depth that is often missing from their more straightforward rockers. 'Gerdundula' is a testament to Status Quo's ability to create music that is both powerful and nuanced, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.

3. Railroad

While 'Dog of Two Head' is known for its instrumental prowess and experimentation, it also features some strong vocal tracks, and 'Railroad' is a prime example. This bluesy rocker showcases Francis Rossi's gritty vocals and Rick Parfitt's soulful guitar licks. The song's lyrics, while simple, capture the essence of life on the road, a theme that would become central to Status Quo's identity. With its driving rhythm and catchy chorus, 'Railroad' is a classic Status Quo anthem that still gets audiences singing along today. It's a reminder that even in their early years, the band had a knack for crafting memorable rock songs that would stand the test of time.

These three songs, while just a glimpse into the diverse soundscape of 'Dog of Two Head', highlight the band's musical range and their willingness to experiment. Whether it's the epic journey of 'Umleitung', the instrumental exploration of 'Gerdundula', or the bluesy swagger of 'Railroad', Status Quo prove that they were more than just a one-trick pony. 'Dog of Two Head' may not be their most commercially successful album, but it's a fascinating snapshot of a band in transition, finding their voice and paving the way for the iconic sound that would define their later years.

Status Quo-Umleitung HQ :

Essential Album Information For: STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )

Music Genre:

Rock (and Roll) 

Label & Catalognr:

PYE Records SLDPY 818

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 280 gram  

Year & Country:

1971 Made in France

STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover ) Production & Recording Information

Album Packaging

This 12" LP vinyl music record comes comes in a Fold Open Cover (FOC), which is also also known as a Gatefold cover. The inner pages of this album cover contains photos of "Status Quo"

Producers:

John Schroeder - Producer

Sound & Recording Engineers:

Alan Florence - Sound Engineer

Recording Location:

This album "Dog Of Two Head" was recorded at: Pye Studios, London

Album Cover Design & Artwork:

Status Quo - Album Cover Design

Photography:

Mick Wells - Album Cover Illustration


Musicians on: STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )

Musicians:

Francis Rossi - guitar, vocals

Rick Parfitt - guitar, piano, vocals

Alan Lancaster - bass, guitar, backing vocals

John Coghlan - drums

Track-listing of: STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )

Tracklisting:
  1. "Umleitung" (Lancaster, Lynes) - 7:11
  2. "Nanana (Extraction I)" (Rossi, Young) - 0:51
  3. "Something's Going on in My Head" (Lancaster) - 4:44
  4. "Mean Girl" (Rossi, Young) - 3:53
  5. "Nanana (Extraction II)" (Rossi, Young) - 1:11
  6. "Gerdundula" (Manston, James) - 3:49
  7. "Railroad" (Rossi, Young) - 5:30
  8. "Someone's Learning" (Lancaster) - 7:08
  9. "Nanana" (Rossi, Young) - 2:26

STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover ) High Resolution & Quality Photos

Front Cover Photo Of STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )
Front Cover Photo Of STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )

 

Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )

Photo Of The Back Cover STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )
Photo of album back cover STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )

 

Photo One Of The Inner Gatefold STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )
Photo of the left page inside cover STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )

 

Photo Two Of The Inside Pages STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )
Photo of the right page inside cover STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover )

 

Close up of record's label STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover ) Side One:
Close up of record's label STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover ) Side One

Blue Colour PYE SLDPY.818 Record Label Details: Sacem Serie Standard ℗ 1971, Made in France

Close up of record's label STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover ) Side Two:
Close up of record's label STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head ( Gatefold Cover ) Side Two

 

Rockin' All Over the World: Status Quo's Classic Vinyl Discography of Boogie Rock and Pop Sensibilities.

STATUS QUO - Aint Complaining
STATUS QUO - Aint Complaining  album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 834 604 , 1988 , EEC

"Ain't Complaining" marked the band's 20th studio album and showcased their enduring rock sound. Produced by Pip Williams, a renowned British producer known for his work with Quo and other notable artists

Aint Complaining 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Best of Status Quo
STATUS QUO - Best of Status Quo  album front cover vinyl record

PYE Records LDM 30207 , 1973 , France

"Best of Status Quo" is a compilation album that showcases the band's early hits and highlights their distinctive rock sound.

Best of Status Quo 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Blue For You (Dutch and German Releases)
STATUS QUO - Blue For You (Dutch and German Releases) album front cover vinyl record

The album "Blue For You" is considered a classic work in the band's discography, blending the band's signature boogie rock sound with blues and pop influences.

Dutch Edition of "Blue For You" German Edition of "Blue For You"
STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head Gatefold
STATUS QUO - Dog of Two Head Gatefold  album front cover vinyl record

PYE Records SLDPY 818 , 1971 , France

"Dog of Two Head " is the 1971 rock album by STATUS QUO released by Pye Records, their fourth studio album. At the time of recording, the band consisted of Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt, Alan Lancaster and John Coghlan.

Dog of Two Head Gatefold 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Double Disque D'Or
STATUS QUO - Double Disque D'Or  album front cover vinyl record

Vogue PYE Records PYA 16006 , 1970 , France

The 1970 release of Status Quo's "Le Double Disque d'Or de Status Quo" on Vogue PYE Records is a 2LP vinyl album that celebrates the band's early successes. The album features a collection of their popular hits

Double Disque D'Or 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Down The Dustpipe
STATUS QUO - Down The Dustpipe album front cover vinyl record

Golden Hour – GH 604 , Golden Hour – GH 604 , UK (United Kingdom)

"Down The Dustpipe" is a 12" vinyl LP album by Status Quo, featuring their distinctive blend of rock and boogie rock, highlighted by the popular title track and a collection of energetic and catchy songs.

Down The Dustpipe 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Hello
STATUS QUO - Hello  album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 6360 098 , 1973 , England

"Hello!" is an electrifying record that captures the raw energy and infectious spirit of Status Quo's live performances, making it a fan favorite and a standout addition to their discography.

Hello 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Hit Album
STATUS QUO - Hit Album  album front cover vinyl record

Polystar 830 901 , Germany

The "Hit Album" by Status Quo is a compilation 12" vinyl LP that showcases the band's chart-topping hits from various albums. The album offers a comprehensive overview

Hit Album 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - If You Can't Stand The Heat
STATUS QUO - If You Can't Stand The Heat  album front cover vinyl record

1978 , France

Produced by Pip Williams, the album features a mix of hard-driving rockers like "Again and Again" and "Long Legged Linda"

If You Can't Stand The Heat 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - In the Army Now
STATUS QUO - In the Army Now  album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 830 049 , 1986 , England

"In The Army Now" features a mix of rock and pop influences, including the hit single of the same name, and was produced by Pip Williams. The album received mixed reviews but was a commercial success.

In the Army Now 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - In the Army Now
STATUS QUO - You Are in the Army Now album front cover vinyl record

  Vertigo 888 056 ( , 1986 , Holland

"In the Army Now" this 1986 release features their hit song and additional tracks, bringing the army experience to life with powerful vocals and classic rock energy on a larger format vinyl record.

In the Army Now 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
STATUS QUO - Just Supposin'
STATUS QUO - Just Supposin'  album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 6302 05 , 1980 , France

The iconic black background and the two "mushroom" symbols on the Vertigo label add a distinctive touch to this record.

Just Supposin' 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Lies b/w Don't Drive My Car
STATUS QUO - Lies b/w Don't Drive My Car album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 600 577

This single showcases the band's rock 'n' roll prowess. "Lies" delivers a punchy and energetic sound with catchy hooks, while "Don't Drive My Car" presents a more laid-back groove.

Lies b/w Don't Drive My Car 7" Vinyl Single
STATUS QUO - On The Level
STATUS QUO - On The Level  album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 9102 002 , 1975 , France

The cover art of "On the Level" presents a visually captivating concept. The band members, Francis Rossi, Richard Parfitt, Alan Lancaster, and John Coghlan, are photographed in an Ames room,

On The Level 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Piledriver
STATUS QUO - Piledriver  album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 6321 004 , 1973 , France

Status Quo's 'Piledriver' epitomizes the raw energy and timeless appeal of 1970s rock. With iconic tracks like 'Paper Plane,' it remains a cornerstone of the genre, showcasing the band's talent and innovation.

Piledriver 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Rockin' All Over The World
STATUS QUO - Rockin' All Over The World  album front cover vinyl record

  Vertigo 9102 014 , 1977 , Frane

This particular French release of the album not only features the iconic green inner sleeve with album details but also includes a captivating photo of the band.

Rockin' All Over The World 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Self-Titled
STATUS QUO - Self-Titled (1976 , USA)  album front cover vinyl record

Capitol Records – ST-11509 , 1976 , USA

This is the American release of the album "Blue For You" with a Die-Cut cover and different artwork

STATUS QUO - Self-Titled (1976 , USA) 12" Vinyl LP
STATUS QUO - Status Quo Live!
STATUS QUO - Status Quo Live!  album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 9286 729 , 1977 , Germany

Dive into a live experience with Status Quo's double LP vinyl featuring a killer concert and giant portrait photos! Relive their rockin' energy on 12" vinyl with this collector's item, perfect for fans.

Status Quo Live! 12" Vinyl 2LP
STATUS QUO - Whatever you Want
STATUS QUO - Whatever you Want  album front cover vinyl record

Vertigo 9102 037 , 1979 , France

In 1979, a legendary rock album made its way onto the turntables of fans worldwide. Status Quo's "Whatever You Want" 12" Vinyl LP Album, released on Vertigo Records

Whatever you Want 12" Vinyl LP