"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. This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
In the grand chronicle of rock and roll, some bands carve a niche and then, out of sheer audacity or perhaps a touch of madness, leap into the abyss of experimentation. Status Quo, those purveyors of boogie-woogie swagger, took that leap with "Down the Dustpipe." Released in 1970, this 12" vinyl LP is a sonic snapshot, capturing the moment when the band flirted with psychedelia, momentarily shedding their hard-rock exterior.
To grasp the audacity of "Down the Dustpipe," one must journey back to Status Quo's early days. Formed in the mid-60s, the band initially embraced a pop-rock sound, awash with harmonies and jangly guitars. Hits like "Pictures of Matchstick Men" secured their place in the British Invasion, but beneath the surface, a restlessness brewed. By 1970, the band's lineup had solidified, and they were ready to push boundaries.
"Down the Dustpipe" is the embodiment of this urge. The album's title track, a sprawling psychedelic odyssey, showcases a band unafraid to embrace fuzzed-out guitars, swirling organs, and ethereal vocals. Gone were the tight, three-minute pop songs; in their stead were extended jams, layered with sonic textures.
The album's production, overseen by John Schroeder, further amplifies its otherworldly quality. Recorded at Pye Studios in London, the tracks were imbued with a hazy, dreamlike atmosphere. Schroeder's willingness to experiment with effects and studio trickery allowed the band to fully realize their psychedelic vision.
While "Down the Dustpipe" wasn't a commercial blockbuster, it did stir controversy. Some fans, accustomed to Status Quo's straightforward rock, were bewildered by the album's sonic detours. Critics, too, were divided, with some applauding the band's adventurous spirit, while others dismissed it as a misguided attempt to chase trends.
Looking back, "Down the Dustpipe" serves as evidence of Status Quo's willingness to challenge themselves and their audience. It's an album that defies easy categorization, straddling the line between psychedelia, hard rock, and progressive rock. While it may not be their most celebrated work, it remains a fascinating entry in their discography, a reminder that even the most established bands can harbor a restless, experimental spirit.
In the vast landscape of rock and roll, "Down the Dustpipe" might be a minor landmark, but it's one that glows with a unique, psychedelic hue. It's an album that dared to be different, to embrace the unknown, and to push the boundaries of what Status Quo could be. It's a testament to the enduring power of experimentation, a reminder that even in the face of commercial pressure and critical scrutiny, true artists will always seek to evolve.
The album: "STATUS QUO - Down The Dustpipe" was produced by: John Schroeder
Liner notes: Peter Jones
Rock & Roll, Classic Rock, Pub Rock
Golden Hour – GH 604
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1975 United Kingdom
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
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
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"
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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