"Conquest" Album Description:
In the dynamic realm of rock music, evolution is inevitable, and bands often find themselves navigating uncharted territories to stay relevant. Uriah Heep's 1980 album, "Conquest," stands as a testament to this transformative journey, marking a departure from their earlier, heavier sound towards a more polished and commercially oriented style.
As the music landscape in 1980 underwent significant shifts, with the rise of new wave, punk, and the evolving face of mainstream rock, Uriah Heep embraced change with "Conquest." The album, produced by the band itself along with John Gallen and Gerry Bron, showcased a fusion of hard rock, progressive rock, and arena rock elements. This eclectic mix contributed to the band's attempt to carve a niche in the evolving musical panorama.
The sonic landscape of "Conquest" was meticulously crafted by a team of skilled sound engineers, including John Galen, Julian Cooper, Darren Burn, David Kemp, and Nick Rogers. Their collective expertise brought forth a polished and dynamic audio experience that resonated with the contemporary tastes of the time.
The visual aspect of the album was not overlooked, as the cover design by Nartin Poole, Karl Bosley, and Linda Curry, along with photography by Martin Poole, added a visual dimension to the auditory journey. The meticulous attention to detail in the album's presentation complemented the band's commitment to delivering a holistic artistic experience.
Released under the catalog number Bronze 201 655 with German distribution in 1980, "Conquest" aimed to capture the attention of a diverse audience amidst the changing musical currents. The album featured tracks such as "Heartless Land," "Imagination," and "Feelings," each contributing to the multifaceted musical narrative Uriah Heep sought to weave.
"Conquest" may have marked a departure from the band's earlier sound, but it exemplifies Uriah Heep's adaptability and willingness to explore new musical frontiers. In the context of 1980, a year that witnessed the confluence of various musical genres, the album's contribution lies in its attempt to bridge the gap between the band's roots and the evolving tastes of the era.
