Album Description:
In the rich tapestry of rock music history, certain albums stand out as timeless classics, encapsulating the spirit and innovation of their era. Uriah Heep's "Demons and Wizards," a 12" LP vinyl album released in 1974, is undoubtedly one such gem. In this article, we will explore the significance of this iconic release within the context of the early 1970s, shedding light on its production, artistic elements, and lasting impact.
Production Prowess:
The mastermind behind the production of "Demons and Wizards" was Gerry Bron, a seasoned producer known for his work with various influential rock acts. His adept guidance provided Uriah Heep with the necessary support to craft an album that would resonate with audiences for decades to come.
The engineering brilliance of Peter Gallen and Ashley Howe further enhanced the sonic landscape of the album. Recorded at Lansdowne Studios in London during March and April of 1972, the studio setting allowed the band to experiment and refine their sound, resulting in a polished and immersive listening experience.
Artistic Marvels:
An album's cover is often the first visual encounter a listener has with the music within. In the case of "Demons and Wizards," the artistic duo of Roger Dean and photographers Dominy Hamilton and Roger Dean collaborated to create a visually stunning package. The gatefold cover, a common feature in vinyl releases of that era, unfolded to reveal a captivating visual narrative that complemented the musical journey within.
Roger Dean's design prowess, showcased in the album cover, added an extra layer of mystique to the overall presentation. His distinctive artistic style became synonymous with progressive rock, and "Demons and Wizards" stands as a testament to the seamless integration of visual and auditory elements.
A French Touch:
The 1974 French release of the album, cataloged under Bronze Records Ltd as BRO 2007 / ILPS 9193, marked an important moment in the international dissemination of Uriah Heep's music. The French edition allowed the band to reach a broader audience and solidify their place in the global rock music scene.
Music Genre:
Prog Rock
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Album Production Information:
The album: "Demons and Wizards (French Release)" was produced by:
Gerry Bron
Sound/Recording Engineer(s):
Peter Gallen, Ashley Howe
This album was recorded at:
Lansdowne Studios London March April 1972
Album cover design:
Roger Dean
Roger Dean ( full-name: William Roger Dean )
Roger Dean an English artist and designer who is best known for his work creating album covers for numerous rock bands, including Yes, Uriah Heep, and Asia. He was born on 31 August 1944, in Ashford, Kent, England.
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Dean's distinctive style is characterized by his use of fantastical landscapes, surreal imagery, and vivid colors. His album covers often feature otherworldly creatures, floating islands, and intricate patterns. Dean's work has become synonymous with the progressive rock movement of the 1970s, and his iconic designs have become an integral part of the visual language of rock music.
In addition to his album cover work, Dean has also designed stage sets, costumes, and logos for numerous bands. He has also created artwork for book covers, calendars, and video games.
Dean's influence extends beyond the world of music, and his artwork has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. In 2018, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Arts University Bournemouth in recognition of his contributions to the fields of art and design.
Album cover photography: Dominy Hamilton, Roger Dean
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Label & Catalognr Information:
Bronze Records Ltd BRO 2007 / ILPS 9193
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| Packaging:Gatefold (FOC) cover design with artwork / photos on the inside cover pages |
Media Format:
12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
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Year & Country:
1974 Made in France
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