- incl. ROCKARAMA
"Equator" is the 1985 album by the English rock band Uriah Heep. . It was recorded during a time of change and transition for the band, as they were exploring new sounds and directions. The album features a mix of hard rock, progressive rock, and arena rock elements, and includes songs such as "Rockarama," "Lonely Nights," and "The Other Side of Midnight."
"Equator" marked a departure from the more commercial sound of the band's previous album, "Conquest," and showcased a return to their heavier, blues-inspired roots. The album received mixed reviews from fans and critics, with some praising the band's return to form and others criticizing the album for its production and lack of standout tracks.
In the pantheon of English rock, few bands have experienced as many twists and turns as Uriah Heep. By 1985, the band was navigating uncharted waters with their album "Equator." A product of transition and exploration, "Equator" captures Uriah Heep at a moment when they were both reflecting on their storied past and seeking new sonic territories.
Historical Context
The mid-1980s were a turbulent time for rock music. The rise of MTV and the subsequent emphasis on visually appealing music videos were reshaping the industry. Established rock acts were compelled to adapt to a rapidly changing musical landscape dominated by synths, flashy visuals, and an increasingly commercial sound. Uriah Heep, veterans of the hard rock and progressive rock scenes of the 1970s, found themselves at a crossroads. "Equator" was their attempt to stay relevant while maintaining their core identity.
Musical Exploration and Genre
"Equator" is a rich tapestry of musical styles, weaving together threads of hard rock, progressive rock, and arena rock. The album opens with "Rockarama," a high-energy track that embodies the era's arena rock vibe. With its catchy chorus and driving rhythm, "Rockarama" was a nod to the band's ability to craft anthems designed for large venues and mass appeal.
Tracks like "Lonely Nights" and "The Other Side of Midnight" showcase the band's continued penchant for progressive rock, featuring complex arrangements and introspective lyrics. However, there is a noticeable shift towards a more polished, radio-friendly sound throughout the album. This blend of the old and the new illustrates Uriah Heep's attempt to bridge their foundational rock elements with the burgeoning trends of the mid-80s music scene.
Production Team and Recording Studio
The production of "Equator" was helmed by Tony Platt, a name synonymous with high-quality rock production. Platt, known for his work with AC/DC and Bob Marley, brought his expertise to TeePee Productions Ltd. His influence is evident in the album's slick production values and meticulous attention to detail.
Recording took place at Battery Studios in London, a venue that had hosted a plethora of notable artists. The state-of-the-art facilities at Battery Studios allowed Uriah Heep to experiment with new sounds and recording techniques, contributing to the album's polished finish.
Music Genre:Prog Rock / Hard Rock |
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Album Production Information:The album: "Equator incl Rockarama" was produced by: Tony Platt for TeePee Productions Ltd |
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Label & Catalognr Information:EPIC / Portrait PRT 26414 The record label for Uriah Heep's "Equator" album is a blend of classic and vibrant design elements. Here are the key features of the label: 1. Label Name : - The label prominently displays the "Portrait" logo at the top in a bold, cursive font with a red and yellow color scheme, giving it a bright and recognizable appearance. 2. Production Credits : - It mentions that the album was produced by Tony Platt for TeePee Productions Ltd. - Original sound recording made by CBS Records. 3. Logos and Identifiers : - The Epic logo is displayed prominently on the left side, adding to the label's brand identity. - The stereo format and 33⅓ RPM speed are indicated on the left side as well. - Catalog numbers are listed, such as "PRT 26414" and "01-026414-20" for identification purposes. 4. Miscellaneous : - The label has a small "LC 4734" code, which is the Label Code, is the Label Code for Portrait Records - "BIEM/STEMRA" indicates the organizations responsible for managing the rights and royalties in certain regions. Overall, the label's design is functional and informative, with a balance of bold branding and clear details about the album's contents and production. |
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Album Packaging: This album "Equator incl Rockarama" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by Uriah Heep and artwork/photos. |
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Media Format:12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country:1985 Made in EEC |
Complete Track Listing of: "Equator incl Rockarama" |
The Songs/tracks on "URIAH HEEP - Equator incl Rockarama" are
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Album cover photos of : URIAH HEEP - Equator incl Rockarama |
Back Cover Photo of "Equator incl Rockarama" Album |
Close-up Photo of "Equator incl Rockarama" Record Label
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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. |
Bronze S 204 532 , 1982 , Germany
Abominog is the 14th album for British rock group URIAH HEEP. It was the first album without keyboardist Ken Hensley. The album was critically acclaimed and fairly commercially successful album due, in part, to the band retooling and updating their sound to a contemporary heavy metal style.
Abominog 12" Vinyl LPBronze 28 784 XOT / LC 2313 , 1979 , Germany
The 1979 release "Best of Uriah Heep" on Bronze Records, catalog number 28 784 XOT, is a compilation spanning 1970-1976. Produced by Gerry Bron, it features the band's pinnacle tracks, showcasing their evolution. Sound engineer Peter Gallen ensures sonic fidelity. Distributed in Germany, the LP captures Uriah Heep's global appeal. LC 2313 highlights Bronze Records' role.
Best of URIAH HEEP 12" Vinyl LPBronze 201 655 , 1980 , Germany
"Conquest" is an album by the English rock band Uriah Heep, released in 1980. It and marked a departure from their earlier, heavier sound towards a more polished and commercial style. The album features a mix of hard rock, progressive rock, and arena rock elements and includes songs such as "Heartless Land," "Imagination," and "Feelings."
Conquest 12" Vinyl LP
Uriah Heep's 1974 album "Demons and Wizards," released on a 12" LP in Austria with a Roger Dean-designed gatefold cover (Island 86 185 IT), holds significance within the evolving rock music landscape. The collaboration between the iconic band and Dean resulted in a visually striking cover that complemented the album's fantasy themes. This Austrian release contributed to the global accessibility of Uriah Heep's music, marking a notable chapter in 1970s rock history.
EPIC / Portrait PRT 26414 , 1985 , EEC
"Equator" is the 1985 album by the English rock band Uriah Heep. . It was recorded during a time of change and transition for the band, as they were exploring new sounds and directions. The album features a mix of hard rock, progressive rock, and arena rock elements, and includes songs such as "Rockarama," "Lonely Nights," and "The Other Side of Midnight."
Equator incl Rockarama 12" Vinyl LPBronze 26 449 XOT , 1978 , Germany
"Fallen Angel" is the 12th album released by British rock band URIAH HEEP in 1978. The album cover for Uriah Heep's 1978 album "Fallen Angel" was indeed designed by artist Chris Achilleos. Chris Achilleos is a Cypriot-British painter and illustrator who has created cover art for many books, albums, and magazines. He is well known for his fantasy and science fiction artwork and his attention to detail, and has created many memorable and iconic images throughout his career.
Fallen Angel 12" Vinyl LP
Firefly is the tenth album released by British rock band URIAH HEEP. It was first album without David Byron, lead vocalist and a founder-member of the band, and the first of three albums with John Lawton.
- Firefly (Germany, Bronze 28 791) - Firefly (Germany) - Firefly (Gt Britain) 12" Vinyl LPBronze 205 474 , 1983 , EEC
Uriah Heep's 1983 release, "Head First," marked their 15th studio album under Bronze Records. Produced by Ashley Howe, the album showcased the band's adaptability in the evolving music scene. Recorded at Manor Studios, it blended hard and progressive rock elements. In the context of 1983 Europe, the album reflected the era's musical trends and served as a sonic backdrop to the cultural shifts of the time.
Head First 12" Vinyl LPBronze 28 715 XOT , 1976 , Germany
Released in 1976 on Bronze Records, Uriah Heep's "High and Mighty" 12" LP marked a significant chapter in mid-'70s rock. Produced by the band and recorded at London's Roundhouse Studios, it showcased their distinctive blend of hard and progressive rock.
High and Mighty 12" Vinyl LP
The 1979 release of Uriah Heep's "Innocent Victim" on Amiga Records, featuring a distinctive band portrait on the cover, adds a captivating layer to the album's narrative. With liner notes by Ulrich Gnoth and the DDR catalog number AWA 8 55 671, it stands as a unique collector's item, providing a glimpse into the cultural and musical dynamics within the German Democratic Republic during that period.
- Innocent Victim (East-Germany, Amiga Records) - Innocent Victim (Germany) - Innocent Victim (Switzerland)INT 148.811 DMM , 1987 , Germany
Uriah Heep's "Live in Moscow," recorded during their historic 1987 concerts in the Soviet Union, marks a pivotal moment in rock diplomacy. Spearheaded by Laszlo Hegedus, the album showcases the band's musical prowess and captures the energy of the era. The gatefold cover and meticulous engineering by Janos Mihaly and Gabor Hegedus contribute to a sonic masterpiece.
Live in Moscow / Cam B Mockbe 12" Vinyl LP
"Uriah Heep's 'Live 1973' 2LP Album, subtitled 'Bronze Records and Peter Bowyer Present,' captures the essence of the band's musical prowess during its release period. Released on vinyl, the record reflects a moment in music history, showcasing Uriah Heep's live performances. Bronze Records and Peter Bowyer's collaboration contributes to preserving and presenting this iconic era of rock music for enthusiasts and collectors alike."
- Live 1973 (Germany) - Live 1973 (USA)
Uriah Heep's "Look At Yourself," released on Bronze Records in Germany, adds a distinctive chapter to the band's musical narrative. Produced by Gerry Bron and recorded at Lansdown Studios in 1971, this release encapsulates the essence of British hard rock. With a unique imprint on the German music scene, it stands as a testament to Uriah Heep's international resonance and diverse influence.
- Look at Yourself (Germany) - Look at Yourself incl Large Poster (Germany) - Look at Yourself (Gt Britain) - Look at Yourself (Netherlands)
Uriah Heep's "The Magician's Birthday," a 1972 12" LP vinyl release, stands as a quintessential piece in the British rock scene. Featuring a gatefold sleeve designed by Roger Dean, the album combines Ken Hensley's storytelling with the band's musical prowess. Recorded at Landsdowne Studios, London, it presents a cohesive narrative with detailed liner notes. Produced by Gerry Bron, this timeless artifact encapsulates the essence of progressive rock during its release period.
- Magician's Birthday (Gt Britain) - Magician's Birthday (Italy) - Magician's Birthday (Netherlands & Germany)
Uriah Heep's 1975 release, "Return to Fantasy," showcased a harmonious blend of production mastery by Gerry Bron and recording finesse at London's Lansdowne and Morgan Studios. The visual allure, courtesy of Dave Field's design and Joe Gaffney's photography, complemented the musical journey. Released on Bronze Records as a 12" vinyl LP, the album's inner sleeve with complete lyrics added a personal touch, contributing to its significance in the diverse musical landscape of 1975.
- Return to Fantasy (Germany, Bronze 28 783) Return to Fantasy (Germany, Bronze 89 065 XOT)
Released in 1970, URIAH HEEP's "Salisbury" 12" LP Vinyl Album, stands as a musical gem. With its distinctive gatefold album cover, this French edition adds a touch of elegance to the band's iconic sound. A testament to the era, the release encapsulates the spirit of the '70s music scene, making it a prized collector's item for enthusiasts of the period.
- Salisbury (France) - Salisbury (Germany)
Released in 1973 by Bronze Records, Uriah Heep's "Sweet Freedom" marked the band's sixth studio album. The 12" LP, cataloged as Bronze 28 777 XOT, showcased the British rock band's musical prowess during a dynamic period in the music industry. With its blend of rock and progressive elements, the album contributed significantly to the band's artistic evolution, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene of 1970s Germany.
- Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) - Sweet Freedom (Island Records)
The Austrian release of Uriah Heep's debut album, "Very 'eavy... Very 'umble," on Island C 85 690/Bronze/Austro Mechana, offers a regional perspective on the band's impact. With a distinct catalog number, this version maintains the album's original charm, featuring a gatefold-sleeve and insert with band photos. The Austrian release contributes to the broader European dissemination of Uriah Heep's influential hard rock sound during the early 1970s.
- Very 'Eavy Very 'Umble (Austria) - Very 'Eavy Very 'Umble (Germany, Bronze Records) - Very 'Eavy Very 'Umble (Germany, Vertigo Records)Bronze 87 931 IT , 1974 , Germany
"Wonderworld," the 1974 studio album by English rock band Uriah Heep, showcases a blend of hard rock, progressive rock, and blues-inspired elements. Featuring tracks like "The Wizard," "Suicidal Man," and "So Tired," the album marked a shift towards a more straightforward and commercial style, departing from the band's experimental sound. Despite mixed reviews, it proved commercially successful, solidifying Uriah Heep as a prominent hard rock band in the 1970s, with its tight production and memorable performances earning it a lasting place in the band's live repertoire.
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