"Innocent Victim" Album Description:
Uriah Heep, the venerable English rock band, took a bold step with their 1977 studio album, "Innocent Victim." Departing from their earlier, heavier sound, the album presented a more refined and commercially oriented musical direction. This evolution marked a significant chapter in the band's discography, contributing to the dynamic landscape of music during its release period.
The album's cover design, crafted by David Shortt, features a striking snake illustration by John Holmes. The artwork, executed by Leaderline Artists under the direction of Steve Ridgeway, adds a visually captivating element to the musical experience. The synergy between the album's sonic exploration and visual representation reflects the artistic depth that Uriah Heep sought to achieve with "Innocent Victim."
Musically, the album is a tapestry of genres, seamlessly blending hard rock, progressive rock, and arena rock elements. This amalgamation of styles showcased the band's versatility and willingness to embrace new sonic territories. Against the backdrop of the late 1970s music scene, Uriah Heep's departure from their traditional sound exemplified a spirit of experimentation that resonated with the evolving tastes of the audience.
"Innocent Victim" houses notable tracks that have left an indelible mark on Uriah Heep's legacy. The song "Free Me" stands out with its emotive vocals and powerful instrumentation, offering a glimpse into the band's ability to create impactful ballads. "Roller" injects a dose of energy with its upbeat tempo and catchy hooks, while "The Dancing Ground" demonstrates the band's proficiency in crafting intricate and dynamic compositions.
Distributed in Germany in 1977, the album found its way into the hands of a diverse audience, contributing to Uriah Heep's international recognition. The decision to release the album in Germany adds an interesting dimension to its contextual significance, as it reflects the band's global reach and impact.
| Music Genre:
Prog Rock |
Album Production Information:
Produced by Gerry Bron & Ken Hensley,
Gerry Bron – Record producer, band manager, label ownerThe guy who could run a label, steer a band, and still keep one hand on the faders. Read more... Gerry Bron is the kind of behind-the-desk mover who could make a band feel like it had a map, not just a van. After joining Bron's Orchestral Service in 1950, he shifted from publishing to shaping careers: producing Manfred Mann hit singles in 1967–68 and guiding early acts like the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band. He then became inseparable from Uriah Heep, producing and managing them from their 1970 debut "...Very 'Eavy ...Very 'Umble" through 1980's "Conquest". In 1971 he founded Bronze Records and, in 1975, Roundhouse Recording Studios, building a base for heavy rock and beyond; his label later housed Motörhead, The Damned, Girlschool, Hawkwind and more, and he treated production as practical management: songs, takes, and momentum.
Sound Engineer: Peter gallen, John Gallen, Julian Cooper.
Recorded at the Roundhouse Recording Studios London, July-September 1977,
Cover Design: David Shortt.
Snake
illustration by John Holmes,
Artwork; Leaderline Artists/Steve Ridgeway
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Label & Catalognr Information:
Bronze 25 543 XOT |
Media Format:
12 " Vinyl LP Record |
Year & Country:
1977 Made in Germany |
