URIAH HEEP - SWEET FREEDOM 12" LP Vinyl Album

- BRONZE Records

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.

 

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Album Description:

In the world of classic rock, few bands have left as lasting an impact as Uriah Heep. Known for their progressive sound, distinctive vocal harmonies, and thought-provoking lyrics, Uriah Heep produced a string of influential albums throughout the 1970s. Among their notable works is the gatefold bronze LP vinyl album, "Sweet Freedom".

Musical Brilliance:
Released in 1973, "Sweet Freedom" marked a pivotal point in Uriah Heep's musical evolution. The album showcased the band's ability to seamlessly blend various genres, ranging from hard rock and heavy metal to progressive rock and even elements of jazz. The diversity of musical styles presented in "Sweet Freedom" is evident in tracks such as the anthemic "Stealin'" and the blues-infused "Seven Stars".

Artistic Packaging:
One cannot discuss Uriah Heep's "Sweet Freedom" without mentioning its visually striking gatefold bronze LP vinyl album cover. The gatefold design provided a larger canvas for the album artwork, allowing for a more immersive experience. The cover art, featuring a bronze statue against a dark backdrop, perfectly complemented the album's themes and atmosphere. It conveyed a sense of mystery, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of musical exploration. Opening the gatefold revealed additional artwork, lyrics, and credits, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal and providing fans with a more immersive experience.

Impact and Legacy:
"Sweet Freedom" proved to be a critical and commercial success for Uriah Heep, further solidifying their place in the rock pantheon. The album reached the Top 10 in the UK charts and garnered positive reviews from both critics and fans. It showcased the band's maturation as songwriters and musicians, solidifying their reputation for crafting dynamic and memorable compositions. Furthermore, "Sweet Freedom" expanded their international fan base, contributing to their enduring legacy in the realm of progressive rock.

Moreover, the gatefold bronze LP vinyl album format played a significant role in enhancing the album's impact. Vinyl records, with their warm sound quality and tangible nature, provided a unique listening experience. The gatefold packaging allowed for a deeper connection with the music, as fans could immerse themselves in the album's artwork and lyrics while savoring each track. This physical and auditory experience fostered a sense of intimacy and connection between the listener and the music, creating a lasting impression that is often absent in today's digital era.

Music Genre:
  British Prog Rock 
Album Production information:

The album: "Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) " was produced by: Gerry Bron

Gerry Bron was a prominent British music producer and manager, best known for his contributions to the music industry during the 1970s and 1980s. Born on 1 September 1933, in Hendon, Middlesex, England, Bron played a significant role in shaping the careers of numerous successful artists and bands.

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Bron began his journey in the music industry in the early 1960s when he co-founded the music management and publishing company, RAK Music. The company represented several notable songwriters, including Jonathan King, who achieved success with hits like "Everyone's Gone to the Moon". RAK Music quickly gained a reputation for its ability to spot and nurture talent.

In the late 1960s, Bron expanded his endeavors into record production, establishing himself as a highly respected producer. He worked with a diverse range of artists across various genres, including progressive rock, folk, and hard rock. Some of his earliest notable production credits included albums by Manfred Mann, including their breakthrough hit, "Mighty Quinn", and The Move's album "Shazam".

One of Bron's most significant collaborations was with the influential progressive rock band, Uriah Heep . He signed them to his management company and produced many of their albums, including "Demons and Wizards", "The Magician's Birthday", and "Sweet Freedom". These albums helped solidify Uriah Heep's place in the progressive rock genre and contributed to their global success.

As a producer, Bron was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to bring out the best in artists. He had a knack for capturing the essence of a band's sound and translating it into successful records. His production style often emphasized strong melodies, powerful instrumentation, and lush vocal harmonies.

In addition to his work with Uriah Heep, Bron produced albums for other notable acts, such as Colosseum, Osibisa, and Hawkwind. He also played a pivotal role in the career of British folk-rock legend, Al Stewart, producing some of his most successful albums, including "Year of the Cat" and "Time Passages".

Throughout his career, Bron maintained a keen entrepreneurial spirit. In 1972, he founded his own record label, Bronze Records, which became renowned for its roster of talented artists. The label achieved significant success with bands like Motörhead, Manfred Mann's Earth Band, and The Damned.

Tragically, Gerry Bron passed away on June 19, 2012, at the age of 78. His contributions to the music industry left an indelible mark, and his work as a producer and manager continues to inspire aspiring musicians and industry professionals to this day. His dedication to nurturing talent and his ability to create timeless music remain a testament to his lasting influence on the music industry.

Gerry Bron did have his own record company. In 1972, he founded Bronze Records, which became an influential label in the music industry.

Bronze Records was known for its diverse roster of artists and its commitment to promoting unique and innovative music. The label signed a wide range of acts spanning various genres, including rock, folk, and punk. Some of the notable artists signed to Bronze Records included Uriah Heep, Motörhead, Manfred Mann's Earth Band, The Damned, Girlschool, and Juicy Lucy.

Under Bron's leadership, Bronze Records achieved significant commercial success. The label released a string of hit records and albums that resonated with audiences and garnered critical acclaim. Motörhead's albums, such as "Ace of Spades" and "Overkill," became iconic within the heavy metal genre, while Manfred Mann's Earth Band achieved chart success with their covers of songs like "Blinded by the Light" and "Davy's on the Road Again."

Bronze Records' commitment to fostering talent and embracing new sounds was instrumental in its success. The label's reputation for quality music and its ability to identify promising artists made it a sought-after destination for both established and emerging acts.

Gerry Bron's ownership of Bronze Records allowed him to exert greater creative control over the production and distribution of his artists' music. This autonomy enabled him to further shape and influence the careers of the musicians under his wing.

Although Gerry Bron passed away in 2012, Bronze Records' legacy endures as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to championing exceptional talent. The label played a pivotal role in shaping the music landscape of its time and continues to be remembered as an influential force in the industry.

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Peter Gallen

This album was recorded at: Chateau d'Herouville, France, June-July 1973

Album cover concept and photography: Fin Costello

Fin Costello is a renowned pop and rock photographer who has made a significant impact on the music industry with his captivating images of numerous bands and artists. Known for his work in the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal scene, Costello has captured iconic moments and immortalized the essence of some of the most influential bands in history.

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Born with a passion for photography, Fin Costello developed a keen eye for capturing the raw energy and emotion of live performances. His journey in the world of music photography began in the late 1960s when he started photographing emerging rock bands and artists in his hometown. With dedication and a genuine love for the music, he quickly established himself as a sought-after photographer.

Costello's breakthrough came in the 1970s when he started working with some of the biggest names in rock and metal. His unique ability to capture the intensity and personality of the musicians made him a trusted photographer among bands and their management. His portfolio grew rapidly, and he became known for his exceptional talent in capturing dynamic live performances and intimate behind-the-scenes moments.

Among the notable bands and artists Costello has photographed, the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal genre holds a special place in his career. His collaborations with bands like Deep Purple, Ozzy Osbourne, Rainbow, and King Diamond have resulted in some of his most iconic and widely recognized images. Through his lens, he has managed to capture the essence of these artists, immortalizing their stage presence and capturing the spirit of their music.

Over the years, Fin Costello's work has been featured in numerous music magazines, album covers, and promotional materials, establishing him as one of the most respected photographers in the industry. His images have graced the pages of publications such as Rolling Stone, Kerrang!, and Metal Hammer, among others, contributing to his widespread recognition and acclaim.

Beyond his work in the music industry, Costello's passion for photography extends to other genres as well. He has explored various styles and subjects, showcasing his versatility as a photographer. However, it is his contributions to the rock and metal scene that have left an indelible mark on music history.

Throughout his career, Fin Costello's photographs have not only captured the moments that defined an era but also preserved the spirit and energy of the artists who have shaped the landscape of popular music. His dedication, artistic vision, and technical prowess have made him an influential figure in the world of music photography.

Today, Fin Costello's photographs continue to inspire and resonate with music enthusiasts and artists alike. His body of work stands as a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the enduring impact of rock and metal music. Whether it is a high-energy live performance or an intimate portrait, Costello's photographs serve as a window into the soul of the musicians he has captured with his lens, immortalizing their artistry for generations to come.

 

Label & Catalognr Information:
Bronze 28 777 XOT
Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:
  1973 Made in Germany
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records)
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Mick Box – guitars
  • David Byron – vocals
  • Ken Hensley – keyboards, guitars, Vocals
  • Lee Kerslake – drums, percussion, vocals
  • Gary Thain – bass
Complete Track-listing of the album "Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) "

The detailed tracklist of this record "Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) " is:

    Track-listing :
  1. "Dreamer" (Mick Box, Gary Thain) – 3:41
  2. "Stealin'" – 4:49
  3. "One Day" (Hensley, Thain) – 2:47
  4. "Sweet Freedom" – 6:37
  5. "If I Had the Time" – 5:43
  6. "Seven Stars" – 3:52
  7. "Circus" (Box, Lee Kerslake, Thain) – 2:44
  8. "Pilgrim" (David Byron, Hensley) – 7:10
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover  "Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) "
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Album Back Cover  Photo of "Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) "
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Inner Sleeve   of "Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) " Album
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Photo of "Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) " Album's Inner Sleeve  
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Photo of "Sweet Freedom (Bronze Records) " 12" LP Record Label
High Resolution Photos of uriah heep sweet freedom bronze  

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.

Index of URIAH HEEP - 1970-1980s Vinyl Record Discography and Album Covers