Description

Uriah Heep – Salisbury – 180 Gram Vinyl Record

Salisbury is the second studio album by the British rock band Uriah Heep, released in February 1971. This album marked a significant evolution in the band’s sound, blending elements of hard rock, progressive rock, and heavy metal, and showcased their musical versatility and ambition.

The title track, Salisbury, is a notable centerpiece of the album. Running over sixteen minutes, it is an epic progressive rock piece that features complex arrangements and orchestral elements. The use of a 24-piece orchestra in the title track was a bold move, illustrating the band’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of rock music at the time.

Salisbury opens with Bird of Prey, a powerful track characterized by its heavy guitar riffs, dynamic vocals by David Byron, and intricate keyboard work by Ken Hensley. This song set the tone for the album, highlighting the band’s ability to merge aggressive rock with melodic sensibilities.

Other standout tracks include The Park, which contrasts the heavier songs with its softer, more introspective feel. This song features gentle acoustic guitar, mellotron, and serene vocal harmonies, demonstrating Uriah Heep’s range and depth. Lady in Black is another key track that has become one of the band’s signature songs. Its haunting melody, repetitive structure, and storytelling lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple in the band’s live performances.

Time to Live and High Priestess are both robust rock tracks that showcase the band’s classic sound, featuring driving rhythms, powerful vocals, and prominent keyboard and guitar solos. These songs exemplify the band’s ability to create energetic and engaging rock music that resonates with listeners.

The production on Salisbury is polished and ambitious, with the band and producer Gerry Bron working to create a rich and layered sound. The use of orchestration, particularly on the title track, adds a dramatic and cinematic quality to the album, distinguishing it from other rock albums of the era.

Salisbury was a critical step forward for Uriah Heep, solidifying their place in the rock music landscape of the early 1970s. It displayed their growing confidence and creativity, helping to establish their identity as a band willing to take risks and explore new musical territories.

The album’s reception was mixed upon its initial release, with some critics skeptical of its ambitious nature, but it has since been re-evaluated and appreciated for its boldness and innovation. Salisbury remains an important part of Uriah Heep’s discography, reflecting a period of artistic growth and experimentation that would influence their future works and contribute to their lasting legacy in rock music.

Gatefold sleeve

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic

Track Listing
Bird Of Prey
The Park
Time To Live
Lady In Black
High Priestess
Salisbury