Gravy Train by Gravy Train, released 5 December 2005, includes the following tracks: "Coast Road", "Think Of Life" and more.
This version of Gravy Train comes as a 1xCD in a(n) Digipak packaging. - ORIG.VINYL ARTWORK
Digi-Sleeve CD-Orig. Vinyl artwork/original vinyl artwork in square CD Digi-Sleeve format/Card Wallet-No plastic) + Inserted fold out poster. Repertoire. 2005.
Recorded at Olympic Sound Studios London / Cover Design and Photos by Hipgnosis 1970.
Publisher: Tyne Music & St. George Music.
Limited Edition 2500.
Includes mini poster with liner notes by Chris Welch.
"Gravy Train" is the self-titled debut album by the British progressive rock band Gravy Train, released in 1970 and now available on CD format from Repuk. This record stands as a classic example of early '70s prog-rock, blending hard rock riffs with flute-driven melodies and complex song structures. The album features standout tracks such as "The New One" and "Dedication to Sid," showcasing the band's dynamic range and innovative approach to songwriting. Gravy Train quickly became known for their energetic performances and unique fusion of styles, earning them a dedicated following within the underground music scene.
Formed in Lancashire, England, Gravy Train was led by vocalist Norman Barrett alongside Barry Davenport (drums), J.D. Hughes (keyboards/flute/vocals), and Lester Williams (bass). Their sound drew comparisons to contemporaries like Jethro Tull but maintained its own distinctive edge through heavier guitar work and adventurous arrangements. Over their career, Gravy Train released several albums that have since become cult favorites among collectors of progressive rock.
Repuk is recognized for its commitment to high-quality reissues of rare or overlooked gems from the golden era of rock music. With meticulous attention to audio fidelity and packaging details, Repuk ensures that both new listeners and longtime fans can experience these classic recordings at their best.
Jethro Tull and Comus had a baby, and they named it Gravy Train. That's not strictly accurate, of course, but as the band's eponymous debut opens with the fluid changes of "The New One," it's not too far of a reach, either. Richly harmonic, daringly jam-laden, and peppered with guitar roars that simply defy comparison, Gravy Train is the sound of the British underground at its most joyously liberated peak -- a time when a bunch of apparent freaks could simply go into a major recording studio and let rip. Except Gravy Train's concept of "letting rip" has more in common with a symphony orchestra than the Edgar Broughton Band. Without, of course, the orchestra. But there's a moment in the midst of "Think of Life" that cannot help but put one in mind of later Deep Purple, as the flute and guitar battle for supremacy, while the blues workout "Coast Road" is as breathtaking as any of that genre's better-feted exponents. If Gravy Train has any faults whatsoever, the fascination with peculiar vocal effects can grow a little wearing, especially as frontman Norman Barrett already appears to have a fabulous range of his own -- "Dedication to Sid," in particular, glories in such trickery, although the heartbeat bassline that runs through the number is so hypnotic that it's easy to forget everything else that's going on. In fact, Gravy Train is littered with moments like that, an album of so many surprises that even when you think you know it, you can still find something else you'd never noticed. And it all adds up to a genuine minor classic.
Alexander N. - 29/Dec/2017
CD reissue on Repertoire Records, packaged in mini LP papersleeve. Sounds very well and highly collectable item. Worth to have.
Pop International
230.612
