Renaissance

Album Overview

Released in October 1973, "Ashes Are Burning" is the fourth studio album by the UK band Renaissance. This album marked a significant development in their sound, showcasing orchestral string arrangements for the first time. The album was produced by Dick Plant and features contributions from several musicians, including a guitar solo by Andy Powell of Wishbone Ash on the title track.

Musical Composition

The album opens with "Can You Understand," a nearly ten-minute track that sets the tone for the rest of the record with its intricate arrangements and lyrical depth. "Let It Grow" follows, providing a more concise yet equally engaging experience. "On The Frontier" features music by McCarty, adding diversity to the album's composition. The B-side begins with "Carpet Of The Sun," a song that highlights Annie Haslam's vocals beautifully against a backdrop of lush instrumentation.

The title track, "Ashes Are Burning," is the centerpiece of the album, running for over eleven minutes. Its extended format allows for a rich exploration of themes, with a notable guitar solo that complements the orchestral elements arranged by Richard Hewson. The strings add a layer of sophistication, enhancing the overall sound while maintaining Renaissance's unique blend of rock and folk influences.

Production Details

Renaissance worked with several key contributors on this album. Michael Dunford provided the acoustic guitar and contributed music, while John Camp played bass and guitar alongside his vocal duties. Terence Sullivan handled drums and percussion, and John Tout was responsible for keyboards and vocals. The album's cover design and photography were executed by Hipgnosis, a firm known for their innovative album art.

Richard Hewson's orchestral arrangements on "Ashes Are Burning" are noteworthy. He had previously worked with The Beatles, which speaks to his expertise in blending classical elements with contemporary music. This album's production reflects a careful balance between rock and orchestral influences, creating a distinct sound that characterizes Renaissance's work.

Release Information

"Ashes Are Burning" was released on vinyl as an LP under the Sovereign label. This format was typical for albums of the era, allowing for an immersive listening experience. The album's release is documented as occurring in October 1973, marking an important moment in Renaissance's discography.