Faithful Breath

Album Overview

"Back On My Hill," released in 1980 by Faithful Breath, marks the band's second studio endeavor. This album was recorded over a span of two years, from 1977 to 1979, at the Rhein-Ruhr-Film Tonstudio in Bochum, Germany. It is a significant step in their musical evolution, transitioning from the more delicate symphonic sounds of their debut album, "Fading Beauty," to a heavier rock sound that characterizes the late 1970s.

Musical Direction

The album features a blend of hard rock, heavy progressive rock, and elements of proto-metal. The presence of guest lead vocalist Jürgen Renfordt adds a new dimension to the band's sound. His contributions alongside the established members—Heinz Mikus on guitar, Manfred von Buttlar on keyboards, Horst Stabenow on bass, and Jürgen Weritz on drums—create a rich tapestry of sound. Side A comprises punchy, melodic tracks, including "Back On My Hill," "Keep Me Away," "This Is My Love Song," and "Stick In Your Eyes." Each song showcases robust instrumentation and engaging melodies.

Extended Composition

The highlight of the album is undoubtedly the 17-minute track "Judgement Day." This ambitious piece serves as a tour-de-force of progressive rock, featuring sweeping Mellotron passages and intense guitar solos. It has become a staple in the band's live performances, demonstrating their ability to craft expansive musical narratives. The intricate arrangements and dynamic shifts throughout this track reflect the band's commitment to exploring complex musical ideas.

Production Quality

The production quality of "Back On My Hill" is notable, thanks in part to the work of producer Bogdan "Boggi" Kopec and sound engineer Helmut Rohlfing. Their collaboration helped to capture the band's evolving sound effectively, allowing for a clear representation of both the hard rock and progressive elements present in the music. The album's cover design, crafted by Heinz Dofflein, complements the music with striking visuals.

Comparative Analysis

Fans of bands such as Uriah Heep, Deep Purple, and Eloy may find familiar elements within this album. Faithful Breath draws on various influences while establishing their own signature sound. The combination of hard rock energy with progressive rock complexity sets "Back On My Hill" apart from other albums of the era.

Release Details

"Back On My Hill" was released on the Sky Records label under catalog numbers sky 038 and sky 041 in 1980.