Gravy Train

Label: Dawn Records
Country: UK
Released: 1974
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Exploring Gravy Train's Final Offering

"Staircase To The Day," released in 1974, is the fourth and final studio album by the British rock band Gravy Train. This album showcases the band’s signature blend of progressive rock and hard rock, characterized by intricate musical compositions and rich instrumentation. The release comes packaged in a gatefold sleeve, featuring distinctive artwork by Roger Dean, known for his surreal landscapes and imaginative designs.

Production and Sound

The album was recorded at The Manor Studios in Shipton-on-Cherwell, Oxfordshire, a facility associated with Richard Branson. It was produced by Vic Smith, who later gained fame for his work with The Jam. The sound recording engineer was Simon Heyworth, contributing to the album's polished audio quality. The band’s lineup includes Norman Barratt on lead vocals and guitar, alongside John D. Hughes on the Mellotron, Hammond organ, and other keyboards. They are supported by George Lynon on guitars, Les Williams on bass, and Russell Cordwell on drums.

Guest musicians enhance the album's sonic palette. Notably, Peter Solley contributes synthesizers to two tracks, while Mary Zinovieff adds her electric violin to the title track and another song. The album features a diverse array of sounds, from hard-rock riffs to classical progressions, and incorporates elements of folk and gospel throughout its eight tracks.

Track Highlights

The opening track, "Starbright Starlight," sets a cosmic tone, while the title track "Staircase To The Day" serves as the symphonic centerpiece, running over seven minutes. Other tracks like "Going For A Quick One" and "Busted In Schenectady" highlight the band's hard rock influences, blending energetic rhythms with melodic sophistication.

Gravy Train's "Staircase To The Day" reflects a time when progressive rock was at a creative peak in the UK. The album is a culmination of the band’s stylistic evolution and showcases their diverse musical influences, anchored by strong musicianship and thoughtful compositions.

The album was released in 1974 under the Dawn Records label, catalog number DNLH 1 / DNLS 3059.

Tracklist

A1	Starbright Starlight Composed By – Barrett*Drums, Percussion – Jim FrankSynthesizer – Peter Solley
A2	Bring My Life On Back To Me Backing Vocals – Bobby HarrisonComposed By – Barrett*
A3	Never Wanted You Composed By – Barrett*Harp – Jim Frank
A4	Staircase To The Day Composed By – Barrett*Synthesizer – Mary Zinovieff
B1	Going For A Quick One Backing Vocals – Bobby HarrisonBacking Vocals – Gospel AyresCowbell, Written-By – Vic Smith*Drums – Jim FrankSynthesizer – Peter SolleyWritten-By – Candy Carr
B2	The Last Day Written-By – Barrett*
B3	Evening Of My Life Written-By – HughesWritten-By – Barrett
B4	Busted In Schenectady Backing Vocals – Bobby HarrisonBacking Vocals – BarrettBacking Vocals – Pat ArnoldElectric Violin – Mary ZinovieffWritten-By – Barrett*