Heaven - Brass Rock 1 () | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: CBS
Country:
Released:
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Album Overview

Brass Rock 1 is the debut double album by the British jazz-rock ensemble Heaven, released in 1971. The album came out under CBS Records, with the catalog number S 66293. This project marks a significant entry into the jazz-rock genre, blending rock elements with a strong brass section.

Band Composition

Heaven is a nine-member band that includes a traditional rock rhythm section and a dedicated five-piece brass ensemble. The rock side features bassist John James Gordon, drummer Vic Glover, and guitarists/vocalists Eddi Harnett and Terry Scott Jnr. The brass section consists of Butch Hudson, Dave Gautrey, David Horler, Ray King, and Derek Somerville. This blend of musicians creates a unique sound that characterizes the album.

Production Details

The album was produced by Rikki Farr, known for his work as the promoter of the Isle of Wight Festival. Engineering duties were handled by Mike FitzHenry at CBS Studios in London. Their collaboration played a key role in shaping the distinctive sound of Brass Rock 1.

Packaging and Artwork

The original vinyl package of Brass Rock 1 features a striking cruciform, or cross-shaped, 6-panel fold-out gatefold sleeve. The artwork and photography were crafted by Keef (Keith MacMillan) and John Hays. This innovative design adds an extra layer of visual appeal to the album, complementing the auditory experience.

Musical Style

The album fuses jazz and rock elements, showcasing complex arrangements and intricate musicianship. The combination of brass instruments with a rock setup allows for a diverse range of sounds. Specific tracks feature elaborate solos and rhythmic variations that highlight the talent of each band member. The album serves as an early example of the jazz-rock fusion that became more prominent in the 1970s.

Release Information

Brass Rock 1 was released on vinyl format, emphasizing the era's preference for physical media. The album's length and the double LP format provide ample space for the band's explorations in sound, with each side contributing to the overall experience. The release in 1971 marks the band's entry into the music scene during a vibrant time for both jazz and rock genres.

Tracklist

A1	Things I Should've Been
A2	This Time Tomorrow
A3	Never Say Die
B1	Come Back
B2	Song For Chaos
C1	Morning Coffee (A Theme To A Film)
C2	Number One (Last Request)
C3	Number Two (Down At The Mission)
D1	Dawning
D2	Got To Get Away

Credits

Art Direction – John Hays
Art Direction – Keef
Drums, Percussion – Vic Glover
Engineer – Mike Fitzhenry
Lead Vocals, Lead Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Arranged By – Eddi Harnett
Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Piano – Terry Scott Jnr.*
Photography By – Keef
Producer – Rikki Farr
Tenor Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet – Ray King
Tenor Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute, Trombone – Derek Somerville
Trombone, Piano – David Horler
Trumpet, Flugelhorn – Dave Gautrey
Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Piccolo Trumpet, Arranged By – Butch Hudson
Vocals, Piccolo Trumpet, Electric Bass, Bass, Fiddle, Arranged By – John James Gordon
Written-By – Eddi Harnett
Written-By – Heaven
Written-By – John James Gordon
Written-By – Rikki Farr
Written-By – Terry Scott Jnr.*