Load

Introduction to Praise The Load

"Praise The Load" is the debut album by the American progressive rock power trio The Load, released in 1976. The band originated in Columbus, Ohio, and was formed in 1973. This album was recorded at Owl Recording Studios in Columbus and released by Owl Intermedia Records, catalog number OWL-101.

Band Members and Instrumentation

The Load consists of three key members: Sterling Smith, Dave Hessler, and Tom Smith. Sterling Smith plays the Hammond organ, grand piano, Minimoog, Clavinet, Mellotron, and provides vocals. He is also credited as a composer and was previously associated with J.D. Blackfoot. Dave Hessler handles guitars, including a custom double-neck guitar/bass, and contributes backing vocals and compositions. Tom Smith is on drums and percussion, rounding out the trio with a dynamic rhythm section.

Musical Style and Influences

The album showcases a blend of classical and progressive rock influences. It features intricate keyboard orchestrations and rapid synthesizer passages. Complex rhythmic meters define much of the album, complemented by searing guitar counterpoints. Listeners may draw comparisons to bands such as Emerson, Lake & Palmer, The Nice, Trace, and Ekseption, known for their virtuosic performances in the progressive rock genre.

Track Highlights

"Praise The Load" includes a mixture of original compositions and dynamic reinterpretations of classical pieces. Among the tracks are a rendition of J.S. Bach's "Brandenburg #3 (Third Movement)" and Rossini's "The William Tell Overture." Another standout is the ambitious progressive suite titled "The Betrayal," which showcases the band's technical prowess and creativity. The album's other tracks, such as "Fandango," "Flyaway," and "Dave's 'A' Song," further exhibit their ability to merge rock with classical elements.

Production and Release Details

The recording of "Praise The Load" was executed at Owl Recording Studios, ensuring a quality sound for vinyl enthusiasts. The album was released in the United States, contributing to the rich landscape of progressive rock in the 1970s. Each track was crafted with attention to the intricate interplay between instruments and the unique soundscapes created by the band.

"Praise The Load" was released on vinyl in 1976.