Salisbury Serves Up the Steak AND the Sizzle

In 1971 Uriah Heep released their second album, "Salisbury." It contained enough heavy metal and rock ballads to satisfy the fans of the first album, but it also featured the sixteen-minute and seventeen-second title track. This orchestral composition served as a showcase for the band's talents collectively and individually.

Paul Newton's bass work throughout the entire piece is phenomenal, a perfect symbiosis with Keith Baker's drums. Brass and woodwinds surround the percussion, opening the gates for keyboard impresario, Ken Hensley to take the stage. Thus is the multi-textured canvas upon which lead vocalist, David Byron, paints this simple picture of love won and lost with passion. He uses the power of his voice as a counterpoint to Mick Box's extended guitar solo that is nothing short of awesome.

With its driving force and upbeat tempo, "Salisbury" is a musical treat that brings back a flood of fond memories, as well as a fun listen for today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3w_EHzCihzE