Uriah Heep’s Live 1973: A Forgotten Masterpiece of the 1970s
One of the greatest live albums of all time: Uriah Heep Live 1973. While albums like Made in Japan or Live and Dangerous frequently top lists of iconic 70s live albums, this absolute gem often gets overlooked—and that needs to change.
The Story Behind Live 1973
Recorded in January 1973, this double album captures Uriah Heep at their creative and performing peak. Released later that year, it reached No. 13 on the UK Albums Chart and found its way into countless collections, including my own.
At a time when live albums were statements of a band’s prowess, Live 1973 was a beautifully crafted package, complete with a tour program-style booklet and extensive liner notes. For those of us growing up in the 70s, this wasn’t just an album—it was an experience.
What Makes Live 1973 So Special?
1. The Lineup at Its Best
This album showcases Uriah Heep’s classic lineup:
David Byron – Vocals
Mick Box – Guitars
Ken Hensley – Keyboards, Guitars, Vocals
Gary Thain – Bass
Lee Kerslake – Drums
Each member brought something unique to the table, from Byron’s operatic vocals to Thain’s innovative basslines that dance through the mix.
2. The Tracklist
The album opens with the atmospheric “Sunrise”, setting a majestic tone before diving into fan-favorites like “Sweet Lorraine”, “Traveller in Time”, and the hard-hitting “Easy Livin’”.
Side two is anchored by the epic “July Morning”, often referred to as Uriah Heep’s answer to Child in Time. Its hypnotic riffs and layered dynamics create a timeless masterpiece.
Side three features the thunderous “Gypsy”, stretched into an incredible 14-minute journey that includes stunning instrumental passages and one of the few drum solos I actually enjoy. It’s followed by “Circle of Hands”, a soaring, emotional highlight.
Side four wraps things up with “Look at Yourself”, “Magician’s Birthday”, and a medley of rock ‘n’ roll classics, which, while divisive now, was an absolute crowd-pleaser back then.
3. The Production and Performance
Gerry Bron’s production gives this album a raw yet polished feel. Unlike some overly edited live albums, Live 1973 feels authentic. The interplay between Thain’s bass and Hensley’s Hammond organ creates a rich, immersive soundscape. Byron’s vocals are operatic yet accessible, carrying the band’s storytelling to soaring heights.
My Personal Connection
I first heard this album as a teenager, borrowing it from my school’s record library. It was my introduction to Uriah Heep, and it blew my mind. The immersive packaging, the larger-than-life sound, and the sheer energy of the performances transported me to another world.
Uriah Heep’s Live 1973 is an essential document of 70s rock history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this is a must-have for any serious rock collection.
If you’ve never heard it, I envy you. Experiencing Live 1973 for the first time in 2024 will be a revelation. And if you’ve loved it for decades like I have, let’s celebrate this masterpiece together.
Let’s Discuss!
What’s your favorite track from Live 1973? How does it compare to other iconic live albums from the era? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to keep spinning those discs!
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
Totally agree one of the most underrated performances of all the great live albums Heep at there best, remember listening to this as 14year old thinking this is proper music