Seminal prog rockers Hawkind North American release nears, with very positive reviews
July 16th, 2010 by Craig Hartranft
Philadelphia, Pa: International acclaim for Blood of the Earth, the new album from English space rockers HAWKWIND continues to mount as the North American release date inches closer. Set for August 10, Blood of the Earth is the first new studio recording from the band in five years. It features special appearances from violinist Jon Sevink (The Levellers), BBC personality Matthew Wright, and a posthumous performance from the band’s late keyboardist Jason Stuart.
Progressive rock radio program The Gagliarchives will premiere the first selections from the album during tomorrow night’s broadcast beginning at 10pm EST. Band mastermind Dave Brock will also be on the show talking about the album and the band’s upcoming European festival tour.
“HAWKWIND are the greatest counter-culture band of all time,” says Mojo Magazine editor Phil Alexander. “In a career that has spanned 41 years, they have survived psychedelia, prog, punk, post-punk, metal, rave, having an impact on music in all these phases while remaining a law unto themselves.” During a June 10 ceremony in London, Alexander presented HAWKWIND with 2010′s Maverick Award (previous winners include Manic Street Preachers, Echo & the Bunnymen, The Jesus & Mary Chain). During the presentation he noted, “HAWKWIND are mavericks in every sense of the term, with the ability to shatter genres and think differently.”
Among Blood of the Earth’s new selections, the album also includes re-recordings of songs “You’d Better Believe It” (originally appearing on 1974′s Hall of the Mountain Grill), and “Sweet Obsession” (originally released on Dave Brock’s 1984 solo album Earthed to the Ground). Guitarist Niall Hone recalls, “the creative process behind this album was an explosive concoction of technology and sheer human endeavor resonating in the mould of space rock legend.” Bassist Mr. Dibs notes, “working on this album has been great fun and a massive learning curve for me in terms of technology. Keyboarding Tim Blake adds, “HAWKWIND albums tell tales of places, time and people, and each one has its particular imprint. It’s the same with Blood Of The Earth.”
Formed by Dave Brock in 1969, HAWKWIND’S legacy spans both decades and genres. Psychedelic 60′s and hard rock 70′s, the band’s line-up has over time included Nick Turner, Robert Calvert, Simon House, Ginger Baker, Lemmy Kilmister, and Alan Davey. The English band has influenced decades of highly respected musicians and enjoyed years of international chart success. HAWKWIND’S unforgettable live performance has been seen at venues and festivals around the globe. Throughout their career, the band has supported numerous charities, participating in events from Greenpeace, Free Tibet, and Sea Shepard Conservation Society. The band’s current line up features vocalist/guitarist/keyboardist Dave Brock, drummer Richard Chadwick, with guitarist Hone, bassist Dibs and keyboardist Blake.
For the past 20 years, New Jersey based The Gagliarchives has been a vital news source for fans of progressive rock. The program is known for its in-depth interviews, informative news and providing exposure to new and upcoming artists. The Gagliarchives have broadcast remote from the annual North East Art Rock Festival (NEAR), Progscape and Progday. The program broadcast each Saturday night from 10pm to 2am on New Jersey’s The Pulse-Z88.9/95.1/100.7FM. It can also be heard streaming line via Real, Windows, Quicktime and Shoutcast. Additional information on the long-running program can be found at www.gagliarchives.com.
Blood of the Earth will be released via the newly formed Plastic Head North America. It is the first new album scheduled for release through the company’s American division announced last month. Founded by Director Steve Beatty, the UK-based company’s title base exceeds 40,000 including over 6,000 exclusive clothing items and 5,000 specialist vinyl titles. The American division is set to release more than 100 titles before year’s end with more on tap for early 2011.
Classic Rock Magazine says, “Blood of the Earth is the cosmic manifesto of HAWKWIND in 2010.”
Review forthcoming on Dangerdog Music Reviews.
Tags: Blood of the Earth, Dave Brock, Hawkwind
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