LPCDreissues: Looking forward to the past

Jerusalem is the sole studio album by the British hard rock band Jerusalem, released in 1972 on Deram Records. Produced by Ian Gillan of Deep Purple, the album is noted for its raw energy and heavy riffs, positioning it as a significant entry in the proto-metal genre.

Formed in Salisbury, England, Jerusalem comprised vocalist Lynden Williams, guitarists Bob Cooke and Bill Hinde, bassist Paul Dean, and drummer Ray Sparrow. Their sound drew comparisons to contemporaries like Black Sabbath and Deep Purple, characterized by aggressive guitar work and powerful vocals. Despite sharing stages with major acts and receiving Gillan's endorsement, the band disbanded shortly after the album's release.

The album features nine tracks that blend hard rock with elements of doom and blues. Songs like "Frustration" and "Primitive Man" showcase the band's heavy style, while "Murderer's Lament" and "When the Wolf Sits" highlight their lyrical depth. Gillan praised the band's unpolished yet potent sound, emphasizing their unique identity in the early '70s rock scene.

Track listing:

• Frustration
• Hooded Eagle
• I See The Light
• Murderer's Lament
• When The Wolf Sits
• Midnight Steamer
• Primitive Man
• Beyond The Grave
• She Came Like A Bat From Hell
Bonus Tracks
• Kamikaze Moth [Single]
• Hooded Eagle [2009 Version]
• Midnight Steamer [2009 Version]
• Kamikaze Moth [2009 Version]
• When The Wolf Sits [2009 Version]