LPCDreissues: Looking forward to the past

Originally released in 1970, Mountains was Steamhammer’s third album and found the British group moving beyond its blues-rock beginnings towards a heavier, more progressive sound. The quartet combines Kieran White’s earthy vocals and harmonica with Martin Pugh’s expressive electric, acoustic and slide-guitar work, supported by the powerful rhythm section of Steve Davy and Mick Bradley.

The studio material ranges from the melodic “Levinia” and acoustic touches of “Henry Lane” to the expansive title track. Two live recordings from London’s Lyceum reveal another side of the band: “Riding on the L&N” develops into a lengthy guitar-driven workout, while “Hold That Train” captures Steamhammer’s raw stage energy and blues-based improvisation.

This Repertoire Records edition was remastered by Jon Astley and half-speed mastered at Abbey Road Studios. It is pressed on 180-gram vinyl and housed in a matt-laminated gatefold sleeve with carefully reproduced original artwork and a period-style inner bag.

1. I Wouldn’t Have Thought (Gophers Song)
2. Riding on the L&N
3. Hold That Train

1. Levinia
2. Henry Lane
3. Leader of the Ring
4. Walking Down the Road
5. Mountains

180-gram remastered vinyl LP

Mastering: Half-speed mastered at Abbey Road Studios

Packaging: Matt-laminated gatefold sleeve with 1960s-style inner bag