Born Under The Wrong Sign 1976-1979

Description

Box set of five CDs tracing the journey of this influential Scottish band from 1976 to 1979.27 bonus tracks, including single versions and previously unreleased material.Includes the original and alternative versions of the album « Expect No Mercy ».Nazareth, the flagship Scottish hard rock band, formed in Dunfermline in the late 1960s and released their debut album in 1971. With Dan McCafferty on vocals, Manny Charlton on lead guitar, Pete Agnew on bass, and Darrell Sweet on drums, « Close Enough For Rock 'n' Roll » (CD1) is Nazareth's seventh studio album, released in March 1976. Recorded at Studio de Montréal, Canada, this album, which followed the international success of « Hair Of The Dog », offered a more experimental and polished sound than their earlier, rawer works. The opening track, « Telegram », is a four-part rock opera depicting the exhausting yet exhilarating life of a band on tour in the 1970s and served as an introduction to their concerts.Produced by the band's guitarist, Manny Charlton, « Play 'n' The Game » (CD2) is their eighth studio album, released in November 1976. Continuing the band's exploration of stadium rock and AOR, this album is often praised for its more experimental sound compared to their earlier, heavier tracks, incorporating elements of Southern rock and psychedelia.Frequently addressing themes of revenge, violence, and rebellion, Nazareth released their ninth album, « Expect No Mercy » (CD3), in 1977, returning to a heavier and more aggressive sound, characterized by sharp guitar riffs and Dan McCafferty's iconic raspy voice. The original alternative version of the album (CD4) is also included. The album « Expect No Mercy » is also notable for its iconic cover art, signed by the famous fantasy illustrator Frank Frazetta.« No Mean City », the fifth CD in this compilation, is Nazareth's tenth studio album, released in January 1979. Characterized by a heavier sound, with the addition of Zal Cleminson (SAHB) on rhythm guitar, « No Mean City » features another cult cover, designed by Rodney Matthews (Thin Lizzy, Diamond Head), and contains the single « May The Sunshine ».