Humble Pie – “Smokin’”: The breakthrough of a classic rock milestone
In 1971, Humble Pie opened for Grand Funk Railroad at New York's legendary Shea Stadium . The New York Mets ' stadium was packed to capacity – but the weather was unpredictable. A violent storm and torrential rain threatened the concert, but Steve Marriott , the band's charismatic frontman, wasn't fazed. With the words , "It's raining, and we don't give a damn! We're going to rock you all night!" he ignited a true rock frenzy. The audience went wild, the band played several encores – and America was at Humble Pie 's feet. The performance became a turning point: the starting gun had been fired for an international career.
The British band, founded in 1969, had already released four albums by that point. But it was their fifth studio album, "Smokin'" , that brought them their definitive breakthrough – even though guitarist Peter Frampton left the band shortly after the triumphant Shea concert. His successor, Dave Clempson (formerly of Colosseum ), played a crucial role in shaping the new, harder sound.
"Smokin'" combined powerful rock 'n' roll with blues feeling , soul , and a healthy dose of live energy. With songs like "C'mon Everybody," "Hot 'n' Nasty," and the cult hit "30 Days in the Hole," Humble Pie created a boogie rock classic. Guest appearances by Alexis Korner and Stephen Stills made the album even more special. No wonder "Smokin'" became the band's best-selling album—reaching the top ten in the US and Australia , as well as enjoying considerable success in Europe .
New vinyl reissue – pure audiophile rock enjoyment
The recent vinyl reissue of "Smokin'" is a true highlight for collectors and audiophiles. Analogue Productions has meticulously remastered the album. Kevin Gray's work reveals an unprecedented depth and richness of sound. The 180-gram vinyl was pressed at 45 rpm on two LPs and manufactured by Quality Record Pressings – a guarantee of the highest production quality.
This edition brings back the unmistakable Humble Pie sound more authentically than ever before: powerful, raw and full of soul – a must-have for all lovers of classic rock and vinyl remasters .