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This Complete List Of Brinsley Schwarz Albums And Songs presents the full discography of Brinsley Schwarz studio albums. The band was first formed in 1969. The group hailed from the area of England. Dave Edmunds produced the band’s albums. Nick Lowe’s famous song “(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding,” which was made famous by Elvis Costello, was first recorded and released by Brinsley Schwarz
Brinsley Schwarz
Released April 1970
Brinsley Schwarz, the debut album by the eponymous band, marked the beginning of their journey in the pub rock scene. It was an experimental and eclectic mix of country, rock, and pop, showcasing the band’s versatility. The album, recorded at Olympic Studios in London in late 1969, featured Brinsley Schwarz (lead guitar, vocals), Nick Lowe (bass guitar, vocals), Ian Gomm (guitar, vocals), Bob Andrews (keyboards, vocals), and Billy Rankin (drums). Produced by Dave Robinson, it didn’t achieve significant commercial success but laid the groundwork for the band’s future direction.
CD Track Listings:
- “Hymn to Me” – 4:50
- “Shining Brightly” – 4:02
- “Rock and Roll Women” – 3:18
- “Lady Constant” – 7:00
- “What Do You Suggest?” – 4:47
- “Mayfly” – 4:37
- “Ballad of a Has Been Beauty Queen” – 9:50 – Our favorite song on the album.
Despite It All
Released December 1970
Despite It All showcased a more cohesive and focused sound from Brinsley Schwarz, delving deeper into country and roots-rock influences. Recorded at Rockfield Studios in Monmouth, Wales, during the summer of 1970, the album was produced by Dave Edmunds, who helped refine the band’s sound. The record features the same lineup as their debut.
CD Track Listings:
- “Country Girl” – 3:07 – Our favorite song on the album.
- “The Slow One” – 4:14
- “Funk Angel” – 2:50
- “Piece of Home” – 2:42
- “Love Song” – 4:03
- “Starship” – 6:35
- “Ebury Down” – 6:36
- “Old Jarrow” – 5:15
Silver Pistol
Released February 1972
With Silver Pistol, Brinsley Schwarz fully embraced a country-rock sound, creating an album with heartfelt lyrics and harmonious melodies. The album was recorded at Olympic Studios and Rockfield Studios in 1971, and produced by Dave Robinson. The band’s lineup remained consistent, and their growing chemistry was evident.
CD Track Listings:
- “Dry Land” – 2:44
- “Merry Go Round” – 4:06
- “One More Day” – 2:53 – Our favorite song on the album.
- “Nightingale” – 3:04
- “Silver Pistol” – 3:36
- “The Last Time I Was Fooled” – 4:05
- “Unknown Number” – 3:00
- “Range War” – 2:38
- “Egypt” – 4:29
- “Niki Hoeke Speedway” – 2:55
- “Ju Ju Man” – 3:23
- “Rockin’ Chair” – 2:13
This song is so cool. It has a wonderful Grateful Dead vibe to it.
Nervous on the Road
Released September 1972
Nervous on the Road saw Brinsley Schwarz continuing to refine their country-rock style, with a stronger focus on storytelling and character-driven songs. Recorded at Rockfield Studios in early 1972 and produced by Dave Edmunds, the album featured more polished production and tighter musicianship. The band members were now more confident in their roles, and this album is often considered one of their best works, though it still did not achieve significant commercial success.
CD Track Listings:
- “It’s Been So Long” – 2:07
- “Happy Doing What We’re Doing” – 4:40
- “Surrender to the Rhythm” – 3:22
- “Don’t Lose Your Grip on Love” – 4:20
- “Nervous on the Road (But Can’t Stay at Home)” – 4:54
- “Feel a Little Funky” – 5:05
- “I Like It Like That” – 3:06
- “Brand New You, Brand New Me” – 4:36
- “Home in My Hand” – 2:52
- “Why, Why, Why, Why, Why” – 3:40
Please Don’t Ever Change
Released November 1973
Please Don’t Ever Change marked a slight departure from the pure country-rock style of their previous albums, incorporating more pop and rock elements. Recorded at Rockfield Studios in mid-1973 and produced by Dave Edmunds, this album showcased the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres. Despite its diverse sound, it maintained the quintessential Brinsley Schwarz charm. Like their previous albums, it was well-received critically but did not significantly impact the charts.
CD Track Listings:
- “Hooked on Love” – 2:42
- “Why Do We Hurt the One We Love?” – 3:52 – Our Top pick
- “I Worry (‘Bout You Baby)” – 3:16
- “Don’t Ever Change” – 3:00
- “Home in My Hand” – 2:52
- “Play That Fast Thing (One More Time)” – 4:12
- “I Won’t Make It Without You” – 3:52
- “Down in Mexico” – 3:22
- “Speedoo” – 2:45
- “The Version (Hypocrite)” – 5:10
The New Favourites of… Brinsley Schwarz
Released August 1974
The New Favourites of… Brinsley Schwarz, released in 1974, is often regarded as the pinnacle of the band’s career. It showcased a matured sound that seamlessly blended elements of pop, rock, and country. This album was recorded at Rockfield Studios and Eden Studios in London, during early 1974, and was produced by Dave Edmunds, who had become a key figure in shaping the band’s sound. The lineup, consistent since their debut, displayed a tightness and synergy that only years of playing together could achieve. Notably, this album included the single “(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding,” written by Nick Lowe, which would later become an enduring hit for Elvis Costello.
CD Track Listings:
- “(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding” – 3:34 – Our favorite song on the album.
- “Ever Since You’re Gone” – 4:10
- “The Ugly Things” – 2:51
- “I Got the Real Thing” – 3:47
- “The Look That’s in Your Eye Tonight” – 3:55
- “Now’s the Time” – 2:41
- “Small Town, Big City” – 3:54
- “Trying to Live My Life Without You” – 3:19
- “I Like You, I Don’t Love You” – 3:25
- “Down in the Dive” – 3:57
- “(It’s Gonna Be a) Bring Down” – 3:18
- “Play That Fast Thing (One More Time)” – 4:13
Complete List Of Brinsley Schwarz Albums And Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](https://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
