When word reached me that a “1981 NWOBHM gem” was being released on vinyl it piqued my interest.
Even more so as I did not recall the band – No Quarter – from back then. And the “gem” being their Songs in Circles opus from all those years ago.
Originally self-released on cassette (remember them?) and, apparently, selling a respectable amount of copies.
Now, thanks to Unsilent Tombs records we have a limited vinyl re-issue available in various colours (mine’s green should anyone be curious).
No Quarter were from Wales. They built up a reasonable head of steam – so much so that they did a session for the much missed Friday Rock Show on Radio 1. Back then just about the only outlet for “proper” music on the radio. Listening was mandatory. Anyhoo – digression……
Despite the exposure of the radio session, things didn’t happen for No Quarter and they didn’t last too much longer. That’s a huge shame because on the evidence of Songs in Circles the band had the lot.
The five cuts are quite remarkable. Powerful, varied, slightly quirky. Strong vocals, forceful yet trippy guitar, pounding drums and some clever bass lines.
Think something along the lines of Fly By Night period Rush, early Budgie and a spot of pomp (fellow Welsh outfit Kooga for example). Even a bit of Jethro Tull and Uriah Heep in there.
Songs in Circles is such an enjoyable listen. It is indeed the “NWOBHM gem” as described. Certainly worthy of a place in any rock fan’s collection – not just old NWOBHM buffers like yours truly.
I couldn’t find much video of anything from Songs in Circles on YouTube. But here’s Light and Sound. Does display what a fine set of chops No Quarter had. Have a listen
If you liked that – and want to get your mitts on a copy of Songs in Circles then hurry as numbers are very limited.
Unslient Tombs Records on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/UnsilentTombsRecords/
Or you might find one at HR Records:
https://www.hrrshop.de
If you can bag one – do!
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