April 12, 2025: Desolation Boulevard

by Sweet was released conjunction with Record Store Day as an 50th-anniversary reissue special edition celebrating the album’s original U.S. release in July 1975 (UK release was November 1974). Titled Desolation Boulevard - 50th Anniversary (Live & Demos).

Format: Vinyl LP (RSD Exclusive Release).

Label: Sound City Records.

Quantity: Limited to 1,900 copies.

Content:

The reissue includes newly uncovered recordings from guitarist Andy Scott’s tape archives, featuring live performances and demos.

Tracklist

SIDE A

1 Ballroom Blitz (Berlin, DE - 05/16/76)

2 The Sixteens (Live at Cologne, DE - 05/14/76)

3 Turn It Down (Live at Cologne, DE - 05/14/76)

4 Medussa (Andy Scott Demo)

5 Lady Starlight (Live in Kobe, JP - 08/28/76)

SIDE B

1 Fox On The Run (Band Demo Outtake)

2 AC/DC (Live in Hamburg, DE - 05/11/76)

3 Burn On The Flame (Andy Scott Demo)

4 Into The Night (Andy Scott Demo)

5 Set Me Free (Andy Scott Demo

The original album is known for blending glam rock and hard rock, with iconic tracks like “Fox on the Run,” “Ballroom Blitz” (U.S. version), and “Set Me Free,” noted for their infectious hooks and vibrant energy.

Significance:

Desolation Boulevard is considered one of Sweet’s most iconic albums, capturing their glam rock sound that influenced the era. The U.S. version, which peaked at 25 on October 25, 1975, included hits like “Ballroom Blitz” and the single version of “Fox on the Run,” differing from the UK version’s tracklist.

This reissue emphasizes live recordings and demos, offering fans rare material not included in the original release.