The Sensational Alex Harvey Band: Anthem Single (1974)

The Anthem That Echoed SAHB

The Sensational Alex Harvey Band’s “Anthem (Short Version)” 7-inch vinyl single, was released in the UK on November 15, 1974, on Vertigo Records (catalogue: 6059 112). Backed with the “Anthem (Long Version),” this rousing rock epic, written by Alex Harvey, Hugh McKenna, and David Batchelor, was produced by David Batchelor for Mountain Records. The A-side’s triumphant horns and Harvey’s gravelly call was unheard (no chart entry). Lacquer cut and pressed by Phonodisc Ltd., issued in a Vertigo company sleeve, it’s a fan-favorite from SAHB’s theatrical peak.

Single Overview:

A-Side: “Anthem (Short Version)”

Written-By – A. Harvey, H. McKenna, D. Batchelor. Producer – David Batchelor.

B-Side: “Anthem (Long Version)”

Written-By – A. Harvey, H. McKenna, D. Batchelor. Producer – David Batchelor.

Release Details:

Label: Vertigo Records (UK pressing, 45 RPM).

Published By – Eiger Music Ltd.

Phonographic Copyright ℗ – Phonogram Ltd.

Lacquer Cut At – Phonodisc Ltd.

Pressed By – Phonodisc Ltd.

Formats:

Vinyl, 7", 45 RPM (6059 112):

A: “Anthem (Short Version)”

Written-By – A. Harvey, H. McKenna, D. Batchelor – Producer – David Batchelor

B: “Anthem (Long Version)”

Written-By – A. Harvey, H. McKenna, D. Batchelor – Producer – David Batchelor

Notes: A Mountain Record Production. Made in England.

Country Variations:

Netherlands (Vertigo 1974)

Portugal (Vertigo 1974)

Australia (Vertigo 1975)

Production and Context

Produced by David Batchelor for Mountain Records. Recorded in 1974 during The Next sessions. The lineup: Alex Harvey (vocals), Zal Cleminson (guitar), Chris Glen (bass), Hugh McKenna (keyboards), Ted McKenna (drums). “Anthem” was a short/long version epic. Released amid SAHB’s theatrical rise, it followed The Impossible Dream (No. 2 UK, 1975) and competed with Queen and Sweet.

Singles Released and Chart Performance

“Anthem (Short Version)” was a non-album single:

Chart Performance:

UK: No chart entry.

Legacy and Collectibility

“Anthem” is SAHB’s rousing short/long double, a live staple. Verify catalogue 6059 112.

Streams on Spotify via The Next reissues preserve the analog thunder. This single is a must-have for SAHB fans and ‘70s rock collectors.

Have you snagged this SAHB anthem in your vinyl collection? Does Anthem rally you? Share in the comments!

Sources

Information is drawn from my personal knowledge and supplemented by web sources, including Discogs, 45cat, AllMusic, Rate Your Music, Wikipedia, BBC Official Charts Company, Billboard Chart History and YouTube