Since their first album release in 1970, it is believed by many that Uriah Heep never achieved the success they so richly deserved. This is, of course, a matter of opinion, but with quite large record sales worldwide it could be argued that they achieved more than many. Most people, like myself, have heard of the band but would struggle to name any of their songs, a case of the band name being more popular than the music of the band. With 20 studio albums along with many live recordings, the Uriah Heep have remained a constant for over three decades.

There have been many lineup changes over the years, but founding member Mick Box has remained a constant throughout. The lineup for this 1985 performance is Mick Box on guitar, Peter Goalby on vocals, John Sinclair on keyboards, Trevor Bolder on bass and Lee Kerslake on drums.

Filmed at the Camden Palace for the television show Live In London, the aim of this concert was to promote their latest offering at the time, Equator, therefore songs from this album are prominent.

Track listing:

The show is entertaining and a terrific showcase of the band. Fans should be pleased with this gig and although it is aimed at promoting their most recent release at the time, there are enough songs from earlier albums to satisfy. The band seems to be enjoying the show and this is reflected well in their performance. One last thing, as I am sure many will be wondering, the name Uriah Heep comes from the Dickens novel David Copperfield.

For a recording that's almost 20 years old, this full frame transfer looks terrific. Picture is very sharp throughout and colours are true, taking into account that this is a live recording and therefore suffers slightly in the usual areas caused by stage lighting. Blacks are deep and shadow detail is strong with very little grain or aliasing. Audio synch is never a problem and there are no subtitles supplied.

Audio supplied is a choice of two, a Dolby Digital 5.1 surround mix and a DD 5.1 mix with commentary. Basically these are the same, but the latter has journalist and long time fan Dave Ling giving an introduction prior to most songs. Sound is generally very good and all levels are acceptable. It is so rewarding to see a recording of this age getting a DD 5.1 sound mix and a good one at that. Although it is not of reference quality, it is much better than a standard stereo mix. Surround use is constant without being dominant, keeping sound predominantly across the front speakers and using the rears for ambience and audience noise. Directional effects are also used well for instrument definition and the subwoofer gets a decent workout.

The only extra contained on this release is a very brief review by journalist and fan Dave Ling. With a running time of only 1:08 he gives a brief intro to the show and some minor background of the event. The commentary could also be classed as an extra, but I see it more as an alternative sound mix so have listed it in the audio section.

This is a great release for fans and a concert that many curious music fans should enjoy. For a band covering such a long time span, an extensive catalogue of records and an ever changing lineup, it would be impossible to release the perfect Uriah Heep DVD to satisfy all fans, but this is a good start.