The English band Colosseum was founded in London in 1968 by drummer Jon Hiseman and Dick Heckstall-Smith (sax, fl). Both left John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers to explore new musical horizons. At the time of recording their second album, Valentyne Suite, the band was joined by James Litherland (voc, g), Dave Greenslade (org, vib, p, voc) and Tony Reeves (b). Produced by Gerry Bron and Tony Reeves, it was released in November 1969 as the first album on the cult label Vertigo. Now regarded as one of the greatest progressive rock albums of the 1960s, this innovative work captivates with an incredibly intense performance spanning a wide range of styles. Building on a foundation of rock, blues and jazz, elements of hard rock, classical, psychedelic and soul are effortlessly incorporated. Jon Hiseman’s magnificent drumming forms the basis for sensational solos, culminating in a captivating interplay through which the musicians demonstrate their impressive virtuosity.

The cover, designed by British photographer and designer Keef, is also unusual and provides excellent visual support for this new kind of music. Alongside King Crimson’s debut album In The Court Of The Crimson King, this legendary progressive rock gem is considered a milestone of the then-emerging prog scene and is today, as a UK Vertigo Original, a collector’s item sought after worldwide.