Unveiling ‘The Manticore Tapes’: A Lost Album from Motörhead’s Early Days
Announcement of a Historic Release
PROUDLY ANNOUNCE: ‘THE MANTICORE TAPES’
A ‘LOST’ ALBUM FROM 1976 TO BE RELEASED
FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER ON 27TH JUNE.
ELEVEN PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED RECORDINGS
FROM THE FIRST EVER STUDIO SESSION
OF THE ‘THREE AMIGOS’ LINE-UP OF LEMMY,
FAST EDDIE CLARKE, AND PHIL TAYLOR.
PLUS PREORDERS HERE – motorhead.lnk.to/TheManticoreTapesPR
The Three Amigos Era
In 1976, the iconic lineup of Motörhead was solidified, establishing what is known as the ‘Three Amigos’ era. This legendary trio consisted of Lemmy Kilmister (bass/vocals), Fast Eddie Clarke (guitar), and Phil ‘Philthy Animal’ Taylor (drums), who together embarked on a remarkable journey to become stalwarts of hard rock.
Recording at Manticore Studio
In August 1976, Motörhead ventured into the renowned Manticore Studio, a facility owned by the progressive rock supergroup Emerson, Lake & Palmer. While there, the band recorded together for the first time, laying down tracks that would define their sound. Fast forward 49 years, and these long-lost recordings have been rediscovered, restored, and are set to be released, coinciding with the band’s 50th anniversary.
A Celebration of Legacy
It is surreal to reflect on how much time has passed since that pivotal year in 1976. Lemmy, who was once a familiar face in London’s pubs, has ascended to rock ‘n’ roll legend status. His enduring legacy is a testament to his talent and charisma, which continue to resonate with fans worldwide. These recordings offer a glimpse into a time when Motörhead’s future was uncertain, revealing an essential chapter in the band’s storied history.
Behind the Scenes: The Early Days
One of the lesser-known figures in Motörhead’s early journey was Frank Kennington, a roadie for The Who who briefly managed the struggling band. Kennington’s efforts included securing studio time at Manticore, where the band recorded their set using Ronnie Lane’s mobile studio, operated by Ron Faucus. Faucus skillfully captured the raw energy and explosive sound of Motörhead, preserving tracks that would become staples of their live performances.
Restoration and Release
The original tapes, long forgotten, were meticulously restored by Cameron Webb, a longtime collaborator of the band, at Maple Studios in California. The mastering was handled by Andrew Alekel at Bolskine House in Los Angeles, ensuring that ‘The Manticore Tapes’ will be presented in all its glory. This release marks a significant moment for fans and music historians alike, offering an unprecedented look into the evolution of one of hard rock’s most influential bands.
Release Formats
‘The Manticore Tapes’ will be available in various formats, including a deluxe expanded bookpack featuring a double LP and a 7” single, as well as a single LP, CD, and digital versions. Below are the details for the release:
Track Listings
Deluxe Expanded Bookpack:
LP1
- Intro (Instrumental)
- Leavin’ Here
- Vibrator
- Help Keep Us on the Road
- The Watcher
- Motörhead
- Witch Doctor (Instrumental)
- Iron Horse / Born to Lose (Instrumental)
- Leavin’ Here (Alternate Take)
- Vibrator (Alternate Take)
- The Watcher (Alternate Take)
LP2 Live: Blitzkrieg on Birmingham ’77
- Motörhead
- Vibrator
- Keep Us On The Road
- The Watcher
- Iron Horse
- Leavin’ Here
- On Parole
- I’m Your Witch Doctor
- Train Kept a-Rollin’
- City Kids
- White Line Fever
7” Live at Barbarella’s Birmingham ’77 (previously unreleased)
- Motörhead
- Keep Us On The Road
Conclusion
‘The Manticore Tapes’ serves not only as a celebration of Motörhead’s rich history but also as a reminder of the band’s indelible impact on the rock genre. The release of these recordings allows fans to connect with the raw energy and passion that defined Motörhead’s early days. As we approach the 50th anniversary of this legendary band, fans old and new can look forward to experiencing a vital piece of rock history.
FAQs
When will ‘The Manticore Tapes’ be released?
The album is set to be released on 27th June.
How can I preorder the album?
You can preorder ‘The Manticore Tapes’ at motorhead.lnk.to/TheManticoreTapesPR.
What formats will ‘The Manticore Tapes’ be available in?
The album will be available as a deluxe expanded bookpack, a double LP, a 7” single, a single LP, CD, and digital versions.
What tracks are included in ‘The Manticore Tapes’?
The album features eleven previously unreleased recordings from Motörhead’s first studio session, along with live tracks from Birmingham ’77.
Who was involved in the restoration of the tapes?
The restoration was handled by Cameron Webb, with mastering by Andrew Alekel.
