Strawbs - Grave New World Live
(180g Red LP in Gatefold Sleeve with Printed Inner Sleeve & Trifold Booklet)
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Grave New World, released in February 1972, reached number 11 in the UK Albums chart, selling almost 100,000 copies in the UK alone. It was one of the albums of which David Cousins was most proud. He continued to perform songs such as New World and Benedictus throughout his career.
In developing Strawbs 50th Anniversary, to be held in Lakewood, New Jersey April 26- 28, 2019, David decided that the programme should include the only live performance of the album. As such, he invited Wesley Stace to collaborate with him in writing a narration for this ‘theatrical performance’.
John Ford and Blue Weaver, both of whom had performed on the original album, were invited to take part. They were joined by Wesley Stace, Eric Bazilian (of the Hooters), Tony Fernandez, Brian Willoughby and Cathryn Craig. With only an afternoon’s rehearsal, the performance took place on the early evening of April 27. As would be the case for a theatrical performance or classical concert, the audience was asked not to applaud until the end.
In addition to the numbers that David sang, and Wesley’s narration, John Ford sang Heavy Disguise and Wesley performed The Flower and the Young Man.
David’s ill health, together with COVID-19, meant that it wasn’t possible for Grave New World Live to be completed as soon as he would have wished. Work had already been started by Larry Fast, a pioneer in electronic music production, and record producer Blue Weaver, before David’s death in July 2025. In accordance with his wishes, this recording, on vinyl like the original, is now presented as the first major work from the 50th Anniversary. Unlike many “live” albums, however, the songs are heard as they were performed.
This is a one-time, limited pressing on vinyl only.
Tracks:
- Benedictus
- Hey Little Man Thursday
- Queen Of Dreams
- Honey Disguise
- New World
- Hey Little Man Wednesday
- The Flower And The Young Man
- Tomorrow
- On Growing Older
- Ah Me Ah My
- Is It Today Lord
- Journey's End
- Benedictus 2
Format: Red LP
Artist: Strawbs
Release Date: October 23. 2026