GRAND PRIX, signed to RCA records, were launched to solid critical acclaim, but their music was quickly identified as being far too sophisticated to truly align them to the NWOBHM. Like Praying Mantis, White Spirit, Tobruk and Shy, the band’s penchant for polish, melody and complex arrangements meant that they were quickly sidelined by many in favour of the more in-your-face attributes of the competition.

With a sound steeped in American radio rock, comparisons were immediately made to Styx, Kansas, Saga and Journey. However, Grand Prix were, it must be said, practically the only British band of the era that could hold a candle to the serious melodic sensibilities of their American cousins. Part of the reason for this was the appointment of vocalist Bernie Shaw, a Canadian citizen who had moved to the UK in search of new opportunities.

Grand Prix’s, largely overlooked, self titled debut album, originally released in 1980, is actually one of the greatest melodic rock albums of the era. Immersed in pomp and circumstance, the record contains a number of classic tracks, including ‘Waiting For The Night’, ‘Thinking Of You’, ‘Mama Says’, and ‘Which Way Did The Wind Blow’, amongst other gems.

24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word story of the making of the album, full involvement by the band, rare photos, three bonus tracks, all spread out over a superb 12 page full colour booklet.

Track Listing: 1. Waiting For The Night 2. Day In The Life 3. Thinking Of You 4. Mama Sayes 5. Which Way Did The Wind Blow 6. West Wind 7. Next To You 8. You Know It Can Be 9. Feel Like I Do 10. The Very Last Time (Dreamer) Bonus tracks: 11. Feels Good (Grand Prix) Non LP B-side of ‘Which Way Did The Wind Blow’ 12. Room 155 (Unreleased demo) 13. Somewhere Tonight (Unreleased demo w/ Bernie Shaw)