Death Walks Behind You is the second studio album by British rock band Atomic Rooster, released in September 1970. It was their first album to receive a US release, albeit in a different sleeve. It is commonly thought of as the archetypal Atomic Rooster album, recorded by the 'classic' line-up of Vincent Crane, John Du Cann and Paul Hammond. Certainly it is their most successful album, critically and commercially, and often hailed as a classic of the progressive rock genre. It produced the hit single "Tomorrow Night" (UK No. 11), which became one of the band's best-known songs. The album cover features the William Blake monotype Nebuchadnezzar. Band photos were taken at Churchfield Road Cemetery, Acton W3, by former actor-turned photographer Richard Lyon.
Reception In a retrospective review of 2011, Raffaella Berry wrote, "Though not exactly flawless, Death Walks Behind You is an impressive offering that is almost a must-listen for Hammond fans and anyone who likes their prog with a harder edge (though not necessarily metal). A fascinating, almost addictive album by an underrated band, whose long but chequered career ended tragically with Vincent Crane's death in 1989."
Track listing
Personnel Atomic Rooster John Du Cann – guitars, lead vocals Vincent Crane – Hammond organ, piano, keyboard bass, backing vocals Paul Hammond – drums, percussion
Charts Chart (1971) Peak position Australian Albums (Kent Music Report) 13
References
The New Musical Express Book of Rock, 1975, Star Books,