Crime of the Century (album)
Crime of the Century is Supertramp's third studio album, released in September 1974; a critical breakthrough produced by Ken Scott that established the band's signature sound and international success.
Overview
Crime of the Century is the third studio album by the English rock band Supertramp, released in September 1974. Produced by Ken Scott, the record is widely regarded as the work that transformed the group from a cult act into an internationally recognized band. Its polished production, melodic arrangements and lyrical themes of isolation and societal pressure helped define Supertramp's sound for the rest of the 1970s.
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Recording and personnel
The album was recorded for A&M Records with Ken Scott at the production helm. It featured the core lineup of Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson as principal songwriters and vocalists, supported by John Helliwell, Dougie Thomson and Bob Siebenberg. The combination of piano, Wurlitzer, saxophone and distinctive vocal interplay became a hallmark of the material on this record.
Notable songs and singles
Several tracks from the album were released as singles. Most notable among them are "Bloody Well Right" and "Dreamer", both of which received airplay and helped introduce the band to a wider audience. The songs blend art-rock textures with pop hooks and often contrast upbeat arrangements with introspective lyrics.
Reception and impact
Upon release the album brought Supertramp commercial and critical attention. It reached number 4 on the UK Albums Chart and climbed to number 38 on the American Billboard Pop Albums chart, contributing to the group's growing profile. The success of the singles and the record itself is frequently cited as the turning point that made the band widely known and positioned them for later mainstream success and larger tours worldwide.
Dedication and background
The LP's packaging bears a short dedication, "To Sam," acknowledging Stanley August Miesegaes, who supported the band financially in their early years. His patronage from 1969 to 1972 helped the group develop before their mainstream breakthrough. The album sleeve and liner notes also reflect the cinematic and thematic ambitions behind the music.
Legacy and distinctions
Crime of the Century is often described as Supertramp's artistic and commercial watershed. Critics and fans point to its cohesive production, memorable melodies and the balance of progressive and pop elements. For many listeners it remains the album that defines the classic Supertramp era and marks the moment the band stepped into broader public attention via chart success and sustained radio play. For further reading and archival material see links to contemporaneous interviews and retrospectives about the band's early support and detailed discographies covering Supertramp's career.
- Label: A&M Records
- Producer: Ken Scott (producer/engineer)
- Key singles: "Dreamer", "Bloody Well Right"
Questions and answers
Q: What is Crime of the Century?
A: Crime of the Century is the third studio album of Supertramp.
Q: When was Crime of the Century released?
A: Crime of the Century was released in September 1974.
Q: Who produced the music of Crime of the Century?
A: Ken Scott produced the music of Crime of the Century.
Q: Who is Stanley August Miesegaes?
A: Stanley August Miesegaes supported Supertramp financially from 1969 until 1972.
Q: What is the significance of the text saying "To Sam" on the back cover of the album?
A: The text saying "To Sam" on the back cover of the album is actually a dedication to Stanley August Miesegaes.
Q: How successful was Crime of the Century?
A: Crime of the Century got to number 38 on the American Billboard Pop Albums chart and to number 4 on the UK Albums Chart.
Q: Which songs from Crime of the Century were released as singles?
A: "Bloody Well Right" and "Dreamer" were released as singles from Crime of the Century.
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Author
AlegsaOnline.com Crime of the Century (album) Leandro Alegsa
URL: https://en.alegsaonline.com/art/24189