ANKH TV

Equator was the sixteenth album released by British rock band Uriah Heep, released in 1985. It marked the studio return of bassist Trevor Bolder, who had rejoined the band for the Head First tour. 

The album features Peter Goalby on lead vocals, marking his last studio appearance with the band, alongside founding guitarist Mick Box. Musically, Equator continues the streamlined, modern approach introduced on Abominog and refined on Head First, placing strong emphasis on melody, concise song structures, and radio-oriented arrangements, while retaining the band’s recognizable harmonic identity.

Tracks such as “Rockarama,” “Bad Blood,” “Heart of Stone,” and “Too Much to Handle” showcase a clean, energetic sound built around driving guitar riffs, layered keyboards, and anthemic choruses. Compared to earlier Uriah Heep albums, Equator largely moves away from fantasy themes and progressive elements, favoring straightforward rock songwriting suited to mid-1980s audiences.

Although Equator did not achieve major commercial success, it stands as an important transitional album. Shortly after its release, Peter Goalby departed the band, paving the way for Bernie Shaw, whose arrival would define Uriah Heep’s long-term stability from the late 1980s onward.

Today, Equator is often viewed as an underrated late-80s hard rock album, appreciated by fans for its melodic strengths and as a closing statement of the band’s Goalby-fronted era.

Tracks

Side one

1. “Rockarama” – 4.20
2. “Bad Blood” – 3.33
3. “Lost One Love” – 4.40
4. “Angel” – 4.47
5. “Holding On” – 4.20

Side two

1. “Party Time” – 4.20
2. “Poor Little Rich Girl” – 6.25
3. “Skools Burnin'” – 4.25
4. “Heartache City” – 4.59
5. “Night of the Wolf” – 4.31

Album Art