Uriah Heep to release new effort Aug. 26

Universal Music is delighted to announce the release of a new studio album from British rock legends Uriah Heep, 'Wake the Sleeper,' which is to be issued in the U.S. on 26th August 2008.

'Wake The Sleeper' is Uriah Heep's first studio album in almost ten years (the first since 1998's 'Sonic Origami') – and 21st studio album overall - and is set to herald an exciting new phase for the band. The album sees Uriah Heep back to their very best and will undoubtedly become a future classic – sure to please their dedicated worldwide fan base and fans of progressive rock in general.

Recorded in 2007 the album was produced by Mike Paxman (Status Quo), and has thus far received rave reviews, as it was selected as 'Album of the Month' by Classic Rock Magazine (in their June issue), where it earned an 8/10 rating, and was called "A momentous return to form."

In the words of Heep guitarist, Mick Box, "We are delighted to be reunited with a major label in Universal music. 'Wake The Sleeper' is an album we are incredibly proud of, and one that we hope the fans will see as one of Uriah Heep's best. We can't wait to get back out on the road to showcase the new songs."

The live arena has been vital to the longevity of Uriah Heep. So in addition to album sales of over 30 million worldwide, the band has toured in 52 countries, and in the process, established themselves as consummate live performers. The band has a series of impressive firsts - including being the first British rock band to play Russia (in December 1987). Uriah Heep's progressive heavy metal made the British band one of the most popular hard rock groups of the early '70s.

Formed by guitarist Mick Box and vocalist David Byron in the late '60s, Uriah Heep released their debut album, 'Very 'eavy…Very 'umble' in 1970. Since then, the band have released 20 studio albums and played to millions of fans across the globe. Uriah Heep remain one of British rocks most consistent and long-standing acts.

'Wake the Sleeper' is the band's first album without their long-standing and original drummer, Lee Kerslake who sadly had to leave the band due to ill health in January 2007. Filling the drum stool for the very first time is the hugely well-respected Russell Gilbrook (Tony Iommi/Black Sabbath, Van Morrison, John Farnham, and Lonnie Donnegan). Uriah Heep's current line up is Mick Box – Guitar, Trevor Bolder – Bass, Phil Lanzon – Keyboards, Bernie Shaw - Lead Vocals, and Russell Gilbrook – Drums.

Full album tracklisting as follows:
1 – Wake The Sleeper
2 – Overload
3 – Tears Of the World
4 – Light Of A Thousand Stars
5 – Heavens Rain
6 – Book Of Lies
7 – What Kind Of God
8 – Ghost Of The Ocean
9 – Angels Walk With You
10 – Shadow
11 – War Child

'Wake the Sleeper' will also be released on Vinyl as a 12" Limited Edition in a stunning gatefold sleeve.

For more information, visit:
www.uriah-heep.com
www.myspace.com/uheep