Sky: The Great Balloon Race: Remastered Edition CD

• A NEWLY REMASTERED OFFICIAL RELEASE OF SKY’s 1985 ALBUM

• FULLY RESTORED ARTWORK & BOOKLET WITH NEW ESSAY 

Esoteric Recordings are pleased to announce their next release in the continuing series of reissues of the entire catalogue by the legendary classical rock band SKY. 

Formed in 1979, Sky brought together the worlds of rock and classical music in a highly successful and inspiring way. Featuring the gifted talents of guitarist JOHN WILLIAMS, percussionist TRISTAN FRY, legendary bass player HERBIE FLOWERS, former Curved Air keyboard player FRANCIS MONKMAN and guitarist KEVIN PEEK, Sky recorded their debut album at Abbey Road studios in the early months of 1979. 

The band’s self-titled debut reached the UK top ten in May 1979 and went on to achieve Platinum status in the UK and was also a major hit in Europe and Australia. Also a huge live attraction, SKY released their second album in April 1980. "SKY 2” was a fine achievement, featuring the hit single "Toccata”, and topped the UK album charts upon its release. In 1981 STEVE GRAY replaced Francis Monkman on keyboards, but the band continued their run of success. 

John Williams departed the band in December 1983 and the group continued as a quartet. In 1985 they recorded the album "THE GREAT BALLOON RACE” at studios in Australia and London. A fine, if overlooked record, it was in fact one of the most innovative of Sky’s later albums. 

Unavailable for over 20 years, "THE GREAT BALLOON RACE” has been newly re-mastered and the original album artwork is fully restored. The booklet features a new essay.

1. DESPERATE FOR YOUR LOVE

2. ALLEGRO 

3. THE LAND 

4. PETER’S WEDDING 

5. THE GREAT BALLOON RACE 

6. THE LADY AND THE IMP 

7. CALDANDO 

8. ROLEYSTONE 

9. NIGHT SKY