Chameleon In The Shadow Of The Night

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Cat No: UMCLP152

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Release Date: 16 October 2026

Label: Proper Records

Packaging Type: Gate Fold

No of Units: 1

Barcode: 805520241526

Genres: Rock Progressive Rock

Description
Chameleon In The Shadow Of The Night is Peter Hammill's second solo album, released by Charisma Records in May 1973 during the hiatus of Van der Graaf Generator - This 180g vinyl re-issue faithfully replicates the original UK pressing in gatefold sleeve and includes a print of the album artwork backed with new liner notes by Peter Hammill.

Recorded at Hammill's home studio, Sofa Sound, together with sessions at Rockfield and Trident Studios, the album was produced by John Anthony and captures Hammill at a transitional point, balancing intimate singer-songwriter material with the adventurous progressive rock for which he had become known. Although primarily a solo work, it features significant contributions from former Van der Graaf Generator members Hugh Banton, David Jackson, Guy Evans and Nic Potter.

The songs reflect personal uncertainty, relationships and the emotional aftermath of Van der Graaf Generator's temporary breakup. Tracks such as "German Overalls" and "In the End" address the exhaustion and frustrations associated with life in the band, while "Easy to Slip Away" explores the fading of friendships. The ambitious closing suite, "(In the) Black Room/The Tower", originated from material intended for an unfinished Van der Graaf Generator project and combines dramatic arrangements with complex lyrical themes.

Musically, the album moves between acoustic ballads, piano-led compositions and darker, saxophone-driven progressive rock passages. Its restrained production emphasizes Hammill's distinctive vocals and emotionally direct songwriting. Chameleon In The Shadow Of The Night is widely regarded as one of his finest early solo albums and established the artistic direction he would pursue throughout the remainder of the 1970s.
Tracklisting