Introduction
Remember the days when we used to flick through vinyl records, ride our bikes without helmets, and watch classic movies on VHS tapes? Those golden days of the past may be long gone, but the nostalgia they evoke still lingers in our hearts. One of the most enduring symbols of vintage charm is the Vertigo label, which showcased some of the greatest rock, jazz, and blues artists of the 60s and 70s. In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and explore the nostalgic charm of Vintage Vertigo.
History of Vertigo Records
Vertigo Records was founded in the UK in 1969 by Philips Records as a platform for progressive rock and other experimental genres. The label’s distinctive spiral logo was designed by Roger Dean, a graphic artist known for his fantastical landscapes and album artwork for Yes and Asia. The Vertigo label had a rebellious, unconventional spirit that resonated with many artists and listeners, and it became synonymous with the counter-culture movement of the late 60s.
Notable Artists on Vertigo Records
Some of the most iconic and influential artists in rock history were signed to the Vertigo label, including:
- Black Sabbath
- Genesis
- Rush
- Uriah Heep
- Thin Lizzy
- Van Der Graaf Generator
- Focus
These bands and many others helped define the sound of progressive rock, incorporating elements of jazz, folk, and classical music into their compositions. Their lyrics often dealt with existential, social, and political themes, reflecting the upheavals of the times.
The Vertigo Swirl
One of the most iconic features of Vertigo Records was the “swirl” design used on the label of many of their releases. This psychedelic pattern featured the Vertigo logo spinning in a circular motion, creating a hypnotic effect that mirrored the music within. The swirl was printed on many different colors of vinyl, adding to the visual appeal of the records.
The Legacy of Vintage Vertigo
Although Vertigo Records ceased to exist in its original form in the mid-70s, its legacy lives on. The music it helped promote and distribute continues to inspire and influence generations of fans and musicians. The artwork and packaging of Vertigo releases are highly sought-after by collectors and fans of vintage design. In recent years, several reissue labels have revived the Vertigo brand, remastering classic albums and presenting them in faithful reproductions of the original packaging.
The Timeless Appeal of Vintage Vertigo
What is it about Vintage Vertigo that still captures our imagination and hearts today, decades after the label ceased to exist? Perhaps i