A Storm In Heaven

“A Storm in Heaven” is the debut studio album by English rock band Verve, later known as The Verve, released on 21 June 1993 under Hut Records, a Virgin Records imprint. Formed by school friends vocalist Richard Ashcroft, bassist Simon Jones, and drummer Peter Salisbury, guitarist Nick McCabe joined shortly after. Following a London show, they signed to Virgin’s Hut Records in 1991, releasing their first three singles in 1992. Managed by Savage and Best, the band recorded their debut album at Sawmills Studios in Cornwall with producer John Leckie. Often described as psychedelic, “A Storm in Heaven” was primarily composed during studio sessions.

The lead single, “Blue,” was released in May 1993, coinciding with a lawsuit that led to the band renaming themselves The Verve. Promotional efforts included a UK tour, appearances at Glastonbury Festival, and a European tour with the Smashing Pumpkins. Following the second single, “Slide Away,” in September 1993, The Verve embarked on a headline US tour and closed the year with UK dates alongside Oasis. Earlier in 1992, they headlined a European tour before joining Lollapalooza, marked by incidents including Jones’ arrest and Ashcroft’s hospitalization. The album promotion concluded with European festival performances, including the Reading Festival.

Richard Ashcroft, Peter Salisbury, and Simon Jones, friends since school, formed the band with Nick McCabe joining later. Initially named Raingarden, they evolved into Verve, distinct from the Madchester scene. Signed to Hut Records amidst a declining Madchester movement, their demo impressed Virgin Records’ A&R team, leading to a London showcase and subsequent signing. The band’s debut singles garnered attention, prompting management by Savage and Best.

After supporting the Black Crowes, The Verve commenced recording their debut album with producer John Leckie, known for his work with the Stone Roses. Recorded at Sawmills Studios over seven weeks in late 1992 and early 1993, the sessions were marked by spontaneous, improvisational jamming. The remote studio’s isolation facilitated focused recording, capturing the band’s live energy. Additional tracks recorded during these sessions, like “Star Sail” and “Virtual World,” showcased the band’s experimental approach, incorporating elements like horns and unconventional recording techniques.

John Leckie oversaw the album’s mixing, completed in early 1993, amidst ongoing lyrical refinement by Ashcroft. The album’s release was preceded by aggressive promotional efforts from their label, including performances and tours across the UK, Europe, and the US.