First time on CD for the pioneering heavy metal act's sophomore album originally released in 1974. Digitally remastered, featuring an extensive booklet. Tracks include 'Reflexion','Woman' and 'Big City'. 2000 release. St... more »andard jewel case.« less
First time on CD for the pioneering heavy metal act's sophomore album originally released in 1974. Digitally remastered, featuring an extensive booklet. Tracks include 'Reflexion','Woman' and 'Big City'. 2000 release. Standard jewel case.
CD Reviews
Awesome 70's Rock and Roll
V-Man | Daytona Beach | 03/18/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I still have this album on the vinyl disc that I bought back in college in 1974. Now I am finally going to order it on cd. Thats how good it is! I have searched all over for a copy and finally found it here. It truly is classic rock and roll from an age that defined real rock. The guitar work is powerful and engaging, you will be playing air guitar along with the songs in no time. For those longing for the days of honest, hard driving, kickin' rock and roll, BUY THIS ALBUM!"
Lost and Found
D. Meecha | North America Somewhere | 12/11/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Epitaph's "Outside the Law" is one of the most profound rock albums of its time. I first ran across this album in 1977 under the Billigsgate label. The guitar work is phenominal. The title track is truly unmatched by the groups later works and its masterful guitar rifts can transport the listener literally Outside the Law! The some tracks on this album reveal an almost German Beatles aura. It is surprising that tunes like "Woman" and "Big City" never made US airplay. I highly recommend this album to anyone who is still stuck in the late 60's and early 70's or desires to be."
A Lost Classic Returns!!!
Chuck | Phoenix, AZ USA | 08/20/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Arguably the best Epitaph album, it's great to finally see this one made available on CD again!!! Every track here is a standout, featuring the powerful and brilliant dual harmony lead guitar attack of guitarists Cliff Jackson and Klaus Walz. Unfortunately, despite their immense talent and strong material, major success eluded Epitaph at every turn, owing to bad record deals and mismanagement, which were to eventually become their undoing. The small, Chicago-based label Billingsgate, which issued "Outside The Law" in late 1974, went bankrupt shortly after it's release; fearing possible responsibility for Billingsgate's debts, Epitaph were forced to disband for a while, regrouping again once the legal tangles with the label were sorted out. My favorite tracks on this album are "Reflexion", "In Your Eyes", "Big City", and the best track, "Fresh Air". I highly recommend this CD!!!"
Amazing Prog-Rock Album; Heavy and Melodic
R. Morris | Idaho Falls, ID USA | 05/31/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I wonder sometimes as I listen to this album if the guys in the band BOSTON didn't own a few copies of 'Outside the Law'. This band is kind of hard to categorize, but here's my attempt at a formula, a la Rolling Stone Magazine:
YES + Boston + Harder Moody Blues = Epitaph.
I don't know much about the history of this band, but it appears that all but the lead member are German. The lyrics are intelligent, a welcome change from most bands, and the group gives a hint to their thoughtful nature by quoting Bertold Brecht (in German) on the back of the album cover. (I have the vinyl LP). The vocals are strong and often in layered harmony, much like YES or Boston, backed by harmonic guitar riffs. The music is hard yet melodic, which is why Boston always comes to mind when I listen to Epitaph.
If you like your hard rock with strong lyrics and kick-a$$ guitar work, this band is for you. Put it on the turntable, or CD-changer, and get transported to another place and time with some masterful artists."
Track Listings (7) - Disc #1