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Lighthouse on anniversary edition of landmark 1971 album 'One Fine Morning'


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Canadian rock legends Lighthouse are revisiting one of their most celebrated works with the release of One Fine Morning (Anniversary Edition), arriving Nov. 7 through Anthem Records.

The release marks the first time the platinum-selling album has been fully remixed, remastered and expanded.

It will be available on limited-edition three-colour-splatter vinyl, sun/moon vinyl, double CD and digital formats.

SWOMP caught up with founding member Paul Hoffert for an interview to discuss the release.

Originally released in 1971, One Fine Morning helped establish Lighthouse as one of Canada’s most innovative and influential bands, known for fusing rock, jazz and classical elements into a distinctive sound. The title track became a radio staple and remains one of the country’s most recognizable rock anthems.

“When we chat with our new and younger audiences at concerts and on social media, they ask for records and streaming of Lighthouse’s classic hits along with ‘extras’ that provide personal and historical perspective,” said Hoffert. “This anniversary edition provides both. In 1970, producer Jimmy Ienner and lead singer Bob McBride helped focus our music, lyrics and orchestral rock into a more broadcast-friendly format that attracted a much wider fan base. We hope listeners enjoy hearing these songs and demos as much as we loved making them.”

The anniversary edition includes a remixed and remastered version of the original album, as well as unreleased material such as “All God’s Children,” a previously unheard song from the 1970 sessions co-written by Larry Smith and Academy Award-winning composer Howard Shore. Other highlights include demo versions of “One Fine Morning” and “Sing, Sing, Sing” with drummer Skip Prokop on lead vocals, a CBC live performance of “World’s Biggest Rock & Roll Band,” and several early takes of songs that would later define the Lighthouse sound.

Each track captures the band’s creative momentum at a time when Lighthouse was redefining the scope of progressive rock.

In recognition of their lasting impact on Canadian music, Skip Prokop, Paul Hoffert, Ralph Cole and Bob McBride were inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2022. The following year, Lighthouse was added to Canada’s Walk of Fame.

More than 50 years after their breakthrough, the band continues to tour across the country, with upcoming shows scheduled in Guelph on Feb. 5, Pickering on Feb. 21 alongside the Five Man Electrical Band, and St. Catharines on April 1.

Formed in 1969 by Prokop and Hoffert, Lighthouse became known as a “rock orchestra” for its fusion of genres and large ensemble performances. The multi-JUNO Award-winning group earned international acclaim with hits including “One Fine Morning,” “Sunny Days,” “Pretty Lady,” and “Hats Off (To the Stranger).”

With One Fine Morning (Anniversary Edition), Lighthouse continues to celebrate its enduring legacy and the timeless energy that first brought its music to audiences more than five decades ago.

Follow the band at https://www.lighthouserockson.com/.

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