Released today the 40th Anniversary edition of 12 Days to Paris marks the return of the Huxton Creepers’ acclaimed debut album to vinyl for the first time since its original release in 1986.
The reissue is available on limited-edition gold 12-inch vinyl, standard black vinyl, and digital platforms. It is also the album’s first-ever digital release, ending decades of unavailability caused by the collapse of the band’s original label and subsequent legal complications surrounding the catalogue.
Originally released in 1986, 12 Days to Paris established the Huxton Creepers as one of Australia’s leading guitar bands. Rolling Stone writer Toby Creswell described it at the time as “Ultimately this is one of the best debut rock & roll albums made in this country. It’s up there with Sunnyboys and Stoneage Romeos…”
Recorded at Melbourne’s Platinum Studios, the album captured the band at a creative and commercial high point. “We went into Melbourne’s Platinum Studios at the band’s peak to record our debut album. Steve Berlin from Los Lobos and Chris Copping from Procol Harum were with us. We knew we had the songs and the band was firing on all cylinders. We were creating something special. 40 years on we are really proud of 12 Days and excited to be bringing it back to life” recalls founding member Arch Law.
By the mid-1980s, the Huxton Creepers had built a strong national following through relentless touring and a reputation as one of the country’s most energetic live acts. Drawing inspiration from contemporaries such as Sunnyboys, Hoodoo Gurus and the Saints, they developed a guitar-driven sound built around strong melodies and memorable hooks.
12 Days to Paris remains the band’s most celebrated release and includes many of their best-known songs, among them “My Cherie Amour”, “I Will Persuade You”, “Autumn Leaves”, “King of the Road” and “Don’t Even Think About It”. The album has long been regarded as a fan favourite and an important release from Australia’s vibrant independent rock scene of the 1980s.
The anniversary reissue coincides with the Huxton Creepers’ first tour since 2011. Featuring original members Rob Craw, Matthew Eddy and Arch Law, joined by guitarist Julian Matthews of The Stems, the band will perform 12 Days to Paris in its entirety for the first time, alongside material from across their catalogue.
12 Days to Paris is available now from Cheersquad Records & Tapes.