Pink Floyd’s 1972 Pompeii concert recording reaches top of UK album charts

Pink Floyd’s iconic 1972 performance in the ruins of Pompeii has made a triumphant return to the UK charts with the release of Pink Floyd at Pompeii – MCMLXXII, marking the band’s seventh album to reach the top spot in the UK.

The live album captures the essence of the gig that was famously captured on film by director Adrian Maben, showcasing one of the most captivating concert experiences in rock history. The recording has been meticulously restored to 4K quality and reissued in cinemas, offering fans a chance to relive the magic of the band’s performance in Imax format. While a recording of the gig was previously included in a larger Pink Floyd box set, this standalone version features a new sound mix overseen by prog rock musician Steven Wilson.

This achievement marks Pink Floyd’s first number one album since the release of their final studio album, The Endless River, in 2014. Throughout their illustrious career, the band has secured top chart positions with albums like Atom Heart Mother (1970), Wish You Were Here (1975), The Final Cut (1983), The Division Bell (1994), and Pulse (1995). Interestingly, despite its immense popularity and staying power, the iconic album The Dark Side of the Moon only reached number two on the UK charts in March 1973, narrowly missing the top spot due to unexpected competition.

Pink Floyd’s latest chart-topper faces competition this week from other British bands who have also found success performing in historic settings. Brit-pop veterans James have entered the charts at number 27 with their album James (Live at the Acropolis), a recording of their July 2023 concert at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus beneath the Acropolis in Athens.

In addition to Pink Floyd’s success, other new entries on this week’s chart include Erasure’s Andy Bell, who celebrates his first solo entry with his album Ten Crowns reaching number four. Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet continues its strong presence in the UK Top 5, reclaiming the number two spot after 37 consecutive weeks on the charts.

In the singles chart, Alex Warren’s Ordinary maintains its eight-week reign at number one, while US R&B singer Ravyn Lenae secures the number two spot with her breakout hit Love Me Not. Originally released in August 2024, the song entered the UK charts at number 89 in February and has steadily climbed to its current position, marking a significant achievement for the emerging artist.

Overall, Pink Floyd’s remarkable return to the top of the UK charts with Pink Floyd at Pompeii – MCMLXXII is a testament to the enduring legacy of the band and the timeless appeal of their music. This milestone reaffirms Pink Floyd’s status as one of the most influential and beloved bands in rock history, captivating audiences with their innovative sound and mesmerizing performances.