"Lifemask" is the sixth studio album of English folk and rock singer-songwriter Roy Harper, released in 1973. Conceived during a particularly tumultuous period in his life, the album is noted for its deeply personal and emotional content.
Harper was critically ill with hyperthyroidism that began in late 1971 around the same time he composed his previous album "Stormcock". The title, "Lifemask", alludes to a feeling of suffocation and struggle the artist felt during this difficult time. Following the ambitious orchestration of "Stormcock", "Lifemask" represented a return to Harper's acoustic roots, although many of the songs were driven by his electric guitar.
The album also features tracks that are particularly significant in Harper’s career: "The Lord’s Prayer" is a twenty-plus minute epic that combines musical storytelling with a weaving guitar suite, and "Highway Blues," which became one of Harper's most enduring songs.
The cover art, featuring a cast of Harper's face and hands, further symbolizes the confessional tone of the album. Despite overcoming obstacles during its creation, Lifemask stands as a testament to Harper's resilience and artistic integrity.
