Step into history with Gas Shells Bombardment, Lille, 1918 – Sir Edward Elgar: The Fringes of the Fleet, a rare World War I sound recording that captures the raw intensity of the Great War. On October 9, 1918, near Lille, France, The Gramophone Company recorded a chilling speech followed by a gas shell bombardment by the Royal Garrison Artillery—a moment of unparalleled historical significance. This is one of the only known sound recordings of live action from World War I, offering an authentic glimpse into the trenches of 1918.
Complementing this historic WWI audio is Sir Edward Elgar’s The Fringes of the Fleet, a 1917 song cycle performed by Charles Mott, featuring four patriotic tracks: “The Lowestoft Boat,” “Fate’s Discourtesy,” “The Submarines,” and “The Sweepers.” Elgar’s compositions, paired with the haunting war sounds, create a poignant contrast between the brutality of conflict and the era’s cultural resilience. Remastered by Digital Gramophone for unparalleled clarity, this anthology is a must-have for history enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking rare WWI recordings.
The recording process itself is a testament to the era’s bravery—WC Gaisberg, who captured the bombardment, suffered severe gassing, highlighting the sacrifices made to preserve this sonic artifact. Whether you’re a WWI historian, audiophile, or collector of vintage audio, this release brings the Great War to life like never before. Available now for streaming and purchase worldwide—don’t miss this unique piece of World War I history. Relive the echoes of 1918 today!