My favourite albums in no particular order.
JACKSON BROWNE
Late for the Sky (Asylum) September 1974
Jackson Browne's third album and masterpiece. He'd recently taken voice lessons and it shows. The tile track and "For a Dancer' are perfect and David Lindley's guitar playing is the epitome of tasteful.
THE JAYHAWKS
Hollywood Town Hall (American) September 1992
A little bit country, a little bit rock n' roll. Containing sublime harmonies, the twin voices of Mark Olson and Gary Louris complement the succinct, fuzz-toned Gibson SG guitar solos.
LITTLE FEAT
Dixie Chicken (Warner Bros.) 1973
Illustrating the genius of the late Lowell George, this is an irresistible record. Although they made other great albums, this is definitely their crowning glory. 'Roll 'em Easy' and Allan Toussaint's 'On your way Down' are the highlights for me.
FOTHERINGAY
Fotheringay (Hannibal) 1970
Sandy Denny post Fairport Convention, puts together her most consistent record. Arguably the finest female vocalist ever to emerge from the UK, her voice, as ever is impeccable. Could have been the UK's answer to Joni Mitchell if she had the confidence.
STEPHEN STILLS
Manassas (Atlantic) 1972
A sprawling tour de force. Rock, folk, country, blues and bluegrass. This album has it all. Three day cocaine-fuelled recording sessions did not hinder the songs or the musicianship. This albums confirms Stills' genius.
JONI MITCHELL
Blue (Reprise) 1971
The quintessential confessional singer/songwriter album. Most people's favourite Joni Mitchell album and who am I to disagree? With sparse backing from James Taylor and Stephen Stills on bass the Mitchell's acoustic guitars and piano playing are exemplary. The song 'River' breaks my heart.
GRAM PARSONS
Grievous Angel (Reprise) 1973
Country music as it should be heard, soulful and passionate. With Elvis Presley's Las Vegas band, including the great James Burton, the playing is tight and professional. Add to the mix Emmylou Harris' jaw dropping harmonies and Gram's best songs, the album is killer.
NEIL YOUNG AND CRAZY HORSE
Zuma (Reprise) 1975
It just shades After the Goldrush in my opinion. 'Danger Bird' and 'Cortez the Killer' contain two of his best guitar solos and Crazy Horse are as sloppy and complimentary as ever. 'Through My Sails,' a CSNY out take that ends the record, epitomizes the 70's Southern California sound gloriously.
FREE
Free Live (Island) September 1973
One of the great live albums of the 1970's. Vocalist Paul Rodgers always sounded better in Free than in Bad Company and the late guitarist Paul Kossoff's stunning vibrato and sustain will always remain unique. Listen to 'Be My Friend' and you will understand.
