This is the debut studio album from long running American folk rock band formed in London, England, America. Yes, that’s right! The band, America was formed in London, England! Ok, their fathers were US Air Force servicemen that were stationed in London long enough for the trio of Dewey Bunnell, Dan Peek and Gerry Beckley to meet in a London high school. They joined together to form a musical trio sporting three-part harmonies a la Crosby, Stills and Nash under the name, America. They were inspired by the Americana jukebox in their local mess hall to name their band America, and ultimately chose that name to avoid being thought of as British musicians trying to sound American. This album, their self-titled debut was released in 1971 to moderate success, but later a song from that album, A Horse With No Name, became a monster success catapulting them into fame.
For my last review of 2021, I decided to consult my Most Wanted list to cap off the year. America’s self-titled debut was on that list because my good friend loves that band. He loves cars and he loves Americana rock like this, and I can’t think of a better soundtrack to ride off into a desert sunset in a ’72 Dodge Challenger than 70s folk rock. It’s kind of poetic to end the year on such a note to think of it. It’s a softer note to unwind on as the year comes to a close.
Well, I can say for sure that this is quite a soft album. And while it lacks bite in a few areas, I’m not sure bite is what America was going for on their first LP. It’s a cozy record by design with good vibes aplenty.
Production is fun, even though it shoots itself in the foot sometimes. The problems are mostly with vocal production as half of it is nice and full and the other half is not only tinny but fighting with the instruments. Instruments which are, by the way, immaculately produced and crystal clear. Not to mention the stereo sound is great as well, especially the acoustic guitar layering!
Speaking of guitars, this is a soft rock album through and through in its composition. Acoustic guitars are the backbone of the record and half of these songs are straight acoustic guitar and vocals, but on the other half, drums, bongos, electric guitar, and bass make an appearance to mix things up. Album structure is, for the most part smooth with its transitions from song to song like some gently rolling hills. Song structure is a little more unique than the average folk song, which I appreciate as it spices up the album.
Lyrics incorporate some of the folk-rock style that makes up this album. The three-part harmonies are great and the solo Neil Young-ish vocals from Dewey Bunnell. It’s all great except for that close mic nasal thing on the song, Here. Yuck. As for the lyrics, this album has a mix of some cheesy shallow songs and deep lyricism, but you don’t know which one you’re getting until you hear the songs one by one.
Despite a few blemishes, America’s self-titled debut is a fun record and good music to unwind to. It reminds me of a Bob Ross painting: happy little accidents here and there, but it’s a comforting listen. It’s perfect for road trips in the desert with a vintage Dodge Challenger.
I’m giving this a Decent 7/10.
FAVOURITE TRACKS: Sandman, Three Roses, Children, A Horse With No Name, I Need You, Never Found The Time, Clarice, Donkey Jaw, Pigeon Song
LEAST FAVOURITE TRACK: Here
Comments