OVER THE TOP – Yes & CLOSE TO THE EDGE
Released in September ’72, ‘CLOSE TO THE EDGE’ was hailed as the ‘best prog-rock album to date’ which to some sounded the most back-handed of compliments.
Author Archive: neilsambrook@btinternet.com
NO PRETENCE – Jackson Browne & THE PRETENDER:
Rolling Stone labelled ‘THE PRETENDER’ (1976) a ‘masterpiece’ backing their praise by naming Browne ‘the most accomplished lyricist of the 70s.’
BRIDGE-END: John Lennon & WALLS and BRIDGES
WALLS and BRIDGES (1974): The only ex-Beatle without a number one 45 that was rectified when Lennon topped the US charts with ‘Whatever Get’s You thru the Night’.
WIDE RANGING – The opening day Division One fixtures of 1975-76:
Opening Day 1975-76: Gerry and the (QPR) pacemakers – Francis scores ‘Goal of the Season’ as Liverpool are beaten in the Bush.
WINDFALL – Linda Ronstadt & HASTEN DOWN THE WIND
HASTEN DOWN THE WIND (1976) is a reflective set, but no less impressive for that, Ronstadt never failing in bringing her captivating tones to bear.
SPEEDING FINE – Wings & WINGS AT THE SPEED OF SOUND
WINGS AT THE SPEED OF SOUND (1976): A fourth straight number one album and lucrative U.S. tour confirmed Paul as the most successful ex-Beatle.
RUMOUR HAS IT – Fleetwood Mac & RUMOURS
RUMOURS (1977): Of the 33 million people worldwide who have bought a copy, it is unlikely any have felt short-changed by ‘Rumours’.
MET A PIE MAN – Don McLean & AMERICAN PIE
AMERICAN PIE (1971): Not an anthem to the ’60s, the ‘American Pie’ title track is an allegory for the strange journey pop music took through the decade.
FA CUP SIGHS – The Third/Fourth Place Play-Off (1970-74):
WHITTLE(D) DOWN TO THIS – Everton winger Alan scores against Stoke in the 1971 FA Cup 3rd/4th place play-off fixture
DEAR JOHN – Elton John & CARIBOU
CARIBOU (June 1974) was roundly criticised, not least by producer Gus Dudgeon, but Elton continued his winning streak as it reached number one around the world.