On CD at last!
S. Scott | 10/30/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album is the Pet Sounds of folk/rock, in theme and excellence, if not innovation. Sadly, few have ever heard its wonderful songs, so this River re-release is a cause for celebration. Gallagher and Lyle started out as staff songwriters for Apple Records (Mary Hopkin recorded several of their songs), then co-founded the terrific McGuinness Flint before striking out on their own. Willie and the Lapdog was only their second solo album, and they never equaled or surpassed it. The original album's liner notes (not reprinted in the River issue) describe it perfectly: "Willie and the Lapdog takes on a cohesive aura, depicting various aspects of man's journey from youth to old age, the way he misuses the former and dwells upon the latter, the way he relates to life and its passing acquaintances, and its music, which always seems to provide sustenance when all else fails." Amazingly, there's not a single love song on the album. This is a work about man's love for music, especially playing music, about innocent beginnings, false hopes and bitter regrets. In some places (notably "SS Man") the anger and hopelessness are overwhelming, but the songs of peace ("Among the Birks") and comfort ("Harmonium") provide a balance. Still, the overall feeling one comes away with is that of "chances tossed away" and of "time lost." Prepare to be moved. This is an incredible work of art that needs to be in every music lover's collection."
Willie
Mark Swanson | Bellevue, WA United States | 07/11/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"One of the finest folk/rock albums ever made. The album captures two outstanding writers and musicians at their peak, and the production does them justice. The music has authenticity and soul--a rarity in popular in music. A musical masterpiece."
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1