MILLIONAIRE WALSH

Joe blows on three key long-players. By Bob Mehr.

THE RIFFING RÉSUMÉ James Gang ★★★★ Rides Again (MCA, 1970)

James Gang’s second LP served as the perfect showcase for Walsh’s guitar prowess and shrewd songcraft. Built on a foundation of chugging blues rhythms – courtesy of bassist Dale Peters and drummer Jim Fox – his unpretentious vocal attack and razor-sharp riffs delight on Funk 49 and Woman, while melodic sophistication shines through on the pastoral Garden Gate, and his classical roots show on the baroque orchestration of closer Ashes The Rain And I.

THE MEGA MASTERPIECE Eagles ★★★★★ Hotel California (ASYLUM, 1976)

The Eagles began their musical transition away from country rock on 1975’s One Of These Nights with the addition of guitarist Don Felder and Walsh’s longtime producer Bill Szymczyk. But it was Walsh’s arrival that would serve as the catalyst for this globe-conquering landmark. Walsh’s soundcheck warm-up riff would evolve into the era-defining Life In The Fast Lane, while his six-string duet with Felder on the ever-ubiquitous title track would ascend to air guitar immortality.

SOFT ROCK SMÖRGÅSBORD Joe Walsh ★★★★ But Seriously, Folks… (ASYLUM, 1978)

Though best remembered for the hooky and wry rock star blues of Life’s Been Good, Walsh’s fourth solo record has arguably more high points than the Eagles’ 1979 swansong The Long Run. A mix of country rockers, glistening pop and left-field forays into reggae and cinematic instrumentals, Walsh’s effort is aided by Joe Vitale, Spirit/Jo Jo Gunne keyboardist Jay Ferguson, Bowie/ George Harrison bassist Willie Weeks, as well as various Eagles comrades.