America – Hearts
This was the group’s 5th studio LP (1975) & was originally produced by Sir George Martin. Yes, that George Martin (the 2nd of 6). The record was a success in the States & was certified gold. This reissue commemorates its 50th Anniversary with its three hit songs, “Sister Golden Hair,” “Daisy Jane,” & “Woman Tonight,” & includes six bonus cuts, five of which are previously unissued.
The 18-cut album has wonderful harmonies & is one of Gerry Beckley’s favorites. George Martin was involved, but the band isn’t as challenging as The Beatles, so don’t expect that kind of production alchemy. There are album tracks on Hearts that far outweigh the pop hits (Drops Aug 8/Omnivore Recordings/Warner Bros/55:04).
“Old Virginia” is a light story song with a cool score & the heavier-handed “People In the Valley” has closer indulgences to the more memorable early tunes like “A Horse With No Name,” “Tin Man,” & “Sandman.” It also features a vocal break from The Beach Boys’ songbook, followed by a well-conceived lead guitar. But it takes 5 songs to get to this. They do maintain their grip on “Company.” There are fuzz-toned leads, solid drumming & then piercing lead guitar that dresses it all up nicely.
The compilation was produced by Brad Rosenberger & Jeff Larson, originally recorded in 1975 at Record Plant in San Francisco & Los Angeles. Musicians included Gerry Beckley & Dan Peek (vocals/guitars/keys), Dewey Bunnell (vocals/guitar), David Dickey (bass), Willie Leacox (drums/percussion), Venetta Fields, Clydie King & Jessica Smith (vocals) with George Martin (keyboards) & an uncredited musician (cello).
While I always felt the album wasn’t as memorable as the first song, “Sister Golden Hair,” did remind me that this was the same excellent group. Why many of the others didn’t resonate with me back in 1975 — who knows? The songs are good, but once you get hit in the ear with classics like that first LP, it’s hard to find the same excitement. “A Horse With No Name” even sounded like a great Neil Young song…that wasn’t.
But the album has bright lanterns – “Tomorrow” & the song that sounds like George Martin tweaking the knobs — “Seasons.” This is orchestrated & includes a “Penny Lane” like piccolo that brightens the tune significantly. America’s vocals are always exceptional & special mention to drummer Willie Leacox, who laid down gripping fills.
As for the 6 bonus cuts, those are more for completists. Revisit this — it’s worth it.
Highlights – “Daisy Jane,” “Old Virginia,” “People In the Valley,” “Company,” “Woman Tonight,” “Sister Golden Hair,” & “Tomorrow,” “Seasons,” acoustic “Old Virginia,” alternate version “People In the Valley,” & alternate orchestra “Seasons.”
A 12pp stitched color insert/liner notes included. CD images courtesy of Henry Diltz.
CD@ https://omnivorerecordings.com/shop/hearts/ & https://venturahighway.com/
