Featuring Chris Darrow (fresh from stints in world music pioneers The Kaleidescope as well as fellow country rockers The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band) and Jeff Hanna (who also left the Dirt Band with Darrow), The Corvettes released a scant two singles before the core of the 'Vettes was chosen to be Linda Ronstadt's (fresh out of the Stone Poneys) backing band. The Corvettes occasionally played a few of their own tunes during Ronstadt's set, but Jeff Hanna headed back to the Dirt Band, who were poised for roots fame with their epic "Will The Circle Remain Unbroken" 1972 triple LP set.
(photo) Linda Rondstadt points to Chris Darrow as being a leading light in country rock.
Interestingly enough, Michael Nesmith was the producer of the disc. Nez was no stranger to Southern California roots rock, and the man simply does not get the widespread credit he deserves as being one of THE founders of country rock; readers of the fine print on Monkees LP's know that some of the best tracks from the band were written and produced by Michael . Luckily, Nez has a devoted core of followers (of which I count myself as a lifelong fan) who recognize the man's talent and foresight; he also shows here that he could spot talent in others, and his work behind the deck yielded one of the finest west coast twang 45's EVER heard, which I am proud to share with you today. This record is outtasight!
I'm also happy to be back posting regularly here at Bedazzled. It's been way too long.
Beware Of Time
Level With Your Senses
Nez working some country rock magic behind the pedal steel during sessions for the Monkees 'Headquarters' LP.
Comments