Duane Eddy (LP & CD, Capitol, 1987)
Duane Eddy’s career as a guitar idol spanned some 56 years and 36 albums. His heyday was in the 1960’s, when his distinctive “twangin’” guitar sound, string of hits, and good looks made him an international star. His many awards include his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This self-titled album from relatively late in his career is a neglected gem, but a wonderful showcase for the man’s genuine talent and style.
Of course, with the stellar supporting cast assembled here (including George Harrison, Paul McCartney, Jeff Lynne, Ry Cooder, David Lindley, Steve Cropper, and others) he couldn’t go too far wrong. It’s a more developed, layered sound than his earlier work, but his trademark guitar remains unmistakable in every cut.
The album appropriately kicks off – almost literally – with “Kickin’ Asphalt,” an up-tempo rocker that lets you know that Eddy hasn’t lost his chops, but yet doesn’t tempt you to blow the windows out. The next cut is Paul McCartney’s 1979 instrumental “Rockestra,” that is accompanied and produced by Sir Paul himself. Additional highlights include – but are not limited to – “The Trembler,” produced by Jeff Lynn and backed by him and George Harrison, and “Rockabilly Holiday,” another engaging up-tempo piece.
The supporting cast, as mentioned, is first-rate, and lends much to the overall sound. Skilled keyboard, percussion, vocalists, and other guitarists lend their talents to produce a most listenable album indeed. There is some marvelously tasty sax work by Jim Horn, one of Eddy’s original backing group, the Rebels, who went on to collaborate with three members of the Beatles and many other musical luminaries.
Only a couple cuts drag, IMO, but most rock right along, with Eddy’s solid guitar work propelling some very engaging and rousing instrumental music. I haven’t heard the CD version, but the production and pressing of the LP are very good indeed. Why this album wasn’t a hit is something of a mystery, Perhaps the public regarded that his time had passed and his style was out of date, but this album remains good music no matter what its year of issue. I suggest that it is a fine listen, and worth seeking out.