The Eagles

This is how country rock sounds in its most commercialized success. By 1976 Gram Parsons was turning in his grave as his old Flying Burrito Brother, Bernie Leadon was replaced by Joe Walsh for this multi-platinum classic that birthed hits like "New Kid In Town" and "Life In The Fast Lane" (and of course the title track).

Hotel California showcases both the best and worst tendencies of Los Angeles-situated
rock, but more strikingly its lyrics present a convincing and unflattering portrait of the
milieu itself. Don Henley, handling five of the eight vocal tracks, expresses well the weary
disgust of a victim (or observer) of the region's luxurious excess. Yet the record's firm
musical bases cannot be overlooked. Bernie Leadon departed and Joe Walsh arr... More >