America – Hat Trick (Album Review)

Released in 1973, Hat Trick is amongst the greatest records the folk-rock trio, collectively known as America, ever released. While Hideaway remains my favourite America album, Hat Trick came across my radar around the same time when EMI Australia reissued those records as part of the Legendary Masters series. As such, these two records were my only exposure to America for quite some time, and unlike the modern era, when you purchased an album in the pre-streaming period, you generally listened to it until it melded with your soul. Hat Trick did just that and truth be told, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve listened to this exceptionally underrated album throughout the years.

Part of the appeal is due to the album’s artwork, which features a photograph within a photograph styling and remains highly appealing. Unfortunately, I’ve only ever experienced it on the CD-sized canvas and despite enjoying the larger size when presented via the Apple TV 4K, this is one record that would look exceptional should one be fortunate enough to own the vinyl release. For those who are interested, Warner Records, in conjunction with Music On Vinyl (MOV), recently reissued Hat Trick in 2021. I’ve no idea what that pressing is like as it flew under my radar at the time. That said, MOV reissues are often amongst the very best reproductions available to vinyl music lovers, so it may well be a consideration.

As with Hideaway, the non-Apple Digital Master CD-quality lossless stream, from Apple Music, is sonically pleasing, so much so that you’ll ponder if you need to seek out a “better” copy. It really is quite lovely, but for those who are looking for even higher resolution options, Qobuz has a 24-bit/192 kHz edition available. Regardless, when an album is recorded, mixed, and mastered this well, format and delivery method matter far less for you’re in for an audible treat that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Perhaps most interesting is that Hat Trick failed to generate significant interest from the music-loving public; particularly considering how well their self-titled debut (January, 1972), and Homecoming (November, 1972) were received. While I’ve no idea why the album failed to be as successful, and Holiday (June, 1974) would see the band regain some ground, I have heard in passing that the record label was not sold on “Muskrat Love” being the lead single, an aspect the band demanded, and hence support upon release was significantly dropped. While I can neither prove nor disprove this possibility, the music industry is littered with similar stories. It’s a shame because Hat Trick is a hidden gem that has rarely been acknowledged outside of the album’s existence within the band’s back catalogue.

Of course, the lack of interest amongst the music-buying public could also be attributed to the slightly more experimental style when compared directly to their first two records. The chosen singles weren’t necessarily the strongest songs from the album and the record is absent of a hit such as “A Horse With No Name”. However, if we consider Hat Trick to be a coherent album experience, then this album knows few peers.

Muskrat Love is a beautifully soft ballad. While the lyrical context is a little whimsical and quite frankly, quirky, it’s a solid tune nonetheless. As the album’s lead single, one can understand why Hat Trick may not have been received as well as the band’s previous releases, but I for one find this song to be a charming addition to America’s catalogue of exceptional music.

Wind Wave has an incredible opener with an evolving sound that builds via its layered production. Dreamy would be one way to describe it for Wind Wave is a moody atmospheric piece that will stay with you long after the album has ended.

She's Gonna Let You Down flows seamlessly from Wind Wave and is absolutely stunning. The lush, yet melancholic, piano-centric tune is a pleasure to the ears, but it’s the vocal delivery and harmonious presentation that’s the ultimate standout in this cinematic-styled tune.

Rainbow Song is an upbeat number that plays into America’s folk roots with vivid imagery. If nothing else, Rainbow Song is a toe-tapping head-bopper that is well-balanced with rich vocal harmonies and jangly musical elements.

Submarine Ladies includes a little psychedelia. To say it’s exceptional would be an understatement for Submarine Ladies is not only perfectly suited to the era, it’s amongst the greatest songs America ever wrote and recorded. There’s also a touch of Glen Campbell's influence to be heard but the soundscape is so multilayered that you’re sure to hear new elements upon each subsequent listen.

It's Life is another hidden gem that has seldom received the recognition it deserves for it’s quintessentially America; albeit with a touch of rock and roll.

Hat Trick is a lovely tune that blends pop sensibilities with America’s harmonious folk origins. It’s an ideal title track and despite a runtime of well over eight minutes, this symphonically experimental tune, with a touch of progressive rock, is amongst the very best timeless recordings in America’s extensive back catalogue. It’s another of those songs that make me question how Hat Trick was overlooked at the time for there isn’t a dull moment to be heard throughout this song or the entire album.

Molten Love is a smooth mid-tempo tune with a touch of R&B to add to the song’s overall warm production, thereby offering a unique blend of folk and soul. While it isn’t a standout, it’s another perfect album-only number that enhances Hat Trick.

Green Monkey is a killer tune and Joe Walsh’s guitar performance amplifies the song as his rock edge works remarkably well with the trio’s harmonious and layered production qualities. Despite being the third, and last, single from Hat Trick, one can’t help but wonder if Green Monkey would have been a far better lead single.

Willow Tree Lullaby is a beautiful acoustic folk-focused ballad that offers a respite from the newer and more experimental pieces for those who would find Hat Trick too far removed from America’s origins.

Goodbye is a perfect closer, one that will compel you to play the album again or stay within America’s impressive discography. No, it isn’t a standout, but every song need not be a hit to make an album thoroughly enjoyable.

Hat Trick is first and foremost an album experience, not just because it lacked a series of killer singles. While it’s a little more experimental and sees the band evolve from their folk-rock origins, it isn’t so far removed that fans, both casual and dedicated, should ignore this release for doing so is to miss out on one of the greatest albums from the 70s, particularly 1973.

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America – Hearts (Album Review)

Released in 1975, Hearts is a masterpiece of 1970s soft rock, showcasing America during their most prominent years. While it’s another impressive collaboration with George Martin, in the production chair, Hearts is most notable for seamlessly blending acoustic guitar-driven compositions with lush harmonies and subtle instrumental arrangements. The result is an album that, much like the rest of their 70s catalogue, is easy listening soft rock folk music that will appeal to just about any music lover. 

As previously mentioned, Martin’s contribution here, along with Geoff Emerick's engineering of the album, ensured that the production quality of Hearts was top-notch, with each instrument and vocal harmonisation meticulously arranged to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Hearts, subsequently, has a timeless appeal and while not presented as an Apple Digital Master, sounds lovely via Apple Music. It is, of course, up to Warner Records as to which edition of an album is delivered to Apple Music, but one would expect more with Apple Music not only supporting Hi-Res Lossless delivery but also Spacial Audio; particularly as Hearts had been released in the 70s as a quadraphonic edition alongside the stereo release.

Given the classic album status of this record, Warner may wish to keep additional versions in the archives for anniversary releases on physical media. However, one can’t help but wonder if this isn’t a missed opportunity for a Dolby Atmos mix need not apply as Apple Music fully supports Dolby Audio; a legacy surround format that can deliver up to 5.1 channel mixes via the streaming service.  

Given Hearts has been reissued for the audiophile fans amongst us, higher-quality versions of this album do exist. That said, some of these releases are now out-of-print and command significant prices on the secondhand market. Interestingly, however, Qobuz has a Hi-Res Lossless 24-bit / 192 kHz edition of the album available to stream or purchase so if attaining the highest quality reproduction is the most important aspect to you, you may wish to check out that version. As to why Apple doesn’t have access to the same version as Qobuz, I’ve no idea. It is yet another minor quizzical frustration that streaming-focused music lovers must contend with. 

Turning our attention back to the Apple Music stream and what you get is a CD facsimile that reproduces the album’s analogue-era warmth and fullness with lovely separation between instruments and a pleasurable stereo soundstage. While I’ve no doubt there are advantages to the other, aforementioned, releases, the stream is so lovely that I question if I need to seek out other editions. At any rate, it’s all about the music, so join me as I take a look at the songs that make up this incredible mid-70s release. 

Daisy Jane sets the tone for the album with its gentle acoustic guitar intro and soft melodic vocals. It’s one of America’s most beautiful ballads and the song's catchy chorus and lush harmonies ensure that it’s not only a standout from the album, but is amongst the greatest songs that America ever recorded.

Half A Man shifts the tempo slightly and while the initial shift presents a jolt to the senses, you quickly meld into the soft rock elements that are, in some ways, reminiscent of Alice Cooper; particularly in his solo ballad-styled 70s and 80s recordings. Whether or not Half A Man is an exceptional song will be determined by your subjective tastes, but it’s ideal for the era in which it was released as the upbeat horn delivery and backing vocals pigeonhole it perfectly to the sounds that were prominent during the mid-70s. 

Midnight is captivating with its dreamlike haunting melody and atmospheric instrumentation. The vocal harmonies are stunning and when merged with the musical bed, it makes for a standout tune that’s a hidden gem of, not only, America’s back catalogue, but of the 70s. 

Bell Tree flows beautifully from Midnight as this song continues the serene atmosphere with gentle acoustic guitar melodies, subtle percussion, and delicately delivered vocals. It may not be a standout, but it’s songs such as Bell Tree that make for an exceptional album experience. 

Old Virginia has folk-focused instrumentation that combines seamlessly with America’s vocal delivery and harmonies; a beautiful song! 

People In The Valley features a more upbeat tempo and rhythmic groove than the prior songs, yet the catchy chorus and infectious melody make it a compelling listen and showcase America's ability to craft memorable pop-rock tunes; even if it presents a minor shock to the senses when listening to the album in its linear structure.

Company is an interesting tune for it isn’t the greatest song America ever recorded, yet there’s an intriguing aspect to it that I can’t quite explain. It isn’t a B-side, nor is it filler. It does, however, work perfectly within the flow of the album and I like it; even if I can’t communicate why. 

Woman Tonight, with its energetic rhythm and infectious groove, is a standout tune as the musicality is off-the-charts good. While it doesn’t seem that it should work on paper, the Caribbean and reggae-influenced undertones work surprisingly well with America’s style.

The Story Of A Teenager slows things down again and while I don’t mind the uptempo numbers, more melodic tunes, such as this one, are much more well-aligned with America’s vocal-focused presentation.

Sister Golden Hair is, arguably, the most iconic track from Hearts. Featuring a catchy guitar riff, and memorable chorus, Sister Golden Hair is a timeless classic and a standout within the classic rock sub-genre. 

Tomorrow is the perfect song to follow on from Sister Golden Hair as it doesn’t detract from the brilliance of the previous track but is magnificent in its own right. While the musical bed is stunning, it is the harmonious vocal delivery that makes Tomorrow an exceptional tune. 

Seasons is an interesting closer as part of me would suggest that Tomorrow would have been a stronger final track, if for no other reason than to allow the listener time for contemplating the music they’ve just heard. Instead, Seasons will pique your attention with its theatrical nature that sounds as if it would have been better placed in a different sequenced position. Nevertheless, Seasons is a lovely album-only tune that will encourage you to play the record again. 

With its memorable melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and impeccable production, Hearts continues to captivate audiences and stands as a testament to the band's enduring legacy; one that has its peers but one that sees America at the very top of the folk-rock movement of the 70s. 

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America – Hideaway (Album Review)

Released in 1976, Hideaway is the sixth studio album by the American rock band America. While the music on this album would showcase further evolution within the band’s production style and songwriting, this evolving nature isn’t to the band’s detriment for on this release they took their acoustic-driven folk-rock style even further by adding higher production values and a fuller musical presentation. The result is one of the greatest rock albums of the 70s and one of the best releases in America’s illustrious career.

While the album artwork is mundane, it’s effective and is a perfect visual counterpart to the musical style of the album. Granted, the music surpasses the album cover in terms of quality, for there isn’t a dull song to be heard on the album, and while each fan will have their own preferred favourite America release, Hideaway is certainly mine; followed by Hat Trick and their self-titled debut, America. 

Speaking of the music contained within this classic release, Hideaway demonstrates America's ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles while staying rooted in their signature folk-rock sound. Incorporating elements of pop, soft rock, and a touch of country, Hideaway is one of those pleasurable listens that has a smooth well-balanced mix that allows each instrument and vocal harmony to shine. 

While America’s legacy is legendary, when you have a producer of the calibre of George Martin producing Hideaway, one of five studio albums that he would produce for the band, there’s little wonder as to why Hideaway is so exceptionally pleasing. For those really interested in geeking out, Geoff Emerick was also the engineer for this recording. With two of the core Beatles’ production team behind the scenes, there’s little doubt as to why Hideaway is such a compelling release. Of course, America had to have musical skill in the first place and the songwriting throughout delivers a strong set of compositions that are introspective and often contemplative, exploring themes of love, longing, and self-discovery. Overall, the songwriting maintains a poetic quality, complemented by the band's trademark harmonies, and this, along with the quality of production further validates the importance of every aspect in the creation of a timeless record.

As it pertains to the sonic presentation of the album, the Apple Music stream is exquisite. It may not be an Apple Digital Master, but Warner Music has ensured that the streaming counterpart is a lovely facsimile. Some may naturally prefer a physical copy and while they are readily available on the secondhand market, it’s good to know that Music On Vinyl reissued the album in 2022. While I have no experience with that particular release, I have found Music On Vinyl to be a respectable reissue label. 

Decades ago, I was fortunate to have owned the 1997 Australian reissue CD, under the EMI Legendary Masters reissue series, but it has been so long since I owned that edition that it's impossible for me to even comment on how it compares to the stream I now thoroughly enjoy. What I will say, however, is that if I only had the lossless Apple Music stream of Hideaway, I would be in seventh heaven and wouldn’t feel like I’m missing a thing; it’s that enjoyable!

Lovely Night opens the album with an upbeat and catchy tune that sets the tone for the musical journey ahead. The harmonies are tight, and the melody is infectious, but it’s the entire sonic presentation that ensures Lovely Night will remain with you long after the song and album have concluded as it’s earworm-inducing; the positive kind, of course!

Amber Cascades features a lush atmospheric arrangement that makes for a captivating listening experience that is one of the album's highlights.

Don't Let It Get You Down has a more upbeat tempo, combining electric guitars and keyboards, thereby showcasing America's diverse musical palette. The lyrics convey a message of resilience and encouragement, and the dynamic arrangement adds a sense of urgency to the track that is also the perfect pick-me-up for those moments in life when we feel a little down.

Can't You See is a beautiful acoustic-focused ballad with magnificent harmonies that will immediately touch your soul. It is the definition of a textbook perfect tune and is, arguably, not only one of the best songs America ever recorded, but it’s one of the greatest ballads of all time. It is somewhat disappointing that this tune was not released as a single for it had the potential to be a chart-topper. My only complaint, however, is that it is too short. Of course, if it had been longer, it may not be as appealing. Let’s just say that it’s purposefully minimal and appreciate it within that context.  

Watership Down is a beautifully mellow track with a contemplative atmosphere that adds a sereneness to the album. 

She's Beside You returns the album to a more upbeat vibe, but that classic almost doo-wop introduction is a little distracting as it limits the fluidity of the album’s sequencing. That said, the catchy chorus and infectious rhythm make it a memorable addition to the album.

Hideaway, Pt. I serves as the first part of a two-part instrumental interlude and is not only thoroughly enjoyable but is ideally positioned within the album’s structure; particularly as it’s the closing song on the first side of the vinyl record.

She's A Liar is a killer rock tune with the electric guitar taking centre stage on this bluesy number. It may be a run-of-the-mill rock number by many standards, but the mix and subsequent layering ensure that She’s A Liar is one of the best songs from Hideaway.

Letter is bass guitar heaven. That introduction is spectacular and as the song builds so does my appreciation for it as the stripped-down nature perfectly suits America’s styling. 

Today's The Day is a beautiful tune that rocketed to the top of the charts upon its release as a single. Despite being successful at the time, there are other songs from Hideaway that I feel would have been stronger singles had they been released. Of course, that is me looking at the music via a modern lens and if I reflect on the era, then Today’s The Day was a ideal single release. That said, this is a perfect example as to why this album is so revered here at Subjective Sounds, for it isn’t just the songs on their own that make an album experience, but the album’s sequencing that ensures the record is a standout release. 

Jet Boy Blue kicks things up a notch with twangy guitars and a driving rhythm. It’s nothing short of fantastic and is another favourite as it is not only perfectly suited to America but the variation in musical styles adds depth to the overall album experience. 

Who Loves You emphasises the band's vocal harmonies on this soulful and mellow track. It is, truly, one of their most beautiful compositions and if I wanted to introduce America to someone who had never heard them before, this is one of the tracks that I would share for it’s thoroughly pleasing.  

Hideaway, Pt. II serves as an instrumental closer and while I appreciate the intent, I would suggest that Who Loves You was a perfect way to close the album. Nevertheless, given that Hideaway was released in the vinyl era, the consistency of an instrumental number closing both Side A and B, of the vinyl release, makes logical sense and was a commonly used technique during the heyday of the vinyl record. 

Hideaway stands as a testament to the band's musical maturity and willingness to experiment with different sounds. The album's cohesive flow, coupled with strong songwriting and polished production, makes it a notable addition to America's discography and the 70s classic rock scene. While it may be cemented firmly in nostalgia, Hideaway perfectly encapsulates the saying that they don’t make music like this anymore.    

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