Bare Trees: 81

This is an interesting collection before Lindsay Buckingham and Stevie Nicks joined the group. At the time the band consisted of Danny Kirwan, Bob Welch, Christine McVie, John McVie, and MIck Fleetwood. Probably the most easily recognizable tune on the record is Welch's Sentimental Lady. This is a more upbeat earlier version of the song which appears on Welch's solo album, French Kiss. Anyway, the other songs are very good here as there is a good raw mix between all the instruments. The guitar work is especially good. An interesting collection to see that Fleetwood Mac wasn't always a top 40 juggernaut.

Fleetwood Mac 86

The album that made Fleetwood Mac a commercial success. Stevie and Lindsay are aboard here and both make noteworthy contributions. I think Lindsay is the real talent as he contributes some spirited vocals and a wonderful guitar tone to compliment his new bandmates. There is some spotaniety on this record but most of it is carefully crafted pop tunes. When you think of the mid seventies this record can not be ignored.

Rumours 84

One of the all time leading selling records of the rock n roll era. This album was number one on the billboard charts for at least half a year. And I believe there were five smash singles at least. All this when the band members were practically at each others throats. I guess sometimes adversity can bring out the best in people and this certainly was the case. I would rate this album alot higher but it gets so overplayed even today that some of the beauty is missing. Plus some of the creativity from the previous release and Bare Trees is definitely missing. But the songs are really peak material. At this point Stevie Nicks was being heavilly marketed as the marque player in this band. Whereas her song contributions and vocal style create an interesting mysterious aura, I feel Lindsay Buckinghams and Christine McVie's contributions are more musically sound. None the less this is a fine collection when music was more natural.

Mirage 81

Whereas this album over time falls a bit short of the fine Rumours collection, there are still many fine songs here as well. Lindsay Buckingham's guitar tone is just stunning especially on such numbers as Book Of Love and Eyes Of The World. The other band members have notable moments as well. There are some interesting vocal stylings throughout this album and anyone who appreciates this should give this its proper lesson.

Tango In The Night 82

Although there are some excessive high pitched synthesizer effects, this album stands pretty tall. You see the main theme in each of the songs is very captivating. Lindsay Buckingham continues to expand on his guitar style as he shows us textures both light and heavy. Mick Fleetwood adds some interesting drum beats delivered in a low key manner. The rhythms vary from song to song which is the ticket that makes Fleetwood Mac a good band to listen to. Its nice to know that they reunited recently and most improtantly they are getting along.

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