Crazy Horse

Band members               Related acts

- John Blanton - keyboards (replaced Jack Nitzsche) - keyboards (1972)
- Michael Curtis - vocals, keyboards, guitar (replaced John Blanton) (1972-)
- Rick Curtis - vocals, guitar, banjo (replaced George Whitsell) (1972-)
- Tim Drummond - bass (1977)
- Karl Himmell - drums (1977)
- Ben Keith - guitar, dobro (1977)
- Greg Leroy - vocals, guitar (replaced Nils Lofgren (1972-)
- Nils Lofgren - vocals, guitar (1971) 
- Ralph Molina (RIP) - vocals, drums (1971-)
- Jack Nitzsche (RIP)- vocals, piano (1971)
- Frank Sampedro - guitar (1975- )
- Billy Talbot - vocals, bass (1971-)
- Danny Whitten - guitar (1971-72)
- George Whitsell - vocals, keyboards (replaced Danny Whitten) (1972-) 

 

 

 - Grin (Nils Lofgren)
- Nils Lofgren (solo efforts)
- Neil Young (backup band for)
- Rockets 
- Jack Nitzsche (solo efforts) 

 

Rating: *** (3 stars)

Title:  Crazy Horse

Company: Reprise

Catalog: RS 6438

Year: 1971

Grade (cover/record): VG/VG

Comments: minor ring, edge and corner wear

Available: 2

Price: $15.00

 

 Having attracted regional attention during the mid-'60s as members of The Rockets (see separate entry), bassist Billy Talbot and guitarist Danny Whitten became friendly with the Buffalo Springfield's Neil Young. With Young striking out in pursuit of a solo career following the Springfield's breakup, the two were invited to play on his sophomore release "Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere". Paired with guitarist Nils Lofgren (then supporting Young), drummer Ralph Molina, and keyboardist Jack Nitzsche they accompanied Young on a tour in support of the album. Dubbed Crazy Horse by Young, the quintet became his backing and touring band through 1972's "Harvest".

Talented musicians in their own right, with help from Young, Crazy Horse struck out on their own in 1971. Signing with Reprise (Young's label), their self-titled debut album was released later in the year. With all five members writing and four members singing, "Crazy Horse" showcased the band's considerable talents. Co-produced by Nitzsche and Bruce Botnick, the entire set proved enjoyable; Lofgren's rocking "Beggar's Day", Whitten's ominous "Downtown" and a cover of Young's "Dance, Dance, Dance" among the highlights. Elsewhere superstar axeman Ry Cooder provided support throughout. Released amidst critical praise, the collection generated moderate sales, peaking at #84. The lack of sales was unfortunate since the collection stood as the band's best effort.

"Crazy Horse" track listing:
1.) Gone Dead Train (Russ Titelman - Jack Nitzsche) - 4:08
2.) Dance, Dance, Dance (Neil Young) - 2:10
3.) Look At All the Things (Danny Whitten) - 2:30
4.) Beggar's Day (Nils Lofgren) - 4:20
5.) I Don't Want To Talk About It (Danny Whitten) - 5:17
6.) Downtown (Danny Whitten) - 3:15
7.) Carolay (Russ Titelman - Jack Nitzsche) - 2:50
8.) Dirty, Dirty (Danny Whitten) - 3:30
9.) Nobody (Nils Lofgren) - 2:35
10.) I'll Get By (Danny Whitten) - 3:08
11.) Crow Jane Lady (Jack Nitzsche) - 4:23

 

Rating: *** (3 stars)

Title:  Loose

Company: Reprise

Catalog: REP 44 171

Year: 1973

Grade (cover/record): VG/VG

Comments: German pressing

Available: 1

Price: $15.00

 

 

 Unfortunately, before the band could release a follow up Whitten died from a drug overdose. Replaced by George Whitsell, matters were further complicated when Nitzsche and Lofgren abruptly left. Replaced by John Blanton and Greg Leroy, surviving members Molina and Talbot suddenly found themselves completing the follow-up with what amounted to a brand new band. One of the year's most appropriately titled efforts, "Loose" aptly reflected the ongoing turmoil. Sure, with the exception of "All the Little Things", anyone expecting another set of riff powered rockers was probably disappointed. On the other hand, given the band had lost its primary writers and the set was recorded under intense pressure, the results were actually pretty good. With new-kids-on-the-block Blanton, Leroy and Whitsell picking up the writing chores, material such as "Hit and Run", " One Thing I Love", "Move" and "Fair Weather Friend" found the band pursuing a country-rock sound. Sure, it wasn't particularly original or groundbreaking, but the results were never less than catchy and professional (be sure to check out "All Alone Now" with it's CSN&Y-styled harmonies). Think along the lines of Poco and you'll get a feel for the results. Their final chart success, the album peaked at #170. Unfortunately marginal sales weren't enough for Reprise which quickly dropped the band from its recording rooster. 

"Loose" track listing:
1.) Hit and Run (John Blanton) - 
2.) Try (George Whitsell) - 
3.) One Thing I Love (Grey Leroy) - 
4.) Move (George Whitsell) - 
5.) All Alone Now (George Whitsell) - 
6.) All the Little Things (Grey Leroy) - 
7.) Fair Weather Friend (Grey Leroy) - 
8.) You Won't Miss Me (George Whitsell) - 
9.) Going Home (Grey Leroy) - 
10.) I Don't Believe It (George Whitsell) - 
11.) Kind of Woman (John Blanton) - 
12.) One SIded Love (George Whitsell) - 
13.) And She Won't Even Blow Smoke In My Direction (George Whitsell) - 

 

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