Customer Reviews

Rick Danko

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It's probably safe to say that The Band's initial demise in "The Last Waltz" of 1976 was a major shift in the fortunes of its' members: after the group ended, everybody started casting about trying to figure out what happened next. Solo albums were inevitable and, as they go, Rick Danko's first effort is probably the best solo foray from a former Band member to date. Several numbers are penned by an unusual songwriting team: Danko and former Digger honcho Emmett Grogan. For someone who had a reputation as a hippie ****-the- system kind of guy, Grogan's lyrics can be as homespun as Robbie Robertson's, as "Sweet Romance" and "Once Upon A Time" will attest. Danko himself sings everything with gusto and pathos (as needed) and he's given aid and comfort by an all-star cast, including all of his former Band-mates at one point or another. Not everything here is perfect; "What A Town" and "Shake It" try too hard to be street-smart and end up sounding a little forced. But there are more songs here that make the grade, with a true high point in "Java Blues," a Danko/Grogan paeon to "the only pick-me-up that's here to stay." The latter also features a guitar solo by Robertson that's one of his best ever. In summing up, if you've ever liked The Band, you'll probably enjoy Danko's first outing immensely.

as far as i know danko was the first to release a solo album. and i must say it sounds very much like a band album. it's also got quite a variety of well known names as guests.

my point?

none. it's a great record. the guitars are very robertson-esque but robbie only plays on one song (java blues). all members of the band appear. despite not seeing danko's name on any band song credits, i think just maybe he'd been practicing writing alone in a little bathroom. because there are some nice nice songs here. highlights....

"New Mexicoe" (track 3). At first i thought this would be a same ol same ol "G C" progression. it took some interesting turns (with that minor diminished chord.) He feels a lot about "new mexicoe" (maybe a reference to his hometown, Simcoe?) . you gotta love clapton's solo

"Sip The Wine" (track 5). i think this was his closest thing to a radio hit. you can see him slowly relaxing playing the tape of this for m.s. in the last waltz. maybe his most well written song.

all in all.....if you can find this album get it. it seems extremely difficult. being oop in the u.s. i bought a record copy of it and took it to cd from that. but that's your choice.

Rick Danko can be seen mixing some of the tapes from these sessions during The Last Waltz. It is a fine collection of solo material very reminiscent of The Band, and featuring all of Rick's Band-mates (except, I believe, Levon) as well as Eric Clapton, Ron Wood, Dr. John and other luminaries. "Tired of Waiting" is my favorite. The only song he ever performed with any regularity is "Java Blues," a tossed-off ode to coffee that is still fun. I met Rick several times and saw him solo,with The Band and various collaborators. He was a genuinely nice guy and talented musician who will be greatly missed.

Rick's great voice and the CD's timing relative to the breakup of The Band makes this a treasure to own.

The late Rick Danko was one of rock's finest musicians, not to mention one of it's finest bass players. The fact that this is availble on CD is a miracle worth taking full advantage of. Using a killer back up band (Doug Sahm, Garth Hudson, Levon, etc.), Danko produces a solo album that proves most listenable and laid back, if a little inconsistent and quirky. My favorite cut is the wonderfully erotic "Sip The Wine" a brilliant coutryfied ode to carnal wonders. Doug Sahm's twangy and echoing guitar on this particular cut really creates a sensual and unique midnight mood. The rest of the album is a fine listen worth seeking out. God bless you Rick and thank you for leaving behind such a rich legacy.

I first bought this on lp ... this is a wonderful album ... great guitar, including appearances by Robertson and Clapton. "New Mexico" should be standard on any/all classic stations/lists. Danko's voice shakes and wobbles through the songs, and is eternally endearing. Not an easy find ... but if/when, it is a must. One of my all-time favorites.

I am a Band fan for some time, and in a visit to NYC I bought this album that in Spain I didn't found. When I first listened this work I was impressed, Rick was a very very talented guy. I think it's the best solo album of all Band members. You cant lose it.Do you remember when Rick and Scorsese speak in Last Waltz, when Rick puts the song that is recording? This Song is here... Sip the Wine .... its marvellous.. And what about Java Blues....? You'll find here Ronnie Wood, Eric Clapton, Garth Hudson, Robbie, Richard Manuel, Levon ..

This delightful album is a rarity that should be re-released with extra Danko delights from the vaults (anything that hasn't turned up on 'Cryin' Heart Blues).

Rick had been pining to try a solo project for several years and finally in 1977, he took the chance. Some great songs, some not so great songs; but Rick's dynamic singing and the enthusiastic support of a varied backup team makes this album a pleasure to listen to. 'Sip The Wine' and 'Java Blues' sit side by side, contrasting soulful balladry with playful rocking.

Come on Arista, give us a proper re-release. We love Rick Danko!

As far as this Rick Danko album is concerned, if you like the jammin' Java Blues, you will dig this album all the way. Great songs, good songs and a little more straight rockin' than anything The Band ever did.

We also have some big hitters contributing solos here:

Track 1 - What A Town - Guitar solo is credited to Ronnie Wood of Faces/Rolling Stones fame.

Track 2 - Brainwash - Guitar solo is credited to the great Blondie Chaplin of The Flame/Beach Boys/Stones fame.

Track 3 New Mexico - Guitar solo credited to the mighty Eric Clapton. Any Clapton is good Clapton.

A nice solid solo effort from Danko. Wish there was a follow up, it would have been nice to hear him develop as a solo artist. Now all we need is the the remastered CD some bonus tracks...