Nominated by: GK
Music club: Wander to Wozza's
Playlist addition: The Way It Is
I am well aware of GK's enjoyment of this album - he has waxed lyrical about its merits on a few occasions over the decades.
I admire Bruce Hornsby's abilities as well, but not enough to ever buy any of his albums. That said, there is a lot to like about Bruce - his distinctive vocal style, his way with the ivories, and his association with The Grateful Dead.
This was his debut, way, way back in 1986, led by and dominated by the title track which is a classic that I never get tired of hearing. It's a very impressive debut with the band already as tight as a drum.
The first side is particularly strong with the great opener - On the Western Skyline to the title track. Mandolin Rain is another really strong song on that side. I kinda lose a bit of focus as side two plays out (the last three songs particularly).
Although there is a sameness about some of the songs: The Long Race, Down the Road Tonight, there aren't any skippers, and given it's a mid-eighties album/production, it holds up pretty well in 2026.
