Album: Rick Danko

Introduction
"Rick Danko" is the eponymous launching solo album by the Canadian musician Rick Danko, best referred to as the vocalist and bassist for the prominent roots rock group, The Band. Released in 1977 on the Arista Records label, it showcases Danko's flexible talents as a songwriter, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist. The album includes a mix of initial songs and covers, showing Danko's varied musical impacts, from folk and nation to rock, blues, and R&B.

Background and Recording
Following The Band's farewell performance, recorded in the renowned Martin Scorsese film, "The Last Waltz" in 1976, the group's members decided to take a break and pursue solo jobs. While his bandmates Levon Helm and Robbie Robertson ventured into acting and producing, Rick Danko focused on recording his debut solo album working with producer Jerry Wexler.

The album was taped in numerous studios, consisting of Village Recorders in Los Angeles, Shangri-La Studio in Malibu, and Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia. Danko collaborated with an outstanding array of artists and songwriters, such as Eric Clapton, Ronnie Wood, Doug Sahm, and Emmylou Harris, giving the album an abundant and diverse noise.

Track Listing and Song Highlights
"Rick Danko" includes ten tracks, which include both initial compositions by Danko and his collaborators, as well as covers of tunes by other artists. A few of the standout tracks on the album are:

1. "What A Town" - The opening track, co-written by Danko and Bobby Charles, is a memorable, upbeat number that reflects Danko's early impacts from rock-and-roll, R&B, and soul.

2. "Brainwash" - This haunting, atmospheric track features Danko on lead vocals and guitar, and is highlighted by the subtle usage of strings and percussion. The lyrics discuss themes of mind control, disillusionment, and longing.

3. "New Mexicoe" - A heartfelt ballad that tells the story of a man's journey through a barren landscape, searching for redemption and solace. This track includes stunning consistencies by Emmylou Harris and an evocative hawaiian guitar.

4. "Sip The Wine" - One of the album's greatest tracks, this soulful, slow-burning song showcases Danko's emotive vocals and his capability to capture the raw essence of heartbreak and desire. The track features blues legend Eric Clapton on lead guitar.

5. "Java Blues" - Co-written with previous bandmate Garth Hudson, this enjoyable, upbeat tune is driven by a vibrant horn area and contagious rhythm, offering an interesting contrast to the more reflective tunes on the album.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Rick Danko" got positive reviews from critics, who praised Danko's songwriting, his distinct vocal design, and the album's varied musical impacts. Nevertheless, the album did not achieve substantial industrial success, peaking at 119 on the United States Billboard 200 chart.

Regardless of the album's initial commercial disappointment, "Rick Danko" has actually because gained a cult following amongst fans of The Band and roots rock enthusiasts. The album remains a testimony to Danko's skills as a musician, and a touching homage to his musical roots and influences.

Recently, several tracks from "Rick Danko" have been covered by artists such as Norah Jones, who performed "Sip The Wine" throughout a concert in homage to The Band's Levon Helm. In general, "Rick Danko" is a skillful and underrated gem in the canon of 1970s rock music and a must-listen for fans of The Band and lovers of genuine, genuine music.