Magnetic South
(RCA, 1970)
A statement of intent recorded for RCA Nashville, Nesmith’s solo debut utilised crack Monkees session players to craft a series of softly philosophical ‘cosmic country’ ballads, defined by the keening pedal steel of OJ ‘Red’ Rhodes, Nesmith’s own easy-flowing lyrics, and a voice that slides from soothing croon to lonesome Jimmie Rodgers yodel.
Loose Salute
(RCA, 1970)
Buoyed by the commercial failure of Magnetic South, the second First National Band LP is more defiantly eclectic and playful, moving from exquisite covers (I Fall To Pieces) to curious Latino funk (Tengo Amore; Hello Lady) goofy rockers (Dedicated Friend) and a handful of plaintive, metaphysical love songs (Conversations; Lady Of The Valley).
Nevada Fighter
(RCA, 1971)
Recorded while The First National Band and Nesmith’s own personal life were falling to pieces, this is a surprisingly coherent…
You're reading a preview of
MOJO (Digital) - 1 Issue, March 2022