This artist left the L.A. area and was living in Hawaii at the time of this release, and this disc does have a distinct island tinge to the back porch, Detroit-influenced, straight-ahead rock & roll. He is one of those artists who have never made it big except in small pockets located throughout the world — places such as Arizona, Michigan, and the Netherlands. This is an extremely talented songwriter and singer who can sing with the soul of a Van Morrison (listen to the brooding intensity of “Kill Me”). He can rock with the likes of a Mitch Rider (lend an ear to “Bad Boys Ride”). His songs have been covered by the likes of Jim Messina, Stuart Margolin, and, of course, Kenny Loggins with his hit rendition of “Easy Rider.” His songs touch the heart and deal with the problems of relationships, love, and life. This disc is an exploration of differing rhythms. It ventures from the island rhythms of “A Walk in the Jungle” to the flamenco groove of “Flamenco Café,” stopping off at many other spots to see what shakes out. It all works well together. The song you may find yourself coming back to is the beautiful song about truth in relationships and how to make them work, “Talk to Me.” This is one of those gems that you never heard of, and it’s a hard to find disc that will be well worth your search. – Bob Gottlieb