The Eagles - Desperado

Eagles saddled up for an outlaw concept on Desperado, their 1973 second album, pressed here on 180 gram vinyl that gives those dusty harmonies plenty of room.

Recorded in London with producer Glyn Johns, the record draws a loose parallel between the Doolin-Dalton gang of the Old West and the life of a touring rock band, all fast living and long odds. Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Bernie Leadon and Randy Meisner share the spotlight, and the harmonies are as sweet and close as anything they ever recorded.

The title track "Desperado" is the crown jewel, a piano-and-strings ballad sung by Henley that has since been covered by a long line of admirers. "Tequila Sunrise" is a gentle, sun-warmed country lope, while "Doolin-Dalton" frames the story with dusty acoustic twang and weary storytelling.

"Outlaw Man" brings a harder rock edge, and throughout the album Leadon's banjo and guitar work keep one foot firmly in bluegrass and country tradition. The songs return to their themes in reprises, giving the whole thing the feel of a short Western on wax.

It was a slow burner rather than an instant smash, but Desperado has grown into one of the most loved records in the band's catalogue, and it rewards a full, front-to-back listen.