The Yardbirds - Little Games (LP)

"The Yardbirds - Little Games" is the fourth American album by the British rock band The Yardbirds, released in 1967. This album marks a significant period in the band's history, as it was the only Yardbirds album to feature Jimmy Page as the sole lead guitarist. The album was produced by Mickie Most, a well-known producer who had worked with artists like The Animals and Donovan.

"Little Games" was recorded during a time of transition for The Yardbirds. The band had recently undergone lineup changes, with Jeff Beck departing and Jimmy Page stepping in to fill the role of lead guitarist. This shift brought a new dynamic to the band's sound, blending their established blues-rock style with more experimental and psychedelic elements.

The album opens with the title track, "Little Games," a song that showcases the band's ability to craft catchy, radio-friendly tunes. The track features a driving rhythm and memorable guitar riffs, highlighting Page's influence on the band's evolving sound. The song was released as a single and achieved moderate success, reaching number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "White Summer," an instrumental piece that features Page's intricate fingerpicking and use of alternate tunings. The song draws heavily from traditional folk and Indian music, showcasing Page's versatility as a guitarist and his willingness to experiment with different musical styles. "White Summer" would later become a staple in Page's live performances with Led Zeppelin.

Another notable track is "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Sailor," which features a distinctive psychedelic sound. The song's lyrics are inspired by the traditional nursery rhyme, but the music takes a more adventurous approach, with swirling guitar effects and a driving beat. This track exemplifies the band's willingness to push the boundaries of their sound and explore new musical territories.

"Little Games" also includes "Glimpses," a track that features innovative use of tape loops and sound effects. The song's experimental nature and atmospheric quality make it a standout on the album, showcasing the band's ability to create immersive and unconventional music.

Despite its creative strengths, "Little Games" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics felt that the album lacked cohesion and direction, while others praised the band's willingness to experiment and evolve. Commercially, the album did not perform as well as the band's previous releases, and it failed to chart in the UK.

The album's production by Mickie Most has been a point of contention among fans and critics. Some argue that Most's pop-oriented production style did not fully capture the raw energy and creativity of the band, while others believe that his influence helped to create a more polished and accessible sound.

In retrospect, "Little Games" is often seen as a transitional album for The Yardbirds, bridging the gap between their earlier blues-rock sound and the more experimental direction that Jimmy Page would later pursue with Led Zeppelin. The album's mix of catchy pop tunes, psychedelic experimentation, and intricate guitar work make it a fascinating snapshot of a band in the midst of evolution.

Overall, "Little Games" is an album that showcases The Yardbirds' willingness to take risks and explore new musical landscapes. While it may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their earlier work, it remains an important part of the band's legacy and a testament to their creativity and innovation. For fans of The Yardbirds and Jimmy Page, "Little Games" offers a unique glimpse into a pivotal moment in the history of rock music.