Album Info
| Artist: | Eagles |
| Album: | Hotel California |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Australia, 1976 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Hotel California | 6:30 |
| A2 | New Kid In Town | 5:04 |
| A3 | Life In The Fast Lane | 4:46 |
| A4 | Wasted Time | 4:55 |
| B1 | Wasted Time (Reprise) | 1:22 |
| B2 | Victim Of Love | 4:11 |
| B3 | Pretty Maids All In A Row | 4:05 |
| B4 | Try And Love Again | 5:10 |
| B5 | The Last Resort | 7:25 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $125 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship your vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Eagles' "Hotel California," released in 1976, is not only one of the band's most iconic albums but also one of the most significant records in rock history. With its blend of rock, country, and folk influences, the album captures the zeitgeist of the 1970s California lifestyle, exploring themes of fame, excess, disillusionment, and the American Dream. "Hotel California" showcases the Eagles at the peak of their creative powers, with expert musicianship, intricate vocal harmonies, and profound songwriting.
The title track, "Hotel California," is a masterpiece of storytelling, featuring one of the most recognizable guitar intros in rock music. The song's narrative, a surreal and allegorical tale of a traveler who checks into a luxurious but eerie hotel, serves as a metaphor for the hedonistic lifestyle of Los Angeles and the music industry's pitfalls. The song's extended guitar solo, performed by Don Felder and Joe Walsh, is a highlight, showcasing the Eagles' exceptional musical synergy.
"New Kid in Town," with its smooth, melodic sound, captures the transient nature of fame and the search for love and acceptance in a city known for its fleeting affections. The song's polished production and harmonious vocals underscore the band's ability to craft songs that are both reflective and radio-friendly.
"Life in the Fast Lane," another standout track, is driven by Joe Walsh's distinctive guitar riff and Henley's biting vocals. The song provides a gritty commentary on the excesses and high-speed lifestyle associated with rock stardom, with lyrics that paint a vivid picture of the era's decadence.
The production of "Hotel California" is characterized by its clarity and attention to detail, allowing each instrument and vocal harmony to shine. Producer Bill Szymczyk's work on the album played a crucial role in achieving its distinctive sound, blending rock and roll energy with a polished aesthetic that appealed to a wide audience.
"Wasted Time" and its reprise provide a poignant counterpoint to the album's more rock-oriented tracks, with their introspective lyrics and orchestral arrangements highlighting the themes of loss and regret that permeate the album.
Lyrically, "Hotel California" delves into the darker side of the American Dream, exploring the disillusionment and moral ambiguity that lay beneath the surface of the 1970s Los Angeles music scene. The album's narratives, while rooted in specific time and place, touch on universal themes of desire, despair, and the search for meaning, making them resonate with listeners across generations.
In conclusion, "Hotel California" is a landmark album that encapsulates the Eagles' musical innovation and lyrical depth. Its exploration of the complexities of fame, fortune, and the human condition, coupled with its memorable melodies and masterful musicianship, has cemented its status as one of the most enduring works in the rock canon. "Hotel California" not only defined the Eagles' legacy but also left an indelible mark on the landscape of American music.
