Al Anderson
Soon after joining NRBQ, guitarist Al Anderson went into the studio to record this 1972 solo debut (albeit with bandmates Terry Adams and Tom Staley behind him). Boasting a tremendously passionate voice, a fluid but biting guitar style, and a knack for succinct lyrics, Anderson shows he's comfortable with all musical styles--obviously a prerequisite for anyone in NRBQ. He offers gritty country twang, deep soul ballads, heavy blues romps, and funky grooves. His gift for direct emotional expression helps transcend genre designation, but whether overt or implied, his originals (and his Hank Williams cover) seem to belie a country sensibility in his heart. The fact that's he's become a Nashville songwriting star makes sense in this context.--Marc Greilsamer