Description
Andrew Gold – Whirlwind – Vinyl Record
Released in 1980, Whirlwind is the fourth studio album by singer-songwriter Andrew Gold, best known for his hits Lonely Boy and Thank You for Being a Friend. By this point in his career, Gold had firmly established himself as a talented multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer, with a knack for crafting catchy, melody-driven rock and pop tunes.
Whirlwind finds Gold shifting toward a bigger, more polished rock sound, incorporating elements of power pop, soft rock, and classic rock ‘n’ roll energy. While his previous albums leaned heavily on West Coast soft rock and singer-songwriter stylings, this record feels more urgent and guitar-driven, reflecting the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
The title track, Whirlwind, opens the album with a driving rhythm and soaring harmonies, setting the stage for a more rock-oriented sound compared to his earlier work. Songs like Kiss This One Goodbye and Stranded on the Edge showcase Gold’s knack for crafting tight, radio-friendly rock songs, while So Lucky leans into a more wistful, reflective ballad style.
Lyrically, the album explores themes of love, nostalgia, and personal reflection, common in Gold’s songwriting but with a bit more punch and urgency than before. His ability to blend introspective lyrics with catchy hooks remains one of his greatest strengths, making Whirlwind an album that balances both thoughtful storytelling and accessible rock energy.
Despite its strong songwriting and polished production, Whirlwind didn’t achieve the same commercial success as Gold’s earlier albums. It failed to generate any major hit singles and marked the end of his tenure with Asylum Records. However, in retrospect, it’s appreciated by fans as a solid, underrated entry in his catalog, showcasing his versatility and craftsmanship.
While Whirlwind didn’t propel Gold further into the mainstream, his influence remained strong. He continued to work as a session musician, producer, and songwriter, collaborating with artists like Linda Ronstadt, 10cc, and Three Dog Night.
Whirlwind stands as a hidden gem in Andrew Gold’s discography, an album that blends power pop energy with heartfelt songwriting. It may not have produced another radio staple, but it remains a testament to his skill as a musician and songwriter, and a must-listen for fans of ’70s and ’80s pop-rock.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed but promo cut in spine
Track Listing
Kiss This One Goodbye
Whirlwind
Sooner Or Later
Leave Her Alone
Little Company
Brand New Face
Nine To Five
Stranded On The Edge
Make Up Your Mind
