Description

Poco – Under The Gun – Vinyl Record

Under the Gun is the 13th studio album by the American country rock band Poco. Released in July 1980, this album showcases the band’s blend of rock, pop, and country influences, continuing their legacy as pioneers of the country rock genre. Poco was formed in 1968 in Los Angeles, California.

Under the Gun features a polished production that blends rock, pop, and country elements. The album combines catchy melodies, rich harmonies, and tight instrumentation, characteristic of Poco’s A mix of rock and country instrumentation, featuring guitars, pedal steel, and harmonized vocals. Catchy and memorable melodies that appeal to both rock and country audiences. Vocal harmonies that enhance the melodic and emotional impact of the songs. A smooth, radio-friendly production style typical of the early 1980s.

One of the first and longest-lasting country-rock groups, Poco had their roots in the dying embers of Buffalo Springfield. After Neil Young and Stephen Stills, the co-founders of that group, exited in the spring of 1968, only guitarist/singer Richie Furay and bassist Jim Messina remained to complete the group’s swan song, Last Time Around. The final Springfield track, ‘Kind Woman,’ included only Furay and Messina, with a guest appearance on steel guitar by Rusty Young. At the time, he was something of a rarity as a talented lap-steel guitarist who was comfortable working in a rock idiom, and had previously belonged to a folk-rock-turned-psychedelic band called Boenzee Cryque.

Young stuck with Furay and Messina, in the process skipping a scheduled audition for a new group that ex-Byrds member Gram Parsons was putting together. Auditions followed before the fledgling group reached out, at Young’s urging, to ex-Boenzee Cryque drummer/vocalist George Grantham, and also to bassist/singer Randy Meisner, who had previously played with a band called the Poor. This lineup rehearsed for four months before making their debut at the Troubadour in Los Angeles, in November of 1968. A month later, they made their first appearance at the Fillmore West on a bill with the Steve Miller Band and Sly & the Family Stone.

Notable Tracks

‘Under the Gun’: The title track and a standout song, featuring strong guitar work and catchy hooks. It encapsulates the band’s blend of rock energy with country elements.
‘While We’re Still Young’: A song that reflects themes of youth and resilience, with a melodic and uplifting feel.
‘The Everlasting Kind’: Showcases Poco’s harmonies and melodic songwriting.
‘Down to the Wire’: A track with a more rock-oriented feel, featuring driving rhythms and energetic guitar work.
‘Footsteps of a Fool (Shaky Ground)’: A mid-tempo song that combines introspective lyrics with a catchy melody.
‘Midnight Rain’: Features rich vocal harmonies and a smooth, laid-back vibe.

Under the Gun was well-received by Poco’s fan base, appreciated for its melodic strength and polished production. The album solidified their place in the country rock genre during the early 1980s. While the album did not achieve massive commercial success, it received positive reviews for its strong songwriting and cohesive sound.

Poco remains an influential band in the development of country rock, and ‘Under the Gun’ is an important part of their discography. The album reflects the band’s ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the 1980s while staying true to their roots.

Under the Gun by Poco is a noteworthy album that showcases the band’s blend of country rock and pop influences. With its catchy melodies, rich harmonies, and polished production, the album offers a compelling listening experience for fans of the genre. For those interested in the evolution of country rock and the enduring appeal of Poco, ‘Under the Gun’ is a significant and enjoyable album that highlights the band’s musical prowess and versatility.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal with promo punch in jacket

MCA Records 1980 MCA-5132

Track Listing
Under The Gun
While We’re Still Young
The Everlasting Kind
Down To The Wire
Footsteps Of A Fool (Shaky Ground)
Reputation
Midnight Rain
A Fool’s Paradise
Friends In The Distance
Made Of Stone