On this episode, we discuss Fleetwood Mac’s sixth album, 1972’s Bare Trees. This album was released during the period between co-founder Peter Green's departure from the band and Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nick's arrival and is easily the most overlooked and underappreciated period in Fleetwood Mac's long history. This period marks a tumultuous time for the band, full of dizzying personnel changes and exploration of new musical directions away from their blues-based beginnings into what would ultimately become one of the most popular bands ever.
Fleetwood Mac is no stranger to drama, and the story of this album is no exception. Guitarist Bob Welch (who would later find success as a solo artist) and keyboardist Christine McVie (nee Perfect) each contributed songs that provide a glimpse into the pop direction the band would take in subsequent albums. However, the unsung leader of the band for this album was a 22-year-old guitarist named Danny Kirwan. While issues with alcohol and his erratic temper would eventually see him fired from the band while on tour in support of this album, Bare Trees is a testament to Kirwin’s talent as a songwriter, a singer, and above all, an unbelievably exceptional and one of a kind guitarist.
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