A Nod’s As Good As A Wink... To A Blind Horse

A Nod’s As Good As A Wink... To A Blind Horse- Album Overview

"A Nod’s As Good As A Wink... To A Blind Horse," released on July 14, 1971, is the third studio album by the British rock band Faces. Known for their lively, bluesy rock sound and charismatic performances, Faces consisted of former Small Faces members Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones, alongside legendary Rod Stewart and guitarist Ronnie Wood. The album was released under the Warner Bros. Records label and was produced by the band in collaboration with renowned producer Glyn Johns, who had previously worked with The Rolling Stones and The Who.

The recording took place at the famed Olympic Studios in London, where the band infused their energetic live sound into the album. The album features an eclectic mix of rock, pub rock, and elements of folk, showcasing the band’s ability to blend genres seamlessly. Notable singles from the album include "Stay with Me," a quintessential Faces anthem that highlights Stewart's raspy vocals and the band’s tight instrumentation, and "Miss Judy's Farm," which further exemplifies their lyrical storytelling and musical prowess.

Culturally, the album stands as a testament to the early '70s rock scene, capturing the spirit of the time with its raw, unpolished sound and relatable themes of love, hedonism, and the everyday struggles of life. "A Nod’s As Good As A Wink..." is widely regarded as one of the defining albums of the Faces' career, solidifying their place in rock history and influencing countless artists in the decades to follow.

Review

The sound of "A Nod’s As Good As A Wink..." is a delightful concoction of rock and roll grit, underpinned by a sense of joviality that resonates throughout the album. The opening track, "Bad 'N' Ruin," sets the tone with its infectious rhythm and impassioned vocals from Stewart, immediately drawing listeners into the band's world. The lyrical content ranges from exuberant party anthems to more introspective ballads, reflecting the duality of the band's nature—both carefree and deeply contemplative.

The interplay between Wood’s guitar riffs and Lane’s bass lines creates a compelling sonic landscape, while McLagan's keyboards and Jones's drumming provide a solid backbone. The production by Glyn Johns captures the band's raw energy, giving the album an authentic feel that resonates with fans of classic rock. However, it’s the charisma of Rod Stewart that often steals the spotlight, his vocal delivery imbued with a blend of swagger and vulnerability that elevates tracks like "Stay with Me" to anthemic heights.

Overall, the album embodies the spirit of camaraderie and fun that defined the Faces, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and entertain listeners today.

Highlights

• Engaging and energetic performances from all band members.
• Memorable singles that showcase the band's musical range.
• Authentic production that captures the raw essence of the live sound.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel less polished compared to contemporary releases.
• Occasional lyrical vagueness that might not resonate with all listeners.
• The album's style may not appeal to fans of more mainstream rock.

Overall evaluation

"A Nod’s As Good As A Wink... To A Blind Horse" is a vibrant reflection of the Faces' unique sound and charisma. Its blend of rock and roll exuberance with heartfelt themes makes it a landmark album of its time.