Gerry Rafferty
is a huge talent, but a reluctant star. Management struggles and sundry other hindrances limited his output, but couldn't avert the Scot from releasing two legendary singles -- the
Tarantino
-ized
"Stuck in the Middle With You"
and the unforgettable
"Baker Street,"
the latter included on this record. Just a glimpse of
John Patrick Byrne
's cool cover art lets the listener know
City to City
houses
Rafferty
's day in the sun as he conquers the world one metropolis at a time, his guitar and amp in tow. Setting out in his apocalyptic
"Ark,"
each song radiates the confidence of a master craftsman cruising in his prime, constructing brilliant
pop
confections with top-flight support while awaiting the crunch of civilization. The dreamy reality check
"Baker Street"
rightfully remains one of the greatest cuts in
history. Forever-lost B-side
"Big Change in Weather"
further demonstrates
was on a rare roll. Domestic valentine
"Right Down the Line"
snugly followed to the height of the charts, and third release,
"Home and Dry,"
while not of an immortal status, stands as a quality song. He even stomps out a smooth hoedown on the title track.
's turns of phrase and tight composition skills create a fresh sound and perspective all his own. Any diverse style (and he attempts many) filters through his unique mindset, resulting in a classic platter buoyed by many moments of sheer genius. "Whatever's written in your heart, that's all that matters." ~ Doug Stone