Jay Ferguson Real Life Ain't This Way CD

Spirit and Jo Jo Gunne veteran Jay Ferguson had one of the most enjoyable hits of the '70s with 1977's "Thunder Island." The vocalist/keyboardist was spared one-hit wonder status with one more Top 40 single, the terrific "Shakedown Cruise" from the 1979 follow-up Real Life Ain't This Way. It's a slick, professionally performed album, but except for "Shakedown Cruise," the songs aren't terribly memorable. The high level of craftsmanship is due to the personnel involved. The executive producer is Bill Szymczyk and the musicians include ex-Jo Jo Gunne and future Boston drummer Curly Smith and latter-day James Gang guitarist Bob Webb. Also lending a hand are Joe Walsh and Walsh's longtime drummer, Joe Vitale. The sleek interplay between Webb and additional guitarist Tony Battaglia provides integral support for Ferguson, particularly on "Shakedown Cruise." The spry piano chords and bright-yet-crunchy guitars fit nicely with the vocal melody. A bouncy, Billy Joel-esque feel permeates "No Secrets." The jazzy saxophone solo by Col Clesser adds a bit of spice to the otherwise laid-back "Real Life Ain't That Way." The lyrics of "Davey" are slight, thus, it would have been better off as an instrumental to showcase the musicians' skills. There's a bit of sparkle to "Paying Time," which includes Walsh on lead guitar. The pleasant ballad "Too Late to Save Your Heart" is punctuated by Mark Colby's saxophone work. A straightforward cover medley of the Rolling Stones' "Let's Spend the Night Together" and "Have You Seen Your Mother, Baby, Standing in the Shadow?" is indicative of both a shortage of original songs and a desire to just have a fun studio jam. Real Life Ain't This Way is long out of print. ~ Bret Adams

Jay followed up his hit album and single 'Thunder Island' with another hit single, 'Shakedown Cruise', and another hit album, Real Life Ain't This Way (1979), which built off its predecessor's success with more laid-back but gutsy fare. Both Joe Walsh and guitarist Bob Webb shine here. Collectors' Choice Music. 2003.

Includes liner notes by Matthew Greenwald.