Chris Hillman never seems to get his due. His band mates and collaborators always seems to get more acclaim than he does, despite almost 40 years of creating excellent American music. This 1977 album came after Hillman, J.D. Souther, and Richie Furay failed to become the new Eagles and is one of the strongest outings of his career. That is saying a lot as Hillman was a key part of the Byrds "Sweetheart of the Rodeo," the Flying Burrito Brothers "Gilded House of Sin," and "Manassas" with Stephen Stills. Yet Gram Parsons, Roger McGuinn, Emmy Lou Harris, David Crosby, and Stills sport stronger reputations than Hillman in the eyes and ears of many music critics. Maybe Hillman is just too nice a guy. Whatever, this solo album (the first of his career) features several great songs in the 1970s Southern California singer-songwriter mold. If the Eagles had covered "Slippin' Away," it would be in constant rotation today on classic rock radio. "Step on Out" is a great opener and later a country hit for the Oak Ridge Boys. "Love is the Sweetest Amnesty" is as sweet as its' title and "(Take Me In Your) Lifeboat" is a rousing gospel closer. Hillman is a fine singer, deft Mandolin and bass player, and a strong songwriter. His recent work with Herb Pederson and with Larry and Tony Rice is rich and rewarding. This album got lost in the country rock glut of the mid-1970s, but it stands out nicely today as one of the best solo efforts from a former Byrd.
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