FLEETWOOD MAC - Tusk 2LP 12" VINYL Album

- Made in France

Fleetwood Mac's 1979 double album "Tusk" was a sonic departure, a sprawling and eclectic masterpiece that showcased the band's individual talents and penchant for the unexpected. While well-received upon its release, it has gained even greater appreciation over the years, seen by fans and critics as a high point of their creativity. The French vinyl edition of "Tusk" offers a unique perspective on this landmark album.

French Pressings: A Collector's Touch

French vinyl pressings are often prized by collectors for their potential audio quality differences. Subtle variations in mastering and the vinyl formulation itself can create a slightly different listening experience compared to releases from other countries. Specifically, French pressings may sometimes offer a warmer, more analog sound.

"Tusk": A Musical Adventure

"Tusk" marked a shift away from the accessible pop-rock that made "Rumours" such a phenomenal success. Instead, the band embraced a raw, almost punk-influenced edge spearheaded by guitarist and songwriter Lindsey Buckingham. His songs like "The Ledge" and "What Makes You Think You're the One" are jagged and frenetic, a stark contrast to the smooth harmonies the band was known for.

However, "Tusk" is far from one-dimensional. Christine McVie's contributions, such as "Over and Over" and "Think About Me", retain the melodic sweetness that defined her songcraft. And Stevie Nicks delivers her trademark mystical musings in tracks like "Sara" and "Sisters of the Moon".

The Double Album Experience

"Tusk" was one of the era's great double albums. Its expansiveness feels particularly fitting on the vinyl format. The act of flipping records breaks the album into digestible chunks, allowing the listener to appreciate the diversity within those sides. The larger artwork of a gatefold sleeve also adds to the experience, giving the iconic "Tusk" marching band image the space it deserves.

Following the global phenomenon of "Rumours", Fleetwood Mac faced immense pressure to replicate that level of mainstream success. Their 1979 double album "Tusk" was a deliberate act of defiance against those expectations. Instead of polished pop, the band delivered a sprawling, idiosyncratic collection of songs that showcased their individual songwriting talents and willingness to experiment.

A Departure from Pop Success

Musically, "Tusk" embraced a wider range of sounds than "Rumours". Lindsey Buckingham's compositions leaned toward a raw, angular sound with hints of punk and new wave. Christine McVie's songs retained hints of pop sensibility, while Stevie Nicks continued to weave her mystical, atmospheric tales. The result was sonically eclectic, defying easy categorization.

Commercial Performance

While "Tusk" was ultimately a commercial success, it didn't reach the stratospheric heights of "Rumours". It sold millions of copies, reaching double platinum status in the US, and spawned successful singles like "Tusk" and "Sara". However, it was perceived as an underperformance compared to its predecessor's monumental sales figures.

Critical Reevaluation and Enduring Influence

Despite the initial mixed commercial reception, "Tusk" gained critical acclaim and grew in stature over time. Music critics and fans came to appreciate the album's daring spirit and diverse musical landscapes. It's now regarded as a high point of the band's musical journey and has influenced countless artists who embrace experimentation and artistic autonomy.

The Power of Artistic Risk

Fleetwood Mac's "Tusk" offers a valuable lesson: artistic risk can be challenging commercially, but it can also lead to a unique legacy. The album's refusal to simply replicate a winning formula makes it a singular point in Fleetwood Mac's vast catalog and a testament to their enduring creative spirit.

Lindsey Buckingham: From Pop Maestro to Punk-Inspired Visionary

Buckingham, the driving force behind "Tusk", reveals his restless creative spirit on this record. His guitar work oscillates between fragile beauty on tracks like "Never Make Me Cry" and the raucous, almost unhinged energy of "The Ledge". His production techniques defy polished expectations, sometimes favoring lo-fi grit and unconventional song structures. This sonic evolution marks a deliberate break from the band's established sound.

Stevie Nicks: The Enchantress of Song

Nicks's contributions remain indelible. The aching beauty of "Sara", a timeless fan favorite, is amplified by her fragile vocals and sparse keyboard accompaniment. "Sisters of the Moon" drips with a captivating darkness, echoing her mystical lyrical persona. Even amongst the album's sonic eccentricities, Nicks's songwriting retains its ethereal power.

Christine McVie: Melodic Heart and Soul

McVie's presence on "Tusk" is the melodic balm to Buckingham's audacious experiments. "Over and Over" and "Think About Me" offer a sense of warmth and a return to the band's familiar pop roots. Her voice, always a touchstone of Fleetwood Mac's sound, and her assured keyboard work ground the album amidst its wilder explorations.

The Rhythm Section: John McVie & Mick Fleetwood, A Dynamic Foundation

The foundation of "Tusk" rests on the powerhouse rhythm section of John McVie and Mick Fleetwood. McVie's bass playing is rock-solid, a reliable anchor through the album's unpredictable shifts. Fleetwood's drumming is a masterclass in rhythmic innovation. The tribal intensity of the title track, "Tusk," finds the duo at their most dynamic, their propulsive energy fueling the track's climactic march.