Die-hard Fleetwood Mac fans like me have been waiting for the day “Buckingham Nicks” would be released on streaming services. On Sept. 19, a remastered version was finally released.
“Buckingham Nicks” was Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks’ album prior to joining Fleetwood Mac. A couple of songs were repurposed for “Fleetwood Mac” (1975) and “Rumours” (1977), such as “Crystal” and “Lola (My Love),” the latter of which turned into portions of “The Chain,” according to Hit Songs Deconstructed.
The album opens with “Crying in the Night,” a song featuring Nicks on vocals. As of Oct. 7, it is the most-streamed song on Spotify from the album. I think it is an alright track, the vocals are excellent, but this is not something I would have on repeat. Musically, it is like a wall of sound and gets repetitive.
“Stephanie” is a nice instrumental piece written by Buckingham for Nicks. It is in a weird place, being the second track on the album, though it would have been a great leitmotif for Nicks to use throughout her career if she and Buckingham had stayed together. The track has a certain aura to it.
“Without a Leg to Stand On” reflects on the life of a musician, a classic theme of music from the era. This is the first track on the album featuring Buckingham on vocals. It is on the shorter side, coming in at a little over 2 minutes long. It is a fun and a little fast tune, definitely speeding up the pacing of the album. The lyrics do not have too much substance, though.
Fleetwood Mac fans might recognize “Crystal,” which was reused in Fleetwood Mac’s 1975 self-titled album. This version is very stripped back compared to the 1975 version. Nicks would later release a version in 1998 for the “Practical Magic” soundtrack.” This is a highlight from the album — such a stunning song. I would not consider this the highlight from the album, but it is a cool track. “Buckingham Nicks” is where it all started for this song.
Next is what I consider the highlight from the album, with “Long Distance Winner.” It does not get any better than this song, from the opening line “sunflowers and your face fascinate me” to Nicks’ vocal performance. This is the song I wanted from this album on streaming services first; it is so incredible and nuanced. This could have been a Fleetwood Mac song. Buckingham’s guitar work shines here, too.
Die-hard Fleetwood Mac fans might recognize “Don’t Let Me Down Again” from live albums featuring the song. The special part here is the studio version is available on “Buckingham Nicks.” The song in its purest form, as it started and left the factory.
Two instrumental tracks on an album from two great singers that would go on to help Fleetwood Mac become one of the greatest bands of all time? Correct, with Django filling in the track seven slot. It is a little over a minute with this very Django-inspired guitar part. There is also a prominent use of strings in the background. This one I would consider a skip. It is cool, but there is far better to listen to on this album alone.
“Races Are Run” features a nice balance of Buckingham and Nicks taking vocals. Normally, throughout the album, it is either Buckingham or Nicks dominating the track; however, it is not the case with this track. Musically, it does lack a little substance, but it is a nice song for a sunset picnic.
The inspiration for part of “The Chain” fills track nine with “Lola (My Love).” The first 16 seconds, I am not a fan of, but when the guitar part really gets going, the song starts coming together. When the bass is added to the track, it is pure joy. The bass is so punchy — I love it. Listening to Lola, it is more about the music than the lyrics because the lyrics are lacking.
“Frozen Love” was the song that got Buckingham and Nicks into Fleetwood Mac. It is 7 minutes long, but the chorus is worth listening to. I love the idea of a frozen love, especially with Buckingham and Nicks being on and off again after their breakup.
“Buckingham Nicks” is the blast from the past streaming services needed. This puts their tenure in Fleetwood Mac into context. It is such a privilege to have this album easily accessible now.
