by dmac5-1
09 Dec, 2015
A "Diamond In The Rough".
Thomas Jefferson "Tommy" Kaye (born Thomas Jefferson Kontos, 1940/42? – September 16, 1994) was an American record producer, singer-songwriter and musician, born in North Dakota. Described as a "legendary hipster", he worked as a songwriter and producer with a wide variety of musicians including The Shirelles, Loudon Wainwright III, and Gene Clark (The Byrds), and also recorded three solo albums. In later years, Kaye suffered from alcohol and drug dependency, and from illnesses including diabetes. He died in a hospital in Warwick, New York, in 1994, after apparently taking an overdose of painkillers. "Not Alone" (1992), the third and final solo offering from Kaye, features an eye-popping All-Star guest line-up that includes Eric Clapton, Dr. John, Steve Miller, Joe Walsh, Don Henley, and Timothy B. Schmitt (The Eagles), Robby Krieger (The Doors), Rick Danko (The Band), Jeff "Skunk" Baxter (The Doobie Brothers), Charlie Harrison (Poco), Rick Vito (Fleetwood Mac), Danny Chauncy (.38 Special), and the "Chicago" horns, among others. The album is a mostly eclectic mix of bluesy roots rockers, weedy boogie, meandering instrumentals, mid-weight driving tunes, and "Neil Young-esque" hum-alongs. The song "Vanessa" was a strong favorite. I admit that I bought this CD on a whim (not having ever known of T.J. Kaye), being a huge Joe Walsh fan and follower. Having researched it, and learning of the incredible line-up assembled on it, it seemed like a no-brainer / must-have. While it's not up there with any type of the "epic/classic" works of these upper echelon artists, it is an above average offering from a long-standing veteran of his craft. I had the most fun just trying to bend my ear just right to pick up on each of the stylings of this talented cast of characters! Definitely worth a spin and a few bucks. Harmless fun! Enjoy!!
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned