Eagles
Hotel California
Asylum/WEA 7E 1084
Gate-fold cover
Original inner sleeve and poster also in very good condition

took 18 months between their fourth and fifth albums, reportedly spending eight months in the studio recording . The album was also their first to be made without , who had given the band much of its country flavor, and with rock guitarist . As a result, the album marks a major leap for from their earlier work, as well as a stylistic shift toward mainstream rock. An even more important aspect, however, is the emergence of as the band's dominant voice, both as a singer and a lyricist. On the six songs to which he contributes, sketches a thematic statement that begins by using California as a metaphor for a dark, surreal world of dissipation; comments on the ephemeral nature of success and the attraction of excess; branches out into romantic disappointment; and finally sketches a broad, pessimistic history of America that borders on nihilism. Of course, the lyrics kick in some time after one has appreciated the album's music, which marks a peak in ' playing. Early on, the group couldn't rock convincingly, but the rhythm section of and has finally solidified, and the electric guitar work of and has arena-rock heft. In the early part of their career, never seemed to get a sound big enough for their ambitions; after changes in producer and personnel, as well as a noticeable growth in creativity, unveiled what seemed almost like a whole new band. It was a band that could be bombastic, but also one that made music worthy of the later tag of "classic rock," music appropriate for the arenas and stadiums the band was playing. The result was ' biggest-selling regular album release, and one of the most successful rock albums ever.

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