Artist:  Beat Farmers

Title: The Pursuit of Happiness

Date:  1987

Label: MCA Records   MCA 5993

Art Direction/Design: Tommy Steele/SteeleWorks

Front Cover Photography: Paul Maxon?Alan Dockery

Back Cover Photography: Stephen Collector  

Notes:  Don't let some of their more humorous tunes fool you, these guys are serious musicians and can play with the best of them. Along with my favorite Farmer's tune "God is Here Tonight", a tale of a wandering looney who's in touch with the big fella on a personal level, there are two great covers. The first is by Tom Waits and the second a classic from the man in black, Johnny Cash. After you listen to this record you'll believe it was Country Dick and not Mr. C who actually taught those weepin' willows how to cry. The lone buffalo on the cover is intent on finding his own happiness despite the nasty clouds overhead. I can't endorse these guys and their own brand of music enough. Sadly, Country Dick has left the building, but at least we've got his legacy on vinyl to comfort us. Sleep well Dick...

Line Up:

Joey Harris: vocals, lead, rhythm and slide guitar
Jerry Raney: vocals, lead & rhythm guitar, harp, drums on "Big River"
Country Dick Montana: vocals, drums, piano, accordian, subliminal masking, lead guitar on "Big River"
Rolle Love: lead & rhythm bass guitar

Track Listing

Side 1

Hollywood Hills
Ridin'
Dark light
Make it Last
Key to the World

Side 2

God is Here Tonight
Elephant Day Parade
Rosie
Texas
Big River