Album of the Day

Though it was recorded in London's Olympic Studios (with noted producer Glyn Johns behind the boards), the first Eagles album helped define Southern California country-rock. The 1972 Asylum collection may be best known for its laid-back Top 40 singles - “Take it Easy,” “Witchy Woman” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling” - but there's plenty to enjoy beyond the hits, with all four members distinguishing themselves as excellent singers and songwriters. HOTEL CALIFORNIA might have been cited more frequently in remembrances of the late Glenn Frey, but the platinum-selling EAGLES shows that his band's consummate craftsmanship and ear for great songs were there from the very beginning.