Walter Egan's big hit, "Magnet & Steel," was issued on his
Not Shy album in 1978, his sophomore effort. It was the only chart score he ever had. That said, this two-fer reissue of
Egan's first two offerings is a solid chapter in the California pop/rock canon of the 1970s. History is kind in its view here, because
Egan's own songwriting is top-notch, and having
Lindsey Buckingham as a producer -- with backing vocals from
Stevie Nicks on both albums -- couldn't hurt either, since this was
Mac's prime era. These are solid outings, the groove quotient is high, the vibes are warm and sunny, and the attitude is perfect -- with a fine balance between sweetness and swagger. Other standouts include "She's So Tough," "Surfin' & Drivin'" (with
Dean Torrence from
Jan & Dean), and "When I Get My Wheels."