At this point, the band was best-known as a British blues unit. Slowly but surely the band was becoming more acclimated with a production style that was reminiscent of the California pop sound. With the majority of the blues and psychedelic behind them,
Mystery to Me finds
Fleetwood Mac in a more ruminative vein. American guitarist
Bob Welch established that path. Despite the all-encompassing ethos,
Welch's songwriting skills made him walk a fine line between the mystical and the silly. But luckily most everything works here. The leadoff song, the laid-back "Emerald Eyes" matches
Welch's spacey lyrics and vocals as
Christine McVie provides great backing help. The album's best track, the gorgeous and lyrically strong "Hypnotized" has
Welch matching an effortless, soothing croon with jazzy guitar riffs. Throughout
Mystery to Me the amazing and almost telepathic drums and bass of
Mick Fleetwood and
John McVie give this effort more panache and muscle than was represented on this effort's predecessor,
Bare Trees. The best
Bob Welch offering, "Keep on Going," has a strong, soulful string arrangement and
Christine McVie's customary sensual and poised vocals. The only weak spot is the ill-advised cover of "For Your Love" that's steeped in hackneyed, post-psychedelic style.
Mystery to Me's interesting sound is directly attributed to the fact that it was recorded on the Rolling Stones Mobile Unit. This effort is custom-made for those who like thoughtful offerings and is a valuable set in the scheme of the band. ~ Jason Elias