Desperado – Eagles (Vinyl 12" LP)
Released in 1973, Desperado is the second studio album by the Eagles and one of the earliest examples of a concept album in country rock. Inspired by themes of the Old West and the outlaw lifestyle, the record paints a cinematic portrait of anti-heroes and emotional isolation. Produced by Glyn Johns and featuring arrangements by Jim Ed Norman, Desperado marked a significant step forward in the band's songwriting depth, particularly through the collaboration of Glenn Frey and Don Henley.
Key Highlights
- Features classic tracks such as Tequila Sunrise, Outlaw Man, and the haunting title ballad Desperado
- A country rock concept album loosely themed around Wild West outlaws and American mythology
- Produced by legendary engineer Glyn Johns, known for his work with The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin
- Often reissued on high-grade 180g vinyl for enhanced analogue warmth
- Noted for its lush string arrangements and tighter focus on narrative lyricism
Tracklisting
Side A
1. Doolin-Dalton
2. Twenty-One
3. Out of Control
4. Tequila Sunrise
5. Desperado
Side B
6. Certain Kind of Fool
7. Doolin-Dalton (Instrumental)
8. Outlaw Man
9. Saturday Night
10. Bitter Creek
11. Doolin-Dalton / Desperado (Reprise)
Fun Fact
Although Desperado didn’t yield any Top 40 singles upon initial release, its title track has become one of the Eagles’ most enduring songs—despite never being released as a single.
Why You Should Buy This Vinyl
- A formative work in the evolution of 1970s country rock and the Eagles’ songwriting legacy
- Essential for vinyl collectors seeking Americana themes with rich analog instrumentation
- Deep, cinematic storytelling enhanced by the full-range dynamics of vinyl playback
- A beautifully sequenced album that rewards immersive listening from start to finish
Desperado is more than just a western-themed album—it’s a reflective, finely crafted journey through emotional and cultural frontiers. On vinyl, its warm textures and narrative power truly come to life.