#99 Hotel California: Eagles!

Journey Through Apple Music’s Top 100 Albums: Hotel California by The Eagles

Welcome back to “Journey Through Apple Music’s Top 100 Albums”! In this episode, we’re diving into the iconic album ranked at number 99: Hotel California by the Eagles. This classic rock masterpiece, released in 1976, remains a cornerstone of rock music, showcasing the band’s versatility and storytelling prowess. Here’s my track-by-track breakdown and review of this timeless album.

Hotel California

This song is a classic for a reason. The intro guitar riff is smooth and instantly transports you back to the 70s. The song’s atmosphere is almost cinematic, which is why it’s frequently used in movies. Interestingly, the Eagles’ sound doesn’t quite match their look when you see their pictures from that era. One thing that stands out is their ability to create music that tells a story—a lost art in today’s music scene. The silent break transition at around 3:27 is subtle but powerful, leading seamlessly into an iconic guitar solo. A great guitar solo, like this one, is what makes rock music so captivating. It’s a moment where one musician draws all the attention and just jams out. Rating: 9/10.

New Kid in Town

This track has a country vibe that you wouldn’t immediately associate with the same band that made “Hotel California.” The drastic shift in sound is intriguing. When I listen to music, I often imagine a scene from a movie or TV show that it could accompany. For this song, I pictured a new kid driving around a town, taking in the sights as the sun sets. It’s a testament to the Eagles’ storytelling ability through music. Rating: 7/10.

Life in the Fast Lane

Every song on this album sounds different, which is a pleasant surprise. Even the vocals have a distinct feel in each track. The instrumental outros are a highlight for me, adding depth and character to each song. I didn’t realize that this song and “Hotel California” were by the same band until now. The varied sound keeps the album interesting. Rating: 8/10.

Wasted Time

At first, I thought I was hearing “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly, which made me wonder if he sampled this song. “Wasted Time” has moments that remind me of other songs, indicating its influence on subsequent music. It gave me strong Elton John vibes, particularly “Your Song.” The emotional depth and lyrical quality are impressive. Rating: 9.1/10.

Wasted Time (Reprise)

As a theatre nerd, I loved this reprise. It brings a theatrical element to the album that adds to its charm.

Victim of Love

One thing 70s and 80s rock bands excelled at was starting songs with a strong hook to draw in the audience. “Victim of Love” is no exception, though it isn’t my favorite track on the album. It’s still a solid song but doesn’t stand out as much as some others. Rating: 6.9/10.

Pretty Maids All in a Row

This is a chill, relaxing song. It feels like the kind of track parents might play for their kids as they leave home. It’s soothing and nostalgic. Rating: 7/10.

Try and Love Again

Another laid-back track that makes you want to cruise down a coastal road with the windows down. It’s perfect for a relaxed drive and just soaking in the moment. Rating: 8/10.

The Last Resort

The album closes strongly with “The Last Resort.” The song features poignant lyrics and a compelling narrative that leaves a lasting impression. It deserves more recognition and discussion. Rating: 8/10.

Overall Rating

Overall, “Hotel California” by the Eagles scores an 8/10 for me. The album’s diversity in sound and storytelling depth makes it a standout in the rock genre. Each track offers something unique, keeping the listener engaged from start to finish. Stay tuned for the next album on our journey through Apple Music’s Top 100 Albums!