John David Souther - Black Rose / 45RPM 2LP Analogue Productions

Album History

"Black Rose" is John David Souther's artistic masterpiece, an emotional album that combines the Californian country-rock sound with elegant, jazz-inflected sophistication. Originally released in 1976 on Asylum Records, the album serves as a musical document of the moment Souther truly found his voice as a songwriter's songwriter, surrounded by the elite of the Los Angeles music scene. With guest appearances by legends such as Linda Ronstadt, Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe Walsh, and David Crosby, "Black Rose" captures the intimate, sun-drenched magic of the West Coast like no other record of its time.

Edition Quality & Mastering

As part of the "Acoustic Sounds 40 Series," Analogue Productions celebrates this classic album with a collectible double LP edition. Cut at 45RPM, this pressing offers unparalleled dynamics and clarity, revealing every nuance of the original analog recordings. The album is pressed on 180-gram vinyl by the industry-leading Quality Record Pressings (QRP), ensuring a silent noise floor and superior fidelity, while the luxurious tip-on gatefold jacket by Stoughton Printing adds a premium feel to this essential addition to any collection.

Aesthetics & Construction

The meticulous remastering process from the original analog master tapes ensures that this edition delivers a sound quality never heard before. Every note exudes the studio craftsmanship of the 70s, featuring silky vocals, airy acoustic guitars, and rhythm sections that feel both relaxed and immaculate. "Black Rose" is a record that blossoms anew with every listen, providing a timeless and deeply human musical experience that will satisfy even the most demanding audiophile.

Sonic Experience

On "Black Rose," Souther tackles themes of heartbreak, love, and loss with a disarming honesty. Songs like "If You Have Crying Eyes," "Faithless Love," and the haunting title track embody the blend of vulnerability and effortless cool that defined the era. We recommend the use of "L'Art du Son" LP cleaner to wet wash your vinyl, as even high-quality new pressings benefit significantly from proper maintenance and cleaning.