David Lindley
Guitarist Lindley first attracted attention for his work in a multitude of traditional USA groups, including the Smog City Trestle Hangers, the Mad Mountain Ramblers and the Dry City Scat Band. Having embraced rock music in the short-lived Rodents, he became a founder member of Kaleidoscope (USA), one of the '60s most enduring, and enigmatic, acts. Lindley's skills as a guitarist, violinist and banjo player were crucial to the eclectic approach of the group, which he led until its demise in 1970. During the '70s his talents were much in demand and David appeared as an accompanist for such diverse acts as Terry Reid, David Blue, Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor and Crosby And Nash. However, Lindley is best-recalled for his association with Jackson Browne which spanned seminal releases such as LATE FOR THE SKY, THE PRETENDER and RUNNING ON EMPTY. His wailing falsetto on Browne's version of Stay (1978) brought an unlikely UK/US Top 20 hit. In 1981, the guitarist released his first solo album, EL RAYO-X. The set featured a mixture of New Orleans, Latin and reggae styles and included versions of Mercury Blues, Twist And Shout and Petit Fleur, the last of which he also recorded with Kaleidoscope. Although several writers criticized its unadventurous content, there was no denying the infectious enthusiasm which Lindley clearly delighted in. Having formed a group around Bernie Larsen (guitar), Jorge Calderon (bass), Ian Wallace (drums) and Ras Baboo Pierre (percussion), David began extensive touring. The excitement they generated was captured on EL RAYO-X LIVE while further studio selections continued the eclectic mix of his debut. Lindley remains a consummate and skilled musician, never more apparent than in 1990 when he undertook live dates with Ry Cooder.