Released on his birthday (10-3-1981) is Lindsey's first solo recording Law and Order.
This is a bold move on his part considering the commercial backlash of Fleetwood Mac's 1979 Tusk, but he approaches the project wisely and carefully. He is on his own doing his own thing here, but he plays down his trademark idiosyncrasies so as not to scare off the general public.
Peaking at #9 on Billboard's Singles Chart is "Trouble," easily the strongest track. His sexy, breathy vocals are complemented by his intricate guitar work and Mick Fleetwood's signature drumming.
He does a nice if not quirky job with his follow-up release "It Was I," written by Gary S. Paxton. "September Song" by Maxwell Anderson/Kurt Weill and "A Satisfied Mind," by Red Hayes/Jack Rhodes are the other two covers. Otherwise, Lindsey writes his own material and plays most of the instruments. "Satisfied" is a good choice as it sounds autobiographical. Lyrics like "Money can't buy back your youth when you're old/or a friend when you're lonely or a love that's grown cold" already seemed too relevant at the time of release.
Lindsey also shows his playful side with "I'll Tell You Now," which he never does, and "That's How We Do It in L.A." He rhymes "lonely" with "only" but makes it function here.
He introduces us to "Johnny Stew" about whom "everybody's talking about," and celebrates "Love From Here, Love From There" with enthusiasm.
"Shadow of the West" is a beautiful ballad featuring Christine McVie on background vocals.
Although the album stalled at #32 on Billboard's Album Chart, there is enough of his own brand and style to satisfy most of his fans. He and Fleetwood Mac would return with 1982's tepid Mirage, but for now he keeps everything in order.
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