Ex-Beau Brummels guitarist and vocalist Ron Elliott recorded this, his lone solo effort, during the waning months of 1969. In much the same way that he and Sal Valentino had done on their landmark release, Bradley's Barn, Elliott's pastoral compositions and folky country-rock execution are animated by a handful of equally brilliant West Coast session heavies -- including luminaries such as Chris Ethridge (bass), jazz legend Bud Shank (woodwinds), Leon Russell (brass arrangements), Ry Cooder (guitar), Lyle Ritz (bass), Paul Humphries (drums), and Dennis Dragon (drums). With hints at the styles of Tim Buckley and David Ackles worked into the rich imagery of his narrative, The Candlestick Maker is a thoroughly enjoyable work and recommended for fans of early-'70s West Coast singer/songwriters.
