ABOUT THIS ITEM

In 1980 Gil re-signed with Arista records as a solo artist, following on from the successful partnership with Brian Jackson with whom he had co-written, performed and recorded since 1969. “Real Eyes” was the first of three albums which he would record under the new deal, “Reflections” and “Moving Target” would follow in 1981 and 1982.

“Real Eyes” featured a new band the Amnesia Express who would be Gil’s band both in the studio and on the road for many years. It was co-produced by Gil with Malcolm Cecil who had been involved in the recording and mixing of the three previous albums “Bridges”, “Secrets” and “1980” which were also recorded in Malcolm’s TONTO studio in California. Malcolm is the pioneering British jazz bassist, who was a founding member of the Jazz Couriers, and collaborator and co-producer of Stevie Wonder’s Grammy award winner albums of the early to mid 70s.

Gil’s unique song writing style and delivery is evident throughout and “Real Eyes” has a much jazzier and more open feel than the pervious album. The up tempo "Train From Washington", "Waiting For The Axe To Fall" contrast with the mellower "You Could Be My Brother" and "Not Needed" every track telling a powerful story. "The Klan" unusually not written by Gil - a cover of a song recorded by Richie Havens in 1968 is especially poignant.