Fleetwood Mac
Mirage
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

1982 Original pressing. Notably the git singles "Gypsy," "Love in Store," and "Hold Me". "Mirage," Fleetwood Mac's 13th studio album, released in 1982, sees the band returning to a familiar territory of soft rock and pop, albeit with a polished and radio-friendly sheen. Following the experimental and somewhat darker tones of their previous work, "Tusk," "Mirage" marks a deliberate shift back to the commercial sensibilities that defined the mega-success of "Rumours." Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic notes that the album retains the band's hallmark harmonious sound, layered with rich textures and catchy melodies. Lindsey Buckingham's production skills are evident throughout, crafting a cohesive soundscape that is both lush and accessible. Notable tracks like "Gypsy" and "Hold Me" exemplify the band's prowess in creating songs that are both sonically pleasing and emotionally resonant, showcasing the distinctive vocal interplay between Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie.

In a 1982 review, Robert Christgau highlights "Mirage" as an album that, while perhaps lacking the groundbreaking edge of Fleetwood Mac's earlier works, succeeds in its own right as a collection of finely-tuned pop songs. He points out that the album's charm lies in its subtlety and the band's ability to craft tunes that, while gentle, still carry a sense of depth and sincerity. The album's relaxed vibe is underscored by tracks like "Love in Store" and "Wish You Were Here," which embrace themes of love and longing with an understated elegance. While "Mirage" may not break new ground, it reinforces Fleetwood Mac's talent for creating music that is both timeless and relevant, a testament to their enduring appeal and their skillful navigation of the changing musical landscape of the early 1980s.