The fifth studio album in succession to top the American charts, but, like its predecessor it only made No.2 in Britain.
Work on the album began prior to the Tour of the Americas the previous year and continued in various locations until it was completed in New York City in February 1976. It’s Ronnie Wood’s first studio album as a band member, but it also features guitarists Wayne Perkins and Harvey Mandel, both of whom can be heard on the classic ballad, ‘Memory Hotel’ on which Mick and Keith trade vocals. ‘Melody’, a jazz influenced track, was inspired by Billy Preston, who as well as appearing live with the band during this period is heard on the album playing piano, organ and synthesizer. With its cover shot taken by Hiro, the Japanese fashion photographer, it harks back to album covers from early days of the Stones’ career.
