Michael Fennelly – Lane Changer

Michael Fennelly – Lane Changer

Before becoming a solo artist, Michael Fennelly established himself as a songwriter and vocalist in two fascinating groups from the American West Coast scene: The Millennium, whose richly layered recordings became cult favourites among sunshine-pop and psychedelic-pop enthusiasts, and Crabby Appleton, the Los Angeles rock band known for the 1970 hit “Go Back”. With Lane Changer, his first solo album, Fennelly brought together his melodic instincts and a harder-edged rock sound.

Originally released on Epic Records in 1973, Lane Changer was recorded in England with producer Chris White, formerly of The Zombies. The sessions brought Fennelly together with an accomplished group of musicians, including members associated with Argent. The result is a guitar-centred album that combines tuneful songwriting with muscular rock arrangements, expressive lead playing and the polished musicianship characteristic of the era.

The opening title track establishes the album's direct, energetic approach, while “Touch My Soul” and “Won't You Please Do That” showcase Fennelly's ear for memorable melodies. “Over My Dead Body” adds a tougher rock edge, and “Dark Night” offers another highlight for listeners drawn to the instrumental detail and studio textures of early-1970s rock.

The second side continues the balance between melodic accessibility and guitar-driven arrangements. “Shine A Light” provides a concise, song-focused moment, while “Bad Times” stretches out over nearly six minutes. “Flyer” maintains the album's brisk momentum before “Watch Yerself” and “Give Me Your Money” bring the record to its conclusion.

Fennelly's musical background gives Lane Changer a distinctive place between the sophisticated harmonies of late-1960s sunshine pop and the more forceful sound of early-1970s album-oriented rock. Its appeal extends to fans of Crabby Appleton, The Millennium, classic American rock, power-pop-adjacent songwriting and overlooked solo albums from the period.

For collectors exploring the connections between psychedelic pop, West Coast harmony music and guitar-led 1970s rock, Lane Changer is a worthwhile entry in Michael Fennelly's catalogue and a revealing snapshot of his development as a solo songwriter and performer.

Tracklist

Side A

A1. Lane Changer — 2:34
A2. Touch My Soul — 4:03
A3. Won't You Please Do That — 3:14
A4. Over My Dead Body — 2:36
A5. Dark Night — 4:25
A6. Easy To Love — 3:03

Side B

B1. Shine A Light — 3:02
B1. Bad Times — 5:54
B3. Flyer — 2:51
B4. Watch Yerself — 3:29
B5. Give Me Your Money — 4:03