Don Felder

Top musicians often have demos and snippets of ideas saved – some that were perhaps quite good but never finished. Don Felder’s new album rescues such worthy pieces from his archive, mostly built from demos recorded 50-plus years ago, plus a re-recorded favorite and two new songs. The former Eagles member recruited a who’s who of all-star friends to add to his guitar and lead-vocal work, including guitar hero Steve Lukather and bassists Nathan East and Matt Bissonette. “Move On” shimmies on the funk feel, including horns and Felder’s slide solo. The dreamy “Hollywood Victim” opens with smooth keyboards but the guitar takes over, including a glossy solo with bite. The upbeat “I Like the Things You Do” races along with pulsing synthesizer and dramatic guitar riffs. The rowdy melodic rocker “All Girls Love to Dance” sounds like it time-traveled from the mid ’80s. “Heavy Metal” is Felder’s remake of his title track from the 1981 cult classic animated sci-fi/fantasy film of the same name, with its power chords, riffs, and chorus intact. “Let Me Down Easy” is a beautiful ballad with Nina Winter’s clear, ringing lead vocals and Felder’s soaring slide. These songs are substantial, not out of sight/out of mind throwaways. – Bret Adams This article originally appeared in VG’s July 2025 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.