John Phillips – Jack of Diamonds

John Phillips’ previously unreleased solo recordings from 1973 are turned uncharacteristically urban and funky by members of the Crusaders, Traffic, and the Mothers Of Invention. Shorn of the group harmonies that marked his work with the Mamas & the Papas, Phillips’ voice is surprisingly unrecognizable, ranging through fervent staccato phrases, lizardy Lou Reed monotones, and the deadpan Leonard Cohen delivery of the title track. “Jack Of Diamonds” is the set’s best-known title, having become a Grateful Dead road staple. With Van Dyke Parks and members of the Wrecking Crew, the album’s range is tremendous, fitting Phillips into jazz-rock, soul, cabaret, country, and orchestral pop. Bonuses include contemporaneous pieces from film projects and abandoned tracks from the final Mamas & Papas sessions. It’s hard to recommend this as a follow-up to Phillips’ more famous work, but as a stand-alone confluence of early ’70s styles in the hands of a talented songwriter, it’s a great discovery.