Album: Little Feat, Rooster Rag (Decca)

Consummate American roots'n'roll and a first taste of the band in the studio without drummer Richie Hayward.

Gabriel Ford is his replacement. No pressure, then. But he does all right. Most of the beloved Feat features are featured: sprung grooves, allusive lyrics, conducive vibe, plus a certain lack of vocal charisma. Notable guests are all over it, which may or may not contribute to the trad Featmosphere of self-satisfaction. Accomplished.