First under the Wire is the most sonically dazzling album yet by a group that specializes in flashy pop bombast. For ensemble virtuosity and harmonic sophistication in the Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young/Eagles tradition, Little River Band is hard to beat. Co-lead singer Glenn Shorrock suggests a David Crosby rejuvenated with Roger Daltrey's power. Four of the group's members are strongly melodic writers, and the fifth, drummer Derek Pellicci, really kicks.

Further reading on Super Seventies RockSite!: Little River Band Lyrics Little River Band Videos

Original album advertising art. Click image for larger view.

This isn't to suggest that most of the Little River Band's words aren't well intentioned. But this Australian quintet tries much, much too hard. It's a pity that these guys can't come up with lyrics to match their music, since their sound, at least on a technical level, is very impressive.

- Stephen Holden, Rolling Stone, 11/15/79.

Bonus Review!

Though the cool harmonies and pretty melodies dominate as they have done on previous efforts, two efforts here ("It's Not A Wonder" and "Man On The Run") show this Australian quintet can rock when it feels like it. Still, it's the midtempo and slow numbers that have earned the band fame and it doesn't disappoint. "Hard Life," with some stirring guitar work by David Briggs, is sure to become a favorite with fans while "Lonesome Loser" is charting well on the Hot 100. "Cool Change" features especially nice lyrics and breezy harmonies. Best cuts: Those mentioned above.

- Billboard, 1979.

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