Slug Line


Slug Line is singer-songwriter John Hiatt's third album, released in April 1979. It was the first of two albums with MCA Records. It was his first charting album, reaching No. 202 on Billboard's album charts, and also the highest-charting album during his first 15 years as a recording artist.

Background and recording

Hiatt had spent the previous 4 years without a recording contract. After opening for musician Leo Kottke, he caught the attention of Kottke's manager and producer, Denny Bruce. Bruce put together a demo, which caught the attention of MCA Records who signed him.
Slug Line was recorded in January and February 1979, and produced by Denny Bruce.

Release

Slug Line was released by MCA Records in April 1979. The album peaked at number 202 on the Billboard Bubbling Under chart. Two singles were released from the album, "Radio Girl" in April 1979, with "Sharon's Got a Drug Store" as the B-side, and "Slug Line."

Critical reception

The Rolling Stone Album Guide wrote that "Hiatt evinces a talent for disarmingly pretty ballads." Record World called the album a collection of "reggae laced semi-rockers." Billboard called the album an "appealing, uptempo rock 'n roll package," and that Hiatt "infuses various elements into his style, including calypso strains at times." Cash Box said that the album "fuses crisp rock 'n' roll energy, infectious Dave Edmunds-like vocals, and of course, his highly distinctive, imaginative compositions."

Track listing

All tracks are written by John Hiatt, except where noted.

Personnel

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