Gene Clark is best known for his time with The Byrds during the mid-60’s, but his solo work that followed is truly where he began to shine as an artist. His album No Other is honestly somewhat of a lost masterpiece, similar in a way to Dennis Wilson’s magnum opus Pacific Ocean Blue— two great artists wracked with substance abuse issues, chasing the ghosts of glory from a not so long forgotten past, and delivering an ambitious album that explores the varied depths of the human condition.
In preparation for recording No Other, Clark retreated to his coastal home in Mendocino that overlooked the Pacific Ocean and spent over a year composing songs. Despite rumors to the contrary, Clark’s wife Carlie confirmed that he was sober during this period and focused on his family rather than drug experimentation (which was certainly a departure considering his personal history). The album covers themes influenced by his Christian upbringing and discussions on Theosophy and Zen practices, which earned him the (frankly incredible) moniker “hillbilly Shakespeare” as one of the most inspiring songwriters of his generation. Clark cited Stevie Wonder’s Innervisions and The Rolling Stones’ Goats Head Soup as major inspirations, noting their contrasting themes as a creative influence. Those contrasting themes would ultimately play out when Clark went to record the album– after a period of sobriety during the songwriting process, Clark took a significant plunge into the LA party scene as No Other was being recorded, setting him back on a path of abuse that would ultimately claim his life at the age of 45 years later.
That soul-searching which Clark was experiencing in his personal life came through in the music. Blending folk rock, country, and orchestral arrangements, No Other stands out for its lush, expansive sound, especially in relation to a lot of the albums I’ve listened to from that period. The album’s arrangements are marked by intricate layers, with strings, gospel choruses, and a variety of instruments creating a cinematic feel that feels larger than life and intensely intimate all the same time. Tracks like “No Other” and “Strength of Strings” highlight Clark’s ability to weave personal and spiritual themes into an almost cosmic musical tapestry.
Despite its innovative approach and critical acclaim, No Other faced commercial challenges upon release, partly due to its departure from mainstream trends. It’s failure at the time was something that Clark apparently never got over. However, over time, it has been rediscovered and celebrated for both its depth as well as its pioneering sound. The album’s blend of introspective songwriting and elaborate production reflects Clark’s unique vision and remains a profound influence on alternative and folk rock genres. It’s a forgotten masterpiece rediscovered.
Standout Songs: “Silver Raven”, “No Other”, “Strength of Strings”, “Some Misunderstanding”
