The Mamas & The Papas - People Like Us mp3 album

This album has worn a lot better than people gave it credit for upon initial release. I remember Dave Marsh of Rolling Stone and Robert Christgau absolutely savaging this record when it came out - underservedly, really. Yes, it was a last gasp - it came years after the group's official "breakup" and had the scent of a money grab at first. Papa John's lyrics weren't as incisive as they once had been; you could see the toll the H had been taking on him, both musically (and personally, in the cover photos). Yes, it had that slick '70s soft-rock sheen. But the writing was still great; the musicianship impeccable, and Cass & Michelle's soaring harmonies completely intact. And there are gems here - "Snowqueen of Texas", "Step Out", and even the throwaway "Pacific Coast Highway", an ode to better days. If you're a Mamas & Papas fan and don't have this in your collection, get it - otherwise you're missing the coda to their incredible song.