One-Eyed Jack, Garland Jeffreys - Promo

Garland Jeffreys – One-Eyed Jack

Artist: Garland Jeffreys

Title: One-Eyed Jack

Album Type: Third Studio Album

Original Release Date: 1978

Label: A&M Records

Genre: Rock / Soul / Reggae / New York Rock

Background & Production Released as the follow-up to his critically acclaimed Ghost Writer, One-Eyed Jack finds Garland Jeffreys further refining his role as the "urban poet" of New York City. Produced by Jeffreys himself alongside David Spinozza, the album was recorded at Atlantic Studios. Jeffreys utilized an incredible roster of musicians, including bassist Will Lee, drummer Steve Gadd, and even Luther Vandross on backing vocals. The album is a sophisticated blend of genres, reflecting Jeffreys' multi-racial heritage and his unique position in the late-70s New York scene alongside contemporaries like Lou Reed and Bruce Springsteen.

Musical Composition & Style The album is a masterclass in eclectic songwriting, moving seamlessly from cinematic rock to street-level soul.

• Theatrical Storytelling: The title track "One-Eyed Jack" and "Screaming Through the Lamp Post" showcase Jeffreys' ability to paint vivid, gritty pictures of city life, delivered with his signature soulful, often urgent vocal style.

• Reggae & Groove: Jeffreys was an early adopter of reggae influences in American rock. Tracks like "She Didn't Lie" demonstrate his ability to integrate authentic Jamaican rhythms with a polished R&B sensibility.

• Balladry: The album features beautiful, introspective moments like "Reincarnation," which highlight the melodic sensitivity that set him apart from the more aggressive punk and wave acts of the era.

Legacy & Collector Notes While Garland Jeffreys remains one of the most underrated figures in American rock, One-Eyed Jack is highly prized by collectors of "The New York Sound." It is frequently praised for its high production values and its "clean yet tough" aesthetic. For vinyl enthusiasts, the original A&M pressings are noted for their exceptional clarity, particularly in the rhythm section. It is an essential item for any store that champions the literate, soulful side of 1970s rock and roll.

• Keywords: Garland Jeffreys, One-Eyed Jack, A&M Records, 1978 Vinyl, New York Rock, Soul Rock, Reggae Influence, Steve Gadd, Will Lee.

• Collection Ideas: New York City Poets, 70s Soul-Rock Fusion, Underrated Rock Classics, Urban Storytellers.

• Related Artists: Lou Reed, Graham Parker, Bruce Springsteen, Willy DeVille, Southside Johnny.

MINT - sealed

NM - likely never played - almost perfect

VG+ - light scuffs, light scratches wont effect play

VG -  signs of wear, light scratches you can feel

GOOD -  surface noise, visible groove wear

POOR / FAIR- some damage, causing issues like skipping & distorted audio

OIS - original inner sleeve