Topaz

Released in 1977, Topaz's sole self-titled CBS Records album is mainly remembered for the resumés of its featured players and supporting cast. Bassist/vocalist Rob Stoner had appeared on Bob Dylan's 1975-1976 Rolling Thunder Revue tour; he, in turn, formed Topaz with guitarist Billy Cross and vocalist Jasper Hutchison.

A few notable names popped up in the credits: percussionist Luther Rix and drummer/pianist Howard Wyeth had played, respectively, on Bob Dylan's Desire and Hard Rain albums; and Journey's Aynsley Dunbar provided additional percussive muscle. Mick Ronson, formerly of David Bowie's band, also appeared on piano (not guitar).

These combined efforts resulted in an album brimming with Wild West-fueled references to cowboys, gamblers, and outlaws which also made no commercial splash. That left Cross and Stoner free to work again with Dylan on his 1978 world tour, while Hutchison graced John Cipoliina's Raven album (1980). ~ Ralph Heibtuzki, Rovi