Album Review: “Share the Land” By The Guess Who

The First Album Without Randy Bachman

“Share the Land” was recorded a few months after the departure of founding member Randy Bachman who left at the height of their popularity because of health issues and conflicting lifestyle choices with his bandmates. And so still riding high on the success of “American Woman” which peaked at #9 on the US Billboard 200 and stayed on the charts for 55 weeks, The Guess Who released “Share the Land” on October 5, 1970.

With guitarists Kurt Winter and Greg Leskiw taking over Bachman’s lead guitar duties, The Guess Who managed to churn out something that exceeded everyone’s expectations. They used the same template from “American Woman” and that helped them retain their sound even sans Bachman on the lineup.

“Share the Land” is a solid and coherent effort. Considering that Bachman was a huge loss, The Guess Who definitely delivered.

“Bus Rider” is a catchy rock number. “Do You Miss Me Darlin’?” is a beautiful ballad with fine harmonies and stellar lead vocals by Burton Cummings. “Hand Me Down World” is fun and enjoyable. “Moan for You Joe” is on the jazzy side and with great drum work to boot. The anthemic title track features superb vocal performance.

“Hang On to Your Life” is fiery and heavy. “Coming Down Off the Money Bag” / “Song of the Dog” has that country feel. “Three More Days” is a blues rocker that clocks in at almost nine minutes.

“Share The Land” is undoubtedly one of The Guess Who’s finest musical moments.