Fleetwood Mac's 1990 release, Behind the Mask, marks a pivotal moment in the band's illustrious career. As their fifteenth studio album, it signifies a new era for the British-American rock band, following the departure of guitarist Lindsey Buckingham. Although Buckingham made a guest appearance on the album's title track, playing acoustic guitar, the band welcomed new members Billy Burnette and Rick Vito, both skilled guitar players, singers, and songwriters.
Produced by Fleetwood Mac and Greg Ladanyi, Behind the Mask boasts a diverse range of tracks, from the uplifting 'Skies the Limit' to the poignant 'Behind the Mask'. The album features a mix of classic rock and soft rock genres, showcasing the band's ability to craft memorable and enduring songs. With a duration of 54 minutes, the album takes the listener on a journey through 13 tracks, including 'Love Is Dangerous', 'In the Back of My Mind', and 'Affairs of the Heart'.
The album received critical acclaim, with a 3.5-star review from the Los Angeles Times, and was certified Gold by the RIAA in 1990, with over 500,000 units sold. Behind the Mask was released on 9 April 1990 via Warner Records, and its success can be attributed to the band's dedication to their craft and their ability to evolve while remaining true to their signature sound.
The 1990 tour in support of the album would be the only one featuring the six-piece lineup responsible for Behind the Mask, as both Christine McVie and Stevie Nicks would depart by the end of the year, along with Rick Vito. Despite the lineup changes, Fleetwood Mac's legacy endures, and Behind the Mask remains a testament to the band's innovative spirit and their ability to create music that continues to resonate with fans today.
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