Album Review

Doug Stone [allmusic.com]

Gerry Rafferty is a huge talent, but a reluctant star. Management struggles and sundry other hindrances limited his output, but couldn't avert the Scot from releasing two legendary singles -- the Tarantino-ized ''Stuck in the Middle With You'' and the unforgettable ''Baker Street,'' the latter included on this record. Just a glimpse of John Patrick Byrne's cool cover art lets the listener know City to City houses Rafferty's day in the sun as he conquers the world one metropolis at a time, his guitar and amp in tow. Setting out in his apocalyptic ''Ark,'' each song radiates the confidence of a master craftsman cruising in his prime, constructing brilliant pop confections with top-flight support while awaiting the crunch of civilization. The dreamy reality check ''Baker Street'' rightfully remains one of the greatest cuts in pop history. Forever-lost B-side ''Big Change in Weather'' further demonstrates Rafferty was on a rare roll. Domestic valentine ''Right Down the Line'' snugly followed to the height of the charts, and third release, ''Home and Dry,'' while not of an immortal status, stands as a quality song. He even stomps out a smooth hoedown on the title track. Rafferty's turns of phrase and tight composition skills create a fresh sound and perspective all his own. Any diverse style (and he attempts many) filters through his unique mindset, resulting in a classic platter buoyed by many moments of sheer genius. ''Whatever's written in your heart, that's all that matters.''