Blue Thumb: A Heartache, A Shadow, A Lifetime (I'll Be Home)

Back in 1972, Dave Mason released his third album on the Blue Thumb Records label, “Headkeeper.” His first solo album was “Alone Together, “ which came in a marble colored vinyl that is often known as “vomitone” for its resemblance more to emesis rather than marble. Mason’s second Blue Thumb release was an album of duets with Mama Cass Elliot.

The single from “Headkeeper” was “A Heartache, A Shadow, A Lifetime (I’ll Be Home).” While the parenthetical title appeared on the single, it was not included on the album. Unfortunately, it failed to chart.

 
The best parts of this single are the keyboards and the vocal harmonies. Mark Jordan plays both the piano and organ on this cut. The backup vocals were provided by Rita Coolidge, Graham Nash, Spencer Davis, and Kathi McDonald.

Side one of “Headkeeper” was recorded in the studio and side two was recorded live at LA’s Troubadour.