I don't really think that Tusk failed per say, it was just so different from what everyone was hearing from Fleetwood Mac at that time. I guess you could say it was a gutsy move on Lindsey's part
in trying to reinvent FM or keep things fresh by not making the same type of music.
When I first heard it I had the reaction that most people had....what the hell is this? I really don't think Stevie's songs took a left turn like Lindsey's did, and I think that Chris's songs( as she has said herself) sounded a bit "unfinished". I've always liked the "rock" from Lindsey Buckingham ala "I'm So Afraid" and "Go Your Own Way". But I do have to say that I understand Tusk now more than I did then. I still wouldn't rank it as my favorite album by FM.
When the lp was released I heard comments like:
Tusk single and b-side Never Make Me Cry( yeah they played them both as the anticipation was high) "From the ridiculous to the sublime" said a radio dj.
I asked a girl I was working with about "Tusk"......"Anybody that would release a single like that" That song did turn a lot of fans off.
I actually took the lp to a party once (LOL) being the big FM advocate that I am and snuck it on the turntable. The girl having the party came in and said "what is that crap"? and she took it off(the record that is).
Someone commented that the lp doesn't start until you hear "Sara".....(more of the common sound of FM).
The general public was critical of Tusk but it was critically acclaimed. What do we common folk know anyway?!
My appreciation for Tusk has grown over the years and I think it's a good album...just way before it's time.
I would compare Tusk to something the Beatles would come out with...it's innovative, fresh, and never has become dated.
You know that is Lindsey's gift. He is a very creative man who can take music and make it magic.
Joe