"Two Sides of the Moon" is an intriguing piece of rock history, primarily because it represents a departure from the usual role Keith Moon played with The Who. Released in 1975, this solo album showcases Moon in a different light, focusing more on his vocal abilities rather than his renowned drumming.
The album's title and its association with Ringo Starr highlight the close connections within the rock community at the time. Ringo Starr, a good friend of Moon's, was credited with the album's title, reflecting their camaraderie.
Moon's decision to take on the role of lead vocalist, while playing drums on only a few tracks, demonstrates his willingness to explore new creative territories. The drumming duties were handled by a mix of renowned musicians, including Jim Keltner and Joe Walsh, which brought a diverse range of styles to the album.
The album features contributions from an impressive array of artists. Ringo Starr, Harry Nilsson, and Joe Walsh are notable for their significant influence on rock and pop music. The involvement of Flo & Eddie (Mark Volman and Howard Kaylan) and other contributors like Klaus Voormann and Dick Dale adds a touch of eclecticism to the album. The inclusion of future actor Miguel Ferrer also adds an interesting layer to the project's background.
Two Sides of the Moon received mixed reviews but remains a curious and valuable artifact of the 1970s rock scene, reflecting the interconnected nature of rock musicians and their willingness to experiment with new roles and collaborations.
