America (1972) Don't Cross the River

A hugely underrated Dan Peek composition, the type of gem I look for. Though released as a single it didn't get further than 35 on the single's charts while Lonely People, Peeks signature tune did better.
Though I feel this is Peeks best song it's a shame didn't become his Billboard no 1 like his band mates tunes; Dewey Bunnell's spare, desert parched Horse with No Name and Gerry Beckley's smooth AM Sister Golden Hair. More heartfelt and less constructed a songwriter, Peek would never be able to complete a trilogy of no 1s for the trio, he wrote too much from the heart than the head.

 Don't Cross the River however carries a classic melody and memorable chorus, though possibly too short; most America singles were two minute wonders rarely making excursions. Masters at a quick setup the first verse with its chiming electric guitars and banjo lays the foundations for an emotive vocal from Peek about a girl out there 'on her own'. The lyrics seem to hit a chord with a youthful desire for escape and a new start.Another thing; why did George Martin give all America songs give that treated vocal sound leaving an ethereal if often times a surreal detachment that meant it harder to warm to them?

 

It's an exquisite song with a vibe similar to Sister Golden Hair and it's cool romantic folk rock melody dosent get better than this. But it's Peek's incredibly sincere delivery that is most heartbreaking about this very short song, it probably takes longer to read this post then hear the actual track.
 But what stays with you is the final refrain/warning/lesson; Don't Cross The River, If You Can't Swim The Tide