History:

Rich Kendall was a singer-songwriter based out of Wisconsin. Kendall was primarily an acoustic guitar folkie, in which he often performed at lounges and holiday inns around the state. Kendall’s only album “Food For Thought” was released in the late 1970’s (contrary to what Discogs says, it was probably recorded and released in 1978). He was accompanied by members of the legendary hard rock band Jake (previously known as Seltaeb) who were also from the same area of Wisconsin. The members of Jake that participated in this recording were guitarists Jon Hunsbusher and Jeff Roberts.

The extent of their professional relationship with Rich Kendall is unknown, however a song on the album, “Everything Was Jake”, could be a hint that Kendall may have been a previous member or toured with the group at some point. Several tracks on the album were written by Kendall and members of Jake. The album also features Brian McEwan on drums and percussion and David Wheaton on keyboards. Kendall himself mainly contributed rhythm guitars and bass guitar. The album mainly draws influences from folk rock but Kendall also dabbles in psychedelic rock, hard rock (multiple musicians on the back cover rep Cheap Trick merch), glam, and country territories. A full lineup on who was present during the recording sessions for the album is provided below. After this album’s release, Kendall seemingly disappeared from the music industry. Jeff Roberts passed away in 2004 and Jon Hunsbusher was still active in music during the early 2000’s. 

Album Lineup (partially uncredited):

Rich Kendall - Lead And Backing Vocals, Acoustic 12-String Guitar, Bass Guitar, Lead Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Banjo, Effects

Jeff Roberts - Backing Vocals, Acoustic Guitar, Bass Guitar, Lead Guitar, Percussion

Jon Hunsbusher - Backing Vocals, Slide Guitar, Lead Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Harmonica, Jew’s Harp, Percussion

Brian McEwan - Backing Vocals, Drums, Percussion

David Wheaton - Synthesizer

Review:

Food For Though (1978?, Unknown Records)

Rating: 7/10

Despite this album’s misses, I still really enjoy it. A very solid folk / rock album with some compositions that go above and beyond the rest. A blend of very commercial rock tunes and folkier cuts. Lots of shimmering 12-string acoustic guitar work and some great dark vibes. I personally love the acoustic songs the most, which include “Lounge Act”, “Man Of Clay”, and “Now You’re Mine”. These three are top notch folk-psych tracks with great guitar work and very good vocals. “Starship II” has grown on me over the years. I initially hated it but now I see it as a great track with some very good lead guitar work and lyrics.

The worst song here is easily “Door County Jam”. It’s just not for me personally. All of the other songs are fine. I think the album would’ve been stronger though without the opener “Music” as it just doesn’t fit with the rest of the material.