“Lucky That Way” from Analog Man pretty much sums up the life of Joe Walsh ... James Gang, his high flying stoner band from the late 60’s and early 70’s was laced with enough guitar riffs to keep us all floating in the stratosphere forever, was rejected by The Beatles’ Apple Corporation, and he’s now, of all things, Ringo Starr's brother in law, with Ringo playing on this, the fist solo release Joe’s given us in twenty years. After riding with the James Gang, he stumbled head long into The Eagles, a career in and of itself, one that’s given him a lifetime of recognition for his impeccable guitar work, and sonic sensibilities. Even with all this fortune and fame he hasn’t lost his sense of humor, complaining as he has for years about the coming of the digital age, yet recording this outing without one inch of analog tape. He goes on to sing, backed with harmonies from analog heros Crosby and Nash (without Stills), about his family, love, and new found sobriety. With Jeff Lynne stepping in to both produce and play, it prompts me to wonder why no one ever thought of adding Joe to the Traveling Wilburys’ lineup.The album's been stocked with rock and simmering funk, he morphs the James Gang classic “Funk 49” into “Funk 50,” complete with lyrics this time, while infectious slick guitar licks grace songs that will dance across your head, swirling back memories from the 70’s, where warm summer nights melted into endless days of cloudless sun, flying Frisbees, and the pockets of fringed jean shorts were filled with with righteous bud.Analog Man stands as a singular event in the solo career of Joe Walsh, every song is worth your time, each track is lush, and highly polished. And while this may sound like the man has aged and mellowed, he’s still rock’s clown prince, showing that nothing, not even the man himself, should be taken too seriously. Yes, “Life’s Been Good” for Joe Walsh, and Joe Walsh has been very good to us.Review by Jenell Kesler