American singer-songwriter noted for four critically admired albums released between 1968 and 1973. Praised for a deep baritone, literate lyrics and orchestral arrangements; commercially overlooked in his lifetime. Later wrote for television and theatre; suffered a severe arm injury in 1981 and died of cancer in 1999.

Released four albums between 1968 and 1973 (David Ackles; Subway To The Country; American Gothic; Five & Dime). Worked with figures such as Jac Holzman and, on American Gothic, arrangements by Robert Kirby and production involvement by Bernie Taupin (mentioned in reviews). As a child he appeared in the Rusty film series. After recording career he wrote for television and theatre, composed a musical "Sister Aimee" (performed in Chicago and Los Angeles per reviews), directed theatrical productions, was seriously injured in a 1981 car accident (arm injury) and died in 1999.

DeBaser's reviews consistently praise David Ackles as a deeply musical, melancholic American singer-songwriter whose four late-60s/early-70s albums won critical admiration but little commercial success. Reviewers highlight his baritone, orchestral arrangements and literary lyrics. Key albums often recommended are David Ackles, Subway To The Country, American Gothic and Five & Dime.

For:Fans of melancholic, literate singer-songwriters; collectors of cult 1970s records; readers who like orchestral/folk crossovers.

 "My dad played the bass, and mum played the drums, and I played the piano, and Jesus sang the song" (Family Band)

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 "the pinnacle of the album is \"Candy Man,\" a disturbing elegy (as much as \"His Name is Andrew,\" if not more) led by the harpsichord and with a delicate orchestral accompaniment"

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 "Promoted as the \"Sgt. Pepper's\" of folk, labeled as a \"classic\" by Melody Maker, \"American Gothic\" was released in July '72"

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 A loser among losers, in the talent-success ratio, he doesn't seem to believe it himself when he sings "What A Happy Day" while touching the piano; despite his thirty years, he seems aware that his time will never come.

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