Walk Away Renée / Pretty Ballerina

Now regarded as a definitive example of baroque pop, 'Walk Away Renée / Pretty Ballerina' merges the sophisticated, classically-inspired songwriting of teenage keyboardist Michael Brown with rock instrumentation. The album's sound is defined by Brown's prominent harpsichord, lush string arrangements orchestrated by producer Harry Lookofsky, and the soaring lead vocals of Steve Martin Caro, particularly on the two hit title singles. Though augmented by numerous session musicians, the record maintains a cohesive identity, establishing a unique and influential style that also made brief but notable excursions into gritty garage rock and early country rock.