BALLARD, RUSS at the third stroke 25.3P-13
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Artist = BALLARD, RUSS
Title = at the third stroke
Label = EPIC
Catalog# = 25.3P-13
Barcode = none
Release = JAPAN
Year =
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
orange label, ex.argent, jeff porcaro(ds, toto), mike porcaro(b, toto), david foster, david paich(kb, toto), tom kelly, denny henson, mike baird, david hungate, lee sklar promo sample
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A Songwriter’s Summit: Russ Ballard’s ‘At The Third Stroke’ (25･3P-13)
Today’s entry spotlights a hidden gem of late 70s AOR from the legendary English singer-songwriter Russ Ballard. We are looking at the 1978 Japanese pressing of his third solo album, “At The Third Stroke,” released on the Epic label with the catalog number 25･3P-13. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.
The “Who’s Who” of West Coast Rock Released in 1978, this album marks a significant departure from Ballard’s previous solo works where he handled most instrumentation himself. For this project, producer Keith Olsen assembled a staggering lineup of West Coast session aces to back the songwriter. The credits read like a “family tree” of the band Toto just before their rise to fame, featuring Jeff Porcaro (drums), David Paich (keyboards), David Hungate (bass), and Mike Porcaro (bass). Other contributions come from David Foster and saxophonist Tom Scott.
A Polished AOR Sound Due to this personnel, the album sheds the rougher edges of Ballard’s earlier work for a sophisticated, breezy West Coast sound often compared to Steely Dan or the Eagles. It is a mature, polished collection that highlights his knack for writing radio-friendly hooks—a talent that led to him writing hits for Rainbow, KISS, and Roger Daltrey.
Key Tracks
“Dancer”: The album opens with this dynamic track, noted for its brilliant acoustic guitar work and crisp production.
“Treat Her Right” & “Expressway To Your Heart”: These tracks serve as accessible, AOR-styled singles.
“Cast The Spirit”: A distinct track that was later covered by the band America on their Your Move album (which Ballard produced).
“What Does It Take”: Often cited by fans as the best track, this is a slow-building ballad with a dramatic structure.
25･3P-13 is a high-quality document of a master songwriter operating at the peak of the late 70s session era. For fans of Toto, smooth AOR, and expert craftsmanship, this Japanese pressing is a delightful discovery.