Consumer Guide Album

Rick Springfield: Beginnings [Capitol, 1972]
Would you believe second-generation Emitt Rhodes? Well, this is an exemplary singles album--gimmicky, banal, full of filler, and filled out with a few more catchy little numbers to go with "Speak to the Sky." Recommended follow-ups: "Hooky Jo" to keep on rock-rock-rocking, "If I Didn't Mean to Love You" for a future in Vegas balladeering. C+