| 1 | Hollywood Hills | 4:19 |
| 2 | Ridin' | 4:06 |
| 3 | Dark Light | 3:57 |
| 4 | Make It Last | 4:04 |
| 5 | Key To The World | 3:22 |
| 6 | God Is Here Tonight | 3:41 |
| 7 | Big Big Man | 4:05 |
| 8 | Elephant Day Parade | 2:42 |
| 9 | Rosie | 2:22 |
| 10 | Texas | 3:24 |
| 11 | Big River | 2:40 |
The Beat Farmers – The Pursuit Of Happiness (Curb Records, 1987)
Released in 1987, The Pursuit of Happiness marks the third studio outing for The Beat Farmers and a pivotal moment in their discography. This album captures the San Diego legends transitioning from their cowpunk roots into a more potent, rock-oriented sound. With the addition of guitarist Joey Harris, the band refined their unique "hard-twang" signature—a raucous amalgam of Americana, rockabilly, jangle-pop, and blues.
The record gained notoriety for its grit; the lead single "Make It Last" initially broke into country-western radio, only to be pulled once programmers realized the rest of the album was "too rock & roll" for the format. This unfiltered energy is exactly what makes the album a cult classic, showcasing the band’s tight musicianship and "no-frills" bar-band ethos.
Key Tracks & Highlights:- "Hollywood Hills" – A driving, powerful opener that became a fan favorite.
- "Make It Last" – A melodic, radio-friendly track that bridged the gap between country and rock.
- "Dark Light" & "Ridin'" – Standout examples of the band’s evolving songwriting.
- "Big Big Man" – A quirky essential, famously featured in The Garbage Pail Kids Movie.
Produced by Dave Jerden, The Pursuit of Happiness is a vibrant, gritty snapshot of high-octane Americana. It is a must-have for fans of the 1980s roots-rock movement alongside acts like The Blasters and Jason & the Scorchers.
