London, UK – A unique musical collaboration between Faces bandmates Ron Wood and Ronnie Lane, titled Mahoney's Last Stand, was recorded in 1972, coinciding with the turbulent sessions for the Faces' final studio album, Ooh La La. Though completed in 1972, the soundtrack to the obscure Canadian film of the same name was not officially released until 1976, offering a rare glimpse into the duo's creative partnership outside their primary band.
The project originated when Ronnie Lane was approached to compose the soundtrack for the film Mahoney's Last Stand. He subsequently enlisted fellow Faces guitarist Ron Wood, and the two musicians, already an established songwriting team within Faces, embarked on the endeavor. The album largely features instrumental pieces, blending folk, country, and blues-rock influences, a departure from the Faces' more raucous rock sound.
Recording for Mahoney's Last Stand took place at London's Olympic Studios, overlapping with the early rehearsals for the Faces' Ooh La La. During this period, Faces frontman Rod Stewart's increasing focus on his burgeoning solo career led to his reduced presence in the band's studio sessions. This provided an opportunity for Lane and Wood to explore their musical ideas in a distinct setting.
The album boasts an impressive lineup of guest musicians, including Faces members Ian McLagan (keyboards) and Kenney Jones (drums), alongside rock luminaries such as Pete Townshend (guitar), Bobby Keys (saxophone), and Rick Grech (bass/violin). This all-star cast contributed to the album's rich, layered sound, which has since been rediscovered by fans and critics.
Upon its belated release in 1976, Mahoney's Last Stand received little initial fanfare, often misunderstood as a post-Faces reunion project rather than an extracurricular recording from their active period. Despite its initial obscurity, the album has gained cult status, highlighting the profound musical chemistry between Ron Wood and Ronnie Lane during a pivotal moment in their careers and the history of Faces.