Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Paul's Los Angeles secret gig is Wednesday!
The long-awaited Paul McCartney secret gig in Los Angeles is 7:30 p.m. Wednesday (tomorrow night) at Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles. Wristbands will be given out beginning 12:30 p.m. Tuesday. paulmccartney.com is giving away five wristbands. Go to http://www.memoryalmostfull.com/compla_amoeba/ to enter. Deadline is 5:30 p.m. today.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Latest round of comments
June 6, 2007 12:27 AM
Kevin said...
In Ottawa both editions (regular and deluxe are available at Chapters!
June 7, 2007 6:20 PM
Kevin said...
In Ottawa both editions (regular and deluxe are available at Chapters!
June 7, 2007 6:20 PM
Monday, May 28, 2007
Latest reviews
Having just received and played an advance copy of Paul's new CD, I was very impressed. The album is better than Chaos and far better than the dismal Driving Rain. Really only one clunker on the album, Nod your head. Glad I got a free copy so I would not have to put any more money into the hands of $tarbuck$. They have started a horrible trend in the UK which is raping the towns and villages of "traditional" UK culture. They are buying up old pubs and shops and replacing them with their own stores. Case in point, the town of Canterbury, one of the most beautiful towns in England. A few doors down from the entry gate to the Cathedral stood a quaint English pub, full of charm and warmth. A great place to go and enjoy the quintessential UK experience. The pub has now been replaced with the glitzy facade of $tarbuck$. Seems they outbid everyone for prime locations in the UK.
It is for this reason alone that I will not give them a dime of my money. I guess when they erect one of their ugly shops next to Paul's estate, he might take notice. In the meantime, well done Sir Paul on a terrific new cd !!
Reed Pitkunigis, New Jersey USA
Anonymous said...
medley? what medley? it's just a group of songs that follow one another without a pause in-between them. they don't interact or refer to each other in any way. it is as much a 'medley' as pepper was a 'concept' album.
and the last song (nod yer head) totally ruins what would have been the perfect album closer, totally breaking the mood. if ever a song was meant as a b side or bonus track, nod yer head is it.
but, having said that, great vocals (lots of studio effects, compression, etc masking the limitations of his aging voice), lovely strings and wonderful basslines...nothing special that jumps out at you, but other than nod yer head, not a 'bad' song on it!
May 16, 2007 8:41 AM
Anonymous said...
OK, Here's my review, a little about me first to let you know where I'm coming from: I'm 45 years old, I have all of Paul's official cds and b-sides and most of the non released stuff. I consider myself to be a huge fan but also very critical on some of his material. I liked Chaos & Creation but I'm sorry it was so just too darn slow for me. My favorites on that album were "Riding to Vanity Fair and Promise to you girl and several of the b-sides like Power of Love and I want you to fly. I always tend to like the more obscure tracks on his cds. I've heard many reviews saying that this cd sounds like the Beatles, certain wings albums, etc. No no no, this is a solo Paul McCartney record that sounds like the natural follow up to Driving Rain with a little of Chaos thrown in but so much better, there is so much more to listen to, many different sounds. Don't be thinking that this is Ram part two or something like that. His different singing styles throughout the cd are amazing. A lot of the songs are short which is Ok but on a few of them, I wish they would play out for a bit longer because they are so good. One of his best albums! Also, don't expect any five song medley like you have been hearing about on the internet. These do not flow together like Abbey Road or Red Rose Speedway. I can't wait to buy the deluxe version with the 3 extra songs.
Dance Tonight"I won't spend much time on it since there is so much already written about it but this should not have been the single in the UK, very simple song but would be better placed as the 2nd song on the album. 5/10
"Ever Present Past" Most people have already heard this one, perfect first single, should of opened up the album. 6/10
"See Your Sunshine" Very cheerful, upbeat song, reminds me of the extra songs from "Off the Ground"
(The Complete Works), great backing vocals similar to songs from Chaos. 7/10
"Only Mama Knows" Great song, this really rocks, excellent beat and very fast, a few "small" parts did sound like "Soily" but you can actually understand the lyrics in this song, 2nd best song on the album, As mentioned in other reviews, it starts off and ends with strings which just make
it that much interesting. God I hope he plays this live! 9/10
"You Tell Me" A slower song but some very nice guitar work. Very interesting voice from paul,
not sure if I've ever heard it before, maybe a little like "Growing up, Falling down"
but still different. This could of been off Chaos but a little darker. 7/10
"Mister Bellamy" I was kind of disappointed in this because of all the press it has gotten,
I guess I was expecting more, it's still a great song but I think its too short, I really like the way it jumps around. At least 3 different voices Paul throws at you. The last 45 seconds (mostly instumental) sounds like a totally different song . 8/10
"Gratitude" Not my favorite, I just do not like the backing vocals after he sings "Gratiude" over and over and over but the song does gets better towards the middle. It might grow on me. 4/10
"Vintage Clothes" Nice song, background vocals in some parts sound like they are from Chaos & Creation. Great vocals but way too short of a song. More typical McCArtney than others but still
lots of different sounds/talking in the background. Maybe sounds like early 80's in some parts to me. 7/10
"That Was Me" It does kind of remind you of "Summer of 59" (which I don't like) when the song starts but then it rocks much harder, especialy at the end where Paul screams out the lyrics.
The lyrics are a look back at Paul in the early days of the Bealtes. You will love it! 8/10
"Feet In The Clouds" A Very cheerful and happy song, starts off with acoustic guitr and then picks up a little when the drums kick in about a minute or so into the song, very typical McCartney song until the a capella harmonies come in later which are very different and quirky. Great vocals towards the end 7/10
"House Of Wax" Well, here we go, I hate to write this because I don't want people to be disappointed
like I was with Mr. Bellamy but I think this is one of the best produced songs Paul has ever done. I had chills listening to it, very haunting. It starts of with the
piano and then Paul starts singing with echo effects, I read that it was like "Riding to Vanity Fair" but darker, that's probably the best comparison but not really because it sounds like nothing you have ever heard from him before so don't get that in your head before you hear it. You will want to listen to this song again and again! It has two parts where the guitars and band really kick in, unbelievable! 10/10. It Rocks and at the same time sounds very modern. Someone also mentioned that the lyrics are simple like "Beware my love"? I find them to be very interesting (here's a sample):
"Lightning hits the house of wax
Poets spill out on the street
To set alight the incomplete
Remainders of the future".
"End of the End" Piano based ballad, a very sad song when I listen to it, I know it's suppose to be kind of chearful in that "when I die, don't be sad" but it still makes me sad when I hear it, this will get most of the press. 7/10
"Nod Your Head" It does remind you of "I've Only Got Two Hands" from Chaos but only in the beginning
because it really rocks after that, not the greatest lyrics on the album but it's just plain fun to listen to. It's a short rocker with great screaming vocals again.
I know others disagree but I think it's perfect for the closer 7/10
May 16, 2007 5:29 PM
Spurs Dork said...
I left this on Beatles wordpress:
I’ve also downloaed the full album and have given it a good listen to… at first I was undecided and kind of a little disappointed because even though I knew ‘Ever Present Past’ was kind of syrupy, I still loved the vibe I got from the song… I agree with your review when you said that each track on this album is not like the other… there would be a few batch of songs that I would really dig (especially the first half of the album) and then towards the middle/end of the album it was a totally different sound/vibe.
The End of the End is pretty poignant because of the lyrics “When I die, I want people to make jokes…” - I couldn’t help but think when that time comes, people will look back to that song.
But I do disagree when you said Chaos lacked tempo… yes, some of the songs were melancholic, but it was a nice change and I really think it’s his masterpiece. I also really liked Driving Rain although it’s far less superior than Chaos… but I do believe MMF is better than DR. MAF will definitely grow on you. I don’t think it’ll be a slam dunk on the first go. I agree with one of the reviewers that 'Nod Your Head' is totally out of place.
May 17, 2007 7:23 AM
Spurs Dork said...
I’ve also downloaed the full album and have given it a good listen to… at first I was undecided and kind of a little disappointed because even though I knew ‘Ever Present Past’ was kind of syrupy, I still loved the vibe I got from the song… I agree with your review when you said that each track on this album is not like the other… there would be a few batch of songs that I would really dig (especially the first half of the album) and then towards the middle/end of the album it was a totally different sound/vibe.
The End of the End is pretty poignant because of the lyrics “When I die, I want people to make jokes…” - I couldn’t help but think when that time comes, people will look back to that song.
But I do disagree when you said Chaos lacked tempo… yes, some of the songs were melancholic, but it was a nice change and I really think it’s his masterpiece. I also really liked Driving Rain although it’s far less superior than Chaos… but I do believe MMF is better than DR. MAF will definitely grow on you. I don’t think it’ll be a slam dunk on the first go.
May 17, 2007 7:24 AM
Anonymous said...
Lifelong Macca fan. I have everything, b-sides and boots. My review:
Remember that Lennon quote Jann Wenner ran as the review for "Magical Mystery Tour" in an early Rolling Stone? "There are only about 100 people in the world who understand our music," (JL). For the first time in a LONG time that applies here.
I don't think most people are going to understand how great or interesting this record is. Its layer upon layer for listening, kind of like a, well, Beatles album. If there's a flaw its that Kahne's production is so inorganic as to be distracting... though that is somewhat a personal preference (I prefer the Chaos sound).
The best comparison is Tug of War. Like that record, the 5 best songs rank with the best of Macca's entire career (i.e. The Pound Is Sinking).
THE GREATS
Only Mama Knows
Paul hasn't rocked this hard (outside Run Devil Run) since Back To the Egg, probably since Beware My Love, RockShow or even Junior's Farm. An obvious choice for a single, and it would be a crime not to promote this big to rock radio. And its melodic rock, like Jet.
Mr. Bellamy
A nice companion to Uncle Albert... this cat in a tree saga is clearly personal and is simply a virtuoso display of musicianship and performance. The last minute is a Lovely Rita style mellowed out fade out.
You Tell Me
With For No One as one of the great lost love songs. Paul's vocals are incredible and the song structure, etc. is innovative.
House of Wax
Paul does Dylan. 1985 meets Jokerman. Some of Paul's best lyrics, the one truly perfectly produced track, truly fascinating.
The End of the End
I know some people are bugged by some overt sentimentality- but this is almost the most honest thing Paul ever put on record. His "Every Grain of Sand" (wow- two Dylan comparisons in a row).
THE MOST INTERESTING
Nod Your Head
Clearly controversial... from the ...Do It In the Road school, we haven't heard this from Paul in a while. And the lyrics are top notch for this type of song. What would Paul sound like produced by Jack White? This. At 2 min. way too short.
Gratitude
A lot of people are complaining about this... but its actually an old fashioned Lennon-style kiss-off (How Do You Sleep, Sexy Sadie, Let Me Roll It). Its clearly sarcasm aimed at you know who. A more organic production would have helped this send-up.
That Was Me
Great rockabilly number recapturing all of Paul's life to that point. Really rocks at the end, another engaging potential single.
Feet in the Clouds
Sounds like a Brian Wilson number off an early 70s Beach Boys album, complete with some incredible harmonies. Lyrics a little off.. but when were Brian's much better?
THE SINGLES
Dance Tonight/
Ever Present Past
Enough has been written, except to say that Dance Tonight is defiant in its simplicity, a big FU to start off the record. 'Past' is great lyrically- I don't like the "child of Coming Up/Temporary Secretary" production.
AND ALL THE REST
See Your Sunshine
Killer middle 8. But reminds me of Keep Under Cover from Pipes of Peace. OK.
Vintage Clothes
Its a Ringo song! That's why this bugs me-- had Paul dueted w/Ringo, this would be an A+. Some nice lyrics, not bad at all.
This record begs repeated listening and will firmly nest as one of Paul's 5 best when all is done. Oh yeah, and the bass playing is remarkable.
May 17, 2007 11:05 AM
Anonymous said...
To me, the very rapid development in recent months of the Starbucks signing + MAF + iTunes Back Catalog owes a very large part to the necessity of a future payout to a very-soon-to-be ex.
May 17, 2007 1:11 PM
Jon Busey-Hunt said...
I think its an absolutely remarkable album. The level of songwriting is absolutely equal to "Chaos," which was a career best, and while this one lacks that "rainy day melancholy" that Chaos had, it also sounds more *finished.* The layer of Wings harmonies and awesome arrangements are part of it, of course, but there's a lyrical focus that Paul hasn't had in a long time. And lessons learned from Nigel Godrich -- for the first time in ages the album isn't overlong and its almost wholly devoid of filler.
Plus: despite the histrionic shrieking of certain Beatle bloggers, it seems to be going down a treat with even the most jaded Beatle-fans, which makes me very happy.
May 18, 2007 7:43 AM
Anonymous said...
This is an album that will appeal to the mass music audience, not just Paul fans. Easily his best work since Flowers in the Dirt. All the non-classical albums he's made since then have had some good moments on them, but they were more for the Paul fans. Each of those albums could have benefited from more production, more embellished arrangements, and more post-production clean up. This album takes care of all those types of details and presents a polished , well thought out group of songs.
It is completely void of any embarrassing musical moments. Even on the grammy nominated Chaos, there were times when it was hard to listen to. A song like English Tea felt like a badly done Rutles song, with Dirk McQuickly banging it out on piano and humming "La-da-da-da". On this album Dirk McQuickly and any similar parodies of Paul's music make no appearances. This is quality songwriting. David Kahne's production work is also so far ahead of what he did on Driving Rain that there is no comparison. He was obviously given a much better group of songs to work with, but even considering that this is stellar production work. Having Paul's touring band participate on some of the tracks also helps tremendously. Think of the Driving Rain track "About You", and you can get the feel of the kick the touring band brings to some of the tracks. Paul actually sounds alive on this record, which was one big flaw with Chaos. Here are some thoughts about the songs:
Dance Tonight: A perfect album opener. It's a small song that feels much bigger than it is. It would be a great hit single, but in today's music climate that probably won't happen.
My Ever Present Past: The only song that could use some tweaking . It just plays too fast. Makes it a little but goofy and too "RAH-RAH" like. Try playing this song in your windows media player, and use the play speed control to slow it down to 90% playing speed. It sounds so much better this way. It's very possible this song was sped up during the mixing stage, because Paul's voice even sounds more natural at this speed. Also, you can make a comparison that these first two songs open up this album much in the same way "The Song We Were Singing" and "The World Tonight" opening up Flaming Pie.
See Your Sunshine: Very well done up-tempo Paul song. You will enjoy it.
Only Mama Knows: This is the type of song that was sadly missing from Chaos. It's so refreshing to hear Paul enjoying himself as he obviously does on this track. Rocking, full band; it's all here. This would be great for him to play live, but remember that he ignored playing "About You" from Driving Rain when he toured off that record. Here's a chance to correct that oversight.
You Tell Me: This one may take a few more listens to sink in, but it's a quality song and well done.
Mister Bellamy: This is a great song. It's so interesting you want to repeat it over and over again. It is too short, which is a shame. This could have gone on much longer because it has multiple instrumental and arrangement changes. It's like nothing in Paul's body of work; maybe the closest comparison would be "Uncle Albert & Admiral Halsey" for the way the two songs wander taking you on a musical journey that never disappoints. It's also very original in much the same way as that song was. A true highlight of the album.
Gratitude: Another song that may take multiple listens to sink in. Maybe the weakest song lyrically, but still far ahead of many of his post- Flowers in the Dirt songs. Nothing as bad as the "1-2-3-4-5 let's go for a drive" stuff in the song "Driving Rain".
Vintage Clothes: Very nicely done song. Great piano playing by Paul, good feel to it. It won't be the standout song, but it fits in very well.
That was Me: This is the start of the big ending medley. Don't take the medley term too literally though. The medley is a group of songs connected lyrically, not musically. The lyrics from this song to the end take you through Paul's personal view on his life. It sounds very much like an attempt to put his current place in life in perspective with what has come before. It's somewhat literal lyrically, but not completely. Paul never really bares his soul in his songs, and he doesn't here either. If you listen between the lines though, you can tell he's doing some personal assessing. This song has been compared in these reviews to the Chaos bonus track "Summer of '59", which is pretty fair. Better song though.
Feet in the Clouds: Carries the medley on with more mature lyrical themes than the first song.
House of Wax: Second only to "Mister Bellamy: in production quality. Fantastic singing from Paul. It would have been great to have this be a free-standing song, more flushed out and longer. It is long already at about 5:00 minutes, but even that doesn't feel long enough. Great track.
End of the End: This finishes off the album in the same way "The End" finished off Abbey Road; seriously. Just in a smaller way. But the intention to do that is obvious. It's just that this is a solo record, not a band record, and therefore Paul has to work this ending in a more personal way. He pulls it off perfectly. This is a song that will be very hard to listen to when they day comes that Paul is really no longer with us. Hopefully that day will be very far from now, because anyone who can produce songs of this quality should never be taken away.
Nod Your Head: There have been comments that this wrecks the end of the album, but it's normal Paul and should be expected. It really doesn't wreck anything, it just brings you back up. He kept "Her Majesty" at the end of Abbey Road. Yes, that was a production mistake putting a song that had been edited out of the medley onto the end of the master tape; but no one changed it when they discovered it. It deflated the moment, bringing things back down to reality. This song does the same thing. The benefit is that this is one fun, rocking song. Crank it up and enjoy. It also works perfectly to make you go and select track 1 and start the whole album all over again.
Buy this album when it comes out, you won't be sorry. Even though I have a copy of it now, I'll be buying it too. This is not a Beatles album, Wings album, or anything else in Paul's work. It's unique, and very high quality. And here's hoping the three bonus songs, yet unheard or reviewed here, will be just as great.
May 25, 2007 1:18 PM
It is for this reason alone that I will not give them a dime of my money. I guess when they erect one of their ugly shops next to Paul's estate, he might take notice. In the meantime, well done Sir Paul on a terrific new cd !!
Reed Pitkunigis, New Jersey USA
Anonymous said...
medley? what medley? it's just a group of songs that follow one another without a pause in-between them. they don't interact or refer to each other in any way. it is as much a 'medley' as pepper was a 'concept' album.
and the last song (nod yer head) totally ruins what would have been the perfect album closer, totally breaking the mood. if ever a song was meant as a b side or bonus track, nod yer head is it.
but, having said that, great vocals (lots of studio effects, compression, etc masking the limitations of his aging voice), lovely strings and wonderful basslines...nothing special that jumps out at you, but other than nod yer head, not a 'bad' song on it!
May 16, 2007 8:41 AM
Anonymous said...
OK, Here's my review, a little about me first to let you know where I'm coming from: I'm 45 years old, I have all of Paul's official cds and b-sides and most of the non released stuff. I consider myself to be a huge fan but also very critical on some of his material. I liked Chaos & Creation but I'm sorry it was so just too darn slow for me. My favorites on that album were "Riding to Vanity Fair and Promise to you girl and several of the b-sides like Power of Love and I want you to fly. I always tend to like the more obscure tracks on his cds. I've heard many reviews saying that this cd sounds like the Beatles, certain wings albums, etc. No no no, this is a solo Paul McCartney record that sounds like the natural follow up to Driving Rain with a little of Chaos thrown in but so much better, there is so much more to listen to, many different sounds. Don't be thinking that this is Ram part two or something like that. His different singing styles throughout the cd are amazing. A lot of the songs are short which is Ok but on a few of them, I wish they would play out for a bit longer because they are so good. One of his best albums! Also, don't expect any five song medley like you have been hearing about on the internet. These do not flow together like Abbey Road or Red Rose Speedway. I can't wait to buy the deluxe version with the 3 extra songs.
Dance Tonight"I won't spend much time on it since there is so much already written about it but this should not have been the single in the UK, very simple song but would be better placed as the 2nd song on the album. 5/10
"Ever Present Past" Most people have already heard this one, perfect first single, should of opened up the album. 6/10
"See Your Sunshine" Very cheerful, upbeat song, reminds me of the extra songs from "Off the Ground"
(The Complete Works), great backing vocals similar to songs from Chaos. 7/10
"Only Mama Knows" Great song, this really rocks, excellent beat and very fast, a few "small" parts did sound like "Soily" but you can actually understand the lyrics in this song, 2nd best song on the album, As mentioned in other reviews, it starts off and ends with strings which just make
it that much interesting. God I hope he plays this live! 9/10
"You Tell Me" A slower song but some very nice guitar work. Very interesting voice from paul,
not sure if I've ever heard it before, maybe a little like "Growing up, Falling down"
but still different. This could of been off Chaos but a little darker. 7/10
"Mister Bellamy" I was kind of disappointed in this because of all the press it has gotten,
I guess I was expecting more, it's still a great song but I think its too short, I really like the way it jumps around. At least 3 different voices Paul throws at you. The last 45 seconds (mostly instumental) sounds like a totally different song . 8/10
"Gratitude" Not my favorite, I just do not like the backing vocals after he sings "Gratiude" over and over and over but the song does gets better towards the middle. It might grow on me. 4/10
"Vintage Clothes" Nice song, background vocals in some parts sound like they are from Chaos & Creation. Great vocals but way too short of a song. More typical McCArtney than others but still
lots of different sounds/talking in the background. Maybe sounds like early 80's in some parts to me. 7/10
"That Was Me" It does kind of remind you of "Summer of 59" (which I don't like) when the song starts but then it rocks much harder, especialy at the end where Paul screams out the lyrics.
The lyrics are a look back at Paul in the early days of the Bealtes. You will love it! 8/10
"Feet In The Clouds" A Very cheerful and happy song, starts off with acoustic guitr and then picks up a little when the drums kick in about a minute or so into the song, very typical McCartney song until the a capella harmonies come in later which are very different and quirky. Great vocals towards the end 7/10
"House Of Wax" Well, here we go, I hate to write this because I don't want people to be disappointed
like I was with Mr. Bellamy but I think this is one of the best produced songs Paul has ever done. I had chills listening to it, very haunting. It starts of with the
piano and then Paul starts singing with echo effects, I read that it was like "Riding to Vanity Fair" but darker, that's probably the best comparison but not really because it sounds like nothing you have ever heard from him before so don't get that in your head before you hear it. You will want to listen to this song again and again! It has two parts where the guitars and band really kick in, unbelievable! 10/10. It Rocks and at the same time sounds very modern. Someone also mentioned that the lyrics are simple like "Beware my love"? I find them to be very interesting (here's a sample):
"Lightning hits the house of wax
Poets spill out on the street
To set alight the incomplete
Remainders of the future".
"End of the End" Piano based ballad, a very sad song when I listen to it, I know it's suppose to be kind of chearful in that "when I die, don't be sad" but it still makes me sad when I hear it, this will get most of the press. 7/10
"Nod Your Head" It does remind you of "I've Only Got Two Hands" from Chaos but only in the beginning
because it really rocks after that, not the greatest lyrics on the album but it's just plain fun to listen to. It's a short rocker with great screaming vocals again.
I know others disagree but I think it's perfect for the closer 7/10
May 16, 2007 5:29 PM
Spurs Dork said...
I left this on Beatles wordpress:
I’ve also downloaed the full album and have given it a good listen to… at first I was undecided and kind of a little disappointed because even though I knew ‘Ever Present Past’ was kind of syrupy, I still loved the vibe I got from the song… I agree with your review when you said that each track on this album is not like the other… there would be a few batch of songs that I would really dig (especially the first half of the album) and then towards the middle/end of the album it was a totally different sound/vibe.
The End of the End is pretty poignant because of the lyrics “When I die, I want people to make jokes…” - I couldn’t help but think when that time comes, people will look back to that song.
But I do disagree when you said Chaos lacked tempo… yes, some of the songs were melancholic, but it was a nice change and I really think it’s his masterpiece. I also really liked Driving Rain although it’s far less superior than Chaos… but I do believe MMF is better than DR. MAF will definitely grow on you. I don’t think it’ll be a slam dunk on the first go. I agree with one of the reviewers that 'Nod Your Head' is totally out of place.
May 17, 2007 7:23 AM
Spurs Dork said...
I’ve also downloaed the full album and have given it a good listen to… at first I was undecided and kind of a little disappointed because even though I knew ‘Ever Present Past’ was kind of syrupy, I still loved the vibe I got from the song… I agree with your review when you said that each track on this album is not like the other… there would be a few batch of songs that I would really dig (especially the first half of the album) and then towards the middle/end of the album it was a totally different sound/vibe.
The End of the End is pretty poignant because of the lyrics “When I die, I want people to make jokes…” - I couldn’t help but think when that time comes, people will look back to that song.
But I do disagree when you said Chaos lacked tempo… yes, some of the songs were melancholic, but it was a nice change and I really think it’s his masterpiece. I also really liked Driving Rain although it’s far less superior than Chaos… but I do believe MMF is better than DR. MAF will definitely grow on you. I don’t think it’ll be a slam dunk on the first go.
May 17, 2007 7:24 AM
Anonymous said...
Lifelong Macca fan. I have everything, b-sides and boots. My review:
Remember that Lennon quote Jann Wenner ran as the review for "Magical Mystery Tour" in an early Rolling Stone? "There are only about 100 people in the world who understand our music," (JL). For the first time in a LONG time that applies here.
I don't think most people are going to understand how great or interesting this record is. Its layer upon layer for listening, kind of like a, well, Beatles album. If there's a flaw its that Kahne's production is so inorganic as to be distracting... though that is somewhat a personal preference (I prefer the Chaos sound).
The best comparison is Tug of War. Like that record, the 5 best songs rank with the best of Macca's entire career (i.e. The Pound Is Sinking).
THE GREATS
Only Mama Knows
Paul hasn't rocked this hard (outside Run Devil Run) since Back To the Egg, probably since Beware My Love, RockShow or even Junior's Farm. An obvious choice for a single, and it would be a crime not to promote this big to rock radio. And its melodic rock, like Jet.
Mr. Bellamy
A nice companion to Uncle Albert... this cat in a tree saga is clearly personal and is simply a virtuoso display of musicianship and performance. The last minute is a Lovely Rita style mellowed out fade out.
You Tell Me
With For No One as one of the great lost love songs. Paul's vocals are incredible and the song structure, etc. is innovative.
House of Wax
Paul does Dylan. 1985 meets Jokerman. Some of Paul's best lyrics, the one truly perfectly produced track, truly fascinating.
The End of the End
I know some people are bugged by some overt sentimentality- but this is almost the most honest thing Paul ever put on record. His "Every Grain of Sand" (wow- two Dylan comparisons in a row).
THE MOST INTERESTING
Nod Your Head
Clearly controversial... from the ...Do It In the Road school, we haven't heard this from Paul in a while. And the lyrics are top notch for this type of song. What would Paul sound like produced by Jack White? This. At 2 min. way too short.
Gratitude
A lot of people are complaining about this... but its actually an old fashioned Lennon-style kiss-off (How Do You Sleep, Sexy Sadie, Let Me Roll It). Its clearly sarcasm aimed at you know who. A more organic production would have helped this send-up.
That Was Me
Great rockabilly number recapturing all of Paul's life to that point. Really rocks at the end, another engaging potential single.
Feet in the Clouds
Sounds like a Brian Wilson number off an early 70s Beach Boys album, complete with some incredible harmonies. Lyrics a little off.. but when were Brian's much better?
THE SINGLES
Dance Tonight/
Ever Present Past
Enough has been written, except to say that Dance Tonight is defiant in its simplicity, a big FU to start off the record. 'Past' is great lyrically- I don't like the "child of Coming Up/Temporary Secretary" production.
AND ALL THE REST
See Your Sunshine
Killer middle 8. But reminds me of Keep Under Cover from Pipes of Peace. OK.
Vintage Clothes
Its a Ringo song! That's why this bugs me-- had Paul dueted w/Ringo, this would be an A+. Some nice lyrics, not bad at all.
This record begs repeated listening and will firmly nest as one of Paul's 5 best when all is done. Oh yeah, and the bass playing is remarkable.
May 17, 2007 11:05 AM
Anonymous said...
To me, the very rapid development in recent months of the Starbucks signing + MAF + iTunes Back Catalog owes a very large part to the necessity of a future payout to a very-soon-to-be ex.
May 17, 2007 1:11 PM
Jon Busey-Hunt said...
I think its an absolutely remarkable album. The level of songwriting is absolutely equal to "Chaos," which was a career best, and while this one lacks that "rainy day melancholy" that Chaos had, it also sounds more *finished.* The layer of Wings harmonies and awesome arrangements are part of it, of course, but there's a lyrical focus that Paul hasn't had in a long time. And lessons learned from Nigel Godrich -- for the first time in ages the album isn't overlong and its almost wholly devoid of filler.
Plus: despite the histrionic shrieking of certain Beatle bloggers, it seems to be going down a treat with even the most jaded Beatle-fans, which makes me very happy.
May 18, 2007 7:43 AM
Anonymous said...
This is an album that will appeal to the mass music audience, not just Paul fans. Easily his best work since Flowers in the Dirt. All the non-classical albums he's made since then have had some good moments on them, but they were more for the Paul fans. Each of those albums could have benefited from more production, more embellished arrangements, and more post-production clean up. This album takes care of all those types of details and presents a polished , well thought out group of songs.
It is completely void of any embarrassing musical moments. Even on the grammy nominated Chaos, there were times when it was hard to listen to. A song like English Tea felt like a badly done Rutles song, with Dirk McQuickly banging it out on piano and humming "La-da-da-da". On this album Dirk McQuickly and any similar parodies of Paul's music make no appearances. This is quality songwriting. David Kahne's production work is also so far ahead of what he did on Driving Rain that there is no comparison. He was obviously given a much better group of songs to work with, but even considering that this is stellar production work. Having Paul's touring band participate on some of the tracks also helps tremendously. Think of the Driving Rain track "About You", and you can get the feel of the kick the touring band brings to some of the tracks. Paul actually sounds alive on this record, which was one big flaw with Chaos. Here are some thoughts about the songs:
Dance Tonight: A perfect album opener. It's a small song that feels much bigger than it is. It would be a great hit single, but in today's music climate that probably won't happen.
My Ever Present Past: The only song that could use some tweaking . It just plays too fast. Makes it a little but goofy and too "RAH-RAH" like. Try playing this song in your windows media player, and use the play speed control to slow it down to 90% playing speed. It sounds so much better this way. It's very possible this song was sped up during the mixing stage, because Paul's voice even sounds more natural at this speed. Also, you can make a comparison that these first two songs open up this album much in the same way "The Song We Were Singing" and "The World Tonight" opening up Flaming Pie.
See Your Sunshine: Very well done up-tempo Paul song. You will enjoy it.
Only Mama Knows: This is the type of song that was sadly missing from Chaos. It's so refreshing to hear Paul enjoying himself as he obviously does on this track. Rocking, full band; it's all here. This would be great for him to play live, but remember that he ignored playing "About You" from Driving Rain when he toured off that record. Here's a chance to correct that oversight.
You Tell Me: This one may take a few more listens to sink in, but it's a quality song and well done.
Mister Bellamy: This is a great song. It's so interesting you want to repeat it over and over again. It is too short, which is a shame. This could have gone on much longer because it has multiple instrumental and arrangement changes. It's like nothing in Paul's body of work; maybe the closest comparison would be "Uncle Albert & Admiral Halsey" for the way the two songs wander taking you on a musical journey that never disappoints. It's also very original in much the same way as that song was. A true highlight of the album.
Gratitude: Another song that may take multiple listens to sink in. Maybe the weakest song lyrically, but still far ahead of many of his post- Flowers in the Dirt songs. Nothing as bad as the "1-2-3-4-5 let's go for a drive" stuff in the song "Driving Rain".
Vintage Clothes: Very nicely done song. Great piano playing by Paul, good feel to it. It won't be the standout song, but it fits in very well.
That was Me: This is the start of the big ending medley. Don't take the medley term too literally though. The medley is a group of songs connected lyrically, not musically. The lyrics from this song to the end take you through Paul's personal view on his life. It sounds very much like an attempt to put his current place in life in perspective with what has come before. It's somewhat literal lyrically, but not completely. Paul never really bares his soul in his songs, and he doesn't here either. If you listen between the lines though, you can tell he's doing some personal assessing. This song has been compared in these reviews to the Chaos bonus track "Summer of '59", which is pretty fair. Better song though.
Feet in the Clouds: Carries the medley on with more mature lyrical themes than the first song.
House of Wax: Second only to "Mister Bellamy: in production quality. Fantastic singing from Paul. It would have been great to have this be a free-standing song, more flushed out and longer. It is long already at about 5:00 minutes, but even that doesn't feel long enough. Great track.
End of the End: This finishes off the album in the same way "The End" finished off Abbey Road; seriously. Just in a smaller way. But the intention to do that is obvious. It's just that this is a solo record, not a band record, and therefore Paul has to work this ending in a more personal way. He pulls it off perfectly. This is a song that will be very hard to listen to when they day comes that Paul is really no longer with us. Hopefully that day will be very far from now, because anyone who can produce songs of this quality should never be taken away.
Nod Your Head: There have been comments that this wrecks the end of the album, but it's normal Paul and should be expected. It really doesn't wreck anything, it just brings you back up. He kept "Her Majesty" at the end of Abbey Road. Yes, that was a production mistake putting a song that had been edited out of the medley onto the end of the master tape; but no one changed it when they discovered it. It deflated the moment, bringing things back down to reality. This song does the same thing. The benefit is that this is one fun, rocking song. Crank it up and enjoy. It also works perfectly to make you go and select track 1 and start the whole album all over again.
Buy this album when it comes out, you won't be sorry. Even though I have a copy of it now, I'll be buying it too. This is not a Beatles album, Wings album, or anything else in Paul's work. It's unique, and very high quality. And here's hoping the three bonus songs, yet unheard or reviewed here, will be just as great.
May 25, 2007 1:18 PM
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
New video for "Dance Tonight is here
The new video for "Dance Tonight" from "Memory Almost Full":
Paul has put other clips on YouTube, too. Here's one for "Nod Your Head":
Paul has put other clips on YouTube, too. Here's one for "Nod Your Head":
And one an outtake from "Dance Tonight":
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Latest reviews
Anonymous said...
OK, Here's my review, a little about me first to let you know where I'm coming from: I'm 45 years old, I have all of Paul's official cds and b-sides and most of the non released stuff. I consider myself to be a huge fan but also very critical on some of his material. I liked Chaos & Creation but I'm sorry it was so just too darn slow for me. My favorites on that album were "Riding to Vanity Fair and Promise to you girl and several of the b-sides like Power of Love and I want you to fly. I always tend to like the more obscure tracks on his cds. I've heard many reviews saying that this cd sounds like the Beatles, certain wings albums, etc. No no no, this is a solo Paul McCartney record that sounds like the natural follow up to Driving Rain with a little of Chaos thrown in but so much better, there is so much more to listen to, many different sounds. Don't be thinking that this is Ram part two or something like that. His different singing styles throughout the cd are amazing. A lot of the songs are short which is Ok but on a few of them, I wish they would play out for a bit longer because they are so good. One of his best albums! Also, don't expect any five song medley like you have been hearing about on the internet. These do not flow together like Abbey Road or Red Rose Speedway. I can't wait to buy the deluxe version with the 3 extra songs.
Dance Tonight"I won't spend much time on it since there is so much already written about it but this should not have been the single in the UK, very simple song but would be better placed as the 2nd song on the album. 5/10
"Ever Present Past" Most people have already heard this one, perfect first single, should of opened up the album. 6/10
"See Your Sunshine" Very cheerful, upbeat song, reminds me of the extra songs from "Off the Ground"
(The Complete Works), great backing vocals similar to songs from Chaos. 7/10
"Only Mama Knows" Great song, this really rocks, excellent beat and very fast, a few "small" parts did sound like "Soily" but you can actually understand the lyrics in this song, 2nd best song on the album, As mentioned in other reviews, it starts off and ends with strings which just make
it that much interesting. God I hope he plays this live! 9/10
"You Tell Me" A slower song but some very nice guitar work. Very interesting voice from paul,
not sure if I've ever heard it before, maybe a little like "Growing up, Falling down"
but still different. This could of been off Chaos but a little darker. 7/10
"Mister Bellamy" I was kind of disappointed in this because of all the press it has gotten,
I guess I was expecting more, it's still a great song but I think its too short, I really like the way it jumps around. At least 3 different voices Paul throws at you. The last 45 seconds (mostly instumental) sounds like a totally different song . 8/10
"Gratitude" Not my favorite, I just do not like the backing vocals after he sings "Gratiude" over and over and over but the song does gets better towards the middle. It might grow on me. 4/10
"Vintage Clothes" Nice song, background vocals in some parts sound like they are from Chaos & Creation. Great vocals but way too short of a song. More typical McCArtney than others but still
lots of different sounds/talking in the background. Maybe sounds like early 80's in some parts to me. 7/10
"That Was Me" It does kind of remind you of "Summer of 59" (which I don't like) when the song starts but then it rocks much harder, especialy at the end where Paul screams out the lyrics.
The lyrics are a look back at Paul in the early days of the Bealtes. You will love it! 8/10
"Feet In The Clouds" A Very cheerful and happy song, starts off with acoustic guitr and then picks up a little when the drums kick in about a minute or so into the song, very typical McCartney song until the a capella harmonies come in later which are very different and quirky. Great vocals towards the end 7/10
"House Of Wax" Well, here we go, I hate to write this because I don't want people to be disappointed
like I was with Mr. Bellamy but I think this is one of the best produced songs Paul has ever done. I had chills listening to it, very haunting. It starts of with the
piano and then Paul starts singing with echo effects, I read that it was like "Riding to Vanity Fair" but darker, that's probably the best comparison but not really because it sounds like nothing you have ever heard from him before so don't get that in your head before you hear it. You will want to listen to this song again and again! It has two parts where the guitars and band really kick in, unbelievable! 10/10. It Rocks and at the same time sounds very modern. Someone also mentioned that the lyrics are simple like "Beware my love"? I find them to be very interesting (here's a sample):
"Lightning hits the house of wax
Poets spill out on the street
To set alight the incomplete
Remainders of the future".
"End of the End" Piano based ballad, a very sad song when I listen to it, I know it's suppose to be kind of chearful in that "when I die, don't be sad" but it still makes me sad when I hear it, this will get most of the press. 7/10
"Nod Your Head" It does remind you of "I've Only Got Two Hands" from Chaos but only in the beginning
because it really rocks after that, not the greatest lyrics on the album but it's just plain fun to listen to. It's a short rocker with great screaming vocals again.
I know others disagree but I think it's perfect for the closer 7/10
May 16, 2007 5:29 PM
Delete
Spurs Dork said...
I’ve also downloaed the full album and have given it a good listen to… at first I was undecided and kind of a little disappointed because even though I knew ‘Ever Present Past’ was kind of syrupy, I still loved the vibe I got from the song… I agree with your review when you said that each track on this album is not like the other… there would be a few batch of songs that I would really dig (especially the first half of the album) and then towards the middle/end of the album it was a totally different sound/vibe.
The End of the End is pretty poignant because of the lyrics “When I die, I want people to make jokes…” - I couldn’t help but think when that time comes, people will look back to that song.
But I do disagree when you said Chaos lacked tempo… yes, some of the songs were melancholic, but it was a nice change and I really think it’s his masterpiece. I also really liked Driving Rain although it’s far less superior than Chaos… but I do believe MMF is better than DR. MAF will definitely grow on you. I don’t think it’ll be a slam dunk on the first go.
May 17, 2007 7:24 AM
OK, Here's my review, a little about me first to let you know where I'm coming from: I'm 45 years old, I have all of Paul's official cds and b-sides and most of the non released stuff. I consider myself to be a huge fan but also very critical on some of his material. I liked Chaos & Creation but I'm sorry it was so just too darn slow for me. My favorites on that album were "Riding to Vanity Fair and Promise to you girl and several of the b-sides like Power of Love and I want you to fly. I always tend to like the more obscure tracks on his cds. I've heard many reviews saying that this cd sounds like the Beatles, certain wings albums, etc. No no no, this is a solo Paul McCartney record that sounds like the natural follow up to Driving Rain with a little of Chaos thrown in but so much better, there is so much more to listen to, many different sounds. Don't be thinking that this is Ram part two or something like that. His different singing styles throughout the cd are amazing. A lot of the songs are short which is Ok but on a few of them, I wish they would play out for a bit longer because they are so good. One of his best albums! Also, don't expect any five song medley like you have been hearing about on the internet. These do not flow together like Abbey Road or Red Rose Speedway. I can't wait to buy the deluxe version with the 3 extra songs.
Dance Tonight"I won't spend much time on it since there is so much already written about it but this should not have been the single in the UK, very simple song but would be better placed as the 2nd song on the album. 5/10
"Ever Present Past" Most people have already heard this one, perfect first single, should of opened up the album. 6/10
"See Your Sunshine" Very cheerful, upbeat song, reminds me of the extra songs from "Off the Ground"
(The Complete Works), great backing vocals similar to songs from Chaos. 7/10
"Only Mama Knows" Great song, this really rocks, excellent beat and very fast, a few "small" parts did sound like "Soily" but you can actually understand the lyrics in this song, 2nd best song on the album, As mentioned in other reviews, it starts off and ends with strings which just make
it that much interesting. God I hope he plays this live! 9/10
"You Tell Me" A slower song but some very nice guitar work. Very interesting voice from paul,
not sure if I've ever heard it before, maybe a little like "Growing up, Falling down"
but still different. This could of been off Chaos but a little darker. 7/10
"Mister Bellamy" I was kind of disappointed in this because of all the press it has gotten,
I guess I was expecting more, it's still a great song but I think its too short, I really like the way it jumps around. At least 3 different voices Paul throws at you. The last 45 seconds (mostly instumental) sounds like a totally different song . 8/10
"Gratitude" Not my favorite, I just do not like the backing vocals after he sings "Gratiude" over and over and over but the song does gets better towards the middle. It might grow on me. 4/10
"Vintage Clothes" Nice song, background vocals in some parts sound like they are from Chaos & Creation. Great vocals but way too short of a song. More typical McCArtney than others but still
lots of different sounds/talking in the background. Maybe sounds like early 80's in some parts to me. 7/10
"That Was Me" It does kind of remind you of "Summer of 59" (which I don't like) when the song starts but then it rocks much harder, especialy at the end where Paul screams out the lyrics.
The lyrics are a look back at Paul in the early days of the Bealtes. You will love it! 8/10
"Feet In The Clouds" A Very cheerful and happy song, starts off with acoustic guitr and then picks up a little when the drums kick in about a minute or so into the song, very typical McCartney song until the a capella harmonies come in later which are very different and quirky. Great vocals towards the end 7/10
"House Of Wax" Well, here we go, I hate to write this because I don't want people to be disappointed
like I was with Mr. Bellamy but I think this is one of the best produced songs Paul has ever done. I had chills listening to it, very haunting. It starts of with the
piano and then Paul starts singing with echo effects, I read that it was like "Riding to Vanity Fair" but darker, that's probably the best comparison but not really because it sounds like nothing you have ever heard from him before so don't get that in your head before you hear it. You will want to listen to this song again and again! It has two parts where the guitars and band really kick in, unbelievable! 10/10. It Rocks and at the same time sounds very modern. Someone also mentioned that the lyrics are simple like "Beware my love"? I find them to be very interesting (here's a sample):
"Lightning hits the house of wax
Poets spill out on the street
To set alight the incomplete
Remainders of the future".
"End of the End" Piano based ballad, a very sad song when I listen to it, I know it's suppose to be kind of chearful in that "when I die, don't be sad" but it still makes me sad when I hear it, this will get most of the press. 7/10
"Nod Your Head" It does remind you of "I've Only Got Two Hands" from Chaos but only in the beginning
because it really rocks after that, not the greatest lyrics on the album but it's just plain fun to listen to. It's a short rocker with great screaming vocals again.
I know others disagree but I think it's perfect for the closer 7/10
May 16, 2007 5:29 PM
Delete
Spurs Dork said...
I’ve also downloaed the full album and have given it a good listen to… at first I was undecided and kind of a little disappointed because even though I knew ‘Ever Present Past’ was kind of syrupy, I still loved the vibe I got from the song… I agree with your review when you said that each track on this album is not like the other… there would be a few batch of songs that I would really dig (especially the first half of the album) and then towards the middle/end of the album it was a totally different sound/vibe.
The End of the End is pretty poignant because of the lyrics “When I die, I want people to make jokes…” - I couldn’t help but think when that time comes, people will look back to that song.
But I do disagree when you said Chaos lacked tempo… yes, some of the songs were melancholic, but it was a nice change and I really think it’s his masterpiece. I also really liked Driving Rain although it’s far less superior than Chaos… but I do believe MMF is better than DR. MAF will definitely grow on you. I don’t think it’ll be a slam dunk on the first go.
May 17, 2007 7:24 AM
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
First reviews from our readers
Anonymous said...
medley? what medley? it's just a group of songs that follow one another without a pause in-between them. they don't interact or refer to each other in any way. it is as much a 'medley' as pepper was a 'concept' album.
and the last song (nod yer head) totally ruins what would have been the perfect album closer, totally breaking the mood. if ever a song was meant as a b side or bonus track, nod yer head is it.
but, having said that, great vocals (lots of studio effects, compression, etc masking the limitations of his aging voice), lovely strings and wonderful basslines...nothing special that jumps out at you, but other than nod yer head, not a 'bad' song on it!
May 16, 2007 8:41 AM
Delete
Anonymous said...
OK, Here's my review, a little about me first to let you know where I'm coming from: I'm 45 years old, I have all of Paul's official cds and b-sides and most of the non released stuff. I consider myself to be a huge fan but also very critical on some of his material. I liked Chaos & Creation but I'm sorry it was so just too darn slow for me. My favorites on that album were "Riding to Vanity Fair and Promise to you girl and several of the b-sides like Power of Love and I want you to fly. I always tend to like the more obscure tracks on his cds. I've heard many reviews saying that this cd sounds like the Beatles, certain wings albums, etc. No no no, this is a solo Paul McCartney record that sounds like the natural follow up to Driving Rain with a little of Chaos thrown in but so much better, there is so much more to listen to, many different sounds. Don't be thinking that this is Ram part two or something like that. His different singing styles throughout the cd are amazing. A lot of the songs are short which is Ok but on a few of them, I wish they would play out for a bit longer because they are so good. One of his best albums! Also, don't expect any five song medley like you have been hearing about on the internet. These do not flow together like Abbey Road or Red Rose Speedway. I can't wait to buy the deluxe version with the 3 extra songs.
Dance Tonight"I won't spend much time on it since there is so much already written about it but this should not have been the single in the UK, very simple song but would be better placed as the 2nd song on the album. 5/10
"Ever Present Past" Most people have already heard this one, perfect first single, should of opened up the album. 6/10
"See Your Sunshine" Very cheerful, upbeat song, reminds me of the extra songs from "Off the Ground"
(The Complete Works), great backing vocals similar to songs from Chaos. 7/10
"Only Mama Knows" Great song, this really rocks, excellent beat and very fast, a few "small" parts did sound like "Soily" but you can actually understand the lyrics in this song, 2nd best song on the album, As mentioned in other reviews, it starts off and ends with strings which just make
it that much interesting. God I hope he plays this live! 9/10
"You Tell Me" A slower song but some very nice guitar work. Very interesting voice from paul,
not sure if I've ever heard it before, maybe a little like "Growing up, Falling down"
but still different. This could of been off Chaos but a little darker. 7/10
"Mister Bellamy" I was kind of disappointed in this because of all the press it has gotten,
I guess I was expecting more, it's still a great song but I think its too short, I really like the way it jumps around. At least 3 different voices Paul throws at you. The last 45 seconds (mostly instumental) sounds like a totally different song . 8/10
"Gratitude" Not my favorite, I just do not like the backing vocals after he sings "Gratiude" over and over and over but the song does gets better towards the middle. It might grow on me. 4/10
"Vintage Clothes" Nice song, background vocals in some parts sound like they are from Chaos & Creation. Great vocals but way too short of a song. More typical McCArtney than others but still
lots of different sounds/talking in the background. Maybe sounds like early 80's in some parts to me. 7/10
"That Was Me" It does kind of remind you of "Summer of 59" (which I don't like) when the song starts but then it rocks much harder, especialy at the end where Paul screams out the lyrics.
The lyrics are a look back at Paul in the early days of the Bealtes. You will love it! 8/10
"Feet In The Clouds" A Very cheerful and happy song, starts off with acoustic guitr and then picks up a little when the drums kick in about a minute or so into the song, very typical McCartney song until the a capella harmonies come in later which are very different and quirky. Great vocals towards the end 7/10
"House Of Wax" Well, here we go, I hate to write this because I don't want people to be disappointed
like I was with Mr. Bellamy but I think this is one of the best produced songs Paul has ever done. I had chills listening to it, very haunting. It starts of with the
piano and then Paul starts singing with echo effects, I read that it was like "Riding to Vanity Fair" but darker, that's probably the best comparison but not really because it sounds like nothing you have ever heard from him before so don't get that in your head before you hear it. You will want to listen to this song again and again! It has two parts where the guitars and band really kick in, unbelievable! 10/10. It Rocks and at the same time sounds very modern. Someone also mentioned that the lyrics are simple like "Beware my love"? I find them to be very interesting (here's a sample):
"Lightning hits the house of wax
Poets spill out on the street
To set alight the incomplete
Remainders of the future".
"End of the End" Piano based ballad, a very sad song when I listen to it, I know it's suppose to be kind of chearful in that "when I die, don't be sad" but it still makes me sad when I hear it, this will get most of the press. 7/10
"Nod Your Head" It does remind you of "I've Only Got Two Hands" from Chaos but only in the beginning
because it really rocks after that, not the greatest lyrics on the album but it's just plain fun to listen to. It's a short rocker with great screaming vocals again.
I know others disagree but I think it's perfect for the closer 7/10
May 16, 2007 5:29 PM
medley? what medley? it's just a group of songs that follow one another without a pause in-between them. they don't interact or refer to each other in any way. it is as much a 'medley' as pepper was a 'concept' album.
and the last song (nod yer head) totally ruins what would have been the perfect album closer, totally breaking the mood. if ever a song was meant as a b side or bonus track, nod yer head is it.
but, having said that, great vocals (lots of studio effects, compression, etc masking the limitations of his aging voice), lovely strings and wonderful basslines...nothing special that jumps out at you, but other than nod yer head, not a 'bad' song on it!
May 16, 2007 8:41 AM
Delete
Anonymous said...
OK, Here's my review, a little about me first to let you know where I'm coming from: I'm 45 years old, I have all of Paul's official cds and b-sides and most of the non released stuff. I consider myself to be a huge fan but also very critical on some of his material. I liked Chaos & Creation but I'm sorry it was so just too darn slow for me. My favorites on that album were "Riding to Vanity Fair and Promise to you girl and several of the b-sides like Power of Love and I want you to fly. I always tend to like the more obscure tracks on his cds. I've heard many reviews saying that this cd sounds like the Beatles, certain wings albums, etc. No no no, this is a solo Paul McCartney record that sounds like the natural follow up to Driving Rain with a little of Chaos thrown in but so much better, there is so much more to listen to, many different sounds. Don't be thinking that this is Ram part two or something like that. His different singing styles throughout the cd are amazing. A lot of the songs are short which is Ok but on a few of them, I wish they would play out for a bit longer because they are so good. One of his best albums! Also, don't expect any five song medley like you have been hearing about on the internet. These do not flow together like Abbey Road or Red Rose Speedway. I can't wait to buy the deluxe version with the 3 extra songs.
Dance Tonight"I won't spend much time on it since there is so much already written about it but this should not have been the single in the UK, very simple song but would be better placed as the 2nd song on the album. 5/10
"Ever Present Past" Most people have already heard this one, perfect first single, should of opened up the album. 6/10
"See Your Sunshine" Very cheerful, upbeat song, reminds me of the extra songs from "Off the Ground"
(The Complete Works), great backing vocals similar to songs from Chaos. 7/10
"Only Mama Knows" Great song, this really rocks, excellent beat and very fast, a few "small" parts did sound like "Soily" but you can actually understand the lyrics in this song, 2nd best song on the album, As mentioned in other reviews, it starts off and ends with strings which just make
it that much interesting. God I hope he plays this live! 9/10
"You Tell Me" A slower song but some very nice guitar work. Very interesting voice from paul,
not sure if I've ever heard it before, maybe a little like "Growing up, Falling down"
but still different. This could of been off Chaos but a little darker. 7/10
"Mister Bellamy" I was kind of disappointed in this because of all the press it has gotten,
I guess I was expecting more, it's still a great song but I think its too short, I really like the way it jumps around. At least 3 different voices Paul throws at you. The last 45 seconds (mostly instumental) sounds like a totally different song . 8/10
"Gratitude" Not my favorite, I just do not like the backing vocals after he sings "Gratiude" over and over and over but the song does gets better towards the middle. It might grow on me. 4/10
"Vintage Clothes" Nice song, background vocals in some parts sound like they are from Chaos & Creation. Great vocals but way too short of a song. More typical McCArtney than others but still
lots of different sounds/talking in the background. Maybe sounds like early 80's in some parts to me. 7/10
"That Was Me" It does kind of remind you of "Summer of 59" (which I don't like) when the song starts but then it rocks much harder, especialy at the end where Paul screams out the lyrics.
The lyrics are a look back at Paul in the early days of the Bealtes. You will love it! 8/10
"Feet In The Clouds" A Very cheerful and happy song, starts off with acoustic guitr and then picks up a little when the drums kick in about a minute or so into the song, very typical McCartney song until the a capella harmonies come in later which are very different and quirky. Great vocals towards the end 7/10
"House Of Wax" Well, here we go, I hate to write this because I don't want people to be disappointed
like I was with Mr. Bellamy but I think this is one of the best produced songs Paul has ever done. I had chills listening to it, very haunting. It starts of with the
piano and then Paul starts singing with echo effects, I read that it was like "Riding to Vanity Fair" but darker, that's probably the best comparison but not really because it sounds like nothing you have ever heard from him before so don't get that in your head before you hear it. You will want to listen to this song again and again! It has two parts where the guitars and band really kick in, unbelievable! 10/10. It Rocks and at the same time sounds very modern. Someone also mentioned that the lyrics are simple like "Beware my love"? I find them to be very interesting (here's a sample):
"Lightning hits the house of wax
Poets spill out on the street
To set alight the incomplete
Remainders of the future".
"End of the End" Piano based ballad, a very sad song when I listen to it, I know it's suppose to be kind of chearful in that "when I die, don't be sad" but it still makes me sad when I hear it, this will get most of the press. 7/10
"Nod Your Head" It does remind you of "I've Only Got Two Hands" from Chaos but only in the beginning
because it really rocks after that, not the greatest lyrics on the album but it's just plain fun to listen to. It's a short rocker with great screaming vocals again.
I know others disagree but I think it's perfect for the closer 7/10
May 16, 2007 5:29 PM
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
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