Post by jptheprofessor on Oct 3, 2005 18:24:10 GMT -5
PAUL McCARTNEY – CHAOS AND CREATION IN THE BACKYARD (Capitol) After a career as a songwriting mastermind in the world’s most famous band and a subsequent solo superstar, what does Paul McCartney have left to prove? Almost twenty years after his last Top 40 single, and after a number of mostly forgettable albums during that same time span, the former Beatle challenged himself; with a little nudging from George Martin, who suggested that McCartney contact producer Nigel Godrich, who has produced Radiohead and Beck. The result is Chaos and Creation In The Backyard. The title itself hints at some of the chaotic and creative push and pull that took place between McCartney and Godrich. The producer forced McCartney out of his comfort zone, disposing of a number of the songs Paul brought to the table, and having him play most of the instruments himself without his touring band. This is a more serious McCartney album, more quiet and contemplative, and largely devoid of silly love songs and frivolity. There are some intriguing, fascinating highlights on the album, such as the darker-toned “Riding to Vanity Fair,” with strings and toy glockenspiel underscoring unusually bitter McCartney lyrics. Sir Paul also addresses stress and paranoia on the equally interesting “At The Mercy,” and deals with more serious emotional themes on “Too Much Rain” and “This Never Happened Before.” To be sure, there are upbeat moments on the album as well, such as the bouncing opener “Fine Line” and “Promise to You Girl.” There are also a few throwbacks to the Fab Four, including “Jenny Wren” and its reminders of “Blackbird,” and “English Tea’s” subtle hints of “Eleanor Rigby” and “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer.” Although Nigel Godrich has produced some of today’s more elaborate and edgy artists, he keeps the production here simple but polished; keeping Paul McCartney front and center and allowing the instrumentation to fill in and complement him. Chaos and Creation In The Backyard is a different type of Paul McCartney album, and is perhaps the most interesting album to come out of the former Beatle in years. With its quiet, delicate tones, this album won’t likely propel McCartney back to the top of the singles or album charts; but it shows that at age 63, Sir Paul is not afraid to challenge himself and step outside the box.