Post by jptheprofessor on Oct 4, 2007 16:03:47 GMT -5
PAUL McCARTNEY – MEMORY ALMOST FULL (MPL Communications) On his last album, 2005's Chaos and Creation in the Backyard, the legendary Paul McCartney proved that he could still step outside of his comfort zone to create darker and edgier music. Having purged some demons and fears on that album, Sir Paul takes time to count his blessings and acknowledge his position in life on his new album, Memory Almost Full. This album displays a generally brighter, happier and more reflective tone, as Macca looks back over his past, from his childhood and Beatle years to past loves and more. Reminiscence is a prevalent theme on the album; on the first single, “Ever Present Past,” Paul acknowledges how the time has flown by, and he hopes he will have time left to enjoy his accomplishments while he is still here. With a whimsical sound reminiscent of his peak work both with the Beatles and Wings, “Vintage Clothes” establishes that the past is part of who we are, with the adjacent “That Was Me” finding Paul celebrating flashback moments in his storied life and career. On “The End of the End,” McCartney acknowledges his mortality, and expresses his desire to be remembered fondly through stories and anecdotes. Much of the album contains an optimistic vibe, from the simple happy sentiments of the catchy opening tune “Dance Tonight” and the bright and adoring “See Your Sunshine” to the thankful tone of “Gratitude,” an apparent ode to his latest ex, Heather Mills, even in the midst of a nastily-publicized divorce. McCartney also provides some harder-rocking moments on “Only Mama Knows” and the agitated closer “Nod Your Head.” Through it all, Paul shows he still has the gift for songcraft and melody; as each song is distinct and stands on its own; yet with the varying styles throughout the album, it gels into a cohesive set. Paul McCartney looks back fondly on his life on Memory Almost Full; accepting what is behind him, and stopping and smelling the roses while he still has time left to do so. This is an ultimately uplifting and strong album, and one of the best that this former Beatle has created since the 70’s.