After 55 years in the spotlight, music icon Sir Paul McCartney releases his 17th album titled “Egypt Station.” McCartney’s songs cover a lot of ground in terms of topics. From uncertainty in life to unbridled happiness, each piece makes its mark with several sticking around to be hummed for hours.
Listeners are almost shocked as McCartney’s soothing voice spills, “I don’t think I can take anymore.” This line instantly emerges from one of the first songs simply titled “I Don’t Know” where McCartney expresses overcoming the hardships provided by life and time. No matter how uncertain you may feel about your decisions, you need to continue to help others.
Previously criticized in his attempts to stay relevant via collaborations with Rihanna and Kanye, McCartney rebounds successfully, although he has yet to reach the popularity of his 2013 album “New” where he unearthed his unique and modern expression, where he unearthed the new legend. Thankfully for listeners, the best parts of old and new McCartney remain for “Egypt Station,” resulting in a wholly enjoyable album. In spite of this fact, the album suffers as the target audience seems too large with McCartney’s original “Confidante” following the somewhat suggestive “Fuh You.”
In terms of style, Paul places his signature on any music he touches, and this collection is certainly no exception. The inclusion of refreshing acoustic sounds—classic McCartney—is a breath of fresh air needed in the music charts and beaten out only by Eminem’s “Kamikaze.” Producer Greg Kurstin offers tremendous help in adjusting McCartney’s traditional style for easy digestion without damaging the singer’s signature.
One song in particular, “Dominoes,” speaks clearly on the passage of time and how life is falling into place one step at a time. The acoustic guitar and bass drive the song steadily forward as the backup singers drive home the song’s apparent message: life will inevitably go on, so why not get out and enjoy it? These small instrumental moments are what so many love about classic McCartney. The song has the audacity to make you wait as it builds to a satisfying conclusion.
From the picturesque scenes of a loving family portrayed in “Back In Brazil” to the melancholy, nearly hopeless tale of a self-centered ship captain that the piece “Despite Repeated Warnings” follows, the album remains balanced. Though one too many may focus on an unnamed and extraordinarily vague love interest, all remain enjoyable to listen to.
Ultimately, the album acts as a memoir towards McCartney’s own career. Through success, hardship and nostalgia emerges his music. However, with the legend’s advancing age, this musical documentary of the singer’s life may wind up being a send off; hopefully not. “Egypt Station” appeals to all, regardless of age, as the new legend weaves an excellent balance of what he once was with what he is now.
