Music Review: Christine McVie – In The Meantime

Christine McVie is living the quiet life of retirement far from the rock world of Fleetwood Mac. She was a member of The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame band for close to three decades. She interrupted her retirement in 2004 to release her first solo album in twenty years.

Her nephew, Dan Perfect, wrote or co-wrote nine of the twelve tracks, co-produced the album, provided the guitar work, and also contributed backing vocals. Also on hand were bassist George Haskins, drummer Steve Ferrone, percussionists Lenny Castro & Louis Conte, plus backing vocals by David Isaacs. Christine McVie provided all of the lead vocals, plays all types of keyboards, co-wrote ten tracks, and co-produced the affair.

In The Meantime was released September 7, 2004. It was disappointing commercially as it did not chart in The United States and only reached number 133 in the U.K. It deserved more success as it was a very consistent and creative pop/rock album that was both melodic and soothing. Her keyboards are up front on most of the tracks which enables the sound to be instantly recognizable to her fan base. Her voice also remains a strong instrument that has not been worn down by the passage of years.

Many of the lyrics move in a personal direction as she looks at life. This is particularly true with a number of the ballads that inhabit the release.

The albums first three songs establish the excellent pop nature of the release. “Friend,” “You Are,” and “Northern Star” are all smooth productions. Her voice soars on the first song and the third is a well performed ballad.

Some other highlights include “Anything is Possible,” which has a nice funky feel and “Givin’ It Back” which was co-written by former bandmate Billy Burnette. It is a guitar song which provides a good vehicle for another strong vocal. Songs such as “Bad Journey,” “Forgiveness,” and “Sweet Revenge” brings her life journey up to date.

In The Meantime may not have the well known songs of her past but the twelve tracks come together to create a cohesive listening experience.

It has been seven years since Christine McVie has released a solo album. It is unknown when she will come out of retirement again but hopefully it will be soon.